Podcasts about church state studies

2/6/25 - Dr. Francis Beckwith is Professor of Philosophy and Church-State Studies at Baylor University. Among his many books are The New Mormon Challenge and Taking Rites Seriously: Law, Politics, and the Reasonableness of Faith, winner of the American Academy of Religion's 2016 Book Award for Excellence in the Study of Religion in the category of Constructive-Reflective Studies. Catholics have done very little thinking about or interaction with the theological beliefs of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (the Mormons). The Catholic Church has focused virtually all of its ecumenical efforts on the ecclesial communities that arose from the Reformation, the Orthodox Churches, and Judaism. Left out of these discussions has been the Mormon Church, even though it has grown to nearly 16 million members internationally by 2016 from its modest beginnings in 1830. In A Catholic Engagement with Latter-day Saints, a collection of Catholic scholars address several theological topics over which Mormons and Catholics hold contrary beliefs: the great apostasy, the papacy, the Eucharist, the Trinity, the incarnation, the nature of God, justification, sainthood, liturgy, and deification. The contributors, some of whom are converts to Catholicism from Mormonism, offer a respectful, though critical, analysis of LDS beliefs. Get the book at https://ignatius.com/a-catholic-engagement-with-latter-day-saints-celdsp/

What is the state of religious freedom in the US? What about those who claim that religious freedom is sometime seen as code for bigotry and discrimination, inconsistent with some trends toward justice? What are the main challenges to religious freedom in the West today? We'll answer these questions and more with our guest and good friend, Baylor University Professor Dr. Frank Beckwith. Dr. Frank Beckwith is Professor of Philosophy & Church-State Studies at Baylor University, where he also serves as Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Philosophy,  Affiliate Professor of Political Science, and Resident Scholar in Baylor's Institute for Studies of Religion (ISR). He is the author of numerous books in philosophy, apologetics, political science and church-state relations. ==========Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California. Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically. Watch video episodes at: https://bit.ly/think-biblically-video. To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.

How do you live as a faithful Christian in such politically polarized times? How do you follow Jesus and participate in politics? How do you be salt and light in the world and love your neighbour well and contribute politically to our society? There are so many pressing questions like these when it comes to the relationship with between faith and politics. Thankfully there are people like Miranda Zapor Cruz who providing biblical answers! I was so privileged to get to talk to Miranda today about her new book, “Faithful Politics: Ten Approaches to Christian Citizenship and Why it Matters.” I hope you enjoy our conversation and that you are challenged and edified by it! Miranda Zapor Cruz is professor of historical theology at Indiana Wesleyan University. She holds a PhD in religion, politics, and society from Baylor University's J. M. Dawson Institute of Church-State Studies and an MDiv from Princeton Theological Seminary.

Send us a Text Message.In this conversation, Pastor Josh Burtram and Will Wright interview Miranda Zapor Cruz, author of the book 'Faithful Politics.' They discuss the intersection of politics and faith, exploring topics such as the distinction between the Kingdom of God and the United States, the different ways Christians can engage in politics, and the impact of politics on biblical interpretation. Miranda emphasizes the importance of maintaining allegiance to Christ while recognizing the limitations of allegiance to a country. She also highlights the need for humility and open dialogue when discussing political issues within the church. In this part of the conversation, Miranda Zapor Cruz discusses the importance of reading scripture in community with people who have different political frameworks. She emphasizes the need to recognize our own biases and the ways in which we bring our own experiences and political opinions into our interpretation of scripture. She also highlights the difference between a proof-texting approach to scripture and a holistic, narrative-based approach. Additionally, she addresses the question of how to determine when someone's interpretation of scripture is not good, and suggests that we should evaluate interpretations based on whether they contribute to the reconciliation and restoration of all things.Buy the book: https://www.ivpress.com/faithful-politicsGuest Bio:Miranda Zapor Cruz is professor of historical theology at Indiana Wesleyan University, where she teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in American and global Church history and theology. She holds a PhD in religion, politics, and society from Baylor University's J.M. Dawson Institute of Church-State Studies and an MDiv from Princeton Theological Seminary. She lives in Indiana with her family. Support the Show.To learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below: Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/ Faithful Host: Josh@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Political Host: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/

This lecture was given on November 30th, 2023, at Vanderbilt University. For more information on upcoming events, visit us at thomisticinstitute.org/upcoming-events About the speaker: Francis J. Beckwith is Professor of Philosophy & Church-State Studies at Baylor University, where he also serves as Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Philosophy. Among his over one dozen books are Defending Life: A Moral and Legal Case Against Abortion Choice (Cambridge University Press, 2007), Politics For Christians: Statecraft As Soulcraft (IVP, 2010), and Taking Rites Seriously: Law, Politics, and the Reasonableness of Faith (Cambridge University Press, 2015), winner of the American Academy of Religion's prestigious 2016 Book Award for Excellence in the Study of Religion in Constructive-Reflective Studies. He is a graduate of the Washington University School of Law, St. Louis (MJS) as well as Fordham University (PhD, MA, philosophy).

In this episode, we connect with Francis J. Beckwith, a Professor of Philosophy and Church-State Studies at Baylor University, where he also serves as Associate Director of Graduate Studies in Philosophy and Affiliate Professor of Political Science. Francis is a philosopher who publishes and teaches in the areas of religion, jurisprudence, politics, and ethics.  Francis has authored more than 100 academic articles, book chapters, reference entries, and reviews. With titles such as Politics for Christians: Statecraft as Soulcraft, Never Doubt Thomas: The Catholic Aquinas as Evangelical and Protestant, and Defending Life: A Moral and Legal Case Against Abortion Choice, Francis is a highly regarded voice in the academic community.  So, what makes Francis's philosophical perspective so special? Tune in now to find out…  Join in now to explore: What initially interested Francis about philosophy.  How we build up beliefs to shape our worldview.  The importance of listening to people that you disagree with.  The intricacies of co-existing religions. Want to learn more about Francis J. Beckwith and his work? Click here now! Take advantage of a 5% discount on Ekster accessories by using the code FINDINGGENIUS. Enhance your style and functionality with premium accessories. Visit bit.ly/3uiVX9R to explore latest collection. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: http://apple.co/30PvU9

What's wrong with moral relativism? Join Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P. of Aquinas 101, Godsplaining, and Pints with Aquinas for an off-campus conversation with Prof. Francis Beckwith about his latest Thomistic Institute lecture, "Is There Anything Wrong With Moral Relativism?" What's Wrong With Moral Relativism? w/ Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P. & Prof. Francis Beckwith (Off-Campus Conversations) You can listen to the original lecture here: https://on.soundcloud.com/ukfZL About the speaker: Francis J. Beckwith is is a philosopher who teaches, publishes, and speaks on a variety of topics and issues in ethics, law, politics, and religion. He is currently Professor of Philosophy & Church-State Studies, Affiliate Professor of Political Science, Associate Director of Graduate Studies in Philosophy, and Resident Scholar in the Institute for Studies of Religion at Baylor University, where he has served on the faculty since 2003. He earned an Ph.D. and M.A. in philosophy from Fordham University, and a Master of Juridical Studies (M.J.S.) degree from the Washington University School of Law in St. Louis, where he won the CALI Award for Excellence in Reproductive Control Seminar. Among his over twenty books are Defending Life: A Moral and Legal Case Against Abortion Choice (2007) and Taking Rites Seriously: Law, Politics, and the Reasonableness of Faith (2015), both published by Cambridge University Press, and Never Doubt Thomas: The Catholic Aquinas as Evangelical and Protestant (2019), published by Baylor University Press. Taking Rites Seriously was a winner of the American Academy of Religion's 2016 Book Award for Excellence in the Study of Religion. He has served as President of both the American Catholic Philosophical Association (2017-18) and the Evangelical Theological Society (2006-07), from which he resigned in the middle of his term in May 2007 to return to the Catholic Church of his youth. He and his wife, Frankie, make their home in Woodway, Texas.

This lecture was given on September 7, 2023, at Tulsa For more information on upcoming events, please visit our website at www.thomisticinstitute.org. About the speaker: Francis J. Beckwith is Professor of Philosophy & Church-State Studies at Baylor University, where he also serves as Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Philosophy, Affiliate Professor of Political Science, and Resident Scholar in Baylor's Institute for Studies of Religion (ISR). With his appointment in Baylor's Department of Philosophy, he also teaches courses in medical humanities, political science, and religion. From July 2003 through January 2007, he served as the Associate Director of Baylor's J. M. Dawson Institute of Church-State Studies. He is also member of the Board of Scholars of the James Wilson Institute in Washington, D.C. A graduate of Fordham University (Ph.D. and M.A. in philosophy), he also holds the Master of Juridical Studies (M.J.S.) degree from the Washington University School of Law in St. Louis, where he won a CALI Award for Academic Excellence in Reproductive Control Seminar. His books include Never Doubt Thomas: The Catholic Aquinas as Evangelical and Protestant (Baylor University Press, 2019); Taking Rites Seriously: Law, Politics, and the Reasonableness of Faith (Cambridge University Press, 2015 ), winner of the American Academy of Religion's 2016 Book Award for Excellence in the Study of Religion in the category of Constructive-Reflective Studies; (w/ R. P. George, S. McWilliams) A Second Look at First Things: A Case for Conservative Politics (St. Augustine Press, 2013); Politics for Christians: Statecraft as Soulcraft (InterVarsity Press, 2010); Return to Rome: Confessions of an Evangelical Catholic (Brazos Press, 2009); Defending Life: A Moral and Legal Case Against Abortion Choice (Cambridge University Press, 2007); (w/ W. L. Craig, J. P. Moreland) To Every One An Answer: A Case for the Christian Worldview (InterVarsity Press, 2004); Law, Darwinism, & Public Education: The Establishment Clause and the Challenge of Intelligent Design (Rowman & Littlefield, 2003); (w/ C. Mosser & P. Owen) The New Mormon Challenge: Responding to the Latest Defenses of a Fast-Growing Movement (HarperCollins/Zondervan, 2002), finalist for the 2003 Gold Medallion Award in theology and doctrine; Do the Right Thing: Readings in Applied Ethics and Social Philosophy, 2/e (Wadsworth, 2002); (w/ G. P. Koukl) Relativism: Feet Firmly Planted in Mid-Air (Baker, 1998); (w/ L. P. Pojman) The Abortion Controversy 25 Years After Roe v. Wade: A Reader, 2/e (Wadsworth, 1998); (w/ T. Jones) Affirmative Action: Social Justice or Reverse Discrimination? (Prometheus, 1997); and Politically Correct Death: Answering the Arguments for Abortion Rights (Baker, 1993), winner of the 1994 Cornerstone Magazine ethics book of the year award.

In this episode, we discuss religion and American culture with Dr. Barry Hankins, a Professor of History and Graduate Program Director at Baylor University. Dr. Hankins is an expert on subjects such as Protestant fundamentalism and evangelicalism, and the relationship between church and state in American History. He sits down to explain how his research has refined his perspective on these issues… Dr. Hankins holds an M.A. in Church-State Studies from Baylor University and a Ph.D. in History from Kansas State University. Throughout his career, he has published many books and articles in academic journals for organizations around the world. What is Dr. Hankin's outlook on the interconnectedness of religion and American culture? Tune in now to find out for yourself! Join us now to discover: What Ronald Reagan's religious life looked like. What it means to be an evangelical in America. The connection between evangelicals and the republican party. To learn more about Dr. Hankins and his work, click here now! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr

There's no question that Christianity and American culture have a connection – but what does this actually mean? For centuries, religion and politics have been intertwined, and the United States is no exception. Joining us in this episode to explain this complex relationship is Dr. Barry Hankins, a Professor of History and Graduate Program Director at Baylor University. With an M.A. in Church-State Studies from Baylor University and a Ph.D. in History from Kansas State University, Dr. Hankins is an expert in religion and American culture, Protestant fundamentalism and evangelicalism, and the relationship of church and state in American history. Drawing from his distinct background, Dr. Hankins is on a mission to explain how religion and politics function in American culture… Offer: TRĒ House products are crafted to bring you the best that legal, delivered-to-your-door THC has to offer. TRĒ House utilizes unique blends of carefully selected minor cannabinoids that get you lit in ways you've only ever dreamed of. TRĒ House offers an array of premium, legal THC products including gummies, vapes, prerolls, and more. Head over to TREHouse.com and enjoy 30% off your order AND get a free Acapulco Gold HHC preroll when you use coupon code GENIUS. This offer expires August 31, 2023. In this episode, we cover: How certain U.S. presidents have interacted with Christianity.  What studying the religious lives of others can reveal.  What it means to be an evangelical in present-day America. To learn more about Dr. Hankins and his work, click here now! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: http://apple.co/30PvU9C

This lecture was given at New York University on February 10, 2023. For more information on upcoming events, please visit our website at www.thomisticinstitute.org. About the speaker: Francis J. Beckwith is Professor of Philosophy & Church-State Studies and Affiliate Professor of Political Science at Baylor University, where he also serves as Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Philosophy. Among his over one dozen books are Never Doubt Thomas: The Catholic Aquinas as Evangelical and Protestant (Baylor University Press, 2019), Defending Life: A Moral and Legal Case Against Abortion Choice (Cambridge University Press, 2007), and Taking Rites Seriously: Law, Politics, and the Reasonableness of Faith (Cambridge University Press, 2015), winner of the American Academy of Religion's prestigious 2016 Book Award for Excellence in the Study of Religion in Constructive-Reflective Studies. He is a graduate of the Washington University School of Law, St. Louis (MJS) as well as Fordham University (PhD, MA, philosophy).

How do we formulate our views on religion and philosophy? Politics and our society at large greatly influence our perspectives – making it difficult to know where to turn for the truth…  Francis J. Beckwith joins the podcast to discuss his work as a philosopher, professor, scholar, speaker, writer, and lecturer. As a Professor of Philosophy and Church-State Studies, Associate Director of Graduate Studies in Philosophy, and Affiliate Professor of Political Science at Baylor University, Francis is no stranger to unpacking tough subjects. Whether it be religion, jurisprudence, politics, or ethics, Francis is on a mission to uncover fundamental truth. So, what sets Francis J. Beckwith's worldview apart from other philosophers? In this episode, he sits down to explain… Join in the conversation to discover: The most fascinating philosophical questions.  What “real” evidence accounts for. How religion has shaped modern society. Where most of our beliefs come from. Want to learn more about Francis J. Beckwith and his work? Click here now! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr

In this episode, we connect with Francis J. Beckwith, a Professor of Philosophy and Church-State Studies at Baylor University, where he also serves as Associate Director of Graduate Studies in Philosophy and Affiliate Professor of Political Science. Francis is a philosopher who publishes and teaches in the areas of religion, jurisprudence, politics, and ethics.  Francis has authored more than 100 academic articles, book chapters, reference entries, and reviews. With titles such as Politics for Christians: Statecraft as Soulcraft, Never Doubt Thomas: The Catholic Aquinas as Evangelical and Protestant, and Defending Life: A Moral and Legal Case Against Abortion Choice, Francis is a highly regarded voice in the academic community.  So, what makes Francis's philosophical perspective so special? Tune in now to find out…  Offer: Magnesium is integral for 600+ biochemical processes in the human body. The common misconception is that consuming more magnesium will automatically improve health and well-being. The truth is that there are various forms of magnesium, each of which is essential for a variety of physiological processes. Most people are inadequate in all forms of magnesium, while even those considered "healthy" typically only ingest 1 or 2 kinds. Consuming all 7 of magnesium's primary forms is the key to accessing all its health benefits.That's why we packed 7 forms of 450mg of elemental magnesium into each serving of  Wild Mag Complex. One dose a day is all you need. Learn more and grab a bottle today at WildFoods.co. Use code GENIUS for 10% off your order. Join in now to explore: What initially interested Francis about philosophy.  How we build up beliefs to shape our worldview.  The importance of listening to people that you disagree with.  The intricacies of co-existing religions. Want to learn more about Francis J. Beckwith and his work? Click here now! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: http://apple.co/30PvU9C

This talk was given on March 28th, 2023 at Regent University. For more information please visit thomisticinstitute.org. About the speaker: Francis J. Beckwith is Professor of Philosophy & Church-State Studies and Affiliate Professor of Political Science at Baylor University, where he also serves as Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Philosophy. Among his over one dozen books are Never Doubt Thomas: The Catholic Aquinas as Evangelical and Protestant (Baylor University Press, 2019), Defending Life: A Moral and Legal Case Against Abortion Choice (Cambridge University Press, 2007), and Taking Rites Seriously: Law, Politics, and the Reasonableness of Faith (Cambridge University Press, 2015), winner of the American Academy of Religion's prestigious 2016 Book Award for Excellence in the Study of Religion in Constructive-Reflective Studies. He is a graduate of the Washington University School of Law, St. Louis (MJS) as well as Fordham University (PhD, MA, philosophy).

So, today's episode is a little different from our usual format. Instead of an interview, today you're going to hear a lecture recently hosted by Baylor's Religion Department in collaboration with the J.M. Dawson Institute for Church State Studies. The lecture was delivered by Dr Brett Scharffs. Dr. Scharffs is the Rex E. Lee Chair and Professor of Law and the director of the International Center for Law and Religion Studies at Brigham Young University. Dr. Scharffs is a highly regarded scholar, having served as chair for various sections of the Association of American Law Schools, holding editorial positions at esteemed journals, and writing field-making books. In the lecture you'll hear, Dr. Scharffs discusses human dignity, a topic perennially important, but of special interest this year because we will celebrate the 75th anniversary of the United Nation's Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which was proclaimed on December 10, 1948. The first article of the declaration states, "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.” You can watch the video of the lecture here.

Frank Beckwith, Professor of Philosophy and Church-State Studies at Baylor University, speaks on the influence and impact of Pope Benedict XVI, especially in the relationship of reason and revelation.   The Dr. Jeff Show on YouTube   Summit Ministries    Summit Student Conferences   Reflect: Christian worldview commentaries on popular movies and songs

This talk was given on September 30th, 2022 at Yale University. For more information please visit thomisticinstitute.org. About the speaker: Francis J. Beckwith is Professor of Philosophy & Church-State Studies and Affiliate Professor of Political Science at Baylor University, where he also serves as Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Philosophy. Among his over one dozen books are Never Doubt Thomas: The Catholic Aquinas as Evangelical and Protestant (Baylor University Press, 2019), Defending Life: A Moral and Legal Case Against Abortion Choice (Cambridge University Press, 2007), and Taking Rites Seriously: Law, Politics, and the Reasonableness of Faith (Cambridge University Press, 2015), winner of the American Academy of Religion's prestigious 2016 Book Award for Excellence in the Study of Religion in Constructive-Reflective Studies. He is a graduate of the Washington University School of Law, St. Louis (MJS) as well as Fordham University (PhD, MA, philosophy).

Prof. Beckwith's slides can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/2p982fwr This lecture was given on April 22, 2022 at Ashland University. For information on upcoming events, please visit our website at www.thomisticinstitute.org. About the speaker: Francis J. Beckwith is Professor of Philosophy & Church-State Studies at Baylor University, where he also serves as Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Philosophy. Among his over one dozen books are Defending Life: A Moral and Legal Case Against Abortion Choice (Cambridge University Press, 2007), Politics For Christians: Statecraft As Soulcraft (IVP, 2010), and Taking Rites Seriously: Law, Politics, and the Reasonableness of Faith (Cambridge University Press, 2015), winner of the American Academy of Religion's prestigious 2016 Book Award for Excellence in the Study of Religion in Constructive-Reflective Studies. He is a graduate of the Washington University School of Law, St. Louis (MJS) as well as Fordham University (PhD, MA, philosophy).

Join our warm conversation with Impact 360's Dr. John Basie, Ph.D. He's been in teaching and Higher Education Administration for going on 2 decades. Dr. Basie did his Ph.D. degree in Religion, Politics, and Society at the Baylor University Institute for Church-State Studies, the premier place in the world to study First Amendment religion, culture, and government issues at that time. He now directs Impact 360 Institute, in Pine Mountain, Georgia, affiliated with Union University in Jackson, Tennessee for undergraduate work. For graduate work, their work is partnered with North Greenville University (South Carolina). Both are COC SAC (regionally) (legit) accredited. It's a program that has been rightly influenced by the deep and wonderful life-work of the late great scholar of Christian Philosophy and Spiritual Formation, Dr. Dallas Willard, Ph.D., who taught our mentors at the University of Southern California for many decades, and did it right and was a model for doing it right for our professors and mentors. Major funding for the founding of the Institute came from the Chik-Fil-A family. You can check out the program at https://www.impact360institute.org/ The Republican Professor is a pro-Chik-Fil-A, pro-Higher-Education-done-right, pro-do-something-a-little-differently-in-order-to-do-it-right, pro-conscientiously-taking-the-student-soul-seriously, pro-education-infuenced-by-Dallas-Willard podcast . Welcome, Dr. John Basie, Ph.D. !

This lecture was given on February 1, 2022 at the University of North Texas. For more information on upcoming events, please visit our website at www.thomisticinstitute.org. About the speaker: Francis J. Beckwith is Professor of Philosophy & Church-State Studies at Baylor University, where he also serves as Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Philosophy. Among his over one dozen books are Defending Life: A Moral and Legal Case Against Abortion Choice (Cambridge University Press, 2007), Politics For Christians: Statecraft As Soulcraft (IVP, 2010), and Taking Rites Seriously: Law, Politics, and the Reasonableness of Faith (Cambridge University Press, 2015), winner of the American Academy of Religion's prestigious 2016 Book Award for Excellence in the Study of Religion in Constructive-Reflective Studies. He is a graduate of the Washington University School of Law, St. Louis (MJS) as well as Fordham University (PhD, MA, philosophy).

We discuss among other things going to college in Hawai'i. Join our conversation today with our very special guest (are there ever non-special guests ?) Dr. Shannon Holzer of Houston Baptist University. We discuss going to college in Hawai'i, grade inflation v. academic excellence, and some favorite professors. We also talk about our students. We discuss recent students versus the way students were ten years ago, grade inflation (did I mention we talk about grade inflation?), going to school in Hawai'i, what he was like as a student and a veteran of the US Marine Corps versus what more recent student trends look like, incentive structures in Higher Education and K-12, and seminary training in preparation for Ph.D. work in Constitutional Law and Philosophy. Guest bio: Professor Shannon Holzer, Ph.D. served for several years in the United States Marine Corps before going to college. Dr. Holzer has earned degrees in the areas of religion, philosophy, and politics/Constitutional Law. He earned his undergraduate degree at a small Baptist college in Hawai'i called Wayland Baptist University on the island O'ahu where he majored in Religion with a special focus on Biblical Studies. During college, Professor Holzer developed an interest in the discipline of Philosophy, and so he moved to California to earn an M.A. in Philosophy from Biola University's graduate program there, where he focused on Philosophy of Religion and Ethics at Talbot School of Theology in the Los Angeles metropolitan area. Sensing a need for further training in the application of his training to areas of Constitutional Law and Politics, Dr. Holzer then moved to Texas in order to earn a Ph.D. in Religion, Politics, and Society at the world-famous J.M. Dawson Institute for Church-State Studies at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. He had met the rigorous standards of multiple philosophers on his dissertation committee in which he focused specifically on philosophical (epistemological) issues in First Amendment jurisprudence and its impact on society. Shannon has a commitment to service and academic excellence which he models faithfully for his students. In addition to having served as a pastor in Hawai'i and his military service, Dr. Holzer has served in K-12 education as a public school teacher and sports coach in Los Angeles County and has taught in the community colleges and universities for many years, accumulating a rich set of experiences. He draws from this deep well of service with compassion, humility, and faithful commitment to academic excellence. Professors mentioned include Dr. Dallas Willard of USC Philosophy Department, Dr. Craig Blomberg, Dr. JP Moreland, Dr. William Lane Craig, Dr. David Ciocchi of Biola, Dr. R. Douglas Geivett of Biola, Francis Beckwith of Baylor, and Dr. David Howle of Wayland Baptist University Hawai'i, and my (Dr. Mather's) WBU Government professor on Marine Corps Station Kaneohe whose name I have forgotten. Schools mentioned include Wayland Baptist University on O'ahu, Hawai'i, Denver Seminary, Baylor University, Biola University, International College and Graduate School (Nu'uanu) off the Pali Hwy on O'ahu (upstairs from International Baptist Church) and Glendale High School (California). Churches mentioned in this episode include Hope Chapel Kaneohe and International Baptist Church just off the Pali Highway, leeward side, in the Nu'uanu valley in the Honolulu metropolitan area (Lucas' church at the time). Military bases mentioned include Hickam AFB, Marine Corps Station Kaneohe, Schofield Barracks, and Wheeler Army Airfield. Films mentioned include "From Here to Eternity."

This talk was delivered on October 13, 2021 at the University of Texas El Paso. For information on upcoming events, please visit our website at www.thomisticinstitute.org. About the speaker: Francis J. Beckwith is Professor of Philosophy & Church-State Studies at Baylor University, where he also serves as Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Philosophy, Affiliate Professor of Political Science, and Resident Scholar in Baylor's Institute for Studies of Religion (ISR). With his appointment in Baylor's Department of Philosophy, he also teaches courses in medical humanities, political science, and religion. From July 2003 through January 2007, he served as the Associate Director of Baylor's J. M. Dawson Institute of Church-State Studies. He is also member of the Board of Scholars of the James Wilson Institute in Washington, D.C. A graduate of Fordham University (Ph.D. and M.A. in philosophy), he also holds the Master of Juridical Studies (M.J.S.) degree from the Washington University School of Law in St. Louis, where he won a CALI Award for Academic Excellence in Reproductive Control Seminar. His books include Never Doubt Thomas: The Catholic Aquinas as Evangelical and Protestant (Baylor University Press, 2019); Taking Rites Seriously: Law, Politics, and the Reasonableness of Faith (Cambridge University Press, 2015 ), winner of the American Academy of Religion's 2016 Book Award for Excellence in the Study of Religion in the category of Constructive-Reflective Studies; (w/ R. P. George, S. McWilliams) A Second Look at First Things: A Case for Conservative Politics (St. Augustine Press, 2013); Politics for Christians: Statecraft as Soulcraft (InterVarsity Press, 2010); Return to Rome: Confessions of an Evangelical Catholic (Brazos Press, 2009); Defending Life: A Moral and Legal Case Against Abortion Choice (Cambridge University Press, 2007); (w/ W. L. Craig, J. P. Moreland) To Every One An Answer: A Case for the Christian Worldview (InterVarsity Press, 2004); Law, Darwinism, & Public Education: The Establishment Clause and the Challenge of Intelligent Design (Rowman & Littlefield, 2003); (w/ C. Mosser & P. Owen) The New Mormon Challenge: Responding to the Latest Defenses of a Fast-Growing Movement (HarperCollins/Zondervan, 2002), finalist for the 2003 Gold Medallion Award in theology and doctrine; Do the Right Thing: Readings in Applied Ethics and Social Philosophy, 2/e (Wadsworth, 2002); (w/ G. P. Koukl) Relativism: Feet Firmly Planted in Mid-Air (Baker, 1998); (w/ L. P. Pojman) The Abortion Controversy 25 Years After Roe v. Wade: A Reader, 2/e (Wadsworth, 1998); (w/ T. Jones) Affirmative Action: Social Justice or Reverse Discrimination? (Prometheus, 1997); and Politically Correct Death: Answering the Arguments for Abortion Rights (Baker, 1993), winner of the 1994 Cornerstone Magazine ethics book of the year award.

Fr. Mitch welcomes Dr. Francis Beckwith, Professor of Philosophy and Church-State Studies at Baylor, to talk about standing up for your faith, especially on legal and political issues that affect our religious liberty.

This lecture was delivered at Mississippi State University on September 16, 2021. For more information on upcoming events, please visit our website at www.thomisticinstitute.org. About the speaker: Francis J. Beckwith is Professor of Philosophy & Church-State Studies at Baylor University, where he also serves as Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Philosophy, Affiliate Professor of Political Science, and Resident Scholar in Baylor's Institute for Studies of Religion (ISR). With his appointment in Baylor's Department of Philosophy, he also teaches courses in medical humanities, political science, and religion. From July 2003 through January 2007, he served as the Associate Director of Baylor's J. M. Dawson Institute of Church-State Studies. He is also member of the Board of Scholars of the James Wilson Institute in Washington, D.C.

This lecture was given at Texas State University on March 11, 2021. For more information on upcoming events, please visit our website at www.thomisticinstitute.org About the speaker: Francis J. Beckwith is Professor of Philosophy & Church-State Studies at Baylor University, where he also serves as Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Philosophy. Among his over one dozen books are Defending Life: A Moral and Legal Case Against Abortion Choice (Cambridge University Press, 2007), Politics For Christians: Statecraft As Soulcraft (IVP, 2010), and Taking Rites Seriously: Law, Politics, and the Reasonableness of Faith (Cambridge University Press, 2015), winner of the American Academy of Religion's prestigious 2016 Book Award for Excellence in the Study of Religion in Constructive-Reflective Studies. He is a graduate of the Washington University School of Law, St. Louis (MJS) as well as Fordham University (PhD, MA, philosophy).

This lecture was given on October 29, 2020 to Texas A&M University. For more information on upcoming events, visit our website at www.thomisticinstitute.org About the Speaker: Francis J. Beckwith is Professor of Philosophy & Church-State Studies at Baylor University, where he also serves as Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Philosophy. Among his over one dozen books are Defending Life: A Moral and Legal Case Against Abortion Choice (Cambridge University Press, 2007), Politics For Christians: Statecraft As Soulcraft (IVP, 2010), and Taking Rites Seriously: Law, Politics, and the Reasonableness of Faith (Cambridge University Press, 2015), winner of the American Academy of Religion's prestigious 2016 Book Award for Excellence in the Study of Religion in Constructive-Reflective Studies. He is a graduate of the Washington University School of Law, St. Louis (MJS) as well as Fordham University (PhD, MA, philosophy).

On Wednesday November 4, Deacon Mike talked with Dr. Francis Beckwith, Professor of Philosophy in Church State Studies at Baylor University, where he also serves as the Associate Director of the graduate program in philosophy, and he is also an affiliate professor of political science. Dr. Beckwith is also a “revert” to the Catholic Faith, and spoke a little bit about his journey back. The major things that brought him back to the Church was his belief in the Eucharist, penance, Apostolic Succession and the Catholic view of grace. Then he and Deacon Mike discussed politics and law through the lens of our Catholic Faith. One of Dr. Francis’s arguments is that religious people cannot simply rely on the law, we have to actually make public arguments as to why our views are reasonable. Listen to this episode for a great conversation, and remember when considering the many ways in which you might share your time, talent, and treasure with God, always round up!

Should you care how Protestant theologians and philosophers view a man generally regarded as of interest primarily to Catholics and as a pillar of Catholic thinking? Absolutely. Why? Because much of what has made our modern world in terms of law, philosophy and ethics comes from Thomas Aquinas (1225–1274). How would we benefit from reading a book about Aquinas by a noted scholar who has been a Protestant but who is now a Catholic? That is what we are going to find out in this interview with Francis J. Beckwith about his 2019 book, Never Doubt Thomas: The Catholic Aquinas as Evangelical and Protestant (Baylor University Press). The book is not dry-as-dust theology. It is approachable and often quite funny, even as it tackles some quite arcane subject matter (e.g., faith, works and justification). Beckwith engagingly critiques some of the arguments of recent years against natural law theory—which is more relevant than many of us have realized and which forms some of the background of the soul-searching and debate on the right over recent Supreme Court decisions by supposedly conservative justices. Beckwith examines the contention of many Protestant thinkers that the whole idea of natural law that flowed from Aquinas is a distraction from the truly important goal of engagement with the scriptures and reliance on divine revelation. The book is intended for educated general readers who want to understand why so many Protestant thinkers have been so eager to claim Aquinas as a Proto-Protestant (even though he lived centuries before Luther) and what, according to Beckwith, they get so wrong about him even as they admire him. Among other topics Beckwith addresses in this little volume are the centuries-old debate over whether Christians, Jews and Muslims worship the same God and the evergreen topic of purgatory. And for those who want to wade into the waters of the decades-long battle between Darwinists and atheists on the one side and those who adhere to the theory of Intelligent Design on the other, there is even a chapter on that. Who would have thought that a medieval religious scholar would still be annoying some scholars and engendering devotion in others all these centuries later? Francis J. Beckwith tells us why. Give a listen. Francis J. Beckwith is Professor of Philosophy and Church-State Studies and Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Philosophy at Baylor University. Hope J. Leman is a grants researcher. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Should you care how Protestant theologians and philosophers view a man generally regarded as of interest primarily to Catholics and as a pillar of Catholic thinking? Absolutely. Why? Because much of what has made our modern world in terms of law, philosophy and ethics comes from Thomas Aquinas (1225–1274). How would we benefit from reading a book about Aquinas by a noted scholar who has been a Protestant but who is now a Catholic? That is what we are going to find out in this interview with Francis J. Beckwith about his 2019 book, Never Doubt Thomas: The Catholic Aquinas as Evangelical and Protestant (Baylor University Press). The book is not dry-as-dust theology. It is approachable and often quite funny, even as it tackles some quite arcane subject matter (e.g., faith, works and justification). Beckwith engagingly critiques some of the arguments of recent years against natural law theory—which is more relevant than many of us have realized and which forms some of the background of the soul-searching and debate on the right over recent Supreme Court decisions by supposedly conservative justices. Beckwith examines the contention of many Protestant thinkers that the whole idea of natural law that flowed from Aquinas is a distraction from the truly important goal of engagement with the scriptures and reliance on divine revelation. The book is intended for educated general readers who want to understand why so many Protestant thinkers have been so eager to claim Aquinas as a Proto-Protestant (even though he lived centuries before Luther) and what, according to Beckwith, they get so wrong about him even as they admire him. Among other topics Beckwith addresses in this little volume are the centuries-old debate over whether Christians, Jews and Muslims worship the same God and the evergreen topic of purgatory. And for those who want to wade into the waters of the decades-long battle between Darwinists and atheists on the one side and those who adhere to the theory of Intelligent Design on the other, there is even a chapter on that. Who would have thought that a medieval religious scholar would still be annoying some scholars and engendering devotion in others all these centuries later? Francis J. Beckwith tells us why. Give a listen. Francis J. Beckwith is Professor of Philosophy and Church-State Studies and Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Philosophy at Baylor University. Hope J. Leman is a grants researcher. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Should you care how Protestant theologians and philosophers view a man generally regarded as of interest primarily to Catholics and as a pillar of Catholic thinking? Absolutely. Why? Because much of what has made our modern world in terms of law, philosophy and ethics comes from Thomas Aquinas (1225–1274). How would we benefit from reading a book about Aquinas by a noted scholar who has been a Protestant but who is now a Catholic? That is what we are going to find out in this interview with Francis J. Beckwith about his 2019 book, Never Doubt Thomas: The Catholic Aquinas as Evangelical and Protestant (Baylor University Press). The book is not dry-as-dust theology. It is approachable and often quite funny, even as it tackles some quite arcane subject matter (e.g., faith, works and justification). Beckwith engagingly critiques some of the arguments of recent years against natural law theory—which is more relevant than many of us have realized and which forms some of the background of the soul-searching and debate on the right over recent Supreme Court decisions by supposedly conservative justices. Beckwith examines the contention of many Protestant thinkers that the whole idea of natural law that flowed from Aquinas is a distraction from the truly important goal of engagement with the scriptures and reliance on divine revelation. The book is intended for educated general readers who want to understand why so many Protestant thinkers have been so eager to claim Aquinas as a Proto-Protestant (even though he lived centuries before Luther) and what, according to Beckwith, they get so wrong about him even as they admire him. Among other topics Beckwith addresses in this little volume are the centuries-old debate over whether Christians, Jews and Muslims worship the same God and the evergreen topic of purgatory. And for those who want to wade into the waters of the decades-long battle between Darwinists and atheists on the one side and those who adhere to the theory of Intelligent Design on the other, there is even a chapter on that. Who would have thought that a medieval religious scholar would still be annoying some scholars and engendering devotion in others all these centuries later? Francis J. Beckwith tells us why. Give a listen. Francis J. Beckwith is Professor of Philosophy and Church-State Studies and Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Philosophy at Baylor University. Hope J. Leman is a grants researcher. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Should you care how Protestant theologians and philosophers view a man generally regarded as of interest primarily to Catholics and as a pillar of Catholic thinking? Absolutely. Why? Because much of what has made our modern world in terms of law, philosophy and ethics comes from Thomas Aquinas (1225–1274). How would we benefit from reading a book about Aquinas by a noted scholar who has been a Protestant but who is now a Catholic? That is what we are going to find out in this interview with Francis J. Beckwith about his 2019 book, Never Doubt Thomas: The Catholic Aquinas as Evangelical and Protestant (Baylor University Press). The book is not dry-as-dust theology. It is approachable and often quite funny, even as it tackles some quite arcane subject matter (e.g., faith, works and justification). Beckwith engagingly critiques some of the arguments of recent years against natural law theory—which is more relevant than many of us have realized and which forms some of the background of the soul-searching and debate on the right over recent Supreme Court decisions by supposedly conservative justices. Beckwith examines the contention of many Protestant thinkers that the whole idea of natural law that flowed from Aquinas is a distraction from the truly important goal of engagement with the scriptures and reliance on divine revelation. The book is intended for educated general readers who want to understand why so many Protestant thinkers have been so eager to claim Aquinas as a Proto-Protestant (even though he lived centuries before Luther) and what, according to Beckwith, they get so wrong about him even as they admire him. Among other topics Beckwith addresses in this little volume are the centuries-old debate over whether Christians, Jews and Muslims worship the same God and the evergreen topic of purgatory. And for those who want to wade into the waters of the decades-long battle between Darwinists and atheists on the one side and those who adhere to the theory of Intelligent Design on the other, there is even a chapter on that. Who would have thought that a medieval religious scholar would still be annoying some scholars and engendering devotion in others all these centuries later? Francis J. Beckwith tells us why. Give a listen. Francis J. Beckwith is Professor of Philosophy and Church-State Studies and Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Philosophy at Baylor University. Hope J. Leman is a grants researcher. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Should you care how Protestant theologians and philosophers view a man generally regarded as of interest primarily to Catholics and as a pillar of Catholic thinking? Absolutely. Why? Because much of what has made our modern world in terms of law, philosophy and ethics comes from Thomas Aquinas (1225–1274). How would we benefit from reading a book about Aquinas by a noted scholar who has been a Protestant but who is now a Catholic? That is what we are going to find out in this interview with Francis J. Beckwith about his 2019 book, Never Doubt Thomas: The Catholic Aquinas as Evangelical and Protestant (Baylor University Press). The book is not dry-as-dust theology. It is approachable and often quite funny, even as it tackles some quite arcane subject matter (e.g., faith, works and justification). Beckwith engagingly critiques some of the arguments of recent years against natural law theory—which is more relevant than many of us have realized and which forms some of the background of the soul-searching and debate on the right over recent Supreme Court decisions by supposedly conservative justices. Beckwith examines the contention of many Protestant thinkers that the whole idea of natural law that flowed from Aquinas is a distraction from the truly important goal of engagement with the scriptures and reliance on divine revelation. The book is intended for educated general readers who want to understand why so many Protestant thinkers have been so eager to claim Aquinas as a Proto-Protestant (even though he lived centuries before Luther) and what, according to Beckwith, they get so wrong about him even as they admire him. Among other topics Beckwith addresses in this little volume are the centuries-old debate over whether Christians, Jews and Muslims worship the same God and the evergreen topic of purgatory. And for those who want to wade into the waters of the decades-long battle between Darwinists and atheists on the one side and those who adhere to the theory of Intelligent Design on the other, there is even a chapter on that. Who would have thought that a medieval religious scholar would still be annoying some scholars and engendering devotion in others all these centuries later? Francis J. Beckwith tells us why. Give a listen. Francis J. Beckwith is Professor of Philosophy and Church-State Studies and Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Philosophy at Baylor University. Hope J. Leman is a grants researcher. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Should you care how Protestant theologians and philosophers view a man generally regarded as of interest primarily to Catholics and as a pillar of Catholic thinking? Absolutely. Why? Because much of what has made our modern world in terms of law, philosophy and ethics comes from Thomas Aquinas (1225–1274). How would we benefit from reading a book about Aquinas by a noted scholar who has been a Protestant but who is now a Catholic? That is what we are going to find out in this interview with Francis J. Beckwith about his 2019 book, Never Doubt Thomas: The Catholic Aquinas as Evangelical and Protestant (Baylor University Press). The book is not dry-as-dust theology. It is approachable and often quite funny, even as it tackles some quite arcane subject matter (e.g., faith, works and justification). Beckwith engagingly critiques some of the arguments of recent years against natural law theory—which is more relevant than many of us have realized and which forms some of the background of the soul-searching and debate on the right over recent Supreme Court decisions by supposedly conservative justices. Beckwith examines the contention of many Protestant thinkers that the whole idea of natural law that flowed from Aquinas is a distraction from the truly important goal of engagement with the scriptures and reliance on divine revelation. The book is intended for educated general readers who want to understand why so many Protestant thinkers have been so eager to claim Aquinas as a Proto-Protestant (even though he lived centuries before Luther) and what, according to Beckwith, they get so wrong about him even as they admire him. Among other topics Beckwith addresses in this little volume are the centuries-old debate over whether Christians, Jews and Muslims worship the same God and the evergreen topic of purgatory. And for those who want to wade into the waters of the decades-long battle between Darwinists and atheists on the one side and those who adhere to the theory of Intelligent Design on the other, there is even a chapter on that. Who would have thought that a medieval religious scholar would still be annoying some scholars and engendering devotion in others all these centuries later? Francis J. Beckwith tells us why. Give a listen. Francis J. Beckwith is Professor of Philosophy and Church-State Studies and Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Philosophy at Baylor University. Hope J. Leman is a grants researcher. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This lecture was presented by the campus chapter of the Thomistic Institute at the University of Arizona on February 27, 2020. Prof. Francis J. Beckwith is Professor of Philosophy and Church-State Studies at Baylor University, where he also serves as Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Philosophy. Among his over one dozen books are "Defending Life: A Moral and Legal Case Against Abortion Choice" (Cambridge University Press, 2007), "Politics For Christians: Statecraft As Soulcraft" (IVP, 2010), and "Taking Rites Seriously: Law, Politics, and the Reasonableness of Faith" (Cambridge University Press, 2015), winner of the American Academy of Religion's prestigious 2016 Book Award for Excellence in the Study of Religion in Constructive-Reflective Studies. He is a graduate of the Washington University School of Law, St. Louis (MJS) as well as Fordham University (PhD, MA, philosophy).

This lecture was given at the University of Oklahoma on February 6, 2020. For more events and info visit https://thomisticinstitute.org/events-1. Francis J. Beckwith is Professor of Philosophy & Church-State Studies at Baylor University, where he also serves as Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Philosophy. Among his over one dozen books are Defending Life: A Moral and Legal Case Against Abortion Choice (Cambridge University Press, 2007), Politics For Christians: Statecraft As Soulcraft (IVP, 2010), and Taking Rites Seriously: Law, Politics, and the Reasonableness of Faith (Cambridge University Press, 2015), winner of the American Academy of Religion's prestigious 2016 Book Award for Excellence in the Study of Religion in Constructive-Reflective Studies. He is a graduate of the Washington University School of Law, St. Louis (MJS) as well as Fordham University (PhD, MA, philosophy).

In this episode of The Cordial Catholic Podcast I'm joined by Dr. Francis Beckwith, Professor of Philosophy and Church-State Studies at Baylor University to tackle a very exciting topic: Do Christians and Muslims Worship the Same God?Dr. Beckwith's new book, Never Doubt Thomas, tackles this topic from the perspective of Catholicism, Thomas Aquinas, and engages with Evangelical Christian thought in order to show exactly what it is that Muslims and Christians have in common in their understanding of who God is–and what might be different. It's a great discussion!For more, visit The Cordial Catholic. Send your feedback to cordialcatholic@gmail.com. This episode of the podcast is generously sponsored by Select International Tours and Cruises. If you have a group of 10 or more that you would like to take on pilgrimage to the Holy land, the shrines of France, Guadalupe, Italy, Ireland, or Eastern Europe or even follow in the footprints of St. Paul in Greece please do check out their website and help to support this show. For more information about sponsoring the show, keeping this podcast going, and helping me to continue to deliver quality content please visit the Patreon page.  Even $1 or $2 a month can go a long way to helping make this podcast sustainable and will give you access to a special Patron-Only podcast featuring behind-the-scenes content and more. Plus, become an $5 monthly supporter to be entered into monthly draws for fantastic, hand-picked books.Thank you to those already supporting the show!Theme music is "Sandbox Jingle" by Scott Holmes. Newsletter pre-roll. Producers Post-Roll: Stephen, Eli, Tom, Kelvin, Susan, and Eyram.Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/cordialcatholic)

Francis J. Beckwith is a philosopher who publishes and teaches in the areas of religion, jurisprudence, politics, and ethics. He is Professor of Philosophy and Church-State Studies and Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Philosophy at Baylor University. He is a longtime friend of the de Nicola Center, and joined us in Houston as we presented a mini version of our Vita Institute pro-life workshop for the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston. In our conversation we talked about some of the philosophical arguments surrounding the abortion debate. Special Guest: Francis J. Beckwith.

This talk was offered on November 30th, 2018 at Brown University. For more information about upcoming TI events, visit: https://thomisticinstitute.org/events-1/ Speaker Bio: Francis J. Beckwith is Professor of Philosophy & Church-State Studies at Baylor University, where he also serves as Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Philosophy. Among his over one dozen books are Defending Life: A Moral and Legal Case Against Abortion Choice (Cambridge University Press, 2007), Politics For Christians: Statecraft As Soulcraft (IVP, 2010), and Taking Rites Seriously: Law, Politics, and the Reasonableness of Faith (Cambridge University Press, 2015), winner of the American Academy of Religion's prestigious 2016 Book Award for Excellence in the Study of Religion in Constructive-Reflective Studies. He is a graduate of the Washington University School of Law, St. Louis (MJS) as well as Fordham University (PhD, MA, philosophy).

Today's interview is with Frank Beckwith, associate professor of Church-State Studies at Baylor University and associate director of the J. M. Dawson Institute of Church-State Studies. He talks about his background, the importance of ethics and church-state issues, the reason for controversy about Christianity and politics, the meaning of "separation between church and state," what the Bible says about politics, how Christians should be engaged politically, thinking about hot-button issues, how to properly argue for issues, factors for evaluating candidates, the importance of voting, his book Politics for Christians: Statecraft as Soulcraft (review here), recommended reading, and advice for apologists. Enjoy.