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John 15:18-25,18 “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. 19 If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. 20 Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.' If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours. 21 But all these things they will do to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me. 22 If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not have been guilty of sin,[a] but now they have no excuse for their sin. 23 Whoever hates me hates my Father also. 24 If I had not done among them the works that no one else did, they would not be guilty of sin, but now they have seen and hated both me and my Father. 25 But the word that is written in their Law must be fulfilled: ‘They hated me without a cause.'We continue in our journey on this Thursday night, the longest Thursday night in history, and Jesus is preparing his men, and us, for the storm. As the cross approaches, the God-man speaks with new clarity and striking self-focus. Fourteen times in this passages Jesus says I, me, and my. These are not passing, incidental references; it's an emphasis.And the effect of this emphasis is to help us. This is love. We've seen how chapter 15 is like a battlefield speech. Jesus is getting his men ready for hell to break loose. And when the world's hatred shakes Jesus's disciples, the greatest danger isn't death. The greatest danger is falling away from Jesus.So, he gets us ready: stay with me, stay in the Vine, and bear fruit. Love each other, with an expansive love that longs to draw others in. And as you expand outward in love to be Jesus's instrument to bring others to him, and make room for others, be ready to encounter the world's hatred.The world's hate contrasts with Jesus's repeated summons to love (13:34–35; 15:12, 17). His disciples move toward the world in love and find themselves met with hatred. And notably absent is any sense of responding in kind. The implication is, keep loving even as your efforts to love are met with hatred.Why would the world hate Christians?Which raises the question, for Jesus's disciples and for us: Why would the world hate Christians?You might feel this very personally: Why would I be hated? I'm a Minnesotan. I'm nice. I don't want to upset people. I want them to be happy, and I've found in Jesus the great Treasure. I want others to know Jesus. Jesus is love, and teaches love. Why would someone hate me for that?It's an important question. And Jesus wants us to know why, and he wants us to know how to handle it. That's our focus this morning: Why would the world hate Christians, and what are we to do about it?We'll begin with the why, which is both simple, and has some layers to it. And we'll end with Jesus's two directives about how to handle it.The World Hates JesusAt one level, Jesus's answer is simple: the world hates you because the world hates me. Jesus is the focus. The followers of Jesus are hated because they are followers of Jesus. And the world hates Jesus. Listen again how Jesus is the focus of verses 18–21, with it all culminating at “on account of my name”:If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you…. 20 Remember the word that I said to you [in 13:16]: ‘A servant is not greater than his master [that is, Lord].' If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours. 21 But all these things [hate you, persecute you, disregard your word] they will do to you on account of my name…“On account of my name” means because of me and what they think about me. They are mistaken, in some sense, as we'll see. But they know some true things about him, and what they know they don't like. Actually, they hate. It may often come out as dislike or indifference, but deep in the soul, it is hatred. (Their speech may be smooth as butter, yet war is in their heart, Psalm 55:21).So, Jesus says, the world hates you because it hates me. That's his simple answer and focus.Why Does the World Hate Jesus?But there's another layer. You can also ask, Why does the world hate Jesus? Verses 22 and 24:If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not have been guilty of sin, but now they have no excuse for their sin…. 24 If I had not done among them the works that no one else did, they would not be guilty of sin, but now they have seen and hated both me and my Father.The world hates Jesus because he, in a new way, exposes the sinfulness of their sin.Now, we need to say more about “world.” What does “world” mean here? This is not the world of Genesis 1–2, the world created by God and untainted by sin. This is the world of Genesis 3 and since, the world under the power of sin (“the created moral order in active rebellion against God,” Carson). This “world in rebellion” is the world in view in John 3:16: “God loved the world” — the world of sinners, set in opposition to God, loving sin, not loving him —God loved this hellbent, rebellious world in this way: “he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” That's love. And God's love in giving his Son is all the more stunning because the world he loved was the world dead set against him.That's the world in our passage: the world in love with sin, the world that hates God. No wonder such a world would hate Jesus. Jesus is God incarnate. He comes as the light, shining in the darkness. And in the light of his words and his works, the true nature of sin is exposed. The sin was there before he came, when the Light himself comes, then sin is exposed like never before, and seen to be what it is: an assault on God himself. There were lights for the exposing of sin before Jesus came: the light of nature, the light of Moses and the prophets. But the coming of Christ, the true light, so surpasses the previous lights, that his coming ushers in a whole new day. Yes, there was some light before, but the light of Christ is so strong, so pure, so bright, it's as if the previous lights hardly shone. Like twinkling stars at night compared the sun when day comes. And when Jesus comes, the sinfulness of sin becomes apparent: sin is rebellion against God. Hatred of God. Preferring of other things to God is cosmic treason. Longing for and loving created things over the Creator himself is treason.And remember, it's Thursday night. There will be no more outrageous display of the sinfulness of sin than when sinners conspire to put God himself to death the next day. The cross is the ultimate exposé of human sin: sin is an attack on God.So, why does the world hate Jesus? Because he exposes the true nature of sin, and takes away excuses for sin. That's one layer.No Longer “of the World”But Jesus gives us another layer in verse 19, for why the world hates Christians:If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.Jesus has talked before about choosing his disciples (John 6:70; 13:18), and as recently as verse 15:“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide…”It's not that the disciples first chose Jesus; he chose them. They were once of the world. They were born in rebellion against God. They loved darkness rather than light. Yet, Jesus took the decisive step to pluck them out from the world, and make them his own.But the sinful world, in rebellion against God, loves its own who love sin, not God, and affirm sin and celebrate sin. But when Jesus plucks his disciples out from the world, the world doesn't like that. The world hates that. And I know many in this room have experienced that hatred very personally.Jesus chose you. He opened your eyes. You came to faith in him and began to follow him — and your old friends or your family didn't like it. Maybe they kept up a veneer of Minnesota nice, and you didn't sense any deep hatred, but Jesus is telling us here what was, what is, going on: the world in its sin, with guilt-ridden conscience, desperately craves the affirmation of its sin, and fears the exposure of the sinfulness of its sin — and it hates when its fellows in darkness see the Light.This hatred can be stirred when we're plucked out, or when we refuse go back in, as 1 Peter 4:3–4 says,the time that is past [now that the Light has come] suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry. 4 With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you [speak evil of you, say things that make you look bad].Yet, what's the posture of our hearts to be like in moments like this, when the veneer comes off, and hatred begins to seep out? We don't hate them in return. But we remember we were there, but for the grace of God. We were “of the world,” but Jesus drew us out. So, we have the spirit of Titus 3, which calls us…to be ready for every good work, 2 to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people. 3 For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. 4 But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us… (Titus 3:1–5)The World Does Not Know the FatherWhich brings us to one last layer, the bottom layer, for why the world hates Jesus. Now, we pick up the final pieces:The end of verse 21: “because they do not know him who sent me.”Verse 23: “Whoever hates me hates my Father also.”End of verse 24: “now they have seen and hated both me and my Father.”The world's love for sin, and hatred of Jesus, shows that they do not know the Father.This is true of all who do not know Jesus: they do not know God. There are no “good people” who are honestly mistaken about God and not culpable in their sin. They may hide their hatred of the Father well (with speech smooth as butter), but if they are not in Jesus, they do not know God; and they will be “gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned” (John 15:6).This is an exclusivist bottom layer. You know that term “exclusivist”? It means, as Jesus says here, he is the exclusive way to God. There aren't other ways around him or apart from him. Jesus is the Word, the revelation, of the one God who made this world, and over and against whom the world stands in its sin. Buddhists, Muslims, Hindus, Jews who reject Jesus as Messiah do not find other paths to God. Jesus is the one way, the one God provided, and all who reject Jesus reject the only God. So, in Jesus's words in verse 23 is a condemnation of all world religions, including secularism, except for the one Jesus brings.Which lands on the world as profoundly offensive. And lands on Jesus's people, who know themselves sinners and undeserving, as the best news in the world: you mean there's a way! In my sin, in my guilt, in my weakness, there's a way!So, we have the focus of the world's hate and the layers. The world of darkness hates Christians because it hates Jesus, the light. And it hates Jesus because he exposes the sinfulness of sin. And it hates his people because Jesus chose them out of the world. And at bottom, the world hates Jesus, and his people, because the world does not know the Father.So, what do we do about it? Jesus clearly means for verses 18–25 to have an emotional effect on us. There are six ifs in this section, which makes it read almost like poetry, with a rhetorical effect. Jesus wants us to be ready for the world's hate, and stay with him and love one another — and keep endeavoring to expand the circle of our love.In these verses are two imperatives, two commands, that lead us to what Jesus wants us to do about the world's hate. So, he's told us the why, with its focus and layers. Now what to do: he wants us to know in verse 18, and to remember in verse 20. So, know what? Remember what?1. Know this: the world hated Jesus first.What's that do? It helps us get ready. The world hated Jesus, so much so it put him to death; and we're his, we're with him. We should expect the world's hate, know it's coming, and not be surprised by it.The effect of the if in verse 18 is far more like a when: When the world hates you, and it does. The end of verse 19 says, “the world hates you.” Verse 20: they will persecute you. So, 1 John 3:13 says, “Do not be surprised, brothers, that the world hates you.” That's what Jesus is doing here: keeping us from getting caught off guard. Like 1 Peter 4:12:Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you…And to help us in John 15, verse 25, Jesus draws in a line from Psalm 69: “they hated me without cause.” Psalm 69 is King David, “a righteous sufferer who is zealous for God but is persecuted by God's enemies for no good reason” (ESVSB). This is true of Jesus. And it will be true of us who are his.And critical to the pattern of Psalm 69 being true about Jesus, and being true about us, is that we don't give the haters any good reason.Twin dangers face us once we learn that the world, at bottom, hates Jesus, and hates us: we could try to avoid their hate or provoke it. As thoughtful members of a society, it's easy to figure out the fault lines between Jesus and the world — and we can easily avoid them or easily provoke them. Knowing that the world's hate is coming doesn't mean we seek to dodge it, nor that we try to prompt it. It's there, and it's coming; don't let the world's hatred steal the agenda one way or another.There's a vast difference between expecting it and trying to excite it. I expect the government to want more of my money, but I don't try to excite it. And there's a world of difference between the holy, Christlike expectation of the world's hate, and unholy, un-Christian attempts to excite the world's hate. Cities Church, we wanna be the right kinda hated. We are hated, and will be hated, and we want it to be for the reasons they hate Jesus, not because we're fools on Jesus's terms just as much as the world's.Contagious zeal for Jesus that accumulates detractors on account of him is one thing. Learning how to enrage people and garnish it with Jesus's name is another. And worse yet is falling away from Jesus because of his haters.So, know this: the world hated him first. We expect the world to hate us too. And we're pleasantly surprised and don't try to sabotage it, when the hatred ebbs at times.2. Remember this: Jesus is great.I love verse 20: Jesus says, “Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.'” Which is not mainly about the lowliness of the servant, but about the greatness of Jesus.Don't miss this: Jesus is great. Remember this, he says: your Lord is great. Which may sound simple but is powerful.In 1856, Charles Spurgeon was preaching to more than 10,000 people in a packed-out hall when agitators interrupted the service by yelling fire. A stampede ensued, and seven were trampled to death; thirty were seriously injured. In the horror of it all, Spurgeon suffered a severe emotional breakdown, and the event left a mark on him the rest of his life. He faced critics, (haters) and went into depression over it. Years later he testified,I was pressed beyond measure and out of bounds with an enormous weight of misery. The tumult, the panic, the deaths, were day and night before me, and made life a burden.How did God rescue him? He says, From that [nightmare] I was awakened in a moment by the gracious application to my soul of the text, “Him hath God the Father exalted” (“God has highly exalted him,” Philippians 2:9). The fact that Jesus is still great, let his servants suffer as they may, piloted me back to calm reason and peace. (Lectures to My Students, 162 [1954])There it is: “Jesus is still great.” Seven are dead, thirty seriously injured. But Jesus is still great. When the storm comes, look for the greatness of Jesus.When for his sake, you sense their hate,Remember that your Lord is great.And part of that greatness is that you get to be with him. What holds John 15 together is that you're with him, on his side. Hated with him means loved by him! And united to him! You're with Jesus! Enjoy him.Cross of Hate and LoveIt's heavy to spend a whole sermon dwelling on the world's hate for Jesus, and for us. But then we come to this Table. The cross is a demonstration of the world's hate. Sinners conspired together to put God to death. And the cross is the ultimate demonstration of love. “God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).
This week, Ian and Gary conclude the discussion on the findings of Ian's research on C. H. Spurgeon's teaching methods and their relevance for training preachers from working-class communities. This episode how the working-class are facing the same issues in today's church and how, if the church, replicated the ministry of Spurgeon, we could see a more inclusive church.Please find the links as described in the podcast:The ResearchPreaching Like the Working-ClassThe Books Letters to My Students, Spurgeon & The Poor and Spurgeon The pastor
What if logicality warping? Source of warpage unknown. Gun hero prancing for answers. Will satisfying resolution evince? Only listeners find out!Humoresce Anecdotage, episode 144 of This Gun in My Hand, was Tuesday banister by Rob Northrup. This episode and all others are available on Youtube with automatically-generated closed captions of dialog. Visit http://ThisGuninMyHand.blogspot.com for credits, show notes, archives, and to buy my books, such as Sisyphus, Eat Your Heart Out, available in paperback and ebook from Amazon. What if cantina pickle destiny? That Gun Right There!Show Notes:1. Madison Standish is the star of Madison On the Air, an audio drama podcast about an internet influencer zapped into old time radio shows. The scripts are taken from actual shows, rewritten to insert Madison and performed by a modern cast. Highly recommended. https://www.madisonontheair.com/Credits:The opening music clip was from The Sun Sets at Dawn (1950), and the closing music was from Killer Bait (1949), both films in the public domain. Most of the music and sound effects used in the episode are modified or incomplete versions of the originals.Music surrounding or during commercials came from “Journey Into Fear,” an episode of the radio show Hour of Mystery first broadcast on June 9, 1946.Sound Effect Title: Glitch Element 13.wav by GlitchedtonesLicense: Creative Commons Attribution 4.0https://freesound.org/s/223311/ Sound Effect Title: Glitch Element 05.wav by GlitchedtonesLicense: Creative Commons Attribution 4.0https://freesound.org/s/223304/ Sound Effect Title: Glitch Element 06.wav by Glitchedtones License: Creative Commons Attribution 4.0https://freesound.org/s/223303/ Sound Effect Title: BitCrushedGlitch1.wav by NickR2020 License: Creative Commons Attribution 3.0https://freesound.org/s/525050/ Sound Effect Title: wetfart glitch.flac by dudebroman2 License: Public Domainhttps://freesound.org/s/592181/ Sound Effect Title: Gun Fire by GoodSoundForYouLicense: Creative Commons Attribution 3.0http://soundbible.com/1998-Gun-Fire.htmlSound Effect Title: G32-08-Buzzing Sparks.wav by craigsmithLicense: Public Domainhttps://freesound.org/s/438492/ Sound Effect Title: modem_sounds.wav by joedeshon License: Creative Commons Attribution 4.0https://freesound.org/s/80288/ Sound Effect Title: d_s478_riding.wav by relwinLicense: Public Domainhttps://freesound.org/s/686059/Sound Effect Title: emmentaler steam train.mp3 by Zozzy License: Public Domainhttps://freesound.org/s/56645/ Sound Effect Title: Stomach RumbleLicense: Public Domainhttps://freesound.org/people/yrdn/sounds/473989/Sound Effect Title: Industrial Buzz 2.wav by DeVern License: Public Domain https://freesound.org/s/346396/ Music Title: Unus Ex Discipulis Meis (You Are One of My Students)Composed by Tomás Luis de VictoriaPerformed by Anonymous ChoirLicense: Public Domainhttps://freemusicarchive.org/music/Anonymous_Choir/Toms_Luis_de_Victorias_Unus_Ex_Discipulis_Meis/Unus_Ex_Discipulis_Meis/Sound Effect Title: hamster in a jar.wav by Liancu License: Public Domainhttps://freesound.org/s/344728/ Sound Effect Title: Mouse Squeaks.wav by shyguy014 License: Public Domainhttps://freesound.org/s/463789/ Sound Effect Title: Stampede by bevibeldesign License: Public Domainhttps://freesound.org/s/350425/ Sound Effect Title: Hand saw by SoundsLikeYukon License: Public Domainhttps://freesound.org/s/760611/ The image accompanying this episode is a collage including:1. Background “VaporwaveWP3Print by Mike Grauer Jr_CC-BY. License: Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic. https://www.flickr.com/photos/mike_grauer/26310058937/2. The comic book figure on the left of the picture is from the public domain comic All-True Detective Cases Number 1 (1952), art by Vince Alascia. The hand with gun is from the same issue, artist unknown.Image Alt text: A wobbly grid extends across a floor changing from light purple to pink as it moves to the horizon, where it forms jagged, transparent mountains. A too-spherical yellow-orange globe sits on the center of the horizon, the violet sky above dotted with stars. On the left of the landscape, a man in a brown suit and hat seems to halt in the middle of running, his hands splayed to his sides. From the lower right corner of the image, a hand aims a revolver at the startled man.
Kyle Worley is joined by Geoff Chang to discuss how Charles Spurgeon would answer specific questions if he were alive today.Questions Covered in This Episode:What are your thoughts on artificial intelligence?What are your thoughts on gambling?What are your thoughts on recreational marijuana?Guest Bio:Geoff Chang serves as Associate Professor of Church History and Historical Theology and the Curator of the Spurgeon Library at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin (B.B.A.), The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (M.Div.), and Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (Ph.D.), where he wrote his dissertation on Charles H. Spurgeon's ecclesiology. He also serves the Book Review Editor for History & Historical Theology at Themelios, the academic journal for The Gospel Coalition. He is the volume editor of The Lost Sermons of C.H. Spurgeon Volumes 5, 6, and 7 and the author of Spurgeon the Pastor: Recovering a Biblical and Theological Vision for Ministry. He is married to Stephanie, and they have three children. You can follow him on Facebook and Twitter.Resources Mentioned in this Episode:“Lectures to My Students” by C H Spurgeon“Spurgeon the Pastor” by Geoffrey Chang Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteOur Sister Podcast:Tiny TheologiansSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Here is another sermon in which you detect notes of what today might be called ‘pastoral theology.' Spurgeon could preach to preachers, certainly, and you see much of that in some collections of lectures and sermons, especially his Lecture to My Students. However, he also wants those who hear the Word of God to have some understanding of what it is to preach the Word of God. So, earlier in this year, you have his sermon on the pastor's life being wrapped up with the steadfastness of the saints. Here, he opens a window into what is taking place in the man who preaches and to the man to whom he preaches. How does God fit a man to be a minister of the gospel? What does God do in the heart of a converted man? And, what does that converted man have to do, in terms of his own experience of and response to the work of God? Here then you have two divine operations, one upon a preacher, and one upon a hearer, the second developing into its Godward and its manward elements, and yet never merely theoretical, but constantly brought close to the life of those who preach and those who hear. Read the sermon here: https://www.mediagratiae.org/resources/gods-work-minister-and-convert Check out the new From the Heart of Spurgeon Book! British: https://amzn.to/48rV1OR American: https://amzn.to/48oHjft Connect with the Reading Spurgeon Community on Twitter! https://twitter.com/ReadingSpurgeon Sign up to get the weekly readings emailed to you: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts-1/from-the-heart-of-spurgeon. Check out other Media Gratiae podcasts at www.mediagratiae.org Download the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Here is another sermon in which you detect notes of what today might be called 'pastoral theology.' Spurgeon could preach to preachers, certainly, and you see much of that in some collections of lectures and sermons, especially his Lecture to My Students. However, he also wants those who hear the Word of God to have some understanding of what it is to preach the Word of God. So, earlier in this year, you have his sermon on the pastor's life being wrapped up with the steadfastness of the saints. Here, he opens a window into what is taking place in the man who preaches and to the man to whom he preaches. How does God fit a man to be a minister of the gospel? What does God do in the heart of a converted man? And, what does that converted man have to do, in terms of his own experience of and response to the work of God? Here then you have two divine operations, one upon a preacher, and one upon a hearer, the second developing into its Godward and its manward elements, and yet never merely theoretical, but constantly brought close to the life of those who preach and those who hear.
Ben Fountain is far more than just the author of Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk, which won RTB hearts and minds (and the National Book Award) long before it became a weird Ang Lee movie. Back in 2020's lockdown, RTB asked Fountain what was consoling and engaging him. American novels, especially those about Americans abroad (Joan Didion. say) have always done something special for him. Marilynne Robinson's and James Baldwin's work make us confront the reality that's happening around us all the time, “a freaking massacre.” He carried the the (fictional but genuine) facts of Baldwin's If Beale Street Could Talk in his head for forty years. Allen Tate, Fugitive poet (and author most famously of the tricky post-Eliotic 1928 “Ode to the Confederate Dead“) Joan Didion, The Last Thing He Wanted (1996; “a masterpiece of tone and mood and character and profound interiority”; the movie, not so much) Joan Didion, Democracy (1984; she goes “straight after the heart of that mystery, what is America?“) Marilynne Robinson. Listeners, do you prefer her incisive nonfiction (“Poetry of Puritanism“) or the deep, torqued interiority of her first novel, Housekeeping ? Zadie Smith on the amazing, terrifying Americanness of Kara Walker Kara Walker's “A Subtlety” (also referenced in our Silvia Bottinelli episode on food art!) James Baldwin, A Letter to My Nephew (1962) James Baldwin, e.g. If Beale Street Could Talk (Ben loves those Library of America volumes…) Another Country (1962) Giovanni's Room (1956) Sewanee Review, The Corona Correspondence Chronicles of Now George Saunders “A Letter to My Students…." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network
Ben Fountain is far more than just the author of Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk, which won RTB hearts and minds (and the National Book Award) long before it became a weird Ang Lee movie. Back in 2020's lockdown, RTB asked Fountain what was consoling and engaging him. American novels, especially those about Americans abroad (Joan Didion. say) have always done something special for him. Marilynne Robinson's and James Baldwin's work make us confront the reality that's happening around us all the time, “a freaking massacre.” He carried the the (fictional but genuine) facts of Baldwin's If Beale Street Could Talk in his head for forty years. Allen Tate, Fugitive poet (and author most famously of the tricky post-Eliotic 1928 “Ode to the Confederate Dead“) Joan Didion, The Last Thing He Wanted (1996; “a masterpiece of tone and mood and character and profound interiority”; the movie, not so much) Joan Didion, Democracy (1984; she goes “straight after the heart of that mystery, what is America?“) Marilynne Robinson. Listeners, do you prefer her incisive nonfiction (“Poetry of Puritanism“) or the deep, torqued interiority of her first novel, Housekeeping ? Zadie Smith on the amazing, terrifying Americanness of Kara Walker Kara Walker's “A Subtlety” (also referenced in our Silvia Bottinelli episode on food art!) James Baldwin, A Letter to My Nephew (1962) James Baldwin, e.g. If Beale Street Could Talk (Ben loves those Library of America volumes…) Another Country (1962) Giovanni's Room (1956) Sewanee Review, The Corona Correspondence Chronicles of Now George Saunders “A Letter to My Students…." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week we read some words of comfort and counsel suitable for all weary believers, and especially for pastors who feel stretched beyond what they can bear. Featured Resources: – C. H. Spurgeon, 'The Minister's Fainting Fits,' in The Minister's Self-Watch & The Minister's Fainting Fits (booklet), (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2025), p. 40–42. This lecture also appears in Lectures to My Students by the same author. – Robert Murray M'Cheyne, 'To the Rev. Dan. Edwards' in Memoir and Remains of Robert Murray M'Cheyne (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1966, 2024), p. 282. – Robert Murray M'Cheyne, 'To the Rev. W. C. Burns' in Memoir and Remains of Robert Murray M'Cheyne (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1966, 2024), p. 216. – Robert Murray M'Cheyne, 'To the Rev. W. C. Burns' in Memoir and Remains of Robert Murray M'Cheyne (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1966, 2024), p. 289. New from the Banner: The Minister's Self-Watch and The Minister's Fainting Fits (booklet) Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine Leave us your feedback or a testimony: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast
The AI Breakdown: Daily Artificial Intelligence News and Discussions
Is AI going to destroy education—or completely reinvent it? With millions of students and parents preparing for back-to-school, the debate over AI in classrooms raises a deeper question: is the purpose of education to teach people how to think, or simply how to do economically productive things? This episode explores perspectives on how AI is reshaping both.Sources:David Brooks, Are We Really Willing to Become Dumber?Megan O'Rourke, I Teach Creative Writing. This is What AI is Doing to My Students.John Cracraft, We're Losing Our Love of Learning and AI Is to BlameBrought to you by:KPMG – Discover how AI is transforming possibility into reality. Tune into the new KPMG 'You Can with AI' podcast and unlock insights that will inform smarter decisions inside your enterprise. Listen now and start shaping your future with every episode. https://www.kpmg.us/AIpodcastsBlitzy.com - Go to https://blitzy.com/ to build enterprise software in days, not months Vanta - Simplify compliance - https://vanta.com/nlwPlumb - The automation platform for AI experts and consultants https://useplumb.com/The Agent Readiness Audit from Superintelligent - Go to https://besuper.ai/ to request your company's agent readiness score.The AI Daily Brief helps you understand the most important news and discussions in AI. Subscribe to the podcast version of The AI Daily Brief wherever you listen: https://pod.link/1680633614Subscribe to the newsletter: https://aidailybrief.beehiiv.com/Interested in sponsoring the show? nlw@breakdown.network
*This episode was originally on 10/13/2024. This week, Dr. Jared Bumpers joins me back in the studio as co-host as we discuss one of my books, Letters to My Students, Vol. 1. The post The Preacher and Cultural Concerns appeared first on Preaching and Preachers Institute.
This week, Dr. Jared Bumpers joins me on the podcast to discuss my new book Letters to My Students, Volume 3: On Life and Doctrine. Order a copy here: https://www.lifeway.com/en/product/letters-to-my-students-volume-3-P005828486?mcid=Adwords-sb-PLA-005828486&cmpid=pm:ggl:220725%7Coth%7Cshopping%7Cwomen%7Cwomen%7C17853994734%7Cwomens_pmax:pla:na&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21061429571&gbraid=0AAAAADG5DesZ5cFxy4Irz38F3bLiesAu_&gclid=Cj0KCQjwoZbBBhDCARIsAOqMEZW_IaKc-6B8oUyyEDwOSAits0TqUjwbg7CUOXjlDL-3gsxohpcEo8kaAluQEALw_wcB The post On Life and Doctrine appeared first on Preaching and Preachers Institute.
*This episode was originally published on 9/8/24. Dr. Jared Bumpers joins me back in the studio as co-host as we discuss one of my books, Letters to My Students, Vol. 1. Jared The post Developing a Theology of Preaching appeared first on Preaching and Preachers Institute.
In this week’s episode, Dr. Jared Bumpers joins me again as we discuss a portion of my book Letters to My Students, Vol. 2. Particularly, we discuss the pastor and developing leaders. The post The Pastor and Developing Leaders appeared first on Preaching and Preachers Institute.
In this week’s episode, Dr. Jared Bumpers joins me again as we discuss a portion of my book Letters to My Students, Vol. 1. Particularly we discuss the preacher and Christocentric preaching. The post The Preacher and Christocentric Preaching appeared first on Preaching and Preachers Institute.
Donald Trump has wasted no time in his first days as president of the United States in signing executive orders to enforce mass deportations, gender laws and American expansionism. And within this new Republican omnicause, support for Israel has become a mainstay. In the inauguration, Rabbi Ari Berman delivered a presidential blessing that took a swipe at college campuses and advocated for releasing the remaining Israeli hostages. In Trump's first week, he reversed sanctions on Israeli settlers in the West Bank and is getting credit for the ceasefire deal that was struck before he took office. But then he also pardoned the Jan. 6 rioters—including blatant antisemites—and there's the whole Elon Musk maybe-Nazi-salute thing. To break down the first week of Trump's second presidency, we're joined by Gil Troy, an American presidential historian, former CJN columnist and author of the new book, To Resist the Academic Intifada: Letters to My Students on Defending the Zionist Dream. After Trump talk, they turn to the future of political movements in Israel and the shifting identity of the left in a post-ceasefire world. Credits Hosts: Avi Finegold and Phoebe Maltz Bovy (@BovyMaltz) Production team: Michael Fraiman (producer), Zachary Kauffman (editor) Music: Socalled Support The CJN Subscribe to the Bonjour Chai Substack Subscribe to The CJN newsletter Donate to The CJN (+ get a charitable tax receipt) Subscribe to Bonjour Chai (Not sure how? Click here)
*This episode was originally published on 9/17/2023. Today, Dr. Jared Bumpers joins me back in the studio as co-host as we discuss the release of Lectures to My Students by Charles Spurgeon The post Lectures to My Students by Charles Spurgeon appeared first on Preaching and Preachers Institute.
This week, Dr. Jared Bumpers joins me back in the studio as co-host as we discuss one of my books, Letters to My Students, Vol. 1. Jared serves here at Midwestern Seminary The post Episode 309: The Preacher and Cultural Concerns appeared first on Preaching and Preachers Institute.
This week, Dr. Jared Bumpers joins me back in the studio as co-host as we discuss one of my books, Letters to My Students, Vol. 1. Jared serves here at Midwestern Seminary as Assistant Professor of Preaching and Evangelism and is directing the FTC Cohorts here on campus.
In this episode of Weekend Debrief, Dave and Wes discuss multiple questions about Isaac's blessing of Jacob. They also talk about what they've been reading this month. Send comments or questions to (971) 301-2414 or podcast@graceindallas.org. Don't forget that you can now listen and subscribe to Weekend Debrief on Spotify. Also, check out our coffee sponsor, Silver Falls Coffee. Reading Rainbow Recommendations: Orthodoxy: With Annotations and Guided Reading Lectures to My Students, Deluxe Edition The Flourishing Pastor Recommended Links: Missions Moment Partner Highlight (Ian & Emma Porter with AIM): https://usgiving.aimint.org/donate/149370 Spotify Podcast Link: podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/graceindallas Silver Falls Coffee: https://silverfallscoffee.com Mascot Moment: Kewpie Dolls
What can ruling elders do to promote better preaching?On this issue of the Ruling Elder podcast, John Currie, OPC pastor and Professor and Dean of Pastoral Theology, Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia, discusses why this is so important and gives practical suggestions on how and when to do it, and, just as importantly, how not to do it.The OPC Form of Government says “[Ruling Elders] should have particular concern for the doctrine and conduct of the minister of the Word and help him in his labors.” (Fg. X.3)Several resources are also available online at Ordained Servant.“What Ruling Elders Can Do to Promote Better Preaching.” (Edwin J. Kreykes) 11:2 (Apr. 2002): 40-42. https://opc.org/OS/pdf/OSV11N2.pdf“How to Assess a Sermon: A Checklist for Ruling Elders.” (William Shishko) 12:2 (Apr. 2003): 43-44. https://opc.org/OS/pdf/OSV12N2.pdf“What Is Faithful Preaching?” (Alan D. Strange) 27 (2018): 25-30. https://opc.org/os.html?article_id=686Further ReadingT. David Gordon, Why Johnny Can't Preach: The Media Have Shaped the Messengers, (P&R Publishing; 2009)Christopher J Gordon, “How to Evaluate Your Pastor” in Faithful and Fruitful: Essays for Elders and Deacons, eds. William Boekestein and Steven Swets, (Reformed Fellowship Inc. 2019, pp. 181-193).Christopher Ash, Listen Up: A Practical Guide to Listening to Sermons, (The Good Book Company, 2009)John Angell James, An Earnest Ministry: The Want of the Times, (Banner of Truth Trust)Charles Spurgeon, “The Necessity of Ministerial Progress” in Lectures to My Students, (Banner of Truth Trust)John's recommneded reading for Ruling EldersJohn Calvin, Institutes of Christian ReligionR. B. Kuiper, The Glorious Body of Christ: A Scriptural Appreciation of the One Holy Church, (Banner of Truth Trust)Harry Reeder, From Embers to a Flame: How God Can Revitalize Your Church, (P&R Publishing, 2008)
Dr. Jared Bumpers joins me back in the studio as co-host as we discuss one of my books, Letters to My Students, Vol. 1. Jared serves here at Midwestern Seminary as Assistant Professor of Preaching and Evangelism and is directing the FTC Cohorts here on campus.
Dr. Jared Bumpers joins me back in the studio as co-host as we discuss one of my books, Letters to My Students, Vol. 1. Jared serves here at Midwestern Seminary The post Episode 305: Developing a Theology of Preaching appeared first on Preaching and Preachers Institute.
Hey Special ed Teacher, Happy 2nd birthday to the Stepping into Special Education Podcast! I can't believe it's been 2 years since the first episode was released. Thank you so much for being part of the show for the past 2 years! Today we are looking back through the second year of the Stepping into Special Education Podcast. I am sharing the top episodes from the past year and giving you an overview of each of the episodes so you can find the ones you want to go back and listen to. Whether you're looking for which episodes you should check out or need a refresher on a certain topic, tune in to find the top episodes from year two! Take Care, Michelle Resources mentioned: EP 58: Paraprofessional Training 101: 4 Main Areas You Need to Train Classroom Support Staff, Special Ed Assistants, One-on-One Aides EP 50: How to Handle Challenging Behavior from Students with Dr. Christine Reeve EP 57: Back to School Special: Best Episodes to Start Up Your Special Education Classroom EP 54: Co-teaching Models: 6 Methods Used for Students with or without Special Needs EP 53: How to Write Meaningful Impact Statements / Present Levels for IEPs with Jennifer Hofferber EP 64: My 8 Favorite Special Ed Teaching Strategies That I Use for My Students with Learning Disabilities EP 55: Top 10 Most Downloaded Episodes: 1st Birthday Celebration for the Podcast! EP 59: Student Relationships: 4 Reasons Why Connecting with Your Students with Special Needs Are Necessary EP 52: 5 Things You Can Do NOW to Get Your SPED Class Ready for the New School Year! EP 56: Plan the Year with Me! How to Set up Your Planner as a Special Education Teacher Join the FACEBOOK COMMUNITY! Connect with Michelle Vazquez: Leave a 5 star review Download your FREE IEP Meeting Checklist HERE! Become an INSIDER & join the email list HERE! Follow on INSTAGRAM! Contact: steppingintospecialed@gmail.com
This episode was originally published on 10/15/23. Dr. Jared Bumpers joins me back in the studio as co-host as we discuss one of my books, Letters to My Students, Vol. The post Best of Preaching and Preachers, Episode 287: Developing a Homiletical Outline appeared first on Preaching and Preachers Institute.
This episode was originally published on 10/15/23. Dr. Jared Bumpers joins me back in the studio as co-host as we discuss one of my books, Letters to My Students, Vol. 1. Jared serves here at Midwestern Seminary as Assistant Professor of Preaching and Evangelism and is directing the FTC Cohorts here on campus.
A new MP3 sermon from Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Sciences as Sources of Illustrations - Part 02 Subtitle: Lectures to My Students Speaker: C. H. Spurgeon Broadcaster: Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon Event: Audiobook Date: 1/23/1800 Length: 53 min.
A new MP3 sermon from Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Preacher's Private Prayer Subtitle: Lectures to My Students Speaker: C. H. Spurgeon Broadcaster: Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon Event: Audiobook Date: 1/3/1800 Length: 36 min.
A new MP3 sermon from Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Holy Spirit in Connection with Our Ministry Subtitle: Lectures to My Students Speaker: C. H. Spurgeon Broadcaster: Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon Event: Audiobook Date: 1/24/1800 Length: 65 min.
A new MP3 sermon from Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Minister's Fainting Fits Subtitle: Lectures to My Students Speaker: C. H. Spurgeon Broadcaster: Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon Event: Audiobook Date: 1/11/1800 Length: 38 min.
A new MP3 sermon from Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Minister's Ordinary Conversation Subtitle: Lectures to My Students Speaker: C. H. Spurgeon Broadcaster: Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon Event: Audiobook Date: 1/12/1800 Length: 29 min.
A new MP3 sermon from Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Minister's Self-Watch Subtitle: Lectures to My Students Speaker: C. H. Spurgeon Broadcaster: Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon Event: Audiobook Date: 1/1/1800 Bible: 1 Timothy 4:16 Length: 51 min.
A new MP3 sermon from Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Necessity of Ministerial Progress Subtitle: Lectures to My Students Speaker: C. H. Spurgeon Broadcaster: Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon Event: Audiobook Date: 1/25/1800 Length: 48 min.
A new MP3 sermon from Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Need of Decision for the Truth Subtitle: Lectures to My Students Speaker: C. H. Spurgeon Broadcaster: Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon Event: Audiobook Date: 1/25/1800 Length: 44 min.
A new MP3 sermon from Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Sciences as Sources of Illustrations - Part 01 Subtitle: Lectures to My Students Speaker: C. H. Spurgeon Broadcaster: Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon Event: Audiobook Date: 1/22/1800 Length: 46 min.
A new MP3 sermon from Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: A Chat About Commentaries Subtitle: Lectures to My Students Speaker: C. H. Spurgeon Broadcaster: Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon Event: Audiobook Date: 2/3/1800 Length: 47 min.
A new MP3 sermon from Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Minister's Self-Watch Subtitle: Lectures to My Students Speaker: C. H. Spurgeon Broadcaster: Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon Event: Audiobook Date: 1/1/1800 Bible: 1 Timothy 4:16 Length: 51 min.
A new MP3 sermon from Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Holy Spirit in Connection with Our Ministry Subtitle: Lectures to My Students Speaker: C. H. Spurgeon Broadcaster: Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon Event: Audiobook Date: 1/24/1800 Length: 65 min.
A new MP3 sermon from Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Minister's Fainting Fits Subtitle: Lectures to My Students Speaker: C. H. Spurgeon Broadcaster: Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon Event: Audiobook Date: 1/11/1800 Length: 38 min.
A new MP3 sermon from Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Minister's Ordinary Conversation Subtitle: Lectures to My Students Speaker: C. H. Spurgeon Broadcaster: Audiobooks by C. H. Spurgeon Event: Audiobook Date: 1/12/1800 Length: 29 min.
This series is sponsored by Joel and Lynn Mael in memory of Estelle and Nysen Mael.In this episode of the 18Forty Podcast, we begin our Denominations series by talking to Zev Eleff—historian, author, and the president of Gratz College—about the development of the denominations of Judaism we have in America today. We've been occupied for months with defending our right to be Jews in America, so perhaps this is the right time to return to considering the purpose of the Jewish lives we want to live. In this episode we discuss:How did America's Jewish “denominations”—better termed “movements”—as we know them come to be?What have the different Jewish movements each contributed to American Jewish life?How can we get back to not just fighting antisemitism, but uncovering the meaning of our Judaism?Tune in to hear a conversation about how previous generations of American Jews have handled the issues that, to one degree or another, threatened to divide us. Interview begins at 49:36.Rabbi Dr. Zev Eleff is the president of Gratz College. Zev is the author and editor of nine books and more than 50 scholarly articles in the fields of Jewish Studies and American Religion, including Modern Orthodox Judaism: A Documentary History, Dyed in Crimson: Football, Faith, and Remaking Harvard's America, and Authentically Orthodox: A Tradition-Bound Faith in American Life. Zev's research focuses on American Jewish history, sports, and Modern Orthodox history. References:Jonathan Haidt on The Daily ShowAmmi Hirsch on Campus Chaos“Failure Goes to Yeshivah: What I've Learned From the Failure Narratives of My Students” by David BashevkinAuthentically Orthodox: A Tradition-Bound Faith in American Life by Zev EleffThe Birth of Conservative Judaism by Michael CohenAmerican Judaism by Jonathan D. SarnaThe Jews of the United States, 1654 to 2000 by Hasia R. DinerJew Vs Jew: The Struggle For The Soul Of American Jewry by Samuel G. FreedmanThis Is My God by Herman WoukJewish Continuity in America by Abraham J. Karp18Forty Podcast: “Halacha as a Language”
Today, Dr. Jared Bumpers joins me back in the studio as we discuss “Healthy Aspirations for Ministry” which is largely taken from my book, Letters to My Students, Vol. 2. The post Episode 302: Healthy Aspirations for Ministry appeared first on Preaching and Preachers Institute.
Today, Dr. Jared Bumpers joins me back in the studio as we discuss "Healthy Aspirations for Ministry" which is largely taken from my book, Letters to My Students, Vol. 2. Jared serves here at Midwestern Seminary as Assistant Professor of Preaching and Evangelism and is Director of the FTC Cohorts here on campus.
Our mental health series is sponsored by Terri and Andrew Herenstein.This episode is sponsored by someone supporting 18Forty's work.In this episode of the 18Forty Podcast, we listen in on a conversation between David Bashevkin and his dear and longtime friend Elie Schulman about the value of therapy.In a culture in which we can feel we're constantly being sized up and evaluated by others, accepting our own vulnerability can be one of the hardest things to do. In this episode we discuss:How can someone know it's time to get therapy?How can we get beyond excessively comparing ourselves with our peers?What does it mean to “lift up” a friend?Tune in to hear a conversation about how seeking help can be a sign and source of strength.Interview begins at 11:29.References:Pirkei Avot 1:6Curb Your EnthusiasmThe Wisdom of No Escape and the Path of Loving-Kindness by Pema ChodronThe Drama of the Gifted Child: The Search for the True Self by Alice MillerwWaking Up by Sam HarrisDavid Bashevkin on That's An Issue“Failure Goes to Yeshivah: What I've Learned From the Failure Narratives of My Students” by David Bashevkin“On Campus, Failure Is on the Syllabus” by Jessica Bennett
From Lectures to My Students
This is The Briefing, a daily analysis of news and events from a Christian worldview.Part I (00:13 - 04:54) How Often Do You Think About Rome? — Dr. Mohler Responds to Letters from Listeners of The BriefingHow often do men think about ancient Rome? Quite frequently, it seems. by Washington Post (Leo Sands)Part II (04:54 - 11:48) Where is the Balance Between Allowing For Free Speech and Preventing Mental Harm to the Children in Our Communities When It Comes to Halloween Decorations? — Dr. Mohler Responds to Letters from Listeners of The BriefingPart III (11:48 - 13:31) Why Does God Test People If He is Omniscient and Sovereign? — Dr. Mohler Responds to a Letter from a 10-Year-Old Listener of The BriefingPart IV (13:31 - 15:27) If Jesus Defeated Death, Why Do People Still Die? — Dr. Mohler Responds to a Letter from a 7-Year-Old Listener of The BriefingPart V (15:27 - 17:18) Why Do We Pray When God Already Has a Plan? — Dr. Mohler Responds to a Letter from a 7-Year-Old Listener of The BriefingPart VI (17:18 - 21:58) What Position Within Ethical Theory Should Christians Hold? — Dr. Mohler Responds to a Letter from a 17-Year-Old Listener of The BriefingPart VII (21:58 - 27:21) As a Follower of Christ, Am I Morally Complicit If I Allow a Secular Sex Education Presentation in My Classroom and Stay Silent as My Students are Exposed to This Material? — Dr. Mohler Responds to Letters from Listeners of The BriefingSign up to receive The Briefing in your inbox every weekday morning.Follow Dr. Mohler:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | YouTubeFor more information on The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, go to sbts.edu.For more information on Boyce College, just go to BoyceCollege.com.To write Dr. Mohler or submit a question for The Mailbox, go here.
Today, Dr. Jared Bumpers joins me back in the studio as co-host as we discuss one of my books, Letters to My Students, Vol. 1. Jared serves here at Midwestern The post Episode 287: Developing a Homiletical Outline appeared first on Preaching and Preachers Institute.
Today, Dr. Jared Bumpers joins me back in the studio as co-host as we discuss one of my books, Letters to My Students, Vol. 1. Jared serves here at Midwestern Seminary as Assistant Professor of Preaching and Evangelism and is directing the FTC Cohorts here on campus.
Today, Dr. Jared Bumpers joins me back in the studio as co-host as we discuss the release of Lectures to My Students by Charles Spurgeon from B&H Publishing. Jared serves The post Episode 283: Lectures to My Students by Charles Spurgeon appeared first on Preaching and Preachers Institute.
This series is sponsored by an anonymous lover of books. This episode is sponsored by Twillory. Use the coupon code 18Forty to get $18 off of all orders more than $139. In this episode of the 18Forty Podcast, we talk to returning guest comedian Alex Edelman, whose show has made it to Broadway, and his chavrusa, Sarah Hurwitz, former White House speechwriter and the author of Here All Along, about how to introduce people to a Judaism that is both inclusive and rigorous. In this episode we discuss: How does Alex Edelman write a one-man show “chavrusa-style”?What, according to Sarah Hurwitz, is the difference between “writing to be read” and “writing to be heard”?How does a writer bring a rich and relevant body of Jewish knowledge to the masses?Tune in to hear a conversation about the “neon entrance signs” of Jewish life and how every Jew can find a way into appreciating their inheritance.Alex Edelman interview begins at 13:32.Sarah Hurtwitz interview begins at 54:09. Alex Edelman is a product of Massachusetts's Maimonides School and has been featured on Conan and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. In 2020, he was the head writer and executive producer of the “Saturday Night Seder” YouTube extravaganza, which raised over $3.5 million for the CDC Foundation COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund. His show Just For Us is running on Broadway! While nights tend to sell out quickly, tickets are available here.Sarah Hurwitz is an American speechwriter. Sarah was a senior speechwriter for President Barack Obama in 2009 and 2010, and head speechwriter for First Lady Michelle Obama from 2010 to 2017, and was appointed to serve on the United States Holocaust Memorial Council by Barack Obama shortly before he left the White House. Sarah is the author of Here All Along: Finding Meaning, Spirituality, and a Deeper Connection to Life—in Judaism (After Finally Choosing to Look There).References:“Failure Goes to Yeshivah: What I've Learned From the Failure Narratives of My Students” by David BashevkinThis Is My God by Herman WoukPeople Love Dead Jews: Reports from a Haunted Present by Dara HornFor the Relief of Unbearable Urges: Stories by Nathan Englander White nights: The story of a prisoner in Russia by Menachem BeginThe Lonely Man of Faith by Joseph B. SoloveitchikGod in Search of Man : A Philosophy of Judaism by Abraham Joshua HeschelSuddenly, a Knock on the Door: Stories by Etgar Keret From Text to Tradition, a History of Judaism in Second Temple and Rabbinic Times: A History of Second Temple and Rabbinic Judaism by Lawrence H. Schiffman To the End of the Land by David GrossmanMy Name Is Asher Lev by Chaim PotokHere All Along: Finding Meaning, Spirituality, and a Deeper Connection to Life—in Judaism (After Finally Choosing to Look There) by Sarah HurwitzAs a Driven Leaf by Milton Steinberg