The Christian Skeptic https://thechristianskeptic.org en Copyright © 2025 The Christian Skeptic. Hey, we’re Adam and Aaron, and we have a simple belief: faith should be rooted in truth, not tradition. On this show, we question everything—doctrines, traditions, cultural expectations, and religious dogma—not to dismantle Christianity, but to restore it to its biblical and historical essence. Whether you’re wrestling with doubt, deconstructing your beliefs, or just longing for some intellectual honesty, The Christian Skeptic is a space for real conversations about what it truly means to follow Jesus. New episodes drop every Tuesday wherever you get your podcasts. Follow along and be part of the conversation at thechristianskeptic.org. https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/e2548908-536b-11ef-961d-a7204c767a01/image/5fa6f97ba7b3b32a812d32dc1befe21a.jpg?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress The Christian Skeptic https://thechristianskeptic.org no episodic The Christian Skeptic Hey, we’re Adam and Aaron, and we have a simple belief: faith should be rooted in truth, not tradition. On this show, we question everything—doctrines, traditions, cultural expectations, and religious dogma—not to dismantle Christianity, but to restore it to its biblical and historical essence. Whether you’re wrestling with doubt, deconstructing your beliefs, or just longing for some intellectual honesty, The Christian Skeptic is a space for real conversations about what it truly means to follow Jesus. New episodes drop every Tuesday wherever you get your podcasts. Follow along and be part of the conversation at thechristianskeptic.org. Hey, we’re Adam and Aaron, and we have a simple belief: faith should be rooted in truth, not tradition. On this show, we question everything—doctrines, traditions, cultural expectations, and religious dogma—not to dismantle Christianity, but to restore it to its biblical and historical essence. Whether you’re wrestling with doubt, deconstructing your beliefs, or just longing for some intellectual honesty, The Christian Skeptic is a space for real conversations about what it truly means to follow Jesus. New episodes drop every Tuesday wherever you get your podcasts. Follow along and be part of the conversation at thechristianskeptic.org.

]]> The Christian Skeptic hello@thechristianskeptic.org A Short History of Christmas (and Why It Matters) Where did Christmas really come from—and should Christians celebrate it? This week, we explore the historical roots of Christmas, common objections about pagan origins and commercialization, and the role of Santa, imagination, and gift-giving. Along the way, we argue that the church’s call isn’t to retreat from culture but to redeem it. Ultimately, Christmas matters because the incarnation matters: God took on flesh, entered our darkness, and brought hope at just the right time. When understood rightly, even the most familiar Christmas traditions can point us back to Jesus.  In this episode: (00:00) Intro (01:15) Why Christians question Christmas (02:45) Pagan origins, Sol Invictus, and Saturnalia (06:10) Did Christians borrow Christmas? (09:15) The church’s call: withdraw from culture or redeem it? (15:30) Puritans vs. separatists: two ways of engaging the world (17:55) Lights, gifts, and redeeming Christmas traditions (19:45) Is Santa real? Imagination, myth, and meaning (23:10) Why stories teach truth better than arguments (25:10) Gift-giving, generosity, and reflecting God’s heart (28:45) Why the incarnation actually matters Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 23 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0000 full The Christian Skeptic Where did Christmas really come from—and should Christians celebrate it? This week, we explore the historical roots of Christmas, common objections about pagan origins and commercialization, and the role of Santa, imagination, and gift-giving. Along the way, we argue that the church’s call isn’t to retreat from culture but to redeem it. Ultimately, Christmas matters because the incarnation matters: God took on flesh, entered our darkness, and brought hope at just the right time. When understood rightly, even the most familiar Christmas traditions can point us back to Jesus.  In this episode: (00:00) Intro (01:15) Why Christians question Christmas (02:45) Pagan origins, Sol Invictus, and Saturnalia (06:10) Did Christians borrow Christmas? (09:15) The church’s call: withdraw from culture or redeem it? (15:30) Puritans vs. separatists: two ways of engaging the world (17:55) Lights, gifts, and redeeming Christmas traditions (19:45) Is Santa real? Imagination, myth, and meaning (23:10) Why stories teach truth better than arguments (25:10) Gift-giving, generosity, and reflecting God’s heart (28:45) Why the incarnation actually matters Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Where did Christmas really come from—and should Christians celebrate it? This week, we explore the historical roots of Christmas, common objections about pagan origins and commercialization, and the role of Santa, imagination, and gift-giving. Along the way, we argue that the church’s call isn’t to retreat from culture but to redeem it. Ultimately, Christmas matters because the incarnation matters: God took on flesh, entered our darkness, and brought hope at just the right time. When understood rightly, even the most familiar Christmas traditions can point us back to Jesus. 

In this episode:

  • (00:00) Intro

  • (01:15) Why Christians question Christmas

  • (02:45) Pagan origins, Sol Invictus, and Saturnalia

  • (06:10) Did Christians borrow Christmas?

  • (09:15) The church’s call: withdraw from culture or redeem it?

  • (15:30) Puritans vs. separatists: two ways of engaging the world

  • (17:55) Lights, gifts, and redeeming Christmas traditions

  • (19:45) Is Santa real? Imagination, myth, and meaning

  • (23:10) Why stories teach truth better than arguments

  • (25:10) Gift-giving, generosity, and reflecting God’s heart

  • (28:45) Why the incarnation actually matters


Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 2032 no Do Christians Really Believe What They Preach? This week, we respond to a viral clip claiming most Christians don’t really believe what they preach. We unpack the difference between hypocrisy and inconsistency, talk about weak versus fake faith, explore what a transformed life actually looks like, and wrestle with the place of evangelism in our lives.  In this episode: (00:00) Intro (01:29) “I don’t think people are actually religious” (03:58) Hypocrisy vs. inconsistency (07:56) Weak faith or fake faith? (12:33) The problem with cultural Christianity (18:01) What a transformed life actually looks like (23:00) Internal change vs. external rule-keeping (28:48) What place should evangelism have in our lives? (32:50) How real conversations open real doors Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Wed, 10 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0000 full The Christian Skeptic This week, we respond to a viral clip claiming most Christians don’t really believe what they preach. We unpack the difference between hypocrisy and inconsistency, talk about weak versus fake faith, explore what a transformed life actually looks like, and wrestle with the place of evangelism in our lives.  In this episode: (00:00) Intro (01:29) “I don’t think people are actually religious” (03:58) Hypocrisy vs. inconsistency (07:56) Weak faith or fake faith? (12:33) The problem with cultural Christianity (18:01) What a transformed life actually looks like (23:00) Internal change vs. external rule-keeping (28:48) What place should evangelism have in our lives? (32:50) How real conversations open real doors Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. This week, we respond to a viral clip claiming most Christians don’t really believe what they preach. We unpack the difference between hypocrisy and inconsistency, talk about weak versus fake faith, explore what a transformed life actually looks like, and wrestle with the place of evangelism in our lives. 

In this episode:

  • (00:00) Intro

  • (01:29) “I don’t think people are actually religious”

  • (03:58) Hypocrisy vs. inconsistency

  • (07:56) Weak faith or fake faith?

  • (12:33) The problem with cultural Christianity

  • (18:01) What a transformed life actually looks like

  • (23:00) Internal change vs. external rule-keeping

  • (28:48) What place should evangelism have in our lives?

  • (32:50) How real conversations open real doors


Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 2495 no Can a Christian Abuse Grace? This week, we take on the question, “Can a Christian abuse grace?” and explore why that question often reveals more about our own hearts than other people’s behavior. We dig into Christian liberty, the parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector, Romans 7, and why those who truly grasp God’s love are actually the least likely to cheapen it. We look at how self-righteousness distorts our view of grace, and why the only real way to “abuse” grace is to misunderstand it or reject it altogether.  In this episode: (00:00) – Intro (01:06) – Can a Christian actually abuse grace? (02:22) – Thinner, flatter versions of grace (03:27) – When concern for holiness becomes self-righteousness (04:36) – The hidden ways we all “abuse” grace (06:00) – The tension of Christian liberty (07:49) – Older brothers and younger brothers (09:37) – Comparing sins to avoid our own (11:36) – The heaviness of watching everyone else (13:10) – Fear-based faith vs freedom-based faith (15:16) – Why we keep looking for “the line” (17:45) – What preaching real grace actually produces (19:38) – When your heart won’t cooperate (22:01) – The surprising comfort of conviction (25:05) – The only real way to abuse grace (27:39) – When grace sounds too reckless (29:52) – The prodigal, the Pharisee, and the Father (34:10) – So what do we do with all this? Key Ideas Grace isn’t something you “abuse” as much as something you misunderstand. Most concerns about “abusing grace” come from viewing the Christian life as rule-keeping rather than relationship. A deeper grasp of God’s love—not fear—actually leads to transformation. Self-examination comes before evaluating anyone else’s behavior. Jesus calls us to address the beam in our own eye first. Before questioning someone else’s actions, check your own posture, motives, and the subtle ways self-righteousness creeps in. Jesus intentionally left a broadness to the Christian life. Scripture leaves intentional room for believers to live differently within the boundaries of orthodoxy. Differences in conscience, lifestyle, or struggle don’t necessarily signal spiritual compromise. True grace produces desire—not license—to honor God. When you genuinely understand God’s unconditional love, it awakens a desire to honor Him—not a desire to run wild. Grace transforms from the inside out in a way that moral pressure never can. The only real “abuse of grace” is rejecting it altogether. Willful rebellion—the prodigal running from home—reflects rejection of God’s love, not overuse of it. But even then, the Father’s response in Jesus’ parable shows that love, not fear, is what draws us home. Links  Brennan Manning: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brennan_Manning  Gentle and Lowly by Dane Ortlund: https://www.amazon.com/Gentle-Lowly-Christ-Sinners-Sufferers/dp/1433566133  A Scandalous Freedom by Steve Brown: https://www.amazon.com/Scandalous-Freedom-Radical-Nature-Gospel/dp/1582293929  Putting Amazing Back Into Grace by Michael Horton: https://www.amazon.com/Putting-Amazing-Back-into-Grace/dp/0801014212  The Bondage of the Will by Martin Luther: https://www.amazon.com/Bondage-Will-Martin-Luther/dp/0801048931  Connect with Adam Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avclark Connect with Aaron Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fromgreytown  Subscribe and stay in touch Website: https://thechristiansekptic.org Instagram: https://instagram.com/christianskepticpod  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-christian-skeptic/id1761285349  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4HlSAPHewfbLESl61D3XH9  YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic Wed, 26 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0000 full The Christian Skeptic This week, we take on the question, “Can a Christian abuse grace?” and explore why that question often reveals more about our own hearts than other people’s behavior. We dig into Christian liberty, the parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector, Romans 7, and why those who truly grasp God’s love are actually the least likely to cheapen it. We look at how self-righteousness distorts our view of grace, and why the only real way to “abuse” grace is to misunderstand it or reject it altogether.  In this episode: (00:00) – Intro (01:06) – Can a Christian actually abuse grace? (02:22) – Thinner, flatter versions of grace (03:27) – When concern for holiness becomes self-righteousness (04:36) – The hidden ways we all “abuse” grace (06:00) – The tension of Christian liberty (07:49) – Older brothers and younger brothers (09:37) – Comparing sins to avoid our own (11:36) – The heaviness of watching everyone else (13:10) – Fear-based faith vs freedom-based faith (15:16) – Why we keep looking for “the line” (17:45) – What preaching real grace actually produces (19:38) – When your heart won’t cooperate (22:01) – The surprising comfort of conviction (25:05) – The only real way to abuse grace (27:39) – When grace sounds too reckless (29:52) – The prodigal, the Pharisee, and the Father (34:10) – So what do we do with all this? Key Ideas Grace isn’t something you “abuse” as much as something you misunderstand. Most concerns about “abusing grace” come from viewing the Christian life as rule-keeping rather than relationship. A deeper grasp of God’s love—not fear—actually leads to transformation. Self-examination comes before evaluating anyone else’s behavior. Jesus calls us to address the beam in our own eye first. Before questioning someone else’s actions, check your own posture, motives, and the subtle ways self-righteousness creeps in. Jesus intentionally left a broadness to the Christian life. Scripture leaves intentional room for believers to live differently within the boundaries of orthodoxy. Differences in conscience, lifestyle, or struggle don’t necessarily signal spiritual compromise. True grace produces desire—not license—to honor God. When you genuinely understand God’s unconditional love, it awakens a desire to honor Him—not a desire to run wild. Grace transforms from the inside out in a way that moral pressure never can. The only real “abuse of grace” is rejecting it altogether. Willful rebellion—the prodigal running from home—reflects rejection of God’s love, not overuse of it. But even then, the Father’s response in Jesus’ parable shows that love, not fear, is what draws us home. Links  Brennan Manning: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brennan_Manning  Gentle and Lowly by Dane Ortlund: https://www.amazon.com/Gentle-Lowly-Christ-Sinners-Sufferers/dp/1433566133  A Scandalous Freedom by Steve Brown: https://www.amazon.com/Scandalous-Freedom-Radical-Nature-Gospel/dp/1582293929  Putting Amazing Back Into Grace by Michael Horton: https://www.amazon.com/Putting-Amazing-Back-into-Grace/dp/0801014212  The Bondage of the Will by Martin Luther: https://www.amazon.com/Bondage-Will-Martin-Luther/dp/0801048931  Connect with Adam Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avclark Connect with Aaron Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fromgreytown  Subscribe and stay in touch Website: https://thechristiansekptic.org Instagram: https://instagram.com/christianskepticpod  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-christian-skeptic/id1761285349  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4HlSAPHewfbLESl61D3XH9  YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic This week, we take on the question, “Can a Christian abuse grace?” and explore why that question often reveals more about our own hearts than other people’s behavior. We dig into Christian liberty, the parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector, Romans 7, and why those who truly grasp God’s love are actually the least likely to cheapen it. We look at how self-righteousness distorts our view of grace, and why the only real way to “abuse” grace is to misunderstand it or reject it altogether. 


In this episode:

  • (00:00) – Intro

  • (01:06) – Can a Christian actually abuse grace?

  • (02:22) – Thinner, flatter versions of grace

  • (03:27) – When concern for holiness becomes self-righteousness

  • (04:36) – The hidden ways we all “abuse” grace

  • (06:00) – The tension of Christian liberty

  • (07:49) – Older brothers and younger brothers

  • (09:37) – Comparing sins to avoid our own

  • (11:36) – The heaviness of watching everyone else

  • (13:10) – Fear-based faith vs freedom-based faith

  • (15:16) – Why we keep looking for “the line”

  • (17:45) – What preaching real grace actually produces

  • (19:38) – When your heart won’t cooperate

  • (22:01) – The surprising comfort of conviction

  • (25:05) – The only real way to abuse grace

  • (27:39) – When grace sounds too reckless

  • (29:52) – The prodigal, the Pharisee, and the Father

  • (34:10) – So what do we do with all this?

Key Ideas

  • Grace isn’t something you “abuse” as much as something you misunderstand. Most concerns about “abusing grace” come from viewing the Christian life as rule-keeping rather than relationship. A deeper grasp of God’s love—not fear—actually leads to transformation.

  • Self-examination comes before evaluating anyone else’s behavior. Jesus calls us to address the beam in our own eye first. Before questioning someone else’s actions, check your own posture, motives, and the subtle ways self-righteousness creeps in.

  • Jesus intentionally left a broadness to the Christian life. Scripture leaves intentional room for believers to live differently within the boundaries of orthodoxy. Differences in conscience, lifestyle, or struggle don’t necessarily signal spiritual compromise.

  • True grace produces desire—not license—to honor God. When you genuinely understand God’s unconditional love, it awakens a desire to honor Him—not a desire to run wild. Grace transforms from the inside out in a way that moral pressure never can.

  • The only real “abuse of grace” is rejecting it altogether. Willful rebellion—the prodigal running from home—reflects rejection of God’s love, not overuse of it. But even then, the Father’s response in Jesus’ parable shows that love, not fear, is what draws us home.

Links 

Connect with Adam

Connect with Aaron

Subscribe and stay in touch

]]> 2081 no Live Q&A: Christian Nationalism and the Way of Jesus This week, we’re sharing a live Q&A where we talk Christian nationalism, predestination, identity in Christ, and what it means to trust grace without abusing it. We explore how God forms us, how to walk with those who feel spiritually numb, and why the church remains central to following Jesus. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:00) - What’s the problem with “Christian nationalism”? (06:54) - Is it wrong for Christians to stay out of politics? (08:50) - What does predestination mean for me—and my family? (17:08) - Are we passive in our relationship with God? (22:12) - Can grace be abused—and what would that look like? (24:09) - If we fall short of biblical commands, do we lose our inheritance? (26:07) - Does grace extend to all—including the marginalized and LGBTQ? (27:37) - How do you help someone who’s become callous to sin? (30:38) - How can we make the church central to our lives? (34:03) - Why is Ephesians so relevant to today’s church? (35:04) - Does the Spirit shape our character—and our behavior? (36:06) - How does the church keep building on Christ’s foundation today? Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Wed, 12 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0000 full The Christian Skeptic This week, we’re sharing a live Q&A where we talk Christian nationalism, predestination, identity in Christ, and what it means to trust grace without abusing it. We explore how God forms us, how to walk with those who feel spiritually numb, and why the church remains central to following Jesus. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:00) - What’s the problem with “Christian nationalism”? (06:54) - Is it wrong for Christians to stay out of politics? (08:50) - What does predestination mean for me—and my family? (17:08) - Are we passive in our relationship with God? (22:12) - Can grace be abused—and what would that look like? (24:09) - If we fall short of biblical commands, do we lose our inheritance? (26:07) - Does grace extend to all—including the marginalized and LGBTQ? (27:37) - How do you help someone who’s become callous to sin? (30:38) - How can we make the church central to our lives? (34:03) - Why is Ephesians so relevant to today’s church? (35:04) - Does the Spirit shape our character—and our behavior? (36:06) - How does the church keep building on Christ’s foundation today? Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. This week, we’re sharing a live Q&A where we talk Christian nationalism, predestination, identity in Christ, and what it means to trust grace without abusing it. We explore how God forms us, how to walk with those who feel spiritually numb, and why the church remains central to following Jesus.

In this episode:

  • (00:00) - Intro

  • (01:00) - What’s the problem with “Christian nationalism”?

  • (06:54) - Is it wrong for Christians to stay out of politics?

  • (08:50) - What does predestination mean for me—and my family?

  • (17:08) - Are we passive in our relationship with God?

  • (22:12) - Can grace be abused—and what would that look like?

  • (24:09) - If we fall short of biblical commands, do we lose our inheritance?

  • (26:07) - Does grace extend to all—including the marginalized and LGBTQ?

  • (27:37) - How do you help someone who’s become callous to sin?

  • (30:38) - How can we make the church central to our lives?

  • (34:03) - Why is Ephesians so relevant to today’s church?

  • (35:04) - Does the Spirit shape our character—and our behavior?

  • (36:06) - How does the church keep building on Christ’s foundation today?


Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 2255 no Can You Follow Jesus Without Believing in Him? What Rhett & Rainn Get Wrong About Christianity This week, we respond to a clip from Soul Boom with Rhett McLaughlin and Rainn Wilson. We unpack the allure of a “just-the-teachings” Jesus, why it falls apart under scrutiny, and why you can’t separate the words of Jesus from the person of Jesus. We explore the intellectual and theological inconsistency of cherry-picking Jesus’ words while ignoring the radical, exclusive claims he made about himself.  In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:13) – Rhett & Rainn’s take on Jesus (03:38) – The appeal of a softer faith (05:13) – Can you follow Jesus without belief? (07:33) – What Jesus actually said (10:13) – Liar, lunatic, or Lord? (12:23) – When smart people say absurd things (14:13) – Does it matter if Jesus was real? (16:58) – Belief vs. bias (18:38) – The red-letter remix (21:13) – No resurrection, no Christianity (23:43) – Just a teacher? (26:03) – The prophecies they can’t explain away (27:43) – The new crutch: soft Jesus (29:13) – Why it matters what Jesus said about himself (31:13) – The question everyone must answer Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 05 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full The Christian Skeptic This week, we respond to a clip from Soul Boom with Rhett McLaughlin and Rainn Wilson. We unpack the allure of a “just-the-teachings” Jesus, why it falls apart under scrutiny, and why you can’t separate the words of Jesus from the person of Jesus. We explore the intellectual and theological inconsistency of cherry-picking Jesus’ words while ignoring the radical, exclusive claims he made about himself.  In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:13) – Rhett & Rainn’s take on Jesus (03:38) – The appeal of a softer faith (05:13) – Can you follow Jesus without belief? (07:33) – What Jesus actually said (10:13) – Liar, lunatic, or Lord? (12:23) – When smart people say absurd things (14:13) – Does it matter if Jesus was real? (16:58) – Belief vs. bias (18:38) – The red-letter remix (21:13) – No resurrection, no Christianity (23:43) – Just a teacher? (26:03) – The prophecies they can’t explain away (27:43) – The new crutch: soft Jesus (29:13) – Why it matters what Jesus said about himself (31:13) – The question everyone must answer Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. This week, we respond to a clip from Soul Boom with Rhett McLaughlin and Rainn Wilson. We unpack the allure of a “just-the-teachings” Jesus, why it falls apart under scrutiny, and why you can’t separate the words of Jesus from the person of Jesus. We explore the intellectual and theological inconsistency of cherry-picking Jesus’ words while ignoring the radical, exclusive claims he made about himself. 

In this episode:

  • (00:00) - Intro

  • (01:13) – Rhett & Rainn’s take on Jesus

  • (03:38) – The appeal of a softer faith

  • (05:13) – Can you follow Jesus without belief?

  • (07:33) – What Jesus actually said

  • (10:13) – Liar, lunatic, or Lord?

  • (12:23) – When smart people say absurd things

  • (14:13) – Does it matter if Jesus was real?

  • (16:58) – Belief vs. bias

  • (18:38) – The red-letter remix

  • (21:13) – No resurrection, no Christianity

  • (23:43) – Just a teacher?

  • (26:03) – The prophecies they can’t explain away

  • (27:43) – The new crutch: soft Jesus

  • (29:13) – Why it matters what Jesus said about himself

  • (31:13) – The question everyone must answer

Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 1989 no What if I don't "feel" like a Christian? This week, we discuss a recent clip from John Piper, and explore the role of emotion in the Christian life. Is constant emotional intensity the measure of genuine belief? What about the seasons of doubt or dryness many believers experience? We also discuss confessional Christianity, the limits of emotionalism, and the freedom that comes not from emotion, but from the unchanging truth of the gospel. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:52) - John Piper on AI and worship (04:47) - When you don’t “feel” like a Christian (06:17) - The hidden pressure of emotional Christianity (10:44) - The danger of undefined emotional expectations (13:10) - Manufactured vs. suppressed emotions in faith (19:08) - Adopted, secure, and kept forever (21:23) - Grace awakens feeling, not the other way around Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 22 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full The Christian Skeptic This week, we discuss a recent clip from John Piper, and explore the role of emotion in the Christian life. Is constant emotional intensity the measure of genuine belief? What about the seasons of doubt or dryness many believers experience? We also discuss confessional Christianity, the limits of emotionalism, and the freedom that comes not from emotion, but from the unchanging truth of the gospel. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:52) - John Piper on AI and worship (04:47) - When you don’t “feel” like a Christian (06:17) - The hidden pressure of emotional Christianity (10:44) - The danger of undefined emotional expectations (13:10) - Manufactured vs. suppressed emotions in faith (19:08) - Adopted, secure, and kept forever (21:23) - Grace awakens feeling, not the other way around Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. This week, we discuss a recent clip from John Piper, and explore the role of emotion in the Christian life. Is constant emotional intensity the measure of genuine belief? What about the seasons of doubt or dryness many believers experience? We also discuss confessional Christianity, the limits of emotionalism, and the freedom that comes not from emotion, but from the unchanging truth of the gospel.

In this episode:

  • (00:00) - Intro

  • (01:52) - John Piper on AI and worship

  • (04:47) - When you don’t “feel” like a Christian

  • (06:17) - The hidden pressure of emotional Christianity

  • (10:44) - The danger of undefined emotional expectations

  • (13:10) - Manufactured vs. suppressed emotions in faith

  • (19:08) - Adopted, secure, and kept forever

  • (21:23) - Grace awakens feeling, not the other way around

Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 1407 no What Does It Really Mean to Be “Above Reproach”? What does it really mean to be “above reproach”? This week, we dismantle modern evangelical assumptions about pastoral perfection and argue for a more honest, grace-centered understanding rooted in Scripture. In this episode: (00:00) – Intro (03:39) - David Mathis on being above reproach (06:12) - The ambiguity of “above reproach” (10:24) – Exemplary doesn’t mean perfect (12:54) – Grace vs. behavior-based qualification (16:23) – Hypocrisy, idolatry, and the double standard (22:00) – Can a fallen pastor be restored? (28:45) – The real disqualifier (33:52) – Loss of trust vs. loss of calling (36:00) – The lie of the perfect pastor (39:00) – Confession is not a weakness Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 08 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full The Christian Skeptic What does it really mean to be “above reproach”? This week, we dismantle modern evangelical assumptions about pastoral perfection and argue for a more honest, grace-centered understanding rooted in Scripture. In this episode: (00:00) – Intro (03:39) - David Mathis on being above reproach (06:12) - The ambiguity of “above reproach” (10:24) – Exemplary doesn’t mean perfect (12:54) – Grace vs. behavior-based qualification (16:23) – Hypocrisy, idolatry, and the double standard (22:00) – Can a fallen pastor be restored? (28:45) – The real disqualifier (33:52) – Loss of trust vs. loss of calling (36:00) – The lie of the perfect pastor (39:00) – Confession is not a weakness Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. What does it really mean to be “above reproach”? This week, we dismantle modern evangelical assumptions about pastoral perfection and argue for a more honest, grace-centered understanding rooted in Scripture.

In this episode:

  • (00:00) – Intro

  • (03:39) - David Mathis on being above reproach

  • (06:12) - The ambiguity of “above reproach”

  • (10:24) – Exemplary doesn’t mean perfect

  • (12:54) – Grace vs. behavior-based qualification

  • (16:23) – Hypocrisy, idolatry, and the double standard

  • (22:00) – Can a fallen pastor be restored?

  • (28:45) – The real disqualifier

  • (33:52) – Loss of trust vs. loss of calling

  • (36:00) – The lie of the perfect pastor

  • (39:00) – Confession is not a weakness

Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 2501 no Why Most Christians Are Wrong About Israel and Iran This week, we dissect a clip claiming that current events in Israel and Iran are predicted in Ezekiel 38 and 39. But is that what the Bible actually says? We explore the history behind this passage, why it’s been misinterpreted, and how fear-based theology distorts Scripture. From the rise of modern dispensationalism to the ancient context of Ezekiel’s vision, we unpack what the text really means—and why it matters how we read the Bible.  In this episode: (00:00) – The Middle East is exploding (again) (05:01) – Will Jesus descend and win the war for Israel? (06:39) – Manufactured theology (08:33) – Interpreting the Bible badly (10:34) – A quick history of bad predictions (14:27) – What is Ezekiel actually talking about? (22:29) – Gog, Haman, and the book of Esther (25:30) – Why fear is the wrong response (28:00) – The real problem with “end times” theology (33:35) – Jesus wins, but not like that Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 24 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full The Christian Skeptic This week, we dissect a clip claiming that current events in Israel and Iran are predicted in Ezekiel 38 and 39. But is that what the Bible actually says? We explore the history behind this passage, why it’s been misinterpreted, and how fear-based theology distorts Scripture. From the rise of modern dispensationalism to the ancient context of Ezekiel’s vision, we unpack what the text really means—and why it matters how we read the Bible.  In this episode: (00:00) – The Middle East is exploding (again) (05:01) – Will Jesus descend and win the war for Israel? (06:39) – Manufactured theology (08:33) – Interpreting the Bible badly (10:34) – A quick history of bad predictions (14:27) – What is Ezekiel actually talking about? (22:29) – Gog, Haman, and the book of Esther (25:30) – Why fear is the wrong response (28:00) – The real problem with “end times” theology (33:35) – Jesus wins, but not like that Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. This week, we dissect a clip claiming that current events in Israel and Iran are predicted in Ezekiel 38 and 39. But is that what the Bible actually says? We explore the history behind this passage, why it’s been misinterpreted, and how fear-based theology distorts Scripture. From the rise of modern dispensationalism to the ancient context of Ezekiel’s vision, we unpack what the text really means—and why it matters how we read the Bible. 

In this episode:

  • (00:00) – The Middle East is exploding (again)

  • (05:01) – Will Jesus descend and win the war for Israel?

  • (06:39) – Manufactured theology

  • (08:33) – Interpreting the Bible badly

  • (10:34) – A quick history of bad predictions

  • (14:27) – What is Ezekiel actually talking about?

  • (22:29) – Gog, Haman, and the book of Esther

  • (25:30) – Why fear is the wrong response

  • (28:00) – The real problem with “end times” theology

  • (33:35) – Jesus wins, but not like that

Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 2154 no Is Sanctification the Most Misunderstood Concept in Christianity? This week, we explore the often misunderstood doctrine of sanctification, what it is, and isn’t. Is it something we accomplish through effort, or something God alone works in us? We unpack the difference between performative piety and genuine transformation, arguing that grace—not fear—is the engine of Christian growth.  In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:37) - Recap of Paul Washer episode (10:59) - Understanding sanctification: monistic vs. synergistic (14:50) - The role of grace in sanctification (17:17) - Biblical interpretation and personal responsibility (21:37) - Historical perspectives on salvation and grace (22:50) - Augustine’s conversion story (23:46) - The reality of Christian imperfection (24:36) - New identity in Christ (26:28) - Conviction and sanctification (30:43) - Faith and evidence of salvation (33:19) - Marriage as a gospel illustration (35:41) - The variability of sanctification (39:41) - The danger of fake spirituality (42:09) - Final thoughts on grace and sanctification Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 08 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full The Christian Skeptic This week, we explore the often misunderstood doctrine of sanctification, what it is, and isn’t. Is it something we accomplish through effort, or something God alone works in us? We unpack the difference between performative piety and genuine transformation, arguing that grace—not fear—is the engine of Christian growth.  In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:37) - Recap of Paul Washer episode (10:59) - Understanding sanctification: monistic vs. synergistic (14:50) - The role of grace in sanctification (17:17) - Biblical interpretation and personal responsibility (21:37) - Historical perspectives on salvation and grace (22:50) - Augustine’s conversion story (23:46) - The reality of Christian imperfection (24:36) - New identity in Christ (26:28) - Conviction and sanctification (30:43) - Faith and evidence of salvation (33:19) - Marriage as a gospel illustration (35:41) - The variability of sanctification (39:41) - The danger of fake spirituality (42:09) - Final thoughts on grace and sanctification Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. This week, we explore the often misunderstood doctrine of sanctification, what it is, and isn’t. Is it something we accomplish through effort, or something God alone works in us? We unpack the difference between performative piety and genuine transformation, arguing that grace—not fear—is the engine of Christian growth. 


In this episode:

  • (00:00) - Intro
  • (01:37) - Recap of Paul Washer episode
  • (10:59) - Understanding sanctification: monistic vs. synergistic
  • (14:50) - The role of grace in sanctification
  • (17:17) - Biblical interpretation and personal responsibility
  • (21:37) - Historical perspectives on salvation and grace
  • (22:50) - Augustine’s conversion story
  • (23:46) - The reality of Christian imperfection
  • (24:36) - New identity in Christ
  • (26:28) - Conviction and sanctification
  • (30:43) - Faith and evidence of salvation
  • (33:19) - Marriage as a gospel illustration
  • (35:41) - The variability of sanctification
  • (39:41) - The danger of fake spirituality
  • (42:09) - Final thoughts on grace and sanctification


Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 2605 no Live Q&A: Navigating the Christian Life This week, we’re sharing a special live Q&A where we explore the complexities of the Christian life. From practical advice on living out your faith to tackling deep theological questions, we cover topics such as faith versus belief, predestination versus free will, overcoming fear, LGBTQ+ issues in the church, and much more. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (04:43) - Cremation and the resurrection (10:29) - Living a life trusting God over fear (20:58) - Confession and forgiveness (26:52) - Christian liberty and deference to others (35:50) - LGBTQ+ issues in the church (39:06) - Understanding tithes and offerings (41:03) - What happens to the soul after death? (42:33) - Do you have to go to church? (44:14) - Grounds for divorce in Christianity (45:16) - Predestination vs free will (49:55) - How gospel writers acquired their knowledge (50:50) - The purpose and power of prayer (54:32) - Faith vs belief (55:14) - Does God have more than one will? (01:01:03) - How far should we go to bring friends and family into faith? (01:06:09) - Is it necessary for Christians to make our belief in God public before others? (01:07:58) - Salvation before Christ’s death (01:08:42) - Is there forgiveness for a Christian who curses God or commits blasphemy? (01:10:03) - What does it mean to condemn oneself (Romans 14)? (01:12:14) - How do we know something is sin if it’s not in the Bible? (01:15:27) - Tattoos and Christianity (01:19:21) - Does a divorced marriage disqualify one from holding a leadership role in the church? (01:20:08) - Public displays of Christianity (01:21:45) - Gospel message and lordship (01:23:25) - The masculinity of Jesus (01:26:16) - Free will and salvation (01:28:37) - Are there contradictions in the Gospels? Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 01 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full The Christian Skeptic This week, we’re sharing a special live Q&A where we explore the complexities of the Christian life. From practical advice on living out your faith to tackling deep theological questions, we cover topics such as faith versus belief, predestination versus free will, overcoming fear, LGBTQ+ issues in the church, and much more. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (04:43) - Cremation and the resurrection (10:29) - Living a life trusting God over fear (20:58) - Confession and forgiveness (26:52) - Christian liberty and deference to others (35:50) - LGBTQ+ issues in the church (39:06) - Understanding tithes and offerings (41:03) - What happens to the soul after death? (42:33) - Do you have to go to church? (44:14) - Grounds for divorce in Christianity (45:16) - Predestination vs free will (49:55) - How gospel writers acquired their knowledge (50:50) - The purpose and power of prayer (54:32) - Faith vs belief (55:14) - Does God have more than one will? (01:01:03) - How far should we go to bring friends and family into faith? (01:06:09) - Is it necessary for Christians to make our belief in God public before others? (01:07:58) - Salvation before Christ’s death (01:08:42) - Is there forgiveness for a Christian who curses God or commits blasphemy? (01:10:03) - What does it mean to condemn oneself (Romans 14)? (01:12:14) - How do we know something is sin if it’s not in the Bible? (01:15:27) - Tattoos and Christianity (01:19:21) - Does a divorced marriage disqualify one from holding a leadership role in the church? (01:20:08) - Public displays of Christianity (01:21:45) - Gospel message and lordship (01:23:25) - The masculinity of Jesus (01:26:16) - Free will and salvation (01:28:37) - Are there contradictions in the Gospels? Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. This week, we’re sharing a special live Q&A where we explore the complexities of the Christian life. From practical advice on living out your faith to tackling deep theological questions, we cover topics such as faith versus belief, predestination versus free will, overcoming fear, LGBTQ+ issues in the church, and much more.


In this episode:

  • (00:00) - Intro
  • (04:43) - Cremation and the resurrection
  • (10:29) - Living a life trusting God over fear
  • (20:58) - Confession and forgiveness
  • (26:52) - Christian liberty and deference to others
  • (35:50) - LGBTQ+ issues in the church
  • (39:06) - Understanding tithes and offerings
  • (41:03) - What happens to the soul after death?
  • (42:33) - Do you have to go to church?
  • (44:14) - Grounds for divorce in Christianity
  • (45:16) - Predestination vs free will
  • (49:55) - How gospel writers acquired their knowledge
  • (50:50) - The purpose and power of prayer
  • (54:32) - Faith vs belief
  • (55:14) - Does God have more than one will?
  • (01:01:03) - How far should we go to bring friends and family into faith?
  • (01:06:09) - Is it necessary for Christians to make our belief in God public before others?
  • (01:07:58) - Salvation before Christ’s death
  • (01:08:42) - Is there forgiveness for a Christian who curses God or commits blasphemy?
  • (01:10:03) - What does it mean to condemn oneself (Romans 14)?
  • (01:12:14) - How do we know something is sin if it’s not in the Bible?
  • (01:15:27) - Tattoos and Christianity
  • (01:19:21) - Does a divorced marriage disqualify one from holding a leadership role in the church?
  • (01:20:08) - Public displays of Christianity
  • (01:21:45) - Gospel message and lordship
  • (01:23:25) - The masculinity of Jesus
  • (01:26:16) - Free will and salvation
  • (01:28:37) - Are there contradictions in the Gospels?


Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 5479 no Should Christians Ever Call Out Sin? | TCS Reacts Is it our job to warn others away from sin—or just to help them pick up the pieces after they fall? This week, we react to a provocative clip from Tullian Tchividjian and explore the tension between grace, truth, and our responsibility to each other in Christian community. In this episode: (00:00) – Intro (03:46) – When grace feels like a provocation (04:45) – Grace, public failures, and owning your crap (08:41) – What Christians get wrong about rock bottom (09:56) – The cliff, the crash, and the call to stay (12:26) – Do warnings even work? (13:56) – The role of the Holy Spirit in a person’s turning point (15:56) – When you’re the one falling apart (18:26) – What Scripture really says about calling out sin (20:26) – Who has earned the right to speak into your life? (21:56) – Warnings without love fall flat (25:56) – What actually counts as sin? (27:56) – Your convictions aren’t universal (32:56) – Picking up the pieces, not enabling the crash (34:56) – We don’t just fail once Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 25 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full 2 6 The Christian Skeptic Is it our job to warn others away from sin—or just to help them pick up the pieces after they fall? This week, we react to a provocative clip from Tullian Tchividjian and explore the tension between grace, truth, and our responsibility to each other in Christian community. In this episode: (00:00) – Intro (03:46) – When grace feels like a provocation (04:45) – Grace, public failures, and owning your crap (08:41) – What Christians get wrong about rock bottom (09:56) – The cliff, the crash, and the call to stay (12:26) – Do warnings even work? (13:56) – The role of the Holy Spirit in a person’s turning point (15:56) – When you’re the one falling apart (18:26) – What Scripture really says about calling out sin (20:26) – Who has earned the right to speak into your life? (21:56) – Warnings without love fall flat (25:56) – What actually counts as sin? (27:56) – Your convictions aren’t universal (32:56) – Picking up the pieces, not enabling the crash (34:56) – We don’t just fail once Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Is it our job to warn others away from sin—or just to help them pick up the pieces after they fall? This week, we react to a provocative clip from Tullian Tchividjian and explore the tension between grace, truth, and our responsibility to each other in Christian community.


In this episode:

  • (00:00) – Intro
  • (03:46) – When grace feels like a provocation
  • (04:45) – Grace, public failures, and owning your crap
  • (08:41) – What Christians get wrong about rock bottom
  • (09:56) – The cliff, the crash, and the call to stay
  • (12:26) – Do warnings even work?
  • (13:56) – The role of the Holy Spirit in a person’s turning point
  • (15:56) – When you’re the one falling apart
  • (18:26) – What Scripture really says about calling out sin
  • (20:26) – Who has earned the right to speak into your life?
  • (21:56) – Warnings without love fall flat
  • (25:56) – What actually counts as sin?
  • (27:56) – Your convictions aren’t universal
  • (32:56) – Picking up the pieces, not enabling the crash
  • (34:56) – We don’t just fail once


Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 2210 no What Paul Washer Gets Wrong About God's Love | TCS Reacts Does suffering prove God’s love? Does ease mean he’s abandoned you? In this reaction episode, we respond to a video from Paul Washer on hardship, holiness, and God’s love—and challenge some common theological misconceptions. We break down Washer’s claims, discuss the dangers of works-based faith, and explore why grace—not suffering or circumstances—defines our standing with God. In this episode: (00:00) – Intro (02:26) – Paul Washer: Does God’s love mean hardship? (04:10) – Truth or oversimplification? A flawed theology of suffering (08:39) – The hidden Catholicism in reformed theology (09:45) – Prosperity Gospel in reverse? When suffering becomes a badge of honor (12:11) – What does God's correction look like? (18:12) – Can you judge your faith by your circumstances? (23:41) – Holiness and sanctification (27:14) – Why some preachers use fear to keep you in line Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 18 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full 2 5 The Christian Skeptic Does suffering prove God’s love? Does ease mean he’s abandoned you? In this reaction episode, we respond to a video from Paul Washer on hardship, holiness, and God’s love—and challenge some common theological misconceptions. We break down Washer’s claims, discuss the dangers of works-based faith, and explore why grace—not suffering or circumstances—defines our standing with God. In this episode: (00:00) – Intro (02:26) – Paul Washer: Does God’s love mean hardship? (04:10) – Truth or oversimplification? A flawed theology of suffering (08:39) – The hidden Catholicism in reformed theology (09:45) – Prosperity Gospel in reverse? When suffering becomes a badge of honor (12:11) – What does God's correction look like? (18:12) – Can you judge your faith by your circumstances? (23:41) – Holiness and sanctification (27:14) – Why some preachers use fear to keep you in line Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Does suffering prove God’s love? Does ease mean he’s abandoned you? In this reaction episode, we respond to a video from Paul Washer on hardship, holiness, and God’s love—and challenge some common theological misconceptions. We break down Washer’s claims, discuss the dangers of works-based faith, and explore why grace—not suffering or circumstances—defines our standing with God.


In this episode:

  • (00:00) – Intro
  • (02:26) – Paul Washer: Does God’s love mean hardship?
  • (04:10) – Truth or oversimplification? A flawed theology of suffering
  • (08:39) – The hidden Catholicism in reformed theology
  • (09:45) – Prosperity Gospel in reverse? When suffering becomes a badge of honor
  • (12:11) – What does God's correction look like?
  • (18:12) – Can you judge your faith by your circumstances?
  • (23:41) – Holiness and sanctification
  • (27:14) – Why some preachers use fear to keep you in line


Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 1974 no Three Critical Mistakes Christians Make About Matthew 7:21-23 This week, we dive into one of Jesus’ most unsettling statements from Matthew 7:21-23—”I never knew you. Depart from me.” Often misinterpreted as a call for believers to work more and try harder, we unpack how this passage actually dismantles a works-based approach to salvation, revealing that knowing Jesus—not religious performance—is what truly matters. We explore cultural and personal struggles with grace, how legalism warps our understanding of faith, and why even good works can become a form of self-salvation. Let’s get to it! In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (02:33) – Why Matthew 7:21-23 is one of the most unsettling passages in the Bible (04:39) - Personal reflections on salvation (08:28) – Common misunderstanding about faith and works (13:28) – What Jesus really meant by “depart from me, I never knew you” (18:18) – How legalism distorts our faith and fuels doubt (19:18) – The surprising way Jesus’ words dismantle a performance-based gospel (23:28) – How good works become self-salvation (27:58) – How growing up in religious environments can lead to fear and insecurity (29:08) – The radical, often-overlooked simplicity of grace (33:28) – What it actually means to “do the will of the Father” (35:28) – Why our human nature resists the idea that salvation is 100% free (39:30) -  The radical nature of grace Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 25 Feb 2025 08:00:00 -0000 Three Critical Mistakes Christians Make About Matthew 7:21-23 full 2 4 The Christian Skeptic This week, we dive into one of Jesus’ most unsettling statements from Matthew 7:21-23—”I never knew you. Depart from me.” Often misinterpreted as a call for believers to work more and try harder, we unpack how this passage actually dismantles a works-based approach to salvation, revealing that knowing Jesus—not religious performance—is what truly matters. We explore cultural and personal struggles with grace, how legalism warps our understanding of faith, and why even good works can become a form of self-salvation. Let’s get to it! In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (02:33) – Why Matthew 7:21-23 is one of the most unsettling passages in the Bible (04:39) - Personal reflections on salvation (08:28) – Common misunderstanding about faith and works (13:28) – What Jesus really meant by “depart from me, I never knew you” (18:18) – How legalism distorts our faith and fuels doubt (19:18) – The surprising way Jesus’ words dismantle a performance-based gospel (23:28) – How good works become self-salvation (27:58) – How growing up in religious environments can lead to fear and insecurity (29:08) – The radical, often-overlooked simplicity of grace (33:28) – What it actually means to “do the will of the Father” (35:28) – Why our human nature resists the idea that salvation is 100% free (39:30) -  The radical nature of grace Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. This week, we dive into one of Jesus’ most unsettling statements from Matthew 7:21-23—”I never knew you. Depart from me.” Often misinterpreted as a call for believers to work more and try harder, we unpack how this passage actually dismantles a works-based approach to salvation, revealing that knowing Jesus—not religious performance—is what truly matters. We explore cultural and personal struggles with grace, how legalism warps our understanding of faith, and why even good works can become a form of self-salvation. Let’s get to it!


In this episode:

  • (00:00) - Intro
  • (02:33) – Why Matthew 7:21-23 is one of the most unsettling passages in the Bible
  • (04:39) - Personal reflections on salvation
  • (08:28) – Common misunderstanding about faith and works
  • (13:28) – What Jesus really meant by “depart from me, I never knew you”
  • (18:18) – How legalism distorts our faith and fuels doubt
  • (19:18) – The surprising way Jesus’ words dismantle a performance-based gospel
  • (23:28) – How good works become self-salvation
  • (27:58) – How growing up in religious environments can lead to fear and insecurity
  • (29:08) – The radical, often-overlooked simplicity of grace
  • (33:28) – What it actually means to “do the will of the Father”
  • (35:28) – Why our human nature resists the idea that salvation is 100% free
  • (39:30) -  The radical nature of grace


Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 2445 no The Truth About "All Things Work Together for Good" (Romans 8:28) This week, we kick off a new series on commonly misinterpreted passages of Scripture, starting with Romans 8:28. We unpack what it really means when Scripture says “all things work together for good,” challenging misconceptions about God’s sovereignty, suffering, and Christian growth. Topics we discuss: How we misunderstand God’s definition of “good” What Paul means by “all things” Why Romans 8:28 isn’t a promise that life will be easy The difference between God’s sovereignty and hard determinism How this verse gets used (and misused) in Christian culture Why “God’s plan” isn’t always what we expect—and why that’s a good thing How this verse challenges our assumptions about suffering, success, and faith Chapters (00:00) - Intro (03:49) - Wildly erroneous, but commonly accepted  (07:00) - Do all things work together for good? (08:49) - Determinism and God's sovereignty (16:19) - The golden chain of redemption (20:33) - Redefining 'good' in biblical terms (25:23) - The assurance of becoming more like Jesus (26:33) - What does it mean to become more like Jesus? (32:04) - The true nature of Jesus' teachings (40:56) - The ultimate goal of life (45:17) - How do we know if we have it right? Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 18 Feb 2025 08:00:00 -0000 full 2 3 The Christian Skeptic This week, we kick off a new series on commonly misinterpreted passages of Scripture, starting with Romans 8:28. We unpack what it really means when Scripture says “all things work together for good,” challenging misconceptions about God’s sovereignty, suffering, and Christian growth. Topics we discuss: How we misunderstand God’s definition of “good” What Paul means by “all things” Why Romans 8:28 isn’t a promise that life will be easy The difference between God’s sovereignty and hard determinism How this verse gets used (and misused) in Christian culture Why “God’s plan” isn’t always what we expect—and why that’s a good thing How this verse challenges our assumptions about suffering, success, and faith Chapters (00:00) - Intro (03:49) - Wildly erroneous, but commonly accepted  (07:00) - Do all things work together for good? (08:49) - Determinism and God's sovereignty (16:19) - The golden chain of redemption (20:33) - Redefining 'good' in biblical terms (25:23) - The assurance of becoming more like Jesus (26:33) - What does it mean to become more like Jesus? (32:04) - The true nature of Jesus' teachings (40:56) - The ultimate goal of life (45:17) - How do we know if we have it right? Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. This week, we kick off a new series on commonly misinterpreted passages of Scripture, starting with Romans 8:28. We unpack what it really means when Scripture says “all things work together for good,” challenging misconceptions about God’s sovereignty, suffering, and Christian growth.

Topics we discuss:

  • How we misunderstand God’s definition of “good”
  • What Paul means by “all things”
  • Why Romans 8:28 isn’t a promise that life will be easy
  • The difference between God’s sovereignty and hard determinism
  • How this verse gets used (and misused) in Christian culture
  • Why “God’s plan” isn’t always what we expect—and why that’s a good thing
  • How this verse challenges our assumptions about suffering, success, and faith


Chapters

  • (00:00) - Intro
  • (03:49) - Wildly erroneous, but commonly accepted 
  • (07:00) - Do all things work together for good?
  • (08:49) - Determinism and God's sovereignty
  • (16:19) - The golden chain of redemption
  • (20:33) - Redefining 'good' in biblical terms
  • (25:23) - The assurance of becoming more like Jesus
  • (26:33) - What does it mean to become more like Jesus?
  • (32:04) - The true nature of Jesus' teachings
  • (40:56) - The ultimate goal of life
  • (45:17) - How do we know if we have it right?


Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 3073 no Why I Stopped Trying to Be a Good Christian This week, Adam shares his story—years of fear and chasing the impossible standard of "perfection", until the weight of legalism and religious control led him to question everything. We discuss the pressure to be "good" in church culture, deconstruction, and what happens when we stop trying to earn God's love and discover the truth of grace and the gospel.   Topics we discuss: Embracing authenticity over perfection How questioning can lead to growth The emotional side of faith The impact of spiritual disciplines Chapters (00:00) - Intro (03:34) - Pragmatic INTJ vs. Theoretical INTP (05:50) - The power of stories (07:58) - Trying to be good enough (10:15) - Struggles with legalism and ministry (16:18) - Courtship and along came a girl (20:35) - Transition to Bible College (22:43) - Struggles with faith and ministry (24:11) - Intellectual curiosity and doubting motivations (26:02) - Disillusionment (28:29) - Major life changes (35:41) - Turning point - rediscovering grace (41:46) - The power of spiritual disciplines (45:42) - God's relentless grace Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 11 Feb 2025 08:00:00 -0000 Why I Stopped Trying to Be a Good Christian full 2 2 The Christian Skeptic This week, Adam shares his story—years of fear and chasing the impossible standard of "perfection", until the weight of legalism and religious control led him to question everything. We discuss the pressure to be "good" in church culture, deconstruction, and what happens when we stop trying to earn God's love and discover the truth of grace and the gospel.   Topics we discuss: Embracing authenticity over perfection How questioning can lead to growth The emotional side of faith The impact of spiritual disciplines Chapters (00:00) - Intro (03:34) - Pragmatic INTJ vs. Theoretical INTP (05:50) - The power of stories (07:58) - Trying to be good enough (10:15) - Struggles with legalism and ministry (16:18) - Courtship and along came a girl (20:35) - Transition to Bible College (22:43) - Struggles with faith and ministry (24:11) - Intellectual curiosity and doubting motivations (26:02) - Disillusionment (28:29) - Major life changes (35:41) - Turning point - rediscovering grace (41:46) - The power of spiritual disciplines (45:42) - God's relentless grace Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. This week, Adam shares his story—years of fear and chasing the impossible standard of "perfection", until the weight of legalism and religious control led him to question everything. We discuss the pressure to be "good" in church culture, deconstruction, and what happens when we stop trying to earn God's love and discover the truth of grace and the gospel.  


Topics we discuss:

  • Embracing authenticity over perfection
  • How questioning can lead to growth
  • The emotional side of faith
  • The impact of spiritual disciplines


Chapters

  • (00:00) - Intro
  • (03:34) - Pragmatic INTJ vs. Theoretical INTP
  • (05:50) - The power of stories
  • (07:58) - Trying to be good enough
  • (10:15) - Struggles with legalism and ministry
  • (16:18) - Courtship and along came a girl
  • (20:35) - Transition to Bible College
  • (22:43) - Struggles with faith and ministry
  • (24:11) - Intellectual curiosity and doubting motivations
  • (26:02) - Disillusionment
  • (28:29) - Major life changes
  • (35:41) - Turning point - rediscovering grace
  • (41:46) - The power of spiritual disciplines
  • (45:42) - God's relentless grace


Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 2811 no From Legalism to Liberation: Navigating Church Hurt and Theological Shifts Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Season 02 of The Christian Skeptic is here! In this raw and candid episode, Aaron shares his personal journey through faith, ministry, and discovering authentic grace. Navigating personal tragedy, the complexities of church leadership, and theological transformation, Aaron's story challenges conventional Christian culture while offering hope for those who feel they don't fit the traditional mold. Topics we discuss: Growing up in strict religious movements The pressures of pastoral ministry Dealing with personal crisis and church trauma Finding authentic faith beyond religiosity Chapters: (00:00) - Intro (01:37) - Growing up in a cult (09:18) - Introduction to the Puritans and Reformed Theology (11:26) - Bible college and psychology (20:12) - Life as a traveling youth speaker (23:48) - Does God "call" people to ministry? (31:26) - Disillusionment with the church (34:41) - Taking a break from ministry (39:45) - Journey back to faith (42:43) - How suffering led to a grace revolution (49:57) - Embracing grace and freedom Tue, 04 Feb 2025 08:00:00 -0000 From Legalism to Liberation: Navigating Church Hurt and Theological Shifts full 2 1 The Christian Skeptic Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Season 02 of The Christian Skeptic is here! In this raw and candid episode, Aaron shares his personal journey through faith, ministry, and discovering authentic grace. Navigating personal tragedy, the complexities of church leadership, and theological transformation, Aaron's story challenges conventional Christian culture while offering hope for those who feel they don't fit the traditional mold. Topics we discuss: Growing up in strict religious movements The pressures of pastoral ministry Dealing with personal crisis and church trauma Finding authentic faith beyond religiosity Chapters: (00:00) - Intro (01:37) - Growing up in a cult (09:18) - Introduction to the Puritans and Reformed Theology (11:26) - Bible college and psychology (20:12) - Life as a traveling youth speaker (23:48) - Does God "call" people to ministry? (31:26) - Disillusionment with the church (34:41) - Taking a break from ministry (39:45) - Journey back to faith (42:43) - How suffering led to a grace revolution (49:57) - Embracing grace and freedom Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.


Season 02 of The Christian Skeptic is here! In this raw and candid episode, Aaron shares his personal journey through faith, ministry, and discovering authentic grace. Navigating personal tragedy, the complexities of church leadership, and theological transformation, Aaron's story challenges conventional Christian culture while offering hope for those who feel they don't fit the traditional mold.


Topics we discuss:

  • Growing up in strict religious movements
  • The pressures of pastoral ministry
  • Dealing with personal crisis and church trauma
  • Finding authentic faith beyond religiosity


Chapters:

  • (00:00) - Intro
  • (01:37) - Growing up in a cult
  • (09:18) - Introduction to the Puritans and Reformed Theology
  • (11:26) - Bible college and psychology
  • (20:12) - Life as a traveling youth speaker
  • (23:48) - Does God "call" people to ministry?
  • (31:26) - Disillusionment with the church
  • (34:41) - Taking a break from ministry
  • (39:45) - Journey back to faith
  • (42:43) - How suffering led to a grace revolution
  • (49:57) - Embracing grace and freedom
]]> 3620 no A Skeptical Christmas Special In this special Christmas episode, we talk about our favorite Christmas traditions, imaginative storytelling, and the deeper meaning behind the season. From nostalgic books and movies to the magic of childhood wonder, we reflect on why Christmas is more than just a holiday.  In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (00:09) - The hot toddy illustration (04:24) - Christmas traditions (15:26) - Favorite Christmas books and movies (24:19) - Christmas traditions and activities (25:34) - The magic of Christmas (35:41) - The reality of imagination (43:41) - Season 01 wrap-up Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Thu, 19 Dec 2024 08:00:00 -0000 A Skeptical Christmas Special full 1 14 The Christian Skeptic In this special Christmas episode, we talk about our favorite Christmas traditions, imaginative storytelling, and the deeper meaning behind the season. From nostalgic books and movies to the magic of childhood wonder, we reflect on why Christmas is more than just a holiday.  In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (00:09) - The hot toddy illustration (04:24) - Christmas traditions (15:26) - Favorite Christmas books and movies (24:19) - Christmas traditions and activities (25:34) - The magic of Christmas (35:41) - The reality of imagination (43:41) - Season 01 wrap-up Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. In this special Christmas episode, we talk about our favorite Christmas traditions, imaginative storytelling, and the deeper meaning behind the season. From nostalgic books and movies to the magic of childhood wonder, we reflect on why Christmas is more than just a holiday. 

In this episode:

  • (00:00) - Intro
  • (00:09) - The hot toddy illustration
  • (04:24) - Christmas traditions
  • (15:26) - Favorite Christmas books and movies
  • (24:19) - Christmas traditions and activities
  • (25:34) - The magic of Christmas
  • (35:41) - The reality of imagination
  • (43:41) - Season 01 wrap-up


Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 2692 no Season 01 Wrap-Up: Faith and Reason in the Christian Life This week, we wrap up season one of The Christian Skeptic and reflect on the topics of grace, faith, and why the Bible plays such a critical role in our lives. The root of Christian Skepticism is about the willingness to continually challenge and re-examine our own bias and convictions in light of Scripture. Our goal in season one was to lay the foundation for how we do that. As we wrap up, we invite you to keep questioning and join us in the new year for more discussions around how we live out these concepts in everyday life. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (02:18) - Reflecting on the past year and season one of the show (04:12) - Challenges to Christian Skepticism (07:04) - Faith and rationality (14:41) - Faith and personality (24:16) - Deconstructing bias in Christianity (33:26) - Next season Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 12 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Season 01 Wrap-Up: Faith and Reason in the Christian Life full 1 13 The Christian Skeptic This week, we wrap up season one of The Christian Skeptic and reflect on the topics of grace, faith, and why the Bible plays such a critical role in our lives. The root of Christian Skepticism is about the willingness to continually challenge and re-examine our own bias and convictions in light of Scripture. Our goal in season one was to lay the foundation for how we do that. As we wrap up, we invite you to keep questioning and join us in the new year for more discussions around how we live out these concepts in everyday life. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (02:18) - Reflecting on the past year and season one of the show (04:12) - Challenges to Christian Skepticism (07:04) - Faith and rationality (14:41) - Faith and personality (24:16) - Deconstructing bias in Christianity (33:26) - Next season Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. This week, we wrap up season one of The Christian Skeptic and reflect on the topics of grace, faith, and why the Bible plays such a critical role in our lives. The root of Christian Skepticism is about the willingness to continually challenge and re-examine our own bias and convictions in light of Scripture. Our goal in season one was to lay the foundation for how we do that. As we wrap up, we invite you to keep questioning and join us in the new year for more discussions around how we live out these concepts in everyday life.

In this episode:

  • (00:00) - Intro
  • (02:18) - Reflecting on the past year and season one of the show
  • (04:12) - Challenges to Christian Skepticism
  • (07:04) - Faith and rationality
  • (14:41) - Faith and personality
  • (24:16) - Deconstructing bias in Christianity
  • (33:26) - Next season


Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 2064 no Interpreting the Bible with Wisdom and Grace (Biblical Authority, 04) In part four of our series on biblical authority we dive into the last five of 10 crucial principles for interpreting Scripture. We also discuss some common pitfalls, like interpreting the Bible through the lens of our experience, the problems with "what would Jesus do", and more.  In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (05:21) - What Would Jesus Do? (13:32) - Interpret the Bible through the lens of gospel and grace  (20:59) - Biblical examples are only authoritative when supported by a command (30:10) - Investigate the meanings of keywords in their original languages (38:11) - Do not interpret Scripture in light of personal experience, but interpret experience in light of Scripture (39:39) - We are living under the New Covenant (42:04) - What is the relevance of the Old Testament for believers today? (44:49) - Resources and recommendations Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 05 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Interpreting the Bible with Wisdom and Grace (Biblical Authority, 04) full 1 12 The Christian Skeptic In part four of our series on biblical authority we dive into the last five of 10 crucial principles for interpreting Scripture. We also discuss some common pitfalls, like interpreting the Bible through the lens of our experience, the problems with "what would Jesus do", and more.  In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (05:21) - What Would Jesus Do? (13:32) - Interpret the Bible through the lens of gospel and grace  (20:59) - Biblical examples are only authoritative when supported by a command (30:10) - Investigate the meanings of keywords in their original languages (38:11) - Do not interpret Scripture in light of personal experience, but interpret experience in light of Scripture (39:39) - We are living under the New Covenant (42:04) - What is the relevance of the Old Testament for believers today? (44:49) - Resources and recommendations Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. In part four of our series on biblical authority we dive into the last five of 10 crucial principles for interpreting Scripture. We also discuss some common pitfalls, like interpreting the Bible through the lens of our experience, the problems with "what would Jesus do", and more. 

In this episode:

  • (00:00) - Intro
  • (05:21) - What Would Jesus Do?
  • (13:32) - Interpret the Bible through the lens of gospel and grace 
  • (20:59) - Biblical examples are only authoritative when supported by a command
  • (30:10) - Investigate the meanings of keywords in their original languages
  • (38:11) - Do not interpret Scripture in light of personal experience, but interpret experience in light of Scripture
  • (39:39) - We are living under the New Covenant
  • (42:04) - What is the relevance of the Old Testament for believers today?
  • (44:49) - Resources and recommendations


Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 2943 no How to Read and Interpret the Bible (Biblical Authority, Part 03) This week, we continue our series on biblical authority and discuss principles for interpreting the Bible accurately.  In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:53) - Introduction to biblical interpretation (02:50) - Challenges in understanding the Bible (10:11) - Let Scripture interpret Scripture (24:02) - Meaning is derived from context (32:07) - Interpret Scripture normatively (36:33) - Don't look for unique or secret meaning (38:52) - Descriptive vs. prescriptive Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 29 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0000 How to Read and Interpret the Bible (Biblical Authority, Part 03) full 1 11 The Christian Skeptic This week, we continue our series on biblical authority and discuss principles for interpreting the Bible accurately.  In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:53) - Introduction to biblical interpretation (02:50) - Challenges in understanding the Bible (10:11) - Let Scripture interpret Scripture (24:02) - Meaning is derived from context (32:07) - Interpret Scripture normatively (36:33) - Don't look for unique or secret meaning (38:52) - Descriptive vs. prescriptive Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. This week, we continue our series on biblical authority and discuss principles for interpreting the Bible accurately. 

In this episode:

  • (00:00) - Intro
  • (01:53) - Introduction to biblical interpretation
  • (02:50) - Challenges in understanding the Bible
  • (10:11) - Let Scripture interpret Scripture
  • (24:02) - Meaning is derived from context
  • (32:07) - Interpret Scripture normatively
  • (36:33) - Don't look for unique or secret meaning
  • (38:52) - Descriptive vs. prescriptive


Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 2687 no Is the Bible True? The Astonishing Historical Evidence (Biblical Authority, Part 02) How can we know if the Bible is true?  In part 02 of our series on Biblical authority and interpretation, we dive into why we believe the Bible is true and authoritative. We discuss the historical, archaeological, and scientific evidence, and how that has shaped our thinking. Despite being written over centuries by more than 40 authors in multiple languages, the Bible presents remarkable consistency that holds up under scrutiny. Ultimately, the overwhelming evidence—from eyewitness accounts to historical records—gives us confidence that the Bible isn’t just a fairytale, but a reliable, divinely-inspired text. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (04:01) - The Bible as the ultimate authority (09:09) - Scientific accuracy in scripture (18:08) - Archaeological evidence supporting the Bible (20:53) - Supernatural events and skepticism (25:26) - Skepticism and evidence in biblical history (27:47) - Textual evidence and historical documents (31:18) - The reliability of New Testament manuscripts (34:52) - Prophecies and their fulfillment (38:04) - Eyewitness accounts and transformational impact Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 22 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Is the Bible True? The Astonishing Historical Evidence (Biblical Authority, Part 02) full 1 10 The Christian Skeptic How can we know if the Bible is true?  In part 02 of our series on Biblical authority and interpretation, we dive into why we believe the Bible is true and authoritative. We discuss the historical, archaeological, and scientific evidence, and how that has shaped our thinking. Despite being written over centuries by more than 40 authors in multiple languages, the Bible presents remarkable consistency that holds up under scrutiny. Ultimately, the overwhelming evidence—from eyewitness accounts to historical records—gives us confidence that the Bible isn’t just a fairytale, but a reliable, divinely-inspired text. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (04:01) - The Bible as the ultimate authority (09:09) - Scientific accuracy in scripture (18:08) - Archaeological evidence supporting the Bible (20:53) - Supernatural events and skepticism (25:26) - Skepticism and evidence in biblical history (27:47) - Textual evidence and historical documents (31:18) - The reliability of New Testament manuscripts (34:52) - Prophecies and their fulfillment (38:04) - Eyewitness accounts and transformational impact Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. How can we know if the Bible is true? 

In part 02 of our series on Biblical authority and interpretation, we dive into why we believe the Bible is true and authoritative. We discuss the historical, archaeological, and scientific evidence, and how that has shaped our thinking. Despite being written over centuries by more than 40 authors in multiple languages, the Bible presents remarkable consistency that holds up under scrutiny. Ultimately, the overwhelming evidence—from eyewitness accounts to historical records—gives us confidence that the Bible isn’t just a fairytale, but a reliable, divinely-inspired text.


In this episode:

  • (00:00) - Intro
  • (04:01) - The Bible as the ultimate authority
  • (09:09) - Scientific accuracy in scripture
  • (18:08) - Archaeological evidence supporting the Bible
  • (20:53) - Supernatural events and skepticism
  • (25:26) - Skepticism and evidence in biblical history
  • (27:47) - Textual evidence and historical documents
  • (31:18) - The reliability of New Testament manuscripts
  • (34:52) - Prophecies and their fulfillment
  • (38:04) - Eyewitness accounts and transformational impact


Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 2882 no How a Skeptic Can Believe the Bible Is the Ultimate Truth (Biblical Authority, Part 01) This week, we kick off a three-part series about the Bible and our claim that it is not only our ultimate authority, but the foundation of all truth.  In part 01, we ask, what is the connection between skepticism and belief? How can we know what is true and what is false? We explore how Christianity, once intellectually respected and revered, has become a watered-down shadow of itself, leading to confusion and a loss of truth. We also discuss the contradictions of moral relativism and the dangers of building belief systems on unstable foundations.   In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:24) - Examining modern Christianity (05:25) - Should you be skeptical of tradition? (09:05) - Is the Bible descriptive or prescriptive? (12:20) - Skepticism and the Bible's authority (16:22) - Biblical influence on morality and culture (21:31) - How the Bible underpins reason and logic (24:32) - The basis of morality (31:19) - All existence is built on belief Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 15 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0000 How a Skeptic Can Believe the Bible Is the Ultimate Truth (Biblical Authority, Part 01) full 1 9 The Christian Skeptic This week, we kick off a three-part series about the Bible and our claim that it is not only our ultimate authority, but the foundation of all truth.  In part 01, we ask, what is the connection between skepticism and belief? How can we know what is true and what is false? We explore how Christianity, once intellectually respected and revered, has become a watered-down shadow of itself, leading to confusion and a loss of truth. We also discuss the contradictions of moral relativism and the dangers of building belief systems on unstable foundations.   In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:24) - Examining modern Christianity (05:25) - Should you be skeptical of tradition? (09:05) - Is the Bible descriptive or prescriptive? (12:20) - Skepticism and the Bible's authority (16:22) - Biblical influence on morality and culture (21:31) - How the Bible underpins reason and logic (24:32) - The basis of morality (31:19) - All existence is built on belief Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. This week, we kick off a three-part series about the Bible and our claim that it is not only our ultimate authority, but the foundation of all truth. 

In part 01, we ask, what is the connection between skepticism and belief? How can we know what is true and what is false? We explore how Christianity, once intellectually respected and revered, has become a watered-down shadow of itself, leading to confusion and a loss of truth. We also discuss the contradictions of moral relativism and the dangers of building belief systems on unstable foundations.  

In this episode:

  • (00:00) - Intro
  • (01:24) - Examining modern Christianity
  • (05:25) - Should you be skeptical of tradition?
  • (09:05) - Is the Bible descriptive or prescriptive?
  • (12:20) - Skepticism and the Bible's authority
  • (16:22) - Biblical influence on morality and culture
  • (21:31) - How the Bible underpins reason and logic
  • (24:32) - The basis of morality
  • (31:19) - All existence is built on belief


Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 2042 no Should Christians Judge Each Other? Steve Lawson and the Problem with Lordship Salvation This week, we talk about whether or not Christians should evaluate each other’s actions, what Jesus means when he says “you will know them by their fruit”, and the difference between clear, biblically-defined sin, and subjective behaviors.  We also discuss the recent controversy around Steve Lawson, how Christians should respond to the failures of public figures, and what it means for a pastor to be “disqualified” from ministry.  In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:29) - Steve Lawson controversy (04:00) - Should Christians judge other Christians? (09:04) - You will know them by their fruit? (16:42) - How should we react when a Christian leader falls? (20:50) - The problem with "Lordship Salvation" (26:20) - Hypocrisy vs Inconsistency (29:53) - The unbearable weight of gracelessness (33:15) - Repentance and internal vs external sin Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 01 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0000 full 1 8 The Christian Skeptic This week, we talk about whether or not Christians should evaluate each other’s actions, what Jesus means when he says “you will know them by their fruit”, and the difference between clear, biblically-defined sin, and subjective behaviors.  We also discuss the recent controversy around Steve Lawson, how Christians should respond to the failures of public figures, and what it means for a pastor to be “disqualified” from ministry.  In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:29) - Steve Lawson controversy (04:00) - Should Christians judge other Christians? (09:04) - You will know them by their fruit? (16:42) - How should we react when a Christian leader falls? (20:50) - The problem with "Lordship Salvation" (26:20) - Hypocrisy vs Inconsistency (29:53) - The unbearable weight of gracelessness (33:15) - Repentance and internal vs external sin Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. This week, we talk about whether or not Christians should evaluate each other’s actions, what Jesus means when he says “you will know them by their fruit”, and the difference between clear, biblically-defined sin, and subjective behaviors. 

We also discuss the recent controversy around Steve Lawson, how Christians should respond to the failures of public figures, and what it means for a pastor to be “disqualified” from ministry. 

In this episode:

  • (00:00) - Intro
  • (01:29) - Steve Lawson controversy
  • (04:00) - Should Christians judge other Christians?
  • (09:04) - You will know them by their fruit?
  • (16:42) - How should we react when a Christian leader falls?
  • (20:50) - The problem with "Lordship Salvation"
  • (26:20) - Hypocrisy vs Inconsistency
  • (29:53) - The unbearable weight of gracelessness
  • (33:15) - Repentance and internal vs external sin


Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 2328 no Is it a cop-out to say ‘God’s in control’? Is it a cop-out to say ‘God’s in control’? Is everything that happens really God’s will? This week, we talk about the tension between God’s sovereignty and human accountability. We dive into the concepts of determinism, free will, and God’s role in sweeping up the messes we create. We also reflect on the difference between God allowing suffering versus actively causing it, and how that shapes our understanding of his care in both cosmic and personal contexts. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (03:24) - Biblical perspectives on suffering and sovereignty (07:59) - Are certain things outside of God's will? (10:19) - The war of the wills (19:59) - How does God work all things for good? (26:59) - What God actually cares about (31:48) - Grace for self-inflicted wounds (40:16) - The Horse and His Boy Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 24 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0000 “Is it a cop-out to say ‘God’s in control’?” full 1 7 The Christian Skeptic Is it a cop-out to say ‘God’s in control’? Is everything that happens really God’s will? This week, we talk about the tension between God’s sovereignty and human accountability. We dive into the concepts of determinism, free will, and God’s role in sweeping up the messes we create. We also reflect on the difference between God allowing suffering versus actively causing it, and how that shapes our understanding of his care in both cosmic and personal contexts. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (03:24) - Biblical perspectives on suffering and sovereignty (07:59) - Are certain things outside of God's will? (10:19) - The war of the wills (19:59) - How does God work all things for good? (26:59) - What God actually cares about (31:48) - Grace for self-inflicted wounds (40:16) - The Horse and His Boy Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Is it a cop-out to say ‘God’s in control’? Is everything that happens really God’s will? This week, we talk about the tension between God’s sovereignty and human accountability. We dive into the concepts of determinism, free will, and God’s role in sweeping up the messes we create. We also reflect on the difference between God allowing suffering versus actively causing it, and how that shapes our understanding of his care in both cosmic and personal contexts.

In this episode:

  • (00:00) - Intro
  • (03:24) - Biblical perspectives on suffering and sovereignty
  • (07:59) - Are certain things outside of God's will?
  • (10:19) - The war of the wills
  • (19:59) - How does God work all things for good?
  • (26:59) - What God actually cares about
  • (31:48) - Grace for self-inflicted wounds
  • (40:16) - The Horse and His Boy


Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 2805 no Is God Actually Happy With Us? Is God actually happy with us? What is the connection between faith, works, and grace in the Christian life? Is there such a thing as a “good Christian”? This week, we explore these questions and discuss what it means to please God. We wrestle with the complexity of identity in Christ, the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives, the concept of future grace, and how our actions—whether good or bad—reveal deeper realities about our faith.  In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:27) - A practical theology (05:35) - Do our actions matter? (08:19) - Behavior reflects belief (13:29) - It's complicated (19:02) - What does the bible mean when it talks about behavior? (25:42) - Adoption, identity, and future grace (29:37) - Are we all good Christians? (32:48) - Saving faith vs sanctifying faith (36:00) - Obedience and motivation (44:30) - Book picks Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 17 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Is God Actually Happy With Us? full 1 6 The Christian Skeptic Is God actually happy with us? What is the connection between faith, works, and grace in the Christian life? Is there such a thing as a “good Christian”? This week, we explore these questions and discuss what it means to please God. We wrestle with the complexity of identity in Christ, the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives, the concept of future grace, and how our actions—whether good or bad—reveal deeper realities about our faith.  In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:27) - A practical theology (05:35) - Do our actions matter? (08:19) - Behavior reflects belief (13:29) - It's complicated (19:02) - What does the bible mean when it talks about behavior? (25:42) - Adoption, identity, and future grace (29:37) - Are we all good Christians? (32:48) - Saving faith vs sanctifying faith (36:00) - Obedience and motivation (44:30) - Book picks Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Is God actually happy with us? What is the connection between faith, works, and grace in the Christian life? Is there such a thing as a “good Christian”?

This week, we explore these questions and discuss what it means to please God. We wrestle with the complexity of identity in Christ, the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives, the concept of future grace, and how our actions—whether good or bad—reveal deeper realities about our faith. 

In this episode:

  • (00:00) - Intro
  • (01:27) - A practical theology
  • (05:35) - Do our actions matter?
  • (08:19) - Behavior reflects belief
  • (13:29) - It's complicated
  • (19:02) - What does the bible mean when it talks about behavior?
  • (25:42) - Adoption, identity, and future grace
  • (29:37) - Are we all good Christians?
  • (32:48) - Saving faith vs sanctifying faith
  • (36:00) - Obedience and motivation
  • (44:30) - Book picks


Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 2723 no Are We Living in the Last Days? This week, we talk about eschatology—the study of the end times. Church history is replete with people predicting the end of the world and Jesus’ second coming. And yet, we’re still here. We examine the common thread that ties all these predictions together, and do a deep dive into the various views of the second coming, and the four main frameworks used to understand and interpret apocalyptic literature in scripture. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (00:48) - Weather skeptics? (03:06) - Are we living in the last days? (05:24) - Chrisitan Skepticism is a third way between extremes (09:31) - Eschatology 101 (18:04) - The Futurist View (20:03) - The Historicist View (20:31) - The Idealist View (21:06) - The Preterist View (24:13) - The Day of the Lord (38:10) - The Rapture (41:22) - Why does any of this matter? (47:40) - Recommended reading Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 10 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Are We Living in the Last Days? full 1 5 The Christian Skeptic This week, we talk about eschatology—the study of the end times. Church history is replete with people predicting the end of the world and Jesus’ second coming. And yet, we’re still here. We examine the common thread that ties all these predictions together, and do a deep dive into the various views of the second coming, and the four main frameworks used to understand and interpret apocalyptic literature in scripture. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (00:48) - Weather skeptics? (03:06) - Are we living in the last days? (05:24) - Chrisitan Skepticism is a third way between extremes (09:31) - Eschatology 101 (18:04) - The Futurist View (20:03) - The Historicist View (20:31) - The Idealist View (21:06) - The Preterist View (24:13) - The Day of the Lord (38:10) - The Rapture (41:22) - Why does any of this matter? (47:40) - Recommended reading Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. This week, we talk about eschatology—the study of the end times. Church history is replete with people predicting the end of the world and Jesus’ second coming. And yet, we’re still here. We examine the common thread that ties all these predictions together, and do a deep dive into the various views of the second coming, and the four main frameworks used to understand and interpret apocalyptic literature in scripture.

In this episode:

  • (00:00) - Intro
  • (00:48) - Weather skeptics?
  • (03:06) - Are we living in the last days?
  • (05:24) - Chrisitan Skepticism is a third way between extremes
  • (09:31) - Eschatology 101
  • (18:04) - The Futurist View
  • (20:03) - The Historicist View
  • (20:31) - The Idealist View
  • (21:06) - The Preterist View
  • (24:13) - The Day of the Lord
  • (38:10) - The Rapture
  • (41:22) - Why does any of this matter?
  • (47:40) - Recommended reading


Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 3117 no Are Christians Afraid of Grace? This week, we dive deep into Antinomianism, what it is, and how it has impacted our lives. We also discuss the danger of unexamined beliefs, misunderstandings around justification and sanctification, the role of the law in Christianity, and the interplay between sin, grace, and identity. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:38) - Owning your crap (01:53) - Caring what people think (03:19) - The role of the law in Christianity (05:27) - Enneagram 5s vs tradition (10:58) - What is Antinomianism? (18:32) - Justification vs Sanctification (22:58) - The fear of grace (26:54) - What’s the worst sin you can commit? (29:06) - Should we judge others? (30:48) - What is your identity? (37:58) - What we’re reading Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 03 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Are Christians Afraid of Grace? full 1 4 The Christian Skeptic This week, we dive deep into Antinomianism, what it is, and how it has impacted our lives. We also discuss the danger of unexamined beliefs, misunderstandings around justification and sanctification, the role of the law in Christianity, and the interplay between sin, grace, and identity. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:38) - Owning your crap (01:53) - Caring what people think (03:19) - The role of the law in Christianity (05:27) - Enneagram 5s vs tradition (10:58) - What is Antinomianism? (18:32) - Justification vs Sanctification (22:58) - The fear of grace (26:54) - What’s the worst sin you can commit? (29:06) - Should we judge others? (30:48) - What is your identity? (37:58) - What we’re reading Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. This week, we dive deep into Antinomianism, what it is, and how it has impacted our lives. We also discuss the danger of unexamined beliefs, misunderstandings around justification and sanctification, the role of the law in Christianity, and the interplay between sin, grace, and identity.

In this episode:

  • (00:00) - Intro
  • (01:38) - Owning your crap
  • (01:53) - Caring what people think
  • (03:19) - The role of the law in Christianity
  • (05:27) - Enneagram 5s vs tradition
  • (10:58) - What is Antinomianism?
  • (18:32) - Justification vs Sanctification
  • (22:58) - The fear of grace
  • (26:54) - What’s the worst sin you can commit?
  • (29:06) - Should we judge others?
  • (30:48) - What is your identity?
  • (37:58) - What we’re reading


Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 2569 no The Surprising Joy of Christian Skepticism This week, we dive into the concept of Christian Skepticism, exploring its meaning, significance, and how it ultimately leads to joy. Christian Skepticism is a worldview that questions all doctrines, confessions, lifestyles, and practices—regardless of popularity or cultural/religious acceptance—in an effort to separate absolute truth from mere opinion, bias, or propaganda, using the Bible as the highest authority is determining these absolutes. We believe that God is not honored through falsehood, ungrounded religious dogmatism, or preferential conclusion masquerading as cosmic certainty, but is instead honored when truth is discovered, taught, and lived out. This approach distinguishes absolute truth from opinion, bias, and propaganda.  Christian Skepticism is not about doubting, but about rigorously seeking truth, ensuring foundational beliefs remain intact while allowing for differences in secondary and tertiary issues. We also touch on the historical context and importance of biblical literacy in living out this worldview, the balance between protecting the integrity of the faith and liberating believers from dogmatic constraints. In this episode: (00:00) - Welcome to the Christian Skeptic (04:33) - Defining Christian skepticism (04:52) - Christian Skepticism vs. Christian Hedonism (09:17) - Foundational elements of faith (13:42) - Protecting and liberating the church (17:46) - Jesus and deconstructing convention (19:47) - Primary vs. secondary concerns (23:40) - Skepticism vs. cynicism (27:06) - The importance of biblical literacy (33:05) - The radical nature of grace (37:54) - Influences on modern Christianity Key topics discussed Why Christian Skepticism leads to ultimate joy How Christian Skepticism protects and liberates the church Why critical thinking and self-awareness are essential in evaluating the influence of cultural norms and personal bias Why the radical nature of grace leads to true transformation Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 27 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0000 The Surprising Joy of Christian Skepticism full 1 3 The Christian Skeptic This week, we dive into the concept of Christian Skepticism, exploring its meaning, significance, and how it ultimately leads to joy. Christian Skepticism is a worldview that questions all doctrines, confessions, lifestyles, and practices—regardless of popularity or cultural/religious acceptance—in an effort to separate absolute truth from mere opinion, bias, or propaganda, using the Bible as the highest authority is determining these absolutes. We believe that God is not honored through falsehood, ungrounded religious dogmatism, or preferential conclusion masquerading as cosmic certainty, but is instead honored when truth is discovered, taught, and lived out. This approach distinguishes absolute truth from opinion, bias, and propaganda.  Christian Skepticism is not about doubting, but about rigorously seeking truth, ensuring foundational beliefs remain intact while allowing for differences in secondary and tertiary issues. We also touch on the historical context and importance of biblical literacy in living out this worldview, the balance between protecting the integrity of the faith and liberating believers from dogmatic constraints. In this episode: (00:00) - Welcome to the Christian Skeptic (04:33) - Defining Christian skepticism (04:52) - Christian Skepticism vs. Christian Hedonism (09:17) - Foundational elements of faith (13:42) - Protecting and liberating the church (17:46) - Jesus and deconstructing convention (19:47) - Primary vs. secondary concerns (23:40) - Skepticism vs. cynicism (27:06) - The importance of biblical literacy (33:05) - The radical nature of grace (37:54) - Influences on modern Christianity Key topics discussed Why Christian Skepticism leads to ultimate joy How Christian Skepticism protects and liberates the church Why critical thinking and self-awareness are essential in evaluating the influence of cultural norms and personal bias Why the radical nature of grace leads to true transformation Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. This week, we dive into the concept of Christian Skepticism, exploring its meaning, significance, and how it ultimately leads to joy.

Christian Skepticism is a worldview that questions all doctrines, confessions, lifestyles, and practices—regardless of popularity or cultural/religious acceptance—in an effort to separate absolute truth from mere opinion, bias, or propaganda, using the Bible as the highest authority is determining these absolutes. We believe that God is not honored through falsehood, ungrounded religious dogmatism, or preferential conclusion masquerading as cosmic certainty, but is instead honored when truth is discovered, taught, and lived out.

This approach distinguishes absolute truth from opinion, bias, and propaganda. 

Christian Skepticism is not about doubting, but about rigorously seeking truth, ensuring foundational beliefs remain intact while allowing for differences in secondary and tertiary issues. We also touch on the historical context and importance of biblical literacy in living out this worldview, the balance between protecting the integrity of the faith and liberating believers from dogmatic constraints.

In this episode:

  • (00:00) - Welcome to the Christian Skeptic
  • (04:33) - Defining Christian skepticism
  • (04:52) - Christian Skepticism vs. Christian Hedonism
  • (09:17) - Foundational elements of faith
  • (13:42) - Protecting and liberating the church
  • (17:46) - Jesus and deconstructing convention
  • (19:47) - Primary vs. secondary concerns
  • (23:40) - Skepticism vs. cynicism
  • (27:06) - The importance of biblical literacy
  • (33:05) - The radical nature of grace
  • (37:54) - Influences on modern Christianity


Key topics discussed

  • Why Christian Skepticism leads to ultimate joy
  • How Christian Skepticism protects and liberates the church
  • Why critical thinking and self-awareness are essential in evaluating the influence of cultural norms and personal bias
  • Why the radical nature of grace leads to true transformation


Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 2404 no Deconstruction Is a Good Idea This week, we talk about deconstruction vs deconversion, and why much of historic Christianity has been lost amid centuries of cultural and theological opinion and bias. We also discuss how suffering has shaped our faith, and tackle questions about God’s goodness, our lack of ability to be “good Christians”, and the role of intellect and emotion in our faith.  In this episode: (00:00) - Welcome to The Christian Skeptic (02:58) - Why we have not deconverted (14:46) - What's different about the pain and suffering then vs the pain and suffering now? (22:58) - Disillusionment with God vs hurt from people (25:14) - Is God good? (26:44) - Can we follow God's example? (30:28) - How much free will do we actually have? (33:24) - Being OK with things not making sense Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. Tue, 20 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Deconstruction Is a Good Idea full 1 2 The Christian Skeptic This week, we talk about deconstruction vs deconversion, and why much of historic Christianity has been lost amid centuries of cultural and theological opinion and bias. We also discuss how suffering has shaped our faith, and tackle questions about God’s goodness, our lack of ability to be “good Christians”, and the role of intellect and emotion in our faith.  In this episode: (00:00) - Welcome to The Christian Skeptic (02:58) - Why we have not deconverted (14:46) - What's different about the pain and suffering then vs the pain and suffering now? (22:58) - Disillusionment with God vs hurt from people (25:14) - Is God good? (26:44) - Can we follow God's example? (30:28) - How much free will do we actually have? (33:24) - Being OK with things not making sense Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org.  Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic. This week, we talk about deconstruction vs deconversion, and why much of historic Christianity has been lost amid centuries of cultural and theological opinion and bias. We also discuss how suffering has shaped our faith, and tackle questions about God’s goodness, our lack of ability to be “good Christians”, and the role of intellect and emotion in our faith. 

In this episode:

  • (00:00) - Welcome to The Christian Skeptic
  • (02:58) - Why we have not deconverted
  • (14:46) - What's different about the pain and suffering then vs the pain and suffering now?
  • (22:58) - Disillusionment with God vs hurt from people
  • (25:14) - Is God good?
  • (26:44) - Can we follow God's example?
  • (30:28) - How much free will do we actually have?
  • (33:24) - Being OK with things not making sense


Get full show notes and links at https://www.thechristianskeptic.org. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic.

]]> 2355 no 70% of Modern Christianity Is Just Made Up In this inaugural episode of The Christian Skeptic, we talk about how much our lives have changed in recent years and why we're doing this podcast now. We discuss how suffering has impacted our faith, being raised in a strict religious environment, and our struggles with modern Christianity. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:12) - A decade in the making (05:00) - The cult next door (06:29) - Grey Town (13:15) - Radical grace (23:00) - Theological shifts (26:56) - Does God make sense? Links  Charles Spurgeon: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Spurgeon  Happy Shiney People: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiny_Happy_People:_Duggar_Family_Secrets  C. S. Lewis: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/C._S._Lewis  The Great Divorce: https://www.amazon.com/Great-Divorce-C-S-Lewis/dp/0060652950  Tim Keller: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tim_Keller_(pastor)  Narnia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Chronicles_of_Narnia  Francis Schaeffer: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francis_Schaeffer  How Should We Then Live?: https://www.amazon.com/Should-Then-Live-LAbri-Anniversary/dp/1581345364  John Bunyan: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Bunyan  John Wesley: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Wesley  John Piper: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Piper_(theologian)  R. C. Sproul: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/R._C._Sproul  Doug Wilson: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Douglas_Wilson_(theologian)  Acts 29: https://www.acts29.com  The Gospel Coalition: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org  Sadie Robertson: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sadie_Robertson  Stephen Furtick: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steven_Furtick  Steve Brown: https://www.keylife.org/about/steve-brown  Tullian Tchividjian: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tullian_Tchividjian  Martin Luther: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_Luther  The Bondage of the Will: https://www.amazon.com/Bondage-Will-Martin-Luther/dp/0801048931  Connect with Adam Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avclark Connect with Aaron Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fromgreytown  Subscribe and stay in touch Website: https://thechristiansekptic.org  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-christian-skeptic/id1761285349  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4HlSAPHewfbLESl61D3XH9  YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic  Tue, 13 Aug 2024 08:00:00 -0000 70% of Modern Christianity Is Just Made Up full 1 1 The Christian Skeptic In this inaugural episode of The Christian Skeptic, we talk about how much our lives have changed in recent years and why we're doing this podcast now. We discuss how suffering has impacted our faith, being raised in a strict religious environment, and our struggles with modern Christianity. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:12) - A decade in the making (05:00) - The cult next door (06:29) - Grey Town (13:15) - Radical grace (23:00) - Theological shifts (26:56) - Does God make sense? Links  Charles Spurgeon: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Spurgeon  Happy Shiney People: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiny_Happy_People:_Duggar_Family_Secrets  C. S. Lewis: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/C._S._Lewis  The Great Divorce: https://www.amazon.com/Great-Divorce-C-S-Lewis/dp/0060652950  Tim Keller: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tim_Keller_(pastor)  Narnia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Chronicles_of_Narnia  Francis Schaeffer: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francis_Schaeffer  How Should We Then Live?: https://www.amazon.com/Should-Then-Live-LAbri-Anniversary/dp/1581345364  John Bunyan: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Bunyan  John Wesley: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Wesley  John Piper: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Piper_(theologian)  R. C. Sproul: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/R._C._Sproul  Doug Wilson: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Douglas_Wilson_(theologian)  Acts 29: https://www.acts29.com  The Gospel Coalition: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org  Sadie Robertson: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sadie_Robertson  Stephen Furtick: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steven_Furtick  Steve Brown: https://www.keylife.org/about/steve-brown  Tullian Tchividjian: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tullian_Tchividjian  Martin Luther: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_Luther  The Bondage of the Will: https://www.amazon.com/Bondage-Will-Martin-Luther/dp/0801048931  Connect with Adam Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avclark Connect with Aaron Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fromgreytown  Subscribe and stay in touch Website: https://thechristiansekptic.org  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-christian-skeptic/id1761285349  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4HlSAPHewfbLESl61D3XH9  YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic  In this inaugural episode of The Christian Skeptic, we talk about how much our lives have changed in recent years and why we're doing this podcast now. We discuss how suffering has impacted our faith, being raised in a strict religious environment, and our struggles with modern Christianity.

In this episode:

  • (00:00) - Intro
  • (01:12) - A decade in the making
  • (05:00) - The cult next door
  • (06:29) - Grey Town
  • (13:15) - Radical grace
  • (23:00) - Theological shifts
  • (26:56) - Does God make sense?


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]]> 1800 no Introducing: The Christian Skeptic Welcome to The Christian Skeptic, a podcast about faith, doubt, and what it means to be a Christian. Our Manifesto Christian Skepticism is a worldview that questions all doctrines, confessions, lifestyles, and practices — regardless of popularity or cultural/religious acceptance — in an effort to separate absolute truth from mere opinion, bias, or propaganda, using the Bible as the highest authority is determining these absolutes. We believe that God is not honored through falsehood, ungrounded religious dogmatism, or preferential conclusion masquerading as cosmic certainty, but is instead honored when truth is discovered, taught, and lived out. Connect YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-christian-skeptic/id1761285349  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4HlSAPHewfbLESl61D3XH9 Mon, 05 Aug 2024 21:01:00 -0000 Introducing: The Christian Skeptic trailer The Christian Skeptic Welcome to The Christian Skeptic, a podcast about faith, doubt, and what it means to be a Christian. Our Manifesto Christian Skepticism is a worldview that questions all doctrines, confessions, lifestyles, and practices — regardless of popularity or cultural/religious acceptance — in an effort to separate absolute truth from mere opinion, bias, or propaganda, using the Bible as the highest authority is determining these absolutes. We believe that God is not honored through falsehood, ungrounded religious dogmatism, or preferential conclusion masquerading as cosmic certainty, but is instead honored when truth is discovered, taught, and lived out. Connect YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-christian-skeptic/id1761285349  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4HlSAPHewfbLESl61D3XH9 Welcome to The Christian Skeptic, a podcast about faith, doubt, and what it means to be a Christian.


Our Manifesto

Christian Skepticism is a worldview that questions all doctrines, confessions, lifestyles, and practices — regardless of popularity or cultural/religious acceptance — in an effort to separate absolute truth from mere opinion, bias, or propaganda, using the Bible as the highest authority is determining these absolutes. We believe that God is not honored through falsehood, ungrounded religious dogmatism, or preferential conclusion masquerading as cosmic certainty, but is instead honored when truth is discovered, taught, and lived out.


Connect

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thechristianskeptic 

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-christian-skeptic/id1761285349 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4HlSAPHewfbLESl61D3XH9

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