Thinking Matters Podcast

In this episode of the Thinking Matters podcast, host Todd Funk engages with Brendan Malone, a prominent figure in pro-life education and cultural ethics. They discuss the decline of Western civilization, exploring themes of spiritual collapse, the importance of Christian ethics, and the role of education in fostering a revival. Brendan shares insights from his own spiritual journey, emphasizing the need for a return to foundational truths and the significance of prayer and contemplation in navigating today's cultural challenges. The conversation highlights the hope found in young people returning to faith and the potential for a cultural renaissance through authentic Christian living.

In this episode of the Thinking Matters podcast, host Todd Funk engages in a deep conversation with Dr. Sam Bloore, exploring his unique journey from medicine to pastoral ministry. They discuss the concept of emerging adulthood, its five key features, and the importance of mentorship and cultural discernment for young adults. Sam shares insights on identity exploration, the need for stability, and the significance of experiencing God in everyday life. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, support, and spiritual practices in navigating the challenges of emerging adulthood.

In this episode of the Thinking Matters podcast, host Todd Funk engages with Dr. Zachary Ardern, an evolutionary biologist, to explore the complex relationship between faith and science. Zach shares his personal journey from Young Earth Creationism to a theistic evolution perspective, discussing the implications of randomness in evolution and the evidence for common ancestry. The conversation delves into the role of design in the evolutionary process, the theological significance of human origins, and the challenges of maintaining faith in a secular academic environment. Throughout the discussion, Zach emphasizes the importance of viewing science as a legitimate Christian endeavor and the need for open dialogue between faith and scientific inquiry.

In this episode of the Thinking Matters podcast, host Todd Funk interviews Nic Blackie, a young apologist and director of youth camps and schools for Thinking Matters. They discuss Nic's journey of faith, the challenges of suffering, and the importance of sharing the gospel with young people. Nic shares his experiences in starting a Jesus Club in high school, his passion for youth apologetics, and the influence of Summit Ministries on his approach to ministry. The conversation also touches on the boldness of today's youth, common questions about Christianity, and the significance of having a supportive partner in ministry.

In this episode of the Thinking Matters podcast, Todd Funk interviews Rebecca Valerius, a classical educator and author, who shares her journey of faith, her passion for apologetics, and her insights on navigating doubt and deconstruction in Christianity. They discuss the importance of community, the role of philosophical and literary apologetics, and the challenges of integrating faith with science. Rebecca also highlights the significance of Chesterton's works and the rise of individual spirituality among young people. The conversation emphasizes the need for healthy questioning and the support of community in strengthening faith.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Rebecca Valerius
00:57 Rebecca's Faith Journey
04:00 Exploring Apologetics
07:02 The Society for Women of Letters
11:58 Understanding Deconstruction
19:50 The Role of Doubt in Faith
24:59 Healthy vs. Destructive Questioning
29:56 The Problem of Evil
33:42 Apologetics in Modern Spirituality
35:10 The Individualistic Search for Meaning
39:07 Navigating Doubt and Authority
43:32 Trusting God in Parenting
45:17 Science and Faith: Bridging the Gap
51:18 Wrestling with Doubts and Atheistic Arguments
52:25 The Influence of GK Chesterton
55:32 The Joys and Challenges of Teaching