In this episode of the Thinking Matters podcast, host Todd Funk engages with Sam Treadwell, who shares his transformative journey from atheism to Christianity. Sam discusses his exploration of various faith systems, the intersection of science and faith, and the role of prophecy in validating Christianity. He emphasizes the importance of addressing doubts and challenges within faith, the historical impact of Christianity on society, and the need for compassionate conversations around LGBTQ+ issues. The conversation concludes with insights into the future of apologetics and the potential for digital learning in faith education.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Faith and Science02:51 Sam's Journey from Atheism to Christianity05:48 Exploring Spiritual Landscapes in Asia08:55 Understanding World Religions and Truth11:49 The Science-Faith Interface14:51 Prophecy and Validation of the Bible20:52 Faith, Doubt, and Reasoning23:13 Navigating Doubts and Truth in Faith29:54 Christianity's Impact on Society32:43 Addressing LGBTQ+ Issues in Christianity40:39 The Future of Faith Seminars
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50:47
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50:47
#007 Dale Campbell - Auckland Church Network
In this episode of the Thinking Matters podcast, host Todd Funk engages with Dale Campbell, who shares his journey from Missouri to New Zealand and his role in the Auckland Church Network. The conversation explores themes of unity in diversity, the importance of social justice from a biblical perspective, and the challenges of navigating doctrinal differences among various Christian denominations. Dale emphasizes the need for curiosity and understanding in interactions with others, particularly in the context of social justice and community support. The discussion also touches on the influence of media on perceptions of justice and the importance of humility and mercy in addressing societal issues.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Dale Campbell and His Journey02:45 Auckland Church Network: Vision and Mission05:51 Unity in Diversity: The Role of Ecumenism08:30 Cultural Diversity and the Gospel11:23 Social Justice: A Biblical Perspective14:17 The Drama Triangle: Understanding Oppression and Solutions24:12 Understanding the Drama Triangle28:13 Cycles of Vengeance and Dependency32:39 The Role of Media in Shaping Perceptions37:35 The Complexity of Mercy and Justice44:20 The Importance of Vulnerable Conversations
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49:27
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49:27
#006 J. Warner Wallace - Former cold case detective and Author
In this episode of the Thinking Matters podcast, host Todd Funk engages with J. Warner Wallace, a former cold case detective and author, discussing the intersection of faith, identity, and the importance of the next generation. Wallace shares insights on grand parenting, the challenges of identity, the impact of trauma, and the role of community in faith. He emphasizes the need for a strong foundation in Christ and the importance of addressing the problem of evil and philosophical naturalism in discussions about faith. The conversation highlights the significance of balancing work and family, as well as the future of the church in a changing cultural landscape.Chapters00:00 Introduction to J. Warner Wallace02:50 The Importance of Family and Generational Influence05:35 Impacting the Next Generation08:27 Identity and Its Challenges11:14 The Connection Between Identity and Trauma14:08 Identifying False Worship and Devotion17:05 The Burden of Identity and Ministry21:31 Identity and Purpose: The Shift in Values23:57 Measuring Success: Metrics and Misplaced Devotion26:11 Climbing the Highest Mountain: Prioritizing Identity in Christ28:55 The Journey of Sanctification: Navigating the Bumpy Hallway30:56 Finding Joy Beyond Ministry: Personal Hobbies and Family35:34 Legacy and Influence: The Role of Grandparenting42:56 Engaging the Next Generation: Youth Ministry and Apologetics45:01 The Impact of Apologetics Camps46:06 Cultural Shifts and Church Attendance47:25 The Pendulum of Church Practices48:57 Reimagining Church Models50:43 Community Engagement and Service52:33 The Future of Church Dynamics54:23 Building Authentic Community56:24 Navigating the Problem of Evil58:34 Philosophical Naturalism and Skepticism01:01:24 The Role of Miracles in Faith01:03:05 Identity in Christ and Its Implications
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1:06:37
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1:06:37
#005 Max Jeganathan - Center for Public Christianity
In this episode of the Thinking Matters podcast, host Todd Funk interviews Max Jeganathan, a senior research fellow at the Center for Public Christianity in Australia. They discuss the role of public theology in addressing contemporary issues, the complexities of immigration debates from a Christian perspective, and the importance of a Christian voice in public discourse. Max shares his personal experiences with persecution, the cultural differences in faith perspectives, and the crisis of purpose and identity in modern society. They also explore the ethical implications of technology and AI, the importance of finding joy and balance in life, and advice for young people navigating their paths in faith and life.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Public Christianity01:23 Max's Role and Mission at CPX04:28 Navigating Immigration Debates as a Christian11:05 The Role of Christians in the Public Square15:03 Facing Hostility in the Public Sphere18:33 Personal Experiences of Persecution20:22 Cultural Differences in Apologetics22:55 Shifting Questions in Modern Apologetics26:20 The Freedom Trap and Modern Discontent29:21 Understanding Misconceptions in Christianity33:44 The Impact of AI on Society39:04 Lessons from Leadership Crises45:17 Finding Joy and Spiritual Recharge48:34 Advice for the Younger Generation
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52:04
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52:04
#004 Tripp & Megan Almon - Stand To Reason USA
In this episode of the Thinking Matters podcast, host Todd Funk engages with Tripp and Megan Almon, who share their experiences and insights on faith, apologetics, and the importance of addressing contemporary cultural issues. They discuss their spiritual journeys, the significance of a biblical worldview, and the role of beauty and truth in understanding faith. The conversation delves into topics such as relativism, the existence of God, the resurrection of Jesus, and the challenges of making a case for life in today's society. Tripp and Megan also explore the complexities of marriage, sexuality, and the problem of evil, offering practical advice for young people navigating these issues. The episode concludes with reflections on God's will and decision-making, emphasising the importance of character and relationship in the Christian faith.
Do you ever find yourself wrestling with tough questions about faith, meaning, and culture — wondering not just what you believe, but why? The Thinking Matters Podcast with Todd Funk invites New Zealand Christians (and those curious about Christian faith) into conversations that go deep, are honest, and equip you to live out a thoughtful, grounded faith in a rapidly changing world.
Each episode, Todd will engage experts, thinkers, believers, and sceptics — people who ask hard questions and give thoughtful answers.
New Zealand