Throughout history, women’s stories have often been overlooked—but the Bible offers a different narrative, one that uplifts and honors the contributions of women. Join Catherine and renowned biblical scholar Dr. Sandra Richter as they dive deep into the often-overlooked yet powerful roles women play in Scripture, and consider whether the Bible’s representation of women is fully embodied in the church today.

Episode Highlights:
🌟 Women’s Vital Presence in the Bible: Sandy explains how the Bible’s acknowledgment of women as gifted leaders and contributors transcends time, challenging interpretations that have minimized their roles.

🌟 Understanding Cultural Context: Sandy unpacks the importance of reading Scripture in its historical and cultural context, offering a fresh perspective on passages often misunderstood or misapplied.

🌟 Profiles of Biblical Trailblazers: Meet extraordinary women like Sarah, Hagar, Deborah, Hannah, and Huldah from the Old Testament—and discover the influential roles of New Testament women like Mary, Priscilla, Phoebe, and Junia, who shaped the early Christian Church.

🌟 Modern Lessons from Ancient Texts: The conversation addresses contemporary challenges, including restrictive attitudes within parts of the church today. Sandy shares how the Gospel’s message of equality calls for partnership, not hierarchy, between men and women.

🌟 Debunking Myths from Genesis: From the term "helpmate" to the meaning of “ezer kenegdo,” Sandra breaks down misconceptions about women’s roles in Genesis, revealing the equality and partnership God intended.

🌟 Prophetic Voices and Leadership: The episode highlights women like Deborah and Miriam, whose leadership shaped Israel’s history, and explores Huldah’s pivotal role during King Josiah’s reign.

🌟 Resources to Dig Deeper: Explore Sandra’s recommended reading list, including works by Judy Gundry, Dr. Lynn Cohick, and Beth Felker Jones, as well as her teachings at Westmont College.

This eye-opening discussion challenges traditional interpretations and celebrates the indispensable contributions of women throughout Scripture.

✨ Don’t Miss Next Week’s Episode! Catherine and Dr. Sandra Richter will dive deeper into the story of Deborah—perfect for modern families and women looking for inspiration.

About the guest: Dr. Sandra Richter holds a PhD in Old Testament Studies from Harvard University and  Master of Arts in Theology from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. She is currently the Gundry Chair of Biblical Studies at Westmont. Dr. Richter has authored several works available on Amazon, including a Bible study on Deborah. Her extensive research seeks to illuminate the scriptures for contemporary audiences.

Connect with Dr. Richter:  Amazon Author Page, Facebook Page, Westmont College Page

EPISODE LINKS:

Books Referenced:

Why Not Women: A Biblical Study of Women in Missions, Ministry, and Leadership by Loren Cunningham & David J. Hamilton

What Did Paul Really Say about Women by John T. Bristow

Articles by Catherine:

“Why We Should Reconsider What the Bible Really Says about Women in Ministry”

“Does Scripture Oppress or Liberate Women”

“Why Does Paul Tell Women to Be Silent in Church and Not to Teach?”

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Are the Bible’s perspectives on women outdated and misogynistic, or are they, in fact, revolutionary? In this eye-opening episode, Catherine sits down with Dr. Sandra Richter, a renowned biblical scholar from Westmont College. With decades of research and a passion for making scripture accessible to all, Dr. Richter unpacks the ways the Bible challenges cultural norms and uplifts the status of women from its very first pages.

Together, Catherine and Dr. Richter explore:

• Radical Equality in Genesis 1: How the creation narrative establishes men and women as equally created in the image of God, setting a profound precedent for dignity and value.
• Cultural Critique in Genesis 2: What does it mean for a man to leave his family and cleave to his wife? Dr. Richter reveals how this challenges patriarchal norms of ancient cultures.
• Normative Texts vs. Situational Ethics: Understanding the difference between universal spiritual principles and context-specific instructions is key to navigating scripture’s teachings on women.
• Women as Prophets: From Miriam in the Old Testament to Anna in the New Testament, women played vital and often underappreciated prophetic roles in biblical history.

Addressing Cultural Context:
The conversation also highlights the impact of Hellenistic and Jewish traditions on attitudes toward women in New Testament times:

• Rabbi Eliezer’s shocking statement: “If any man gives his daughter a knowledge of the Law, it is as though he taught her lechery.”
• The Jerusalem Talmud’s severe stance: “Let the words of Torah be burned up, but let them not be delivered to women.”
• Josephus’s commentary: Jewish law regarded women as “inferior to their husbands in all things.”
• The Berakhot’s daily prayer: Jewish men would thank God for not being born a gentile, a woman, or a slave—language reflective of broader Greek cultural influences.

Dr. Richter provides essential historical and theological insights, helping us see how the Bible subverts cultural norms and offers a radical perspective on women’s worth and roles.

Why This Matters for Parents:
In a world where gender roles and equality are hotly debated, understanding the Bible’s revolutionary view of women can profoundly shape how we teach and guide our children. This episode equips parents with a scriptural foundation to affirm the dignity, value, and purpose of every family member—mothers, daughters, sons, and fathers alike.

Don’t miss next week’s continuation with Dr. Richter, where we’ll explore the biblical celebration of motherhood and women’s contributions to faith and family.

Subscribe, Share, and Stay Connected!
If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe on your app at on Catherine’s website, leave a review, and share it with others! Let’s continue the conversation about faith, parenting, and the transformative power of scripture.

About the guest: Dr. Sandra Richter holds a PhD in Old Testament Studies from Harvard University and  Master of Arts in Theology from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. She is currently the Gundry Chair of Biblical Studies at Westmont. Dr. Richter has authored several works available on Amazon, including a Bible study on Deborah. Her extensive research seeks to illuminate the scriptures for contemporary audiences.

EPISODE LINKS:

Books Referenced:

Why Not Women: A Biblical Study of Women in Missions, Ministry, and Leadership by Loren Cunningham & David J. Hamilton

What Did Paul Really Say about Women by John T. Bristow

Articles by Catherine:

“Why We Should Reconsider What the Bible Really Says about Women in Ministry”

“Does Scripture Oppress or Liberate Women”

“Why Does Paul Tell Women to Be Silent in Church and Not to Teach?”

Scriptures Referenced:

1 Corinthians 11 & 14

Romans 16

1 Timothy 2

Galatians 3:28

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How can you eat better, sleep better, exercise better, work better, play better, spend better, save better, serve better, worship better, and pray better? Those are very good questions to ask at the beginning of a new year.

But how can you improve your relationship with your kids this year?

Now that’s a question to put at the top of the list.

In this special New Year’s episode, Catherine offers 12 practical ways to improve your relationships with your kids this year.

They are:

1. Cook a Meal Together: Share the joy of creating a dish from scratch, expanding your culinary skills while nurturing your relationship.
2. Read a Book Together: Whether it's fiction or educational, reading a book together provides a platform for bonding discussions.
3. Game Night: Turn off the screens and bring the family around the table for some old-fashioned fun and laughter.
4. Learn Something New: Tackle a new skill with your child, making memories and enriching both your lives.
5. Go for a Walk: Boost both your physical and mental health with a simple stroll while enjoying quality one-on-one time.
6. Show Affection for No Reason: Simple gestures of love and appreciation can reinforce your relationship in powerful ways.
7. Give Daily Encouragement: Recognize and commend your child's efforts and achievements, reinforcing positive behaviors.
8. Make a Date: Schedule regular one-on-one outings to give each child special attention and build lasting memories.
9. Plan a Getaway: Even a brief day-trip can become an unforgettable adventure that strengthens your parent-child bond.
10. Have Regular Heart-to-Hearts: Foster open communication by regularly checking in on your child’s emotional well-being.
11. Ask for Feedback: Be open to your child's perspective on how you can improve as a parent and act on their feedback.
12. Pray the Word of God: Strengthen your family spiritually by regularly praying scripture over your children

LINKS:

Find the Scripture list to pray over children HERE. 

EPISODES REFERENCED:

Episode 22: 13 Ways To Be a Better Parent in 2022 

Episode 13: 4 Types of Prayer Every Believer Should Know

Episode 14: How To Battle for Your Kids in Prayer

Episode 15: What Should I Expect When I Battle in Prayer

Episode 37: 7 Ways To Bless Your Kids with Words

Episode 49: How Do We Combat the Epidemic of Teen Suicide?

Episode 50: What Can We Learn from a Survivor of Teen Suicide? 

GAMES REFERENCED:

Apples to Apples, Settlers of Catan, Rummikub, Lost Cities

Bob Ross Stuffed Doll

BOOK REFERENCED:

Praying God’s Word

SCRIPTURE REFERENCED:

Numbers 6:24-26

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Start your New Year with a fresh spiritual mindset! In this episode, Catherine introduces five essential disciplines that form the cornerstone of exponential spiritual growth. Forget the hype around new trends—true transformation begins with mastering the basics. These tried-and-true foundational disciplines of the Christian faith—though they may seem simple and familiar—are the very ones that can propel us forward in our spiritual journey.

They are:

• Prayer: The lifeblood of your spiritual journey. Commit to real, focused daily prayer—it’s the oxygen your soul needs.
• Bible Study: Dive into Scripture daily to nourish your spirit. Whether through book studies, topical exploration, or memorization, God's Word is your guide.
• Giving: Break free from materialism and make eternal investments by giving a portion of your income to God’s work.
• Service: Get involved in your local church. Serving others is both a calling and a training ground for your greater purpose.
• Sacrifice: Experience God’s presence by prioritizing Him above all. Fasting is a particularly powerful practice to clear spiritual roadblocks.

Bonus Discipline: Fasting—a discipline that unclogs your spiritual arteries and enhances your connection with God.

Catherine also shares a sneak peek into upcoming episodes, featuring exciting guest interviews with experts like:

• Dr. Tamara Rosier on navigating ADHD in families
• Dr. Sandra Richter on women in Scripture
• Dr. Alex McFarland on the state of evangelicalism
• Jonathan Cahn on end-time prophecy

Takeaway:
These foundational disciplines are simple yet powerful tools for profound spiritual growth. Prioritize them in your life today, and get ready for monumental breakthroughs in your faith journey!

Episode Links:

Catherine’s Free Resources

Episode 84 “How To Learn More Scripture in 2024 Than You Ever Have Before”

Fasting by Jentezen Franklin

Scripture’s Referenced:

Luke 14:28

Luke 16:10

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In this heartwarming episode, Catherine Segars sits down with Jill Wagner, a beloved actress known for her work in Hallmark movies and now on Great American Family, to discuss her latest project and her passion for family, faith, and community. Together, they explore Jill’s dedication to creating entertainment that reflects her core values—especially during the holiday season.

Jill delves into her deeply personal new Great American Family documentary "Christmas on the Farm," premiering on December 23rd. This unique project offers an intimate glimpse into Jill’s life, highlighting the profound role her faith and close-knit community play in shaping her journey. For Jill, this isn’t just another holiday special; it’s a heartfelt reflection of the joy, love, and togetherness that define the Christmas season.

In this uplifting episode, Jill discusses:

·       The inspiration behind "Christmas on the Farm," revealing how this special project unfolded.

·       Her incredible journey from being a Hallmark favorite to becoming a cherished part of the Great American Family community, a network that champions family-oriented, faith-filled entertainment.

• The heartwarming story of inviting a family affected by Hurricane Helene into her home for Christmas dinner and the community who banded together to provide for their needs.

Catherine and Jill delve deeply into the role of faith in their lives, reflecting on how it shapes their personal and professional decisions. Jill expresses her gratitude to Bill Abbott, the CEO of Great American Family, for fostering a network that prioritizes values-driven content and supports creators who are committed to producing wholesome, family-friendly entertainment.

This episode is more than a conversation—it’s a celebration of the importance of aligning personal values with creative pursuits. Catherine and Jill remind listeners that Great American Family is an incredible resource available for those seeking uplifting, faith-forward, and family-centered entertainment for the holidays and beyond.

About the Guest:  Jill Wagner is an accomplished actress and producer, known for her work in various television shows and movies. She has recently turned her focus towards faith-based projects, aiming to bring authentic and uplifting stories to the screen. Through her work on Great American Family and her involvement in community-focused initiatives, Jill continues to inspire and spread messages of love, faith, and hope.

EPISODE RESOURCES: 

Great American Family
Jill Wager Instagram & Facebook

Streaming Services: Fubo, YouTube TV, Hulu

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This Holiday Season, Create a Tradition That Transforms Lives

What if this Christmas, your family could do something more meaningful than decorating the tree or exchanging gifts—something that plants seeds of kindness and changes lives across the globe? Imagine a tradition that not only brings joy to others but also shapes your children’s hearts with a lifelong spirit of generosity.

This holiday, make giving the greatest gift of all.

How can we make this a reality?

Catherine’s guest, Brian Frazier, shares his powerful journey of faith and purpose. With nearly 15 years at World Vision—a Christian humanitarian organization that brings hope to the poor and oppressed—Brian has witnessed firsthand the transformational power of generosity. Inspired by a life-changing trip to India, Brian left a successful career in engineering and banking to dedicate his life to helping others. His commitment even led his family to relocate to Bangalore, India, in pursuit of service.

In this episode, Catherine and Brian explore how families can embrace generosity and make an extraordinary impact through simple acts of giving.

Here’s what you’ll discover:

• The Power of Family Giving: Brian shares how involving children in charitable activities—like choosing gifts through World Vision’s gift catalog—can create meaningful family traditions that inspire lifelong habits of giving.
• World Vision’s Global Impact: Learn how World Vision has sparked transformative change—from creating Mongolia’s first Christian radio station to delivering clean water to villages in Rwanda.
• Stories That Inspire Hope: Hear about Rachida, an 8-year-old Sudanese refugee who found hope through World Vision’s efforts after losing her family to war.
• Lives Transformed: Experience the joy of a family in Zambia whose life was forever changed by a goat-herding program, offering them new opportunities and hope for the future.
• Generosity as a Legacy: Discover how small acts—like sponsoring a child or giving a life-changing gift—can instill values of compassion and selflessness in your children, creating a lasting legacy of generosity.
• Building Global Bridges: Reflect on how connecting with those in need—whether across the world or in your community—brings hope, fuels dreams, and reminds us of the profound difference we can make together.

This episode is an invitation to bring your faith to life this Christmas season through actionable, family-focused giving. Together, we can bridge the gap between affluence and need, offering hope to children around the world while creating cherished family traditions grounded in love and service.

For more information, to sponsor a child, or to explore the gift catalog, visit worldvision.org. Start a tradition of generosity today, and let this Christmas be remembered as the season your family gave the gift of hope.

About the Guest: Brian Frazier is the Executive Director of Team World Vision, a program of World Vision that mobilizes individuals—many of them non-runners—to conquer half and full marathons in support of ending the global water crisis in Jesus’ name. In his role, Brian passionately inspires people to take on physical challenges on behalf of the world’s most vulnerable communities. Brian’s unconventional career path began in engineering, transitioned to banking with a focus on microfinance, and ultimately led him to finding his calling in fundraising. Over the course of his career with World Vision, Brian has worked in more than 30 countries. His unique perspective and broad skill set fuel his commitment to advocating for the forgotten and marginalized.

Brian lives in Houston, Texas, with his wife, Colette. Together, they are the proud parents of four wonderful children: Corban, Haddon, Kai, and Niya.

Episode Links:

World Vision Gift Catalog.

Instagram: @worldvisionusa

Facebook: World Vision USA

Twitter: @worldvisionusa

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Few subjects present a greater challenge for parents than teaching children about God’s design for their identity. How do we start these vital conversations without overwhelming our little ones or feeding them information beyond their comprehension?

Catherine's guest, Elizabeth Urbanowicz, has developed a curriculum that helps parents navigate these challenging waters. Elizabeth is the founder of Foundation Worldview, an organization committed to providing Christian parents, educators, and church leaders with the resources they need to teach children to think critically and biblically.

In this enlightening discussion, Elizabeth introduces her new curriculum aimed at kids ages 4-8 called "God's Good Design." 

This episode emphasizes:

1.     The Importance of Being the First: Introducing children to these topics early helps parents establish authority and provide a biblical perspective.

2.     Maintaining Innocence While Informing: Teaching children about God's good design protects their innocence by providing them with the truth before encountering corrupted versions of identity.

3.     Living in Truth while Loving Others: Both Catherine and Elizabeth emphasize the need to always love those who disagree while we teach our kids God’s truth about their identity.

4.     Resources for Parents and Educators: Foundation Worldview's curriculum and other recommended resources for guiding children and teens in sexuality education from a Christian perspective are highlighted.

Listeners are invited to access these Foundation Worldview resources with a special $10 discount on family licenses using the code PARENT10.

About the Guest Elizabeth Urbanowicz holds a B.S. from Gordon College in Elementary Education and Spanish, an M.S.Ed. from Northern Illinois University in Literacy Education, and an M.A. in Christian Apologetics from Biola University. Elizabeth created Foundation Worldview to equip Christian parents with the resources they need to train children to soundly interpret Scripture, carefully evaluate every idea they encounter, and understand the truth of the biblical worldview.

EPISODE RESOURCES:

·       God’s Good Design curriculum (Use code PARENT10 for a $10 discount on any family license)

·       “How Should Christians Talk to Their Kids about Sexuality” by Catherine Segars

·       Mama Bear Apologetics Guide to Sexuality by Hillary Morgan Ferrer

·       God’s Design for Sex (series) by Stan and Brenna Jones

·       The Talk: 7 Lessons to Introduce Your Child to Biblical Sexuality by Luke Gilkerson

·       The Talk: 7 Lessons to Introduce Your Child to Biblical Sexuality

·       The Holy Sexuality Project by Christopher Yuan

Other Episodes with Elizabeth:

Ep. 57: How To Teach Your Kids the Christian Worldview

Ep. 58: 7 Lies Culture is Spreading to Our Kids: Are They Buying?

Ep. 72 What Do Deconstructionists Often Get Wrong about the Faith

Ep. 73: How Can God Forgive Sins Like Abuse, Rape, and Murder?

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Keeping Christ at the center of the Christmas season is always a challenge. The hectic pace of life intensifies during December, and often our focus shifts to the never-ending list of responsibilities and chores to complete before the big day.

Strategically celebrating Advent is a wonderful way to keep Christ central in all the commotion of gatherings, parties, concerts, baking, and buying. Utilizing Advent calendars, candles, and books help us to focus on the magnitude of what Christ accomplished in coming to earth while pointing us toward his return.

Catherine’s guest in this episode, Laurie Christine, has accumulated a wealth of devotional resources that will help enrich your Christmas season by celebrating Advent. Catherine and Laurie start by digging into the history of Advent, and then they highlight the great gift of celebrating God’s hope, peace, joy, and love in line with each candle lit. Laurie also offers devotional and book recommendations for all ages to participate in the wonderful celebration of Advent.

1. The Meaning of Advent: Learn about the rich historical roots of Advent, dating back to the 6th century, and how its observance can enhance the anticipation of both the first and second coming of Christ.
2. Dive into The Action Bible Christmas: Laurie introduces this fantastic book featuring 25 imaginative stories related to the biblical Christmas story suitable for young children aged 3-9, providing delightful and engaging ways to teach the story of Jesus' birth.
3. Discover Jotham's Journey Series: Catherine and Laurie delve into Arnold Ytreeide’s four-book series that follows fictional accounts of Jesus' birth through the eyes of four different children. With devotional sections and intertwined stories, it’s perfect for family Advent readings!
4. Celebrate with Unwrapping the Names of Jesus: Laurie shares her love for Asheritah Ciuciu’s devotional, which explores the various names of Jesus over four weeks, providing structured readings and activities for each Sunday of Advent.
5. Creating a Jesse Tree: Laurie explains the tradition of the Jesse Tree, tracing Jesus's lineage with ornaments representing biblical figures. A beautiful way to journey through the anticipation of Christ's birth as a family.
6. Resource Roundup: Laurie and Catherine recommend various devotional books and family activities, including "Unwrapping the Greatest Gift" by Ann Voskamp and "Remarkable Advent" by Shauna Lettler to help make your Advent season more meaningful.

Catherine also shares a heartfelt personal story of finding hope during a difficult time, underscoring the essential themes of Advent: hope, peace, joy, and love.

Laurie Christine’s Bio: Laurie Christine is an author, podcast host, Biblical Parenting Coach, wife, and mom of four loud, adventurous boys. Her podcast, Redeeming the Chaos, invites moms of boys to join her on the wild, wonderful adventure of raising courageous boys and connecting them with Christ.  In addition to hosting a podcast, Laurie writes devotions and Bible stories for families. Her passion is to raise strong, courageous warriors for the Kingdom of God, and to help families like yours do the same!  Her new devotional book for boys, Rise of the Enemy, just released on Amazon in November.

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Laurie Christine's website

Laurie Christine's Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/laurie.christine.author/?hl=en 

Laurie Christine has created a wonderful resource for CPCW listeners that contains all of the devotionals and books covered in this episode which can be accessed HERE:

https://lauriechristine.com/podcast-interview-resources/

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Gratitude plays a pivotal role in the life of a Christian, serving as a cornerstone for spiritual growth and alignment with God's will. It's not just a fleeting feeling of thankfulness, but a profound, daily practice that transforms our perspectives and opens the door to divine blessings. In fact, gratitude has the power to radically change your future and the future of your family.

But a lack of gratitude can change your future as well.

In this special Thanksgiving episode, Catherine dives into the transformative power of gratitude by exploring how the Israelites failure to be grateful led to a 40-year-detour in the desert, where their humble and benevolent leader actually prayed for God to take him out. Gratitude will open the door for God’s blessings and favor to flow, or it can shut the door to the future God has planned.

Key takeaways include:

·       Gratitude in the Bible: The Israelites' ingratitude delayed their entry into the Promised Land by 40 years, showing how a lack of thankfulness can have serious consequences.

·       Negative Impact of Ingratitude: Being ungrateful fosters fear, distrust, and idolatry, affecting our relationship with God and others.

·       Gratitude as Protection: A grateful heart can shield us from sinful behaviors like greed and obscene talk, aligning our focus with God’s goodness.

·       Practical Gratitude: Making a list of things we're thankful for and displaying it can help combat fear and anxiety.

·       Daily Gratitude: Incorporating thankfulness into our daily routines can transform our outlook and unlock God's blessings.

·       Faith in Tough Times: Even when facing difficult circumstances, practicing gratitude can provide peace and open doors for future blessings.

This episode is filled with biblical insights, personal stories, and practical takeaways to help you and your family choose gratitude over grumbling—even when life gets hard.

Reflecting on biblical stories, personal experiences, and scriptural insights, Catherine uncovers how choosing gratitude over grumbling shapes not just our hearts but our destinies.

To receive Catherine’s Prodigal Bundle for parents with estranged children, click HERE.

SCRIPTURES REFERENCED:

Psalms 100:4

Ephesians 5

1 Thessalonians 5:18

Galatians 6:7

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In a world where cultural pressures challenge our faith every single day, how can we stay true to our beliefs and be a light in dark times?

Catherine is joined once again by Martyn Ilse, CEO of Answers in Genesis, for a powerful discussion on living faithfully in a "lost culture." Together, they dive into the biblical story of Daniel and his friends in Babylon, using it as a guide for standing firm in our faith despite societal pressures and shifting cultural values.

Martyn draws fascinating insights from the experiences of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, explaining how their time in Babylon mirrors the challenges we face today. He discusses how Daniel and his friends were subjected to intense indoctrination, with even their names being changed as an attempt to erase their God-given identities. Catherine explains the meanings of their original Hebrew names versus their Babylonian names, showing how lost cultures always attempt to reshape beliefs by changing the meaning of names.

Despite this, Daniel and his friends held onto their faith. Martyn points out that their story reminds us of the power of staying rooted in our convictions, even when external influences try to sway us.

So, how do we resist compromise and live faithfully today? Martyn offers some practical advice:

• Decide ahead of time. Just like Daniel determined not to compromise, setting clear boundaries beforehand can help us stand firm when faced with temptation.
• Let God shape your future. Daniel didn’t try to plan everything; he trusted God to guide his steps.
• Live by God’s principles. Focus on doing the right thing and leave the consequences to Him.
• Live for God’s approval. Instead of seeking validation from others, prioritize God’s opinion and stay mindful of His presence.

These timeless lessons are especially valuable for parents, offering wisdom to help prepare the next generation to navigate today’s challenges with faith and courage.

About the Guest: Martyn Iles is an Australian-born lawyer, commentator, and the Executive CEO of Answers in Genesis. Previously the co-founder of a not-for-profit law firm specializing in religious freedom cases, he also led one of Australia’s largest grassroots political movements through a 5-year period of remarkable growth. Martyn became known for his many gospel-focused appearances in the Australian mainstream media and for his online programs, Living in Babylon, The Truth of It, and Truth in 10. Martyn has a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Queensland and a Master of Laws from the Australian National University.

EPISODE RESOURCES:

Other Episodes in this series:

Ep. 126: "What Most Christians Don't Know about Living in a Lost Culture"

“Most Christians Don’t Know This about Babylon”

Answers in Genesis

Martyn Iles: Youtube Channel, Instagram, Facebook

SCRIPTURE REFERENCES:

Daniel 3

Matthew 5

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In today's increasingly secular world, many Christians grapple with understanding how to live faithfully amidst cultural changes that stray further from biblical truths. What are the characteristics of a "lost" or "Babylonian" culture, and how can believers navigate these complexities while staying true to their faith?

Catherine welcomes Martyn Iles, the CEO of Answers in Genesis, to delve into these pressing questions.

Drawing from a rich tapestry of primary biblical narratives, Martyn provides a clear analysis of what defines Babylonian culture throughout history and how these traits resonate in modern society. Martyn presents an eye-opening exploration of pride, idolatry, moral decay, and spiritual conflict, offering listeners practical insights and timeless truths for living out their faith in contemporary "Babylon-like" environments.

Martyn notes the striking similarities between ancient Babylon and today's cultural landscape. He emphasizes the need for Christians to recognize these characteristics and remain steadfast, much like Daniel and his friends, who navigated the challenges of living in a godless culture with unwavering faith.

Key Takeaways:

1.     Pride and Rebellion Against God: Modern culture mirrors the pride and rebellious spirit of ancient Babylon, where self-glorification often trumps humility before God.

2.     Idolatry and Self-Worship: Today’s society idolizes self-identity, personal success, and material wealth, paralleling Babylon's historical focus on worshiping created things over the Creator.

3.     Fear and Existential Anxiety: Despite advancements, contemporary society is plagued with existential fear and anxiety, drawing a parallel to the uncertainties of Babylonian times.

4.     Attempts to Usurp Divine Authority: Humanity’s efforts to control nature and exert god-like influence reflect a deeper rebellion against God's sovereignty.

5.     Opposition to the People of God:

o   Both ancient Babylon and modern cultures often stand antagonistically against Biblical values and beliefs.

6.     The Call to Live Faithfully: The story of Daniel offers a model for Christians to maintain faith and integrity amidst societal pressures and hostility.

Navigating a culture that mirrors the lost characteristics of Babylon can feel overwhelming. But just like Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, we are called to stand firm in our faith, teaching our children to do the same. By recognizing the parallels between ancient and modern times, we can equip our families with the truth and wisdom needed to thrive spiritually in a modern Babylon. We must remember that even in a lost culture, God’s presence and guidance are unwavering.

BIO: Martyn Iles is an Australian-born lawyer, commentator, and the Executive CEO of Answers in Genesis. Previously the co-founder of a not-for-profit law firm specializing in religious freedom cases, he also led one of Australia’s largest grassroots political movements through a 5-year period of remarkable growth. Martyn became known for his many gospel-focused appearances in the Australian mainstream media and for his online programs, Living in Babylon, The Truth of It, and Truth in 10. Martyn has a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Queensland and a Master of Laws from the Australian National University.

EPISODE RESOURCES:

“Most Christians Don’t Know This about Babylon”

Answers in Genesis

Martyn Iles: Youtube Channel, Instagram, Facebook

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.