Cultural Update: Smartphone Ban Outcomes; The Rise of Teen Takeovers; Abortion Pills & Access; The Speed of the Expanding Universe

Smartphone Bans in Schools: Scott and Sean discuss a new large-scale study revealing that while banning phones hasn't significantly boosted test scores, it has notably increased students' sense of well-being and encouraged more face-to-face social interaction. 

"Teen Takeovers": Cities are seeing a rise in spontaneous, large-scale youth gatherings organized via social media, leading to discussions on how to provide safe spaces for teens to socialize during the summer. 

Abortion Pill Legal Battles: The hosts discuss the potential impact of legal rulings regarding the abortion pill mifepristone and what it might mean for the broader abortion debate in the U.S.. 

Expansion of the Universe: New scientific findings on the rate of the universe's expansion are examined through the lens of the "cosmological argument," suggesting these discoveries align with a designed beginning. 

Audience Question: Faith Conversations with an LDS Fiancé: In response to a listener asking about their fiancé's beliefs, the hosts explore the nuances between historic Christian views and LDS theology, particularly regarding the nature of the Trinity and the person of Jesus. 

Book Recommendations for Teens: To help a parent engage their teenagers in spiritual matters, the hosts suggest starting with accessible resources like The Purpose Driven Life or More Than a Carpenter to spark meaningful theological conversations.

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Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.   

Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.   

To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.