Truth Unites

Gavin Ortlund
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39 snips
Mar 25, 2026 • 12min

If Aliens Exist, Does Christianity Collapse?

A thought experiment on whether finding extraterrestrial life would unsettle Christian claims. Pop culture alien stories are used to frame theological questions. Discussion of scripture’s human focus and why core doctrines are resilient. Consideration of possible redemption scenarios for nonhuman creatures. Reflections on God’s creativity and the vast natural diversity that makes aliens plausible.
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38 snips
Mar 23, 2026 • 24min

Did the Father Hate the Son on the Cross?

A theological probe into whether the Father hated the Son during the crucifixion. Short reflections on divine wrath, Trinity unity, and what punishment truly means. Historical voices like Calvin and Turretin are examined. A pastoral finish emphasizes continued trust and shared divine love.
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60 snips
Mar 18, 2026 • 21min

Why Gen Z Loves Church History (And What to do About It)

A look at why Gen Z is drawn to church history and what that trend reveals about a hunger for rootedness and authenticity. Short stories and cultural analysis explore cravings for tradition, rigor, and resistance to consumerism. Practical responses include restoring liturgy, creeds, and embodied community to offer a sense of homecoming and stability.
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36 snips
Mar 17, 2026 • 15min

Is AI Making us Lonely?

A conversation about whether conversational AI is taking on a spiritual or emotional role for people. They explore how flattering AI can feel like a companion and why that creates risks. The discussion covers effects on relationships, critical thinking, work and identity. A pastoral call urges choosing messy human connection and building community to counter growing loneliness.
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54 snips
Mar 9, 2026 • 16min

What Does Sola Scriptura Even Mean?

A clear unpacking of what sola Scriptura historically meant and why different wordings cause confusion. A tour of confessional Protestant writings showing Scripture presented as the infallible rule that judges other authorities. A look at distinctions between ruling authority and conscience, plus pointers for further reading.
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50 snips
Mar 2, 2026 • 25min

Christianity’s Best Argument Isn’t What You Think

A reflection on the deep human ache of longing and why it matters for worldviews. C.S. Lewis’s idea of bittersweet yearning and vivid images like homecoming and music are used to illustrate the feeling. Different responses are compared: secular, Buddhist, and Christian accounts. The talk invites personal searching, prayer, and the possibility that the ache points toward belonging with God.
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74 snips
Feb 24, 2026 • 35min

7 Reasons the Nephilim Were Angelic

A close look at Genesis 6 and why some scholars read the Nephilim as angelic-human hybrids. Short surveys of ancient texts, Septuagint and early Jewish writings that shape interpretations. Exploration of how Genesis fits patterns of boundary violation and divine judgment. Consideration of New Testament echoes and historical church readings.
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6 snips
Feb 20, 2026 • 8min

Abortion and Marriage Aren’t In the Bible?

A theological rebuttal to the claim that Scripture is silent on abortion and marriage. Short studies of biblical passages that value the unborn and tie marriage to Genesis. Historical survey of early Christian opposition to abortion. Discussion of how marriage reflects Christ and shapes society. Calls to combine moral clarity with neighborly compassion.
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25 snips
Feb 19, 2026 • 19min

Did Emperors Actually Run the 7 Ecumenical Councils?

A lively look at how Roman emperors convoked, funded, and oversaw the early ecumenical councils. Short case studies walk through Nicaea, Ephesus, and Chalcedon to show varying degrees of imperial control. The narrative traces a growing pattern of state influence and procedural management across the councils.
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18 snips
Feb 16, 2026 • 28min

The Shroud of Turin: Evaluating the Best Arguments (For and Against)

A clear look at what the Shroud of Turin is and why it moves people emotionally. A tour of strange image features that some say support authenticity. An overview of the 1988 radiocarbon dating and the controversies it sparked. A review of gaps in the shroud's historical record and why uncertainty remains. A note on C.S. Lewis's cautious, devotional stance.

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