Faith and Reason Exchange
1517 Podcasts
Explore challenging questions about Christianity in thoughtful, informed, and intellectually stimulating conversations that deepen the connection between faith and reason. Set within the historic Christian tradition, this podcast discusses current scientific, philosophical, and cultural issues as it pursues a faith that better understands and an intellect that has reason to believe. In a time when the world seems to be losing its mind, and hope along with it, our goal is to equip a new generation of critical thinkers who can defend their faith with reason and evidence. Hosted by Dr. David Andersen & Dr. Adam Francisco
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 12, 2025 • 44min
Miscellany: Interest in religion on the rise, universities on the decline
David and Adam discuss current trends in popular religion and the state of American universities.
Nov 5, 2025 • 45min
Dispensationalism and Christian Zionism
Dive into the complexities of premillennial dispensationalism and Christian Zionism. Discover how these beliefs shape American foreign policy and the political landscape. Explore the historical roots of dispensationalism and its influence on contemporary evangelicalism. Hear personal anecdotes that illustrate pro-Israel attitudes and the challenges of discussing these topics without veering into antisemitism. Unpack the notion of modern Israel as a prophetic fulfillment and the implications of the Gaza conflict in today's discourse.
Oct 29, 2025 • 48min
On Forgiveness
David and Adam discuss the nature and character of forgiveness.
Oct 22, 2025 • 46min
Was Luther a protestant?
Was Martin Luther a protestant? David and Adam offer their take. Listen in and enjoy the show.
Oct 15, 2025 • 46min
Faith and reason in Luther, Zwingli, and Calvin
Dive into the theological debates of the Reformation as key figures like Luther, Zwingli, and Calvin face off on faith and reason. Discover Luther's belief in the supremacy of Scripture over reason and the emotional fervor behind his rhetoric. Explore Zwingli's audacious stand against tradition with the 'Affair of the Sausages' and his symbolic view of the Lord's Supper. Meanwhile, Calvin seeks a middle path, showcasing both rationalism and a unique understanding of spiritual presence. This exploration reveals the intricate dance between revelation and reason in shaping faith.
Oct 8, 2025 • 42min
Faith and reason on the eve of the reformation
David and Adam discuss how Christian thinkers viewed the relationship between faith and reason before the Protestant Reformation. The conversation goes all the way back to St. Augustine in the 5th century, Anselm in the 11th and 12th, Thomas Aquinas in the 13th, and William of Ockham in the 14th. Even the 12th-century Muslim philosopher Averroes is discussed.
Oct 1, 2025 • 44min
What's wrong with our culture? A reflection on the assasination of Charlie Kirk
David and Adam discuss the following article from Word on Fire: https://www.wordonfire.org/articles/after-charlie-kirk-restoring-a-culture-of-truth/
Sep 24, 2025 • 44min
The problem of evil
David and Adam wrestle with the problem of evil. The discussion begins with the philosophical issues—how an all-powerful, all-loving God can coexist with evil's existence—but shifts to the evidential and emotional issues.
Sep 17, 2025 • 36min
The resurrection is a fact, but what does it mean?
David and Adam discuss the presumption that while the resurrection may be a fact, it doesn't tell us anything about the nature of Jesus. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Untamed Prayers: 365 Daily Devotions on Christ in the Book of Psalms by Chad Bird Remembering Your Baptism: A 40-Day Devotional by Kathryn Morales Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley More from the hosts: Adam Francisco David Andersen
Sep 10, 2025 • 40min
On Apathy and Excuses
David and Adam discuss religious apathy and the excuses people give for avoiding church. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Untamed Prayers: 365 Daily Devotions on Christ in the Book of Psalms by Chad Bird Remembering Your Baptism: A 40-Day Devotional by Kathryn Morales Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley More from the hosts: Adam Francisco David Andersen
