Unbelievable?
Religion & Spirituality
About
Unbelievable? offers a weekly podcast, blog, and video series hosted by Ruth Jackson and a team of thinkers and Christian apologists.
Episodes
- Did the universe have a beginning? William Lane Craig vs Alex Malpass
William Lane Craig and Alex Malpass discuss the Kalam cosmological argument, focusing on whether the universe had a beginning and the nature of its cause. They explore concepts like infinite series, paradoxes, and the implications for a di…
- A devil named Lucifer - is the devil a cultural myth? | Jared Brock
In this episode of Unbelievable?, Jared Brock discusses his book "A Devil Named Lucifer." He explores Christian beliefs about the devil, scripture interpretations of Satan and demons, and cultural myths versus biblical teachings. The conve…
- What would it take for Alex O'Connor to believe Jesus rose from the dead? Trent Horn v Alex O'Connor
In this debate, Alex O'Connor and Trent Horn discuss the resurrection of Jesus. They cover historical evidence, alternative explanations, and the reliability of sources, including group hallucinations and eyewitness testimony.
- AI and the Future of Humanity | Nigel Crook vs Andy Bannister hosted by Sam McKee
Nigel Crook and Andy Bannister discuss artificial intelligence and its potential impact on humanity, covering ethical considerations, the role of AI in society, and the intersection of faith and technology. This conversation took place in…
- When I consider the heavens - A doctors reasoning for God | Dr Antony Latham
Dr. Antony Latham, author of "When I Consider Your Heavens: How Science and Philosophy Lead Us to God," joins Luke Martin to discuss his book. He explores how his medical career led him to questions of cosmology, ethics, and the philosophy…
- Evil, Pain, and the case against God: Atheist vs Theist | Alanzo Paul v Harry Amos hosted by Sam McKee
This episode of Unbelievable? features a debate between Alanzo Paul and Harry Amos on the problem of suffering, discussing if evil and pain can be reconciled with belief in God. They examine intellectual arguments and the human experience…
- Classic: When Leaders Fail with Karen Swallow Prior & R.C. Sproul Jnr
This episode of Unbelievable? features Karen Swallow Prior and R.C. Sproul Jr. discussing the moral failures of evangelical leaders such as Carl Lentz, Jerry Falwell Jr., and Bill Hybels. They explore the broader issues within evangelical…
- The Meaning Crisis Explained...Is Modernity Killing Meaning? John Vervaeke and Malcolm Guite hosted by John Nelson
This Unbelievable? episode features John Vervaeke and Malcolm Guite with host John Nelson discussing the "meaning crisis" in modern life. They explore the impact of modernity on meaning, considering factors like loneliness, anxiety, and cu…
- Can You Rewire Your Brain? Neurosurgeon Dr Lee Warren on PTSD, Trauma, Faith & “Self Brain Surgery”
Neurosurgeon Dr. Lee Warren joins Luke Martin to discuss PTSD, trauma, grief, and the brain. Dr. Warren explores the difference between brain and mind, the limits of a material understanding of the mind, and how thoughts can reshape the br…
- Did Jesus really rise from the dead? The Resurrection Debate | Mike Licona vs Dale Allison hosted by John Nelson
This episode of Unbelievable? explores the resurrection of Jesus through a debate between New Testament scholars Mike Licona and Dale Allison. They discuss historical evidence, including Jesus’ crucifixion and early proclamations of his re…
- Classic: From Chaos to Code: Do we need a new theory of Life? Paul Davis vs Jeremy England
Physicists Paul Davies and Jeremy England discuss the origin of life and the necessity of a new theory. They explore concepts such as information, thermodynamics, and pre-Darwinian evolution in their conversation. The discussion also touch…
- Does God Ground Morality? Christian vs Atheist Objectivist Debate with Caleb Woodbridge and Samuel Walker Werth hosted by John Nelson
This episode of Unbelievable? features a debate between Christian Caleb Woodbridge and atheist Samuel Walker Werth regarding the grounding of morality. They discuss whether morality is objective and dependent on God, or if human reason can…
- Iain McGilchrist on faith, meaning and the crisis of modern culture
Iain McGilchrist discusses his ideas on faith, meaning, and the crisis of modern culture. He explores the divided brain, the limits of reductionism, and the importance of a deeper sense of the sacred. McGilchrist also reflects on music, be…
- Unbelievable special: 'My father was murdered…a sponsor saved my life' - Richmond Wandera Interviewed by John Nelson
In this Unbelievable? episode, John Nelson interviews Pastor Richmond Wandera about his life journey from trauma to leadership. He discusses the impact of child sponsorship and local church partnerships on vulnerable children in East Afric…
- Classic: Is our mind really more than mere matter? Keith Ward and David Papinaeu
In this classic episode of Unbelievable?, Keith Ward and David Papineau discuss whether the mind is distinct from matter. Ward argues for an immaterial mind, while Papineau believes the brain and mind are one. They explore different perspe…
- Can Christians believe in Evolution? God vs Darwinian Evolution debate | Prof. Denis Alexander vs John Catt hosted Andy Kind
This episode of Unbelievable? features a debate on whether Christian faith is compatible with Darwinian evolution. Professor Denis Alexander argues for compatibility, while John Catt contends that evolution undercuts traditional religious…
- Are Gen Z becoming more open to Christianity? Glen Scrivener on meaning, identity & the search for faith
Glen Scrivener and Luke Martin discuss the surprising new openness to Christianity among Gen Z. They explore themes from Scrivener's book "The Air We Breathe," examining why younger generations are drawn to questions of meaning, identity,…
- Can Logic Prove Christianity? Joshua Sijuwade v Amos Wollen hosted By John Nelson
In this episode, philosophers Joshua Sijuwade and Amos Wollen discuss whether Christian beliefs can be supported through logic and philosophical reasoning. They explore concepts such as the incarnation and the Trinity in relation to divine…
- Classic: From Atheist to Catholic with Leah Libresco and Hemant Mehta
Leah Libresco, a former atheist blogger, shares her conversion to Catholicism and engages in a discussion with atheist Hemant Mehta. The episode explores the moral arguments that influenced her decision and includes a Q&A with listeners.
- Is Intelligent Design Actually Science? A Live Debate Prof Keith Fox vs Peter S. Williams hosted by Andy Kind
This Unbelievable? debate features Professor Keith Fox and Peter S. Williams discussing whether intelligent design is compatible with scientific inquiry. The discussion covers topics such as theistic evolution, irreducible complexity, and…
- Are We More Than Our Brains? Dr Sharon Dirckx on Mind, Meaning & the Mystery of Being Human
Dr. Sharon Dirckx and Luke Martin discuss whether humans are more than their brains, exploring consciousness, the concept of the soul, and near-death experiences. They also touch on AI and a Christian framework for suffering.
- Free Will And Responsibility | Amna Whiston v Matthew Su hosted by Sam McKee
Amna Whiston and Matthew Su debate free will and responsibility on the Unbelievable? podcast. They discuss libertarian free will, determinism, compatibilism, and its implications for moral responsibility, justice, and everyday choices.
- Classic: Richard Dawkins & Rowan Williams debate the question of Human Nature and our ultimate origins
This classic episode from 2012 features a discussion between Richard Dawkins and Rowan Williams, the former Archbishop of Canterbury. They debate the question of human nature and ultimate origins, with Professor Sir Anthony Kenny as the ch…
- When You Pray and Hear Nothing: Does God Exist?
This episode of Unbelievable? features Dan Paterson and Joe Schmid debating the argument from divine hiddenness. They discuss why a loving God might appear silent to sincere seekers and during suffering, referencing J.L. Schellenberg’s for…
- From Jordan Peterson to Bible Sales: What’s Behind the New Interest in Christianity?
This episode of Premier Unbelievable? The Interview features Dr. Andrew Ollerton discussing the current resurgence of interest in Christianity, dubbed the "Quiet Revival," and why Gen Z and prominent podcasters are re-engaging with the Bib…
- Christian Nationalism: Biblical or Dangerous? Doug Wilson vs Mike Bird
This episode of Unbelievable? features a debate between Doug Wilson and Mike Bird on Christian nationalism. They discuss the role of Christian political witness in a pluralistic democracy, the concept of a "Christian nation," and the impli…
- Classic: Did Adam & Eve exist? William Lane Craig and Joshua Swamidass
This episode explores the existence of Adam & Eve with William Lane Craig and Joshua Swamidass. They discuss the scientific plausibility of a first human couple and its meaning for the concept of Original Sin. Ruth Jackson also talks to Ti…
- Why The West Can't Escape Christianity
Jeremy Boreing and John Nelson discuss the influence of Christianity in Western culture, examining how media and entertainment impact societal beliefs and morality. They also touch on topics such as the "grift" economy, culture wars, and B…
- Katy Faust: Why Kids Need a Mum and Dad
Katy Faust joins Luke Martin on Unbelievable? to discuss why children need both a mother and father. She challenges assumptions about adult fulfillment versus children's rights and explores topics like family policy, gender differences, an…
- Christian Apologetics Has a Problem
This episode of Unbelievable? features John Nelson and a panel discussing the current state of Christian apologetics. They explore its relationship with modern science, concerns about creationism, and potential future strategies, including…
- Classic: War and Peace: Is War ever justified or should Christians embrace Pacifism? Nigel Biggar and Stanley Hauerwas
This classic episode of Unbelievable? features Nigel Biggar and Stanley Hauerwas discussing the Christian perspectives on war and peace. They explore topics such as just war theory and pacifism.
- Rod Dreher on Soft Totalitarianism and the Cost of Comfort
Rod Dreher joins John Nelson on Unbelievable? to discuss themes from his books, including soft totalitarianism, the cost of comfort, and the state of faith in the West. He also reflects on meeting Nick Cave and the search for transcendence.
- The World Isn’t Disenchanted - We Are | Malcolm Guite
Malcolm Guite joins Luke Martin on Unbelievable? to discuss poetry, faith, and the power of imagination. He reflects on writers such as C.S. Lewis and Tolkien, and explores the impact of a disenchanted culture. Guite also mentions his upco…
- Decoding the Cosmos: Atheist Philosopher vs Christian Scientist on Fine-Tuning, Time, Incarnation & Alien Life Emily Qureshi-Hurst vs Sam McKee hosted by Andy Kind
This episode features a discussion between Cambridge philosopher Emily Qureshi-Hurst and scientist Sam McKee. They explore topics such as cosmic fine-tuning, design arguments, the multiverse, the limits of physics, and the theological impl…
- Classic: Professor John Lennox and Dr John Vervaeke debate the future of AI - Will the AI God's rule us? Is AI the Antichrist?
Professor John Lennox and Dr. John Vervaeke discuss artificial intelligence, human uniqueness, and the role of faith. They explore whether AI threatens human identity and the possibility of spiritual transformation in a post-religious era.
- Classic: Virgin or “Young Woman”? Did Matthew Misquote Isaiah?
This episode of Unbelievable? explores the common Christmas reading from Matthew 1, which quotes the prophet Isaiah: "The virgin shall conceive and bear a son." The discussion revolves around critics' arguments that Isaiah was not referrin…
- Classic: Against All Odds - How I Lost My Child But Retained My Faith
Jessica Kelly shares her story of losing her son to a brain tumor and how she maintained her faith. Sarah Foster discusses engaging with Muslims and equipping Christian youth.
- What’s Wrong with “Away in a Manger”? Unbelievable Christmas Bonus with N. T. Wright
N. T. Wright and Mike Bird discuss Christmas carols, exploring how hymns shape Christian beliefs about incarnation, salvation, and the hope of God’s new creation. They examine which carols are theologically sound and which might be mislead…
- Classic: The science behind Christmas: Mark Kidger & Gillian Straine and NT Wright
This episode explores the scientific theories behind the Star of Bethlehem with Mark Kidger and Gillian Straine, and how science and Christmas miracles can be reconciled. NT Wright also discusses the historical accuracy of the Christmas na…
- Is life meaningless without God? A live school debate between Atheism UK and Christian apologist
This episode features a debate between Atheism UK and a Christian apologist, exploring the question of whether life is meaningless without God. The discussion covers topics such as morality, evolution, human rights, and the search for ulti…
- Nigel Biggar on Christianity, Politics, Free Speech & the Future of the West
Nigel Biggar joins Unbelievable? to discuss Christianity, politics, and the moral foundations of Western society. The conversation covers colonialism, reparations, cancel culture, and assisted dying legislation, as well as Christian engage…
- Did Jesus fulfil Scriptural Prophecy? Jonathan Rowlands vs Rabbi Marc B Shapiro
This episode of Unbelievable? features Jonathan Rowlands and Rabbi Marc B Shapiro debating whether Jesus fulfilled scriptural prophecy. They delve into various interpretations of fulfillment, Messianic expectations in Second Temple Judaism…
- Classic: Was the cosmos made for us? Sabine Hossenfelder vs Luke Barnes
In this episode, Sabine Hossenfelder and Luke Barnes discuss the fine-tuning of the universe. They explore whether the extraordinary physical laws that allowed life to develop suggest a designer, with Hossenfelder questioning the concept o…
- The Sanity Of Belief - Can God Explain Everything?
This episode of Unbelievable? features a debate between Dr. Joshua Sijuwade and Julius Weinberg on the rationality of belief in God. They discuss philosophical questions regarding faith, reason, and the existence of a divine being.
- Is Patriarchy Actually Biblical? Medieval Historian Beth Allison Barr Responds
Medieval historian Beth Allison Barr discusses her research on women in late medieval England and how it reshaped her views on "biblical womanhood". She shares her journey from complementarian to critic, the backlash from her book "The Mak…
- Who Was Jesus REALLY? Islam vs Christianity Debate | Joe Boot vs Hafsa Satar
Joe Boot and Hafsa Satar debate the identity of Jesus from Christian and Islamic perspectives. They discuss His birth, miracles, crucifixion, resurrection, and second coming, as well as concepts like Tawhid, the Trinity, and salvation.
- Classic: Do We Still Need Christianity? Douglas Murray vs N. T. Wright
Douglas Murray and N.T. Wright debate the continued need for Christianity in a post-Christian society. They discuss identity, myth, and meaning, considering alternatives like new atheism or a return to Christian narratives. Murray values C…
- Pacifism vs Just War: Should Christians Ever Fight? Brian Zahnd & Andrew Hronich
This episode of Unbelievable? features a discussion between Brian Zahnd and Andrew Hronich on Christian pacifism and just war theory. Hosted by Dr. John Nelson, the conversation covers the ethics of violence, the witness of the early churc…
- Kathy Keller on Tim Keller, Sin and the World’s Deepest Problem
Kathy Keller speaks about her life, faith, and the theological vision she shared with Tim Keller. She revisits influences on Tim Keller's preaching, the concept of contextualization, and his posthumous book, "What Is Wrong with the World?"…
- Happiness, humanity, ethics, evolution... what really is the meaning of life? Sam McKee vs Stephen Law hosted by Andy Kind
In this episode of Unbelievable?, Sam McKee and Stephen Law discuss the meaning of life, belief, and the human search for truth. They explore topics such as the existence of God, the problem of evil, evolution, and personal experience.