Lively Faith

The Rev. Nathan Stomberg

Frank conversations about living and defending the Christian faith. Subscribe for monthly episodes. Do you want to better live out your faith in God? Here we discuss tough questions about faithfully living and defending a Christian worldview by leaning on the collective wisdom of the Universal Church throughout the ages. Join the Rev. Nathan Stomberg in conversation with the Rev. Mark Galloway and Subdeacon Cory Dupont as they explore the richness of Church Tradition and apply it to the complications of everyday life. With Scripture and Tradition at our side, we promise these discussions will equip and encourage you in your walk with God. Listen and discover the glory of a life lived with a lively faith! The Rev. Nathan Stomberg is the Rector of Holy Communion Anglican Church in East Greenwich, RI. The Rev. Mark Galloway is a retired Anglican priest. Cory Dupont is a Subdeacon at St. Mary Antiochian Orthodox Church in Pawtucket, RI. read less
Religion & SpiritualityReligion & Spirituality

Episodes

The Crisis of Modern Masculinity | Ep. #16
6d ago
The Crisis of Modern Masculinity | Ep. #16
In this episode, we examine the breakdown of masculinity in modern society, the tragic consequences of abandoning Biblical manhood, and how Christians can respond in faith and love.LET'S STAY IN TOUCH! JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST: Sign Up// CHAPTERS //00:00 – Introduction02:00 – The crisis of masculinity06:20 – Hyper-masculinity and Andrew Tate10:00 – Problems with masculinity in the Church11:30 – Gen Z struggling with masculinity14:58 – Title IX and the disintegration male roles18:35 – No distinction between boys and girls20:00 – Impacts of fatherlessness22:20 – Fatherlessness is self-perpetuating24:00 – Popular entertainment and South Park31:54 – The breakdown of the nuclear family, falling birthrates36:33 – Anti-masculinity and Harry Styles40:00 – The false dualism of a man’s “feminine side”46:00 – The modern feminist assault on gender roles49:51 – What is “toxic masculinity”?52:55 – Falling prey to semantic overload54:40 – Dennis Rodman56:30 – Gender ideology in public school curricula01:01:35 – Lowering standards in public education01:05:30 – Complaining about 9 to 5 jobs on Tik Tok01:06:42 – Delayed adulthood, “emotional homelessness”01:12:19 – Feminism has failed our young girls and boys01:13:14 – Jesus and Saint Joseph as examples of masculinity// REFERENCES //Harry Styles on Dressing Up, Making Music, and Living in the Moment | Vogue// LINKS //SUBCRIBE to this podcast: Listen to Lively Faith VISIT the Lively Faith Website: Lively Faith website SUBSCRIBE to the Lively Faith YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@livelyfaithCONTACT US: livelyfaithpodcast@gmail.comCopyright 2023 Lively Faith & the Rev. Nathan Stomberg #LivelyFaith #Podcasts #Listenable
Turmoil in the Catholic Church, and How to Handle Church Controversy | Ep. #14
Jan 20 2024
Turmoil in the Catholic Church, and How to Handle Church Controversy | Ep. #14
In this episode, we unpack the Catholic "Synod on Synodality," Pope Francis favoring a more liberal church, and how it all impacts non-Catholics, too. Plus, we discuss how all Christians should handle church controversy, and reasons for future hope.(Note: This episode was recorded prior to the Vatican statement on blessing same-sex couples. That statement will be the topic of a separate episode.)LET'S STAY IN TOUCH! JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST: Sign Up// CHAPTERS //00:00 – Introduction02:00 – What is a synod? What is synodality?11:00 – Pope Francis signaled openness to blessing same-sex unions17:12 – Understanding the Vatican encyclical on climate change23:28 – What the Church becomes without the Gospel27:42 – Pope Francis chided U.S. Bishops as ‘backwards’33:30 – Why should other Christians care about the Catholic Church?38:55 – Andy Stanley called out Albert Mohler about Biblical marriage41:40 – What happens next to the Catholic Church?48:27 – How should faithful Christians handle Church controversy?52:26 – Learning to do ministry without historic denominational institutions58:00 – Many reasons for Christian hope around the world// REFERENCES //LETTERS FROM THE SYNOD - 2023: #1 | Xavier Rynne II | First ThingsThe train is leaving the station: Andy Stanley’s departure from Biblical Christianity - AlbertMohler.comSymptoms of the Synod 2023: No. 1: What Is Synodality? Pay Attention to the SymptomsCardinals send ‘dubia’ to Pope Francis before Synod on Synodality// LINKS //SUBCRIBE to this podcast: Listen to Lively Faith VISIT the Lively Faith Website: Lively Faith website SUBSCRIBE to the Lively Faith YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@livelyfaithCONTACT US: livelyfaithpodcast@gmail.comCopyright 2023 Lively Faith & the Rev. Nathan Stomberg #LivelyFaith #Podcasts #Listenable #Anglican #Catholic #PopeFrancis
Israel-Hamas and the Failure of Moral Relativism | Ep. #13
Dec 23 2023
Israel-Hamas and the Failure of Moral Relativism | Ep. #13
In this episode, we discuss the Israel-Hamas war from a Christian perspective, the dangers of moral relativism, and why all worldviews are not created equal. We also examine Russia-Ukraine, open borders, the need for intellectual honesty, and how the Second Coming of Jesus Christ puts everything into perspective.LET'S STAY IN TOUCH! JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST: Sign Up// CHAPTERS //00:00 – Introduction03:00 – There is nothing new under the sun06:00 – Resisting the temptation to knee-jerk reactions09:30 – A standard of intellectual honesty13:30 – American ignorance about Islam18:00 – Understanding the Israel-Hamas conflict27:00 – The temptation of moral equivalence31:30 – The pitfalls of dispensational theology35:30 – The effects of national moral decay39:00 – The failures of moral relativism42:00 – Not all cultures are equal45:10 – Open borders aren’t loving47:00 – Borders as applied to the Sacraments50:00 – The refusal to engage with reality54:00 – India’s rise as a world power56:00 – Letting market forces run their course01:00:40 – World events and eschatology01:07:30 – Conclusion // LINKS //SUBCRIBE to this podcast: Listen to Lively Faith VISIT the Lively Faith Website: Lively Faith website SUBSCRIBE to the Lively Faith YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@livelyfaithCONTACT US: livelyfaithpodcast@gmail.comCopyright 2023 Lively Faith & the Rev. Nathan Stomberg #LivelyFaith #Podcasts #Listenable #Israel #Hamas
Frank Conversations About Christianity | One Year of Lively Faith | Ep. #12
Nov 25 2023
Frank Conversations About Christianity | One Year of Lively Faith | Ep. #12
We celebrate the one-year anniversary of the podcast by looking back at our favorite moments and looking ahead to our vision for the future. The Revs. Stomberg and Galloway discuss generational differences, technological change, and the temptation to value style over substance.LET'S STAY IN TOUCH! JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST: Sign Up// CHAPTERS //00:00 – Introduction01:00 – Favorite moments, generational differences05:00 – Keeping up with technological change11:00 – The moral poverty that comes with advanced tech18:15 – The loss of community and face-to-face communication22:00 – Learning about Orthodoxy24:30 – Rhode Island is the most Catholic state26:50 – Biggest surprises, new relationships28:00 – A new way of sharing the Gospel29:00 – The breakneck speed of current events33:00 – Discussing ideas, not just reacting to events37:00 – Correct predictions, artificial intelligence42:00 – The collapse of cryptocurrency45:00 – What we’ve learned about podcasting50:00 – Admitting when you don’t know something52:20 – Ways we’ve improved, being real58:40 – Our goals for improvement01:03:00 – Style vs. substance01:06:00 – Be bold about the truth01:09:00 – Vision for the future01:13:00 – Current turmoil in the Church01:15:40 – ConclusionSUBCRIBE to this podcast: Listen to Lively Faith VISIT the Lively Faith Website: Lively Faith website SUBSCRIBE to the Lively Faith YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@livelyfaithCONTACT US: livelyfaithpodcast@gmail.comCopyright 2023 Lively Faith & the Rev. Nathan Stomberg #LivelyFaith #Podcasts #Listenable #christianity
Why Christians Should Care About Anglicanism | Ep. #11
Oct 29 2023
Why Christians Should Care About Anglicanism | Ep. #11
In this episode, we discuss the state of the Anglican Church, the GAFCON Kigali Statement, the start of the Catholic "Synod on Synodality", and divisions in the SBC over women pastors. We also answer the questions: Why should Christians care about these issues, and how can we have peace during religious turmoil?LET'S STAY IN TOUCH! JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST: Sign Up// CHAPTERS //00:00 – Introduction01:48 – What is GAFCON?05:00 – The structure of Anglicanism09:00 – GAFCON Kigali rejects the Archbishop of Canterbury11:00 – Anglicanism in the Majority World14:00 – Why GAFCON rejected Archbishop Welby15:30 – Why Christians should care about Anglicanism17:50 – Reviewing the GAFCON statement20:50 – Gender and sexuality issues are clear in the Bible22:30 – Relationship of Scripture, Tradition, and Reason in Anglicanism25:00 – Where the GAFCON statement is incomplete27:00 – Why Holy Communion is an independent Anglican Church28:00 – Hans Boersma’s critique of GAFCON Kigali30:20 – The marital act must be open to life32:20 – Humana Vitae was prophetic35:20 – Controversy in the SBC over female pastors38:00 – Responding to Rick Warren and Albert Mohler39:00 – Ontological and Headship arguments against female pastors41:00 – Gender and sexuality issues have overwhelmed the culture42:40 – The fallout from SBC division44:40 – The Catholic “Synod on Synodality”47:40 – Hypocrisy in the Vatican50:00 – German Catholic churches fueling the sexuality issue54:00 – “Synodality without Spirit”59:00 – Potential fallout from the Catholic Synod01:02:00 – How to avoid despair, complaining about the Church01:05:00 – Our first allegiance is to Christ alone01:08:00 – Christianity requires personal sacrifice01:09:40 – Reasons for hope01:13:00 - Conclusion// REFERENCES //Friday, June 23, 2023 - AlbertMohler.comSynodality without SpiritA New “Synodal Church” Undermines the Catholic ChurchWalking the Synodal Way . . . Off a Cliff | Raymond J. de Souza | First ThingsIs the Anglican “Reset” Truly Anglican? | Hans Boersma, Gerald McDermott, Greg Peters | First Things// LINKS //SUBCRIBE to this podcast: Listen to Lively Faith VISIT the Lively Faith Website: Lively Faith website SUBSCRIBE to the Lively Faith YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@livelyfaithCONTACT US: livelyfaithpodcast@gmail.comCopyright 2023 Lively Faith & the Rev. Nathan Stomberg #LivelyFaith #Podcasts #Listenable
Living with Chronic Illness | Ep. #10
Sep 30 2023
Living with Chronic Illness | Ep. #10
We interview the Rev. Mark Galloway about his experience living with Parkinson's and POTS, how Christians should respond to suffering, how to best care for loved ones, and spiritual advice for handling chronic illness.Disclaimer: This episode does not constitute medical advice as we are not medical experts.Check out the bonus version of this episode on YouTube!LET'S STAY IN TOUCH! JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST: Sign Up// CHAPTERS //00:00 – Introduction02:00 – Stiff Man Syndrome06:30 – Mark’s first encounter with Parkinson’s and POTS13:00 – First diagnosis15:20 – Living with POTS, stealing salt packets17:00 – Deciding to retire19:35 – What “normal” looks like22:00 – Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig23:00 – Adjusting to a new phase of life27:00 – Muscle spasms28:30 – Chronic illness as spiritual battle32:00 – We are disconnected from death33:00 – Using AI to replace deceased family35:50 – Jeremy Taylor, Holy Living, Holy Dying37:00 – Going to cognitive therapy39:10 – The importance of trusted medical professionals42:50 – Getting proper medical care45:50 – Undergoing spinal procedures48:40 – Daily pain management53:40 – Suffering as vocation56:00 – Preaching the Truth in season and out of season58:00 – Stations of life as vocations59:30 – Nursing homes01:00:45 – Impact on family01:03:40 – Managing the expectations of others01:06:00 – Getting out of bed in the morning01:09:19 – The blessing of Godly family01:10:20 – Showing charity to others01:11:50 – The danger of comparing your suffering to others01:14:45 – Going bald and gray01:16:10 – Mark’s experience at the barber01:18:00 – Emotional vs. physical suffering01:19:00 – Future austerity measures01:20:10 – How to talk to the Church about suffering01:22:10 – The tendency to embrace nihilism01:24:10 – Conflating suffering with not getting our way01:25:25 – How to best care for others with chronic illness01:30:55 – Suffering is a part of being a Christian01:32:47 – The centrality of the Sacraments01:35:10 – The need for Confession01:37:22 – No situation is ever hopeless// LINKS //SUBCRIBE to this podcast: Listen to Lively Faith VISIT the Lively Faith Website: Lively Faith website SUBSCRIBE to the Lively Faith YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@livelyfaithCONTACT US: livelyfaithpodcast@gmail.comCopyright 2023 Lively Faith & the Rev. Nathan Stomberg #LivelyFaith #Podcasts #Listenable #Christian
Spiritual Formation and the Future of Ministry | Ep. #9
Aug 31 2023
Spiritual Formation and the Future of Ministry | Ep. #9
Get to know the hosts! In this episode, the Rev. Nathan Stomberg and the Rev. Mark Galloway share their personal backgrounds and how they came to faith in Jesus Christ. They also discuss how Christian life and ministry has changed over the last 50 years, and what the future looks like for the next generation of pastors.LET'S STAY IN TOUCH! JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST: Sign Up// CHAPTERS //00:00 – Intro02:00 – Growing up in 1960’s Exeter05:00 – Trailer homes and one-room schoolhouses07:00 – The sociology of rural mid-century RI11:00 – Growing up Catholic16:10 – Growing up poor18:15 – Mark’s childhood24:00 – Demographic transformation of Exeter25:00 – Mark’s spiritual formation26:40 – Mark’s high school experience32:00 – An existential crisis35:00 – Joining the Anglican tradition36:00 – What drove Mark to go into ministry40:30 – Starting out as an Episcopal priest43:50 – Working at different churches45:34 – Growing up in middle-class West Greenwich48:59 – Nathan’s spiritual formation51:50 – Focus on academic achievement and identity57:50 – Graduating valedictorian58:30 – Going to WPI59:30 – Getting into cross-country and track01:04:00 – Spiritual maturation and the Rite of Confirmation01:07:00 – Christian Bible Fellowship at WPI01:10:00 – Nathan’s denominational journey to Anglicanism01:12:00 – Planting Holy Communion and getting ordained01:15:00 – Preparing for ordained ministry without seminary01:17:55 – Future reality of church ministry01:19:58 – The paradox of ordained ministry01:23:00 – Christians need to be more joyful01:24:50 – The wonder of God’s providence01:27:00 – The future of Christian ministry// LINKS //SUBCRIBE to this podcast: Listen to Lively Faith VISIT the Lively Faith Website: Lively Faith website SUBSCRIBE to the Lively Faith YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@livelyfaithCONTACT US: livelyfaithpodcast@gmail.comCopyright 2023 Lively Faith & the Rev. Nathan Stomberg #LivelyFaith #Podcasts #Listenable #Christianity
Learning About All Things Orthodoxy, Part 2 | Ep. #8
Jul 1 2023
Learning About All Things Orthodoxy, Part 2 | Ep. #8
In this episode, we continue our conversation with Subdeacon Cory Dupont about Orthodoxy. We dive into the economy of salvation, differences between Eastern and Western Christianity, our love for the ESV translation, why Orthodox Easter falls on a different date than Western Easter, the Asbury revival, and our common hope in the Resurrection. LET'S STAY IN TOUCH! JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST: Sign Up// CHAPTERS //00:00 – The Economy of Salvation01:30 – The role of St. Augustine in Orthodoxy03:20 – Orthodox objections to St. Augustine05:00 – Bishop N.T. Wright’s perspective06:50 – The Church Fathers didn’t all agree with each other08:00 – The Fathers are not complete by themselves08:55 – Why the Orthodox don’t accept the Immaculate Conception10:00 – Why the ESV is our favorite translation11:40 – Orthodox views on Atonement16:10 – Cultural barriers between East and West19:00 – God’s Mercy and the Jesus Prayer20:00 – Fasting in the Orthodox life22:30 – Differences from Evangelicalism24:30 – God’s Essence & God’s Energies26:15 – Divisions over metaphysics29:30 – Relations between Western Protestants and Orthodox32:10 – The Dogmas of the Church in Orthodoxy36:45 – The Western Rite and the Anglican Ordinariate39:40 – Is Orthodoxy a denomination? Does it havedenominations? The structure of Orthodox Churches46:00 – The nationalistic nature of Orthodox Churches49:00 – Orthodox socio-political challenges51:10 – Break51:40 – Why is Orthodox Easter after Western Easter?01:00:55 – What we can learn from the Amish01:03:50 – Reflections on Lent & Easter01:08:20 – The Asbury Revival01:13:35 – Hope in the reality of the Resurrection01:18:20 – Easter is about being alive01:20:00 – “BC” vs. “BCE”01:22:00 – Conclusion // LINKS //SUBCRIBE to this podcast: Listen to Lively Faith VISIT the Lively Faith Website: Lively Faith website SUBSCRIBE to the Lively Faith YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@livelyfaithCONTACT US: livelyfaithpodcast@gmail.comCopyright 2023 Lively Faith & the Rev. Nathan Stomberg #LivelyFaith #Podcasts #Listenable
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) | Ep. #7
Jun 2 2023
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) | Ep. #7
In this episode, we examine the impact of Artificial Intelligence and discuss how Christians should think through the worldview issues that come with this new technology. We also discuss what it means to be human, how our relationship with technology has changed over time, and we read AI-generated sermons.(Please excuse us as we work through audio issues in this episode.)LET'S STAY IN TOUCH! JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST: Sign UpLINK to the Rev. Stomberg’s article on AI: https://holycommunionri.org/2022/12/02/the-ai-question/// CHAPTERS //00:00 – Introduction02:00 – First impressions of AI07:00 – A definition of AI & neural networks08:00 – AI Image generators10:00 – Midjourney won an art competition12:00 – AI-based assistants13:00 – Stephen Spielberg’s movie, Artificial Intelligence15:00 – There is nothing new about human nature16:30 – The need to think critically about AI17:30 – Parallels to artificial insemination18:40 – Similarities to splitting the atom20:00 – Defending the human person21:00 – Our tendency to ignore negative consequences22:00 – We should be sober-minded about technology23:00 – Utilitarian definitions of humanity25:00 – The pursuit of immortality26:30 – Elon Musk’s Nueralink28:40 – Attacks on the Imago Dei30:30 – Impact of AI chatbots in schools33:00 – Chat-GPT34:00 – Captain Kirk delivers a sermon35:20 – The worldviews of those behind the chatbots36:00 – Experimenting with Chat-GPT39:00 – What we can learn from the Amish40:30 – We need to reject anything that moves us away from God42:00 – Using technology to avoid suffering44:00 – Generational perspectives on new technology48:30 – Impact of technology on the spread of the Gospel51:50 – Explaining 21st-Century ministry to St. Paul54:00 – Sharing the Gospel is not complicated55:15 – Gen X’s relationship with technology59:00 – The Internet changed how we receive information 01:03:00 – Living in embodied community01:08:00 – Problems with outsourcing our knowledge01:11:00 – When clergy misplace their virtue01:14:30 – The disassembling & re-assembling of the Church01:19:00 - Conclusion// REFERENCES // // LINKS //SUBCRIBE to this podcast: Listen to Lively Faith VISIT the Lively Faith Website: Lively Faith website SUBSCRIBE to the Lively Faith YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@livelyfaithCONTACT US: livelyfaithpodcast@gmail.comCopyright 2023 Lively Faith & the Rev. Nathan Stomberg #LivelyFaith #Podcasts #Listenable
Learning About All Things Orthodoxy, Part 1 | Ep. #6
Apr 30 2023
Learning About All Things Orthodoxy, Part 1 | Ep. #6
In this episode, Subdeacon Cory Dupont talks about all things Orthodoxy and clears up some common misconceptions about Orthodox Christianity. We also learn about beards, architecture, icons, theological differences between East and West, and how different traditions can find unity.(Please excuse our technical difficulties in this episode!)LET'S STAY IN TOUCH! JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST: Sign Up// CHAPTERS //00:00 – Introduction02:00 – What is a Subdeacon?03:40 – What is a tonsure?06:00 – Explaining the different Orthodox Patriarchates08:00 – Bishops, Priests, and Deacons09:40 – Why many Orthodox have beards12:30 – The importance of not hiding as a Christian14:00 – Cassocks & collars in the Anglican tradition16:00 – Priestly garments are not for personal expression19:00 – Explaining “cage stage” Calvinism20:25 – Beards as a sign of masculinity21:55 – What drew Cory to Orthodoxy25:00 – Emphasis on the Incarnation vs. Atonement27:52 – Historical relations between Anglicanism and Orthodoxy31:00 – The importance of ecumenical dialogue35:42 – Understanding the role of icons39:30 – Explaining the icon screen41:00 – God tells us that “matter matters”41:50 – The process of making (writing) icons43:50 – Cultural prejudice against icons46:00 – How architecture reflects theology47:50 – The incredible importance of the Incarnation48:50 – “The glory of God is a man truly alive”// LINKS //SUBCRIBE to this podcast: Listen to Lively Faith VISIT the Lively Faith Website: Lively Faith website SUBSCRIBE to the Lively Faith YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@livelyfaithCONTACT US: livelyfaithpodcast@gmail.comCopyright 2023 Lively Faith & the Rev. Nathan Stomberg #LivelyFaith #Podcasts #Listenable
The Great Tradition & Remembering Pope Benedict | Ep. #5
Mar 11 2023
The Great Tradition & Remembering Pope Benedict | Ep. #5
In this episode, we explore the concept of the Great Tradition of the Church, examine where Protestants, Catholics, and Orthodox believers can find common ground, we remember the life and legacy of Pope Benedict XVI, discuss the future of the Catholic Church, reflect on our need for moral courage, and much more.LET'S STAY IN TOUCH! JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST: Sign Up// CHAPTERS //00:00 – Introduction01:44 – Defining ‘The Great Tradition’03:37 – Where Orthodoxy fits in06:33 – Bringing Protestantism, Catholicism, & Orthodoxy together08:55 – The difference between “Tradition” and “tradition”11:19 – The four-legged stool of the undivided Church14:19 – Evangelicals reclaiming historic Church Tradition17:48 – The dangers of being apart from historic Church Tradition19:14 – How Anglicanism treats Church Tradition21:13 – Discussing the role of historic Church Councils24:00 – Including Protestantism in the conversation25:22 – The centrality of liturgy27:48 – Why liturgy attracts people to the Faith29:27 – Comparing Lutheranism and Anglicanism32:14 – Why younger people desire the liturgy35:50 – Single, young men are attracted to Orthodoxy37:05 – Masculine and feminine Church Traditions40:22 – Cultural opposition as a unifying force44:47 – BREAK45:17 – Pope Benedict XVI’s legacy48:20 – Ratzinger’s towering intellect52:40 – Cory’s perspective on Ratzinger’s work58:31 – Ratzinger didn’t want to be Pope01:00:18 – Benedict’s skill in speaking with non-Catholics01:02:08 – When Benedict met Queen Elizabeth01:05:20 – The media’s unfair portrayal of Ratzinger01:07:10 – The Regensburg Address01:08:11 – Ratzinger’s ability to speak hard truths01:13:19 – What comes next from Pope Francis?01:19:39 – Nathan’s perspective on Benedict’s passing1:22:29 – Not teaching moral courage to our children1:23:48 – The state of parochial schools in RI 1:26:45 – Conclusion // REFERENCES //What Benedict Saw | Robert P. Imbelli | First ThingsBenedict’s Burial Leaves Francis Alone, and Unbound (NY Times)Evangelicals and the Great Tradition by Timothy George | Articles | First Things// LINKS //SUBCRIBE to this podcast: Listen to Lively Faith VISIT the Lively Faith Website: Lively Faith website SUBSCRIBE to the Lively Faith YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@livelyfaithCONTACT US: livelyfaithpodcast@gmail.comCopyright 2023 Lively Faith & the Rev. Nathan Stomberg #LivelyFaith #Podcasts #Listenable
Christian Perspectives on the Lottery, Gambling, and Cryptocurrency | Ep. #4
Feb 4 2023
Christian Perspectives on the Lottery, Gambling, and Cryptocurrency | Ep. #4
In this episode, we examine whether or not Christians can buy cryptocurrency, purchase lottery tickets, or participate in sports betting. We also discuss blockchain technology, cryptocurrency, Sam Bankman-Fried and the FTX scandal, gambling, the Super Bowl, the debt ceiling, affirmative action, the importance of work, and much more. Finally, we answer the question: how are Christians to guard against so many temptations to "easy money?"LET'S STAY IN TOUCH! JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST: Sign Up// CHAPTERS //(00:00) - Introduction(03:00) - Definition of "Blockchain"(07:02) - Definition of "Cryptocurrency"(11:55) - The rise and fall of FTX(18:05) - The temptation of "easy money"(20:51) - Should a church accept donated lottery winnings?(24:45) - "The ends justify the means"(26:04) - Is the lottery immoral?(30:50) - Consequences of gambling go far beyond money(36:00) - The difference between investing in stocks vs. gambling(41:05) - Sobering statistics about sports betting(45:23) - Wealth gained hastily will dwindle(50:52) - The Christian's reward is in heaven(53:00) - The prevalence of sports betting(55:32) - Billions spent on Super Bowl betting(01:00:54) - Nothing is morally neutral(01:04:54) - The necessity of work(01:09:02) - Affirmative action(01:12:08) - Summarizing our discussion(01:13:50) - Guarding against the temptation to easy money(01:18:07) - The temptation of a "trendy" church(01:22:30) - Conclusion// REFERENCES //With A New CEO, An Adult Has Arrived To Clean Up The FTX MessLawyer Overseeing FTX Fallout: ‘Never In My Career Have I Seen Such A Complete Failure’ | The Daily WireInterview: Fallen crypto CEO Sam Bankman-Fried opens up about FTX, Alameda Research, and his regrets - VoxA Simple Explanation on how Blockchain WorksWhat Is Bitcoin? How to Mine, Buy, and Use ItAmericans bet $125B on sports in 4 years since legalization (AP)Monday, May 16, 2022 - AlbertMohler.comEvangelicals and Super Bowl BettingMonday, February 14, 2022 - AlbertMohler.comHow Colleges and Universities Caesarized Campus Life// LINKS //SUBCRIBE to this podcast: Listen to Lively Faith VISIT the Lively Faith Website: Lively Faith website SUBSCRIBE to the Lively Faith YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@livelyfaithCopyright 2023 Lively Faith & the Rev. Nathan Stomberg #LivelyFaith...
Why All Christians Should Care About the Catholic Church | Ep. #3
Jan 14 2023
Why All Christians Should Care About the Catholic Church | Ep. #3
In this episode, we discuss Bishop Thomas Tobin's upcoming retirement, and why what happens in the Catholic Church is important for all Christians to understand (not just Catholics). We also review two recent surveys from LifeWay and Pew Research revealing how both Evangelicals and Catholics increasingly deny Christian morality. Plus, what does Mark think about New Year's Resolutions?LET'S STAY IN TOUCH! JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST: Sign Up// CHAPTERS //(00:00) - Introduction(01:40) - Catholic Bishops must submit their retirement when they turn 75(04:01) - Why should we care about Catholic Bishops?(09:28) - What is the "controversy" surrounding Bishop Tobin? (16:10) - Why so many faithful Christians in Rhode Island admire Tobin(19:20) - Bishop Tobin's replacement will not be conservative(22:33) - A Catholic Bishop's power is absolute(24:25) - The abortion issue is the most important moral issue of our time(26:29) - It is a Bishop's job to influence people with the Gospel(27:46) - The public misconception about separation of church and state(33:18) - The importance of developing a Christian worldview(35:16) - The consequences of distorting historic Church Tradition(38:20) - Truth is not determined by democratic majority(40:28) - Pew Research survey: Rhode Island is the most Catholic state(44:45) - Declining religiosity is not unique to Catholic Rhode Island(49:02) - The progressivist vision of history(52:48) - The importance of guarding against syncretism(54:16) - The 2022 LifeWay State of Theology survey(55:10) - An overview of the Arian heresy(59:22) - Did Scripture or the Church come first?(1:02:58) - Discussing Sola Scriptura(1:07:41) - Why professing Christians deny historic Christian truths(1:11:24) - Religious experience of Baby Boomers(1:18:54) - Richard Wurmbrand(1:20:21) - Dietrich Bonhoeffer(1:22:44) - Saint Maximillian Kolbe(1:24:16) - Religious experience of Millennials(1:27:14) - The Gospel requires sacrifice(1:28:48) - New Year's Resolutions & conclusion// REFERENCES //The State of Theology: What Evangelicals Believe in 2022State of Theology - Lifeway ResearchPew Research - Catholics - Religion in AmericaBishops Henning and Tobin to be leaders of Diocese of ProvidenceWPRI - Pope Francis Appoints New Catholic Bishop in RI// LINKS //SUBCRIBE to this podcast: Listen to Lively Faith VISIT the Lively Faith Website: Lively Faith website SUBSCRIBE to the Lively Faith YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyzLeiFOlS5jthtB_-p0BewCopyright 2023 Lively Faith & the Rev. Nathan Stomberg #LivelyFaith #Podcasts #Listenable
Why did people love Queen Elizabeth? | Ep. #2
Dec 17 2022
Why did people love Queen Elizabeth? | Ep. #2
Why was Queen Elizabeth II so popular? In this episode, we reflect on the death of Queen Elizabeth, examine her importance in the history of Western Civilization, and consider what Christians can learn from her example. We also look ahead to the Christmas season and share our favorite parts of the holiday.LET'S STAY IN TOUCH! JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST: Sign Up// CHAPTERS //(00:00) - Introduction(01:47) - The enormous size of Queen Elizabeth's funeral(04:29) - Prince Philip was Orthodox(06:10) - Monarchy is inherently religious(09:45) - Elizabeth will be the last truly faithful Christian monarch(14:21) - The public's deep, unexpected sorrow over Elizabeth's death(16:00) - Duty and moral character always come first(17:19) - The 1957 Christmas broadcast(22:20) - She never missed church on a Sunday(24:20) - Modern heroes are hard to come by(27:20) - People stood in line for over a day to pay her respects(27:59) - The moral decline of the UK(32:17) - Taking Christian morality for granted(33:45) - Differences between Parliament and Congress(35:39) - The positive vision of the Gospel was the Queen's vision(38:20) - The collapse of the nuclear family(44:00) - Lively faith makes us all "Fidei Defensors"(44:41) - Favorite memories of the Christmas season(45:00) - Mark's Christmas memories(46:15) - Nathan's first Christmas sermon(48:07) - Christmas traditions across generations(49:21) - Cory's favorite parts of Christmas(51:48) - Old Christmas movies(53:34) - Conclusion// REFERENCES //The Queen's 1957 Christmas Broadcast// LINKS //SUBCRIBE to this podcast: Listen to Lively Faith VISIT the Lively Faith Website: Lively Faith website SUBSCRIBE to the Lively Faith YouTube Channel: The Lively Faith Podcast - YouTubeCopyright 2023 Lively Faith & the Rev. Nathan Stomberg #LivelyFaith #Podcasts #Listenable #queenelizabeth #unitedkingdom #monarchy #morality #christian #catholic #orthodox #anglican #christmas
What is Lively Faith? | Ep. #1
Nov 27 2022
What is Lively Faith? | Ep. #1
What do we mean when we talk about 'lively faith'? In this episode, we discuss who we are and what our vision is for the Lively Faith podcast. We examine the differences between our generations (Baby Boomer, Generation X, and Millennial) and the unique challenges of reaching each group of people with the Gospel. We also explore the current challenges facing faithful Christians in a changing America as we look ahead to future topics of conversation.LET'S STAY IN TOUCH! JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST: Sign Up// CHAPTERS //(00:00) - Get to know the hosts(04:55) - What is Lively Faith?(13:35) - "Americanized" Christianity vs. historic Christianity(22:00) - The role of popular myths and the importance of intellectual honesty(29:57) - The Baby Boomer perspective(37:39) - The Gen X perspective(41:50) - Ministering to Baby Boomers(47:10) - Ministering to Gen X(55:03) - The honor of the Greatest Generation(57:10) - The Millennial perspective(01:06:33) - The Millennial culture of "safetyism"(01:10:55) - Defining your own identity vs. God defining who you are(01:14:27) - Not everyone is a "child of God"(01:15:17) - Mark talks about ministry challenges from his career(01:19:25) - Ministering to Millennials and beyond(01:22:50) - We are living entirely virtual lives(01:25:09) - The great call of Eucharistic traditions and incarnational community(01:28:00) - Wrapping up and looking ahead// LINKS //Last surviving WWII Medal of Honor recipient recounts storming pill box on Iwo Jima107-Year-Old Veteran receives Silver Star in Denver, COVISIT OUR WEBSITE: Lively Faith - Living and Defending a Christian Worldview (captivate.fm)