The Michael C. Sherrard Podcast

Raising Pioneers: Equipping the Next Generation in a Changing Age | Melody Farrell

In this episode of The Michael C. Sherrard Podcast, I sit down with Melody Farrell, founder of Pioneer Circle, to discuss what it means to raise the next generation in a world that's rapidly changing. Melody shares her passion for helping young teens navigate false cultural narratives and equips them to thrive as image-bearers of God through the pursuit of classical virtues. We dive into her book, The Forest Before the Field: A Guide for Pioneers, and explore the importance of mentorship, immersive experiences, and how the church can better support children in their formative years. If you're interested in how we can raise resilient, virtuous leaders for the future, this conversation is for you!

Protecting Yourself from College Scams and AI Manipulation | Dr. Joseph R. Miller

In this episode of The Michael C. Sherrard Podcast, we examine the pressing question: Is college a scam? With the rising concerns about higher education becoming a breeding ground for indoctrination rather than a pursuit of truth, especially for young believers, this topic is more relevant than ever. Christian colleges are often seen as the last stronghold for students seeking to navigate their faith in a culture that's increasingly hostile to their beliefs. But what is the real role of these institutions?
To help unpack these questions, I'm joined by a friend and respected scholar, Dr. Joseph R. Miller. Dr. Miller serves as the Assistant Professor of Christian Worldview and the Worldview Lead at Grand Canyon University. He co-founded the Center for Cultural Apologetics and is a Fellow with Reasons to Believe. With his extensive background as an author, blogger, and podcaster, Dr. Miller is dedicated to equipping Christians to think critically and live faithfully in today's complex world.
Together, we explore whether college is indeed a scam, discuss the true purpose of higher education, and delve into how AI is influencing both the academic world and the broader culture. Dr. Miller also shares his insights on the alarming decline of a Biblical worldview among Gen Z, with only 4% adhering to it, and what essential components of the Christian worldview are under the most attack today.
We also tackle the reasons behind this decline and discuss potential solutions, including how Dr. Miller's work at Grand Canyon University is contributing to the restoration of a Biblical worldview. Finally, we offer practical advice for individuals, parents, and churches on how to protect themselves and their families from these cultural challenges. Join us for an eye-opening conversation that will equip you to navigate the ever-changing landscape of higher education and cultural influence.

A Tsunami of Scientific Evidence and The Return of the God Hypothesis | Dr. Tom Woodward

In this exciting episode of The Michael C. Sherrard Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Tom Woodward, senior lecturer for Apologetics, Inc., and the author of several books, including Darwin Strikes Back and The Mysterious Epigenome, to discuss the remarkable surge of interest in intelligent design. We delve into how Stephen Meyer, a leading advocate of intelligent design, has captured mainstream attention with appearances on popular platforms like the Joe Rogan Podcast and Piers Morgan's show.  
Together, we explore the scientific evidence that is turning heads and the implications of the "Return of the God Hypothesis" in today's culture. Whether you're a skeptic, a seasoned believer, or just curious about the intersection of science and faith, this episode offers insightful perspectives on why intelligent design is gaining pop-level attention and what it means for the ongoing conversation between science and belief in God.

Transgender Medicine in Crisis: What You Need to Know | Alycia Wood

In this critical episode of The Michael C. Sherrard Podcast, we dive deep into two explosive developments shaking the foundations of transgender medicine. Recent leaks from the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) reveal what many have long suspected: the organization's standards of care are not grounded in rigorous science or ethical medical practice. Instead, they appear to be driven by a political and ideological agenda, promoting harmful and irreversible medical interventions on vulnerable children.
We also unpack the Cass Report, a pivotal review commissioned by NHS England, which raises serious concerns about the skyrocketing number of young people being referred for gender identity services. The report highlights the lack of a reliable evidence base for these interventions and calls for a holistic approach to care. As more countries revisit their medical practices for transgender care, it's crucial for people to become aware of these alarming findings and to take action to halt what can only be described as medical malpractice. Join us as we shed light on the truth behind the headlines and advocate for a return to ethical, evidence-based healthcare.

What the DNC's Reproductive Freedom Segment Didn't Tell You. | Megan Almon & Alycia Wood

At the Democratic National Convention, powerful testimonies from a married couple and two young women were shared, detailing their painful experiences with restrictive abortion laws. These stories, filled with grief and hardship, call for a thoughtful response. Mike invites colleagues Megan Almon and Alycia Wood to analyze and comment on these testimonies, diving deep into the complexities of each case.
We hear Amanda's heartbreaking account of being denied an abortion despite a life-threatening situation, Caitlin's struggle with a miscarriage under restrictive laws, and Hadley's tragic story of abuse and pregnancy at a young age. Each story raises critical questions about the impact of abortion laws on women's lives.
The episode also addresses the broader implications of these testimonies, discussing the pro-life position from scientific, philosophical, and ethical perspectives. We examine the DNC's strategy, the ethics of abortion, and the importance of understanding what makes human life valuable.
Tune in for a compassionate yet intellectually rigorous discussion that seeks to provide clarity on one of the most divisive issues of our time. Learn how to navigate these complex conversations with empathy and understanding, armed with well-rounded knowledge.

The Decline of Christianity and the Rise of Godless Religions| Zach Elliott

In this episode, Mike talks with Zach Elliott, president of VUVIVO and the author of Now I See: An Invitation to Life to the Full. They talk about the decline of Christianity and the emergence of new spirituality. Though people are indeed leaving the church, they are not becoming atheists. Mike and Zach discuss why this is happening and the opportunity this presents for the Gospel.
Our conversation covers a range of topics, from the role of storytelling in preaching to the significance of embodying faith in everyday life. We also touch on practical ways to reintegrate meaningful spiritual practices in the home and church settings. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on how to make faith relevant and engaging in today's world.

Racism, Misogyny, and the What the Bible Really Teaches | Abdu Murray

In this insightful episode, we delve into the historical and modern perceptions of Christianity, specifically addressing the accusations of it being oppressive and a "white man's religion." Our guest, Abdu Murray, an author, apologist, and former litigator, shares his extensive knowledge and perspective on these critical issues.
We explore the antebellum Southern slavery, the transatlantic slave trade, and how religion has been misused to justify evil. Abdu discusses his latest book, More Than a White Man’s Religion, which tackles the attacks on Christianity’s morality and truthfulness. We also examine the shift in cultural questions from "Is Christianity true?" to "Is Christianity good?"
Through engaging dialogue, we address whether the Bible advocates for equality and how it has historically been misrepresented. Abdu provides compelling arguments and evidence that Christianity, when understood in its full context, is the foundation for concepts of equality and justice.
Finally, we discuss the way forward, emphasizing the importance of listening, acknowledging historical pains, and embodying the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ to bring hope and reconciliation in our communities.
Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges preconceived notions and offers a hopeful vision rooted in the Christian faith.
Visit embracethetruth.org for more on Abdu.

Culture, Apologetics, and the Danger of False Narratives | Dr. Paul Gould

In this episode, Mike engages in a riveting discussion with guest Dr. Paul Gould. Paul is an esteemed author known for his influential book on cultural apologetics and his role as the director of the MA in Philosophy of Religion at Palm Beach Atlantic. Their conversation focuses on the troubling trend of younger generations drifting away from the church. They delve into the myriad of cultural and societal narratives that contribute to this shift, exploring the complex interplay between faith and culture.
Mike and Paul also unpack the transformative power of storytelling and its potential to impact one's life profoundly. They discuss how narratives within our culture can shape beliefs and behaviors, particularly in the spiritual development of young people. The episode doesn't just highlight problems but also offers tangible solutions, discussing what parents and pastors can do to connect with and fulfill the spiritual needs of this generation. It's an enlightening dialogue filled with insights and practical advice for anyone looking to understand more deeply and engage with a spiritually hungry generation.

Why Apologetics is Essential in Discipleship and Evangelism | Matthew Mittelberg

In this episode, Mike sits down with Matthew Mittelberg, an apologist currently with Apologetics, Inc. Matthew brings a unique perspective to the conversation, having formerly worked at Ravi Zacharias International Ministries and grown up as the son of noted author and apologist Mark Mittelberg. With close family ties to Lee Strobel, whom he affectionately refers to as "Uncle Lee," Matthew's upbringing was deeply rooted in a community that not only believed in the truths of Christianity but also emphasized the importance of conveying these truths through both words and actions. The discussion centers on the crucial role of an embodied faith in effectively reaching and impacting the next generation.
Mike and Matthew explore how living out one's faith authentically can inspire and engage young people in a way arguments alone cannot. However, they also delve into how apologetics, the discipline of defending Christianity through systematic argumentation and discourse, can be a vital tool in this process. By providing clear, rational reasons for faith and demonstrating its relevance in everyday life, Matthew argues that apologetics can equip individuals to communicate their beliefs more effectively and foster a more profound spiritual engagement among youth. This episode offers practical insights and strategies for anyone looking to use apologetics to nurture and sustain faith in a skeptical and often indifferent world.

The Problem of Evil is a Problem for Atheists | Jay Watts

In an enlightening episode, I engaged in riveting discussions with Jay Watts, founder and president of Merely Human Ministries. Notorious for his energetic delivery, Jay shared personal experiences from his journey, transitioning from a self-proclaimed atheist to being a profound believer. He touched on his struggles growing up amidst broken family ties and dealing with the consequences of nihilism, and his transformative discovery of objective morals. The discussion further ventured onto profound societal trends—especially tribalism and secularism.
Our conversations also wound its way through poignant existential questions of morality, good versus evil, and God's existence. These were examined against a background of philosophical thoughts, with Nietzsche's 'ubermensch' theory and Dostoevsky's depiction of existentialism being particularly noteworthy. Our discussion finally rested upon exploring the Christian worldview's explanation of evil existence and the persistent human longing for justice.