eX-skeptic

Dr. John Taylor, a former atheist, once ardently dismissed the very concept of God, fearing it would cost him his autonomy. Growing up, John was exposed to the traditions of the Methodist church but found himself increasingly at odds with its teachings. As a teenager, he embraced atheism, fueled by skepticism towards religion and a belief that Christianity lacked intellectual rigor. He relished debates with Christians, eager to challenge and dismantle their faith. However, his life took an unexpected turn. Guest Bio: John Taylor is a dedicated professor of New Testament at Gateway Seminary in California, positioned just east of Los Angeles. With an eight-year tenure, he leads the Department of Biblical Studies, focusing his efforts on preparing future ministers, missionaries, and Christian academics. Passionate about imparting his knowledge, John primarily teaches courses on theology unique to Pauline letters, aiming to inspire and equip his students to effectively carry out their ministries. Through his work, he actively seeks to multiply the wisdom and insights he has accumulated over the years, contributing to the growth and enrichment of the Christian community. Resources Mentioned: Fuller Theological Seminary Fuller Theological Seminary and the University of Cambridge Gateway Seminary Website: https://www.gs.edu/academics/faculty-directory/member/1356019/ Dr. Taylor’s blogs: https://thegateway.press/author/johntaylor/ Academic Profile: https://gs.academia.edu/JohnTaylor Francis Schaeffer: “He is There and He is not Silent” Connect with eX-skeptic: Website: https://exskeptic.org/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/exskeptic Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/exskeptic Twitter: http://x.com/exskeptic YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@exskeptic Email info: info@exskeptic.org

After transitioning from cultural Christianity to agnosticism, author Rod Dreher experienced profound encounters with the divine that reshaped his spiritual journey. In this episode, Rod shares pivotal moments that reignited his sense of wonder and enchantment, despite facing disillusionment and crises within the church. His quest for spiritual depth led him down unexpected paths, ultimately deepening his awe and connection with God. Guest Bio: Rod Dreher is an American author, journalist, and commentator known for his insights into culture, religion, and politics. He has written extensively for top publications like The American Conservative and National Review and is the author of several influential books, including Crunchy Cons, The Benedict Option, and Live Not by Lies. Beyond his books, Dreher has maintained a strong presence as a columnist and blogger, engaging in public discourse on a range of issues from religious freedom to cultural identity. His work continues to influence readers and thinkers interested in the intersection of faith and modern culture. Resources Mentioned: “The Benedict Option” by Rod Dreher “Live Not By Lies” by Rod Dreher “Living in Wonder” by Rod Dreher Soren Kierkegaard Philosopher and Theologian Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roddreher/?hl=en   Twitter: https://x.com/roddreher   Website: https://roddreher.substack.com Connect with eX-skeptic: Website: https://exskeptic.org/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/exskeptic Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/exskeptic Twitter: http://x.com/exskeptic YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@exskeptic Email info: info@exskeptic.org

Raised in a politically charged, largely non-religious household in Kentucky, Bill found himself embracing atheism through his teenage years, driven by hedonistic pursuits and a disdain for religious beliefs. His life appeared to follow a promising path in political activism until it spiraled into drug addiction and legal troubles, culminating in a transformative 17-day stint in jail. Guest Bio: Bill Scott serves with dedication at Ratio Christi, based at Houston Christian University. In his capacity as the Assistant Director of Ratio Christi International, Bill leverages his expertise to engage with diverse global communities. His role encompasses initiating and supporting ministry projects worldwide, fostering a robust dialogue around apologetics across different cultures. Bill’s international outreach and commitment to promoting apologetics underscore his professional mission, making his work both impactful and fulfilling. Resources Mentioned: “The God Delusion” by Richard Dawkins “The Case for Christ” by Lee Strobel “Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus” by Nabeel Qureshi Bart Ehrman New Testament Scholar Apologists: JP Moreland William Lane Craig Lee Strobel Nabeel Qureshi Francis Schaeffer 2 Corinthians 5:17 Connect with eX-skeptic: Website: https://exskeptic.org/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/exskeptic Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/exskeptic Twitter: http://x.com/exskeptic YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@exskeptic Email info: info@exskeptic.org

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Larry Sanger, co-founder of Wikipedia, esteemed philosopher, and passionate advocate for truth-seeking. Raised in a religious environment, Larry’s journey evolved from childhood faith to agnosticism, fueled by his dedication to reason, evidence, and philosophical exploration.  Through rigorous philosophical study, a deep engagement with the Bible, and profound personal experiences, Larry's skepticism was challenged and reshaped, leading him to a deeper reflection on life's existential questions. Guest Bio:   Larry Sanger is an analytical philosopher, internet project developer, and co-founder of Wikipedia. He holds a Ph.D. in philosophy from Ohio State University and has been involved in multiple knowledge-based initiatives, including Nupedia, Citizendium, and Everipedia. Sanger has been a strong advocate for internet freedom, online credibility, and decentralized knowledge platforms. His work continues to shape discussions on the role of expertise and trust in digital information. Resources Mentioned: Website:  www.larrysanger.org https://encyclosphere.org Larry’s Recommended Resources: The Case for Christ, Lee Strobel Mere Christianity, C.S. Lewis  www.talkaboutdoubts.com  Connect with eX-skeptic: Website: https://exskeptic.org/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/exskeptic Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/exskeptic Twitter: http://x.com/exskeptic YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@exskeptic Email info: info@exskeptic.org

Dr. Bobby Conway shares with us as he talks about his tumultuous path, describing his former lifestyle marked by addiction, self-doubt, and relentless questions about existence and morality. Despite being academically inclined and climbing the ladder of theological education, he faced severe waves of skepticism that brought him to the brink of despair and even suicidal ideation. Tune in as we hear Dr. Conway’s story from a life steeped in hedonism and skepticism to becoming a deeply committed Christian. Guest Bio:   Dr. Bobby Conway is the lead pastor of Image Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, and the founder of the YouTube ministry "Christianity Still Makes Sense." He holds a Master of Theology from Dallas Theological Seminary, a Doctor of Ministry in Apologetics from Southern Evangelical Seminary, and a PhD in Philosophy of Religion from the University of Birmingham in England. Dr. Conway has authored several books, including Does Christianity Still Make Sense? and Doubting Toward Faith. He also co-hosts the nationally syndicated radio show "Pastor’s Perspective," addressing listeners' questions about God and the Bible. Resources Mentioned: Radio Show: Pastors Perspective with Brian Broderson Christianity Still Makes Sense (Podcast and YouTube channel by Dr. Bobby Conway) Image Church https://www.imagechurch.live/ Books: "Does Christianity Still Make Sense?" by Dr. Bobby Conway “Doubting Towards Faith” by Dr. Bobby Conway “Mere Christianity” by C.S. Lewis “Shattered Dreams” by Larry Crabb “Resurrection Refutations” by Gary Habermas Connect with eX-skeptic: Website: https://exskeptic.org/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/exskeptic Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/exskeptic Twitter: http://x.com/exskeptic YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@exskeptic Email info: info@exskeptic.org

Dr. Michael Houts is an esteemed scientist with a rich background in mechanical and nuclear engineering and advanced propulsion systems for space exploration. Dr. Houts shares his journey of growing up outside the church with a strong belief in science, questioning the limitations of naturalistic explanations, and ultimately finding belief in God through a thorough investigation of the Bible. Guest Bio: Michael Houts is a dedicated scientist whose journey began with a passion for science and engineering. He earned bachelor’s degrees in mechanical and nuclear engineering from the University of Florida and a PhD in nuclear engineering from MIT. He spent 11 years at Los Alamos National Laboratory, where he held key roles including team leader for criticality reactor and radiation physics. Now, Michael is a nuclear research manager at the Marshall Space Flight Center, working on advanced propulsion systems to boost space exploration. Resources Mentioned: Apologetics Press: https://apologeticspress.org/ Connect with eX-skeptic: Website: https://exskeptic.org/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/exskeptic Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/exskeptic Twitter: http://x.com/exskeptic YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@exskeptic Email info: info@exskeptic.org

Brian grew up in a small Georgia town where religion wasn’t part of his upbringing, though he was surrounded by churches. Angry at the concept of God, he viewed religious beliefs as a way to escape the fear of death. In high school, he became an atheist but befriended a popular group of Christians. Although he criticized their beliefs to fit in and feel superior, he couldn’t shake the sense that their faith had something genuine and authentic. Guest Bio: Brian Smith is a Student Pastor at Dunwoody Baptist Church in the Metro of Atlanta. He has been in student ministry for 16 years, and is a loving husband and father of four. Resources Mentioned: I Never Thought of It That Way by Mónica Guzmán Blue Like Jazz by Donald Miller Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis Podcast: Within Reason Alex J O’Conner God in the Dock by C.S. Lewis The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis Connect with eX-skeptic: Website: https://exskeptic.org Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/exskeptic Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/exskeptic Twitter: http://x.com/exskeptic YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@exskeptic Email info: info@exskeptic.org

Former skeptic Henare Whaanga grew up with an ex-gang member father and a mother who was an ex-Jehovah's Witness. His father supernaturally encountered God in prison, and he took Henare with him to preach the Gospel. However, Henare became frustrated with the evangelical church's emphasis on blind faith. His questions were met with shallow responses from the church, and his belief started to crumble. Unable to find any substance in Christianity, Henare left the church, but then he stumbled upon apologetics, leading him to a deeper exploration of key questions: Did Jesus really die and rise again? Is the Bible trustworthy? Guest bio: Henare Whaanga is the Regional Director at Thinking Matters, New Zealand’s leading apologetics organization, where he works to strengthen the understanding and defense of the Christian faith. He is a devoted husband, father, lay pastor and Bible teacher.  Resources Mentioned: Frank Turek - I Don’t Have Enough Faith to be an Atheist Works of Lee Strobel Works of J. Warner Wallace Eli Ayala - Revealed Apologetics Nate Sala YouTube - Wise Disciple YouTube Channel Thinking Matters: https://www.thinkingmatters.org.nz/ Connect with eX-skeptic: Website: https://exskeptic.org Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/exskeptic Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/exskeptic Twitter: http://x.com/exskeptic YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@exskeptic Email info: info@exskeptic.org

Former atheist Spencer grew up in an abusive home, and while his mother took him to church, it felt more like a manipulative act than genuine faith. Witnessing the hypocrisy of the self-proclaimed Christians around him, Spencer began reading philosophical books. He determined that Christianity, like other religions, was irrational and needed to be challenged. He often engaged in debates with Christians, attempting to liberate them by dismantling their beliefs. He eventually found Christians that not only listened to his criticisms, but helped him look for real answers to his questions. After much study, Spencer began to see Christianity and the God of the Bible in a whole new light. Guest bio: Spencer Durrenberger is a chemist in Texas, with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Physics from the University of Texas at Arlington. He currently works in the medical field, specializing in oncology with Humana Pathology, where he contributes to groundbreaking medical research focused on cancer. Resources Mentioned: The Gospels For History, read Luke For History from the perspective of the Law, read Matthew For Why God became Man, read Mark For The Divinity of Christ and Beauty, read John Connect with eX-skeptic: Website: https://exskeptic.org/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/exskeptic Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/exskeptic Twitter: http://x.com/exskeptic YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@exskeptic Email info: info@exskeptic.org

Kathleen grew up in a loving, immigrant household where religion wasn't a central part of her upbringing but was raised with a strong emphasis on good morals and values. In her mid-teens, Kathleen became an atheist, embracing nihilism and developing an animosity toward Christianity. Despite her elite education and achievements, she was not taught to ask deeper questions about purpose and meaning. This changed when a friend gave her a book that opened her eyes to new insights, including the concept of God as both a cosmic lawmaker and a personal deity, and her journey to Christ and understanding Christianity began. Guest Bio: Dr. Kathleen Noller is a leading Computational Biologist and specializes in cancer research. Kathleen completed her undergraduate studies in Biomedical Engineering at Columbia University, where her academic journey laid the foundation for her career as a scientist. She holds a PhD from Johns Hopkins University and is passionate about medical research. Kathleen is also a dedicated wife and mother to a one-year-old, balancing her professional achievements with the joys of family life. You can find her blog on Substack at The Reformed Gadfly Resources mentioned: John Lennox The Reasons for God Timothy Keller Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis William Lane Craig  C.S. Lewis Institute resources Connect with eX-skeptic: Website: https://exskeptic.org/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/exskeptic Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/exskeptic Twitter: http://x.com/exskeptic YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@exskeptic Email info: info@exskeptic.org

Growing up in a small town, religion was a constant yet subtle presence in Trevor Lancon’s community. Deeply involved in his church’s youth group, Trevor longed to grow closer to God, but he began questioning whether his experiences were authentic or merely emotional manipulation. Drawn to the freedom of a secular lifestyle, he eventually distanced himself from the church, and he embraced scientism, seeking tangible evidence of reality. He rejected Christianity and identified as an atheist, diving into a worldview centered on materialism and skepticism. From the outside, Trevor seemed to have it all—a home, a loving wife, two beautiful children, and a stable career. Yet, inwardly, he was burdened by feelings of dread and brokenness.   His journey back to faith wasn’t marked by a single dramatic moment but rather by countless small, profound experiences. Guest Bio: Trevor Lancon is a devoted father and husband and works as an engineer at a leading tech company on the outskirts of Houston, Texas. With a deep passion for STEM, Trevor holds a Master's degree in Health Physics and has a background in nuclear engineering.  Connect with eX-skeptic: Books Mentioned: The Road by Cormac McCarthy  The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel

During childhood, David Westerhoff’s faith never really extended outside of the church building. The tradition and practice of Christianity just didn’t make sense to David, and he began naturally moving with culture’s secular flow, becoming the ruler of his own life. On the surface, David’s life was unfolding perfectly; he had a loving wife, a growing family, and a steady career, but he still wasn’t content. His own internal battles and addictions threatened David’s marriage, and he began to feel a loss of control for the first time. On a night that seemed at first like any other, David felt the sudden presence of the Spirit of God, revealing the weight and gravity of his sins.  Guest Bio: David Westerhoff is a software engineer, a husband, and a father of two. David grew up in the secularized culture of northern California but moved to Georgia after marrying his wife, Megan. He spent fifteen years of his career in tech and software, but after encountering Jesus and feeling powerfully convicted in August of 2022, David immediately realized he needed to switch gears and pursue God wholeheartedly. He is now a seminary student at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, studying to obtain a Master’s in Divinity. Connect with Ex-Skeptic: Website: https://exskeptic.org/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/exskeptic Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/exskeptic Twitter: ​​https://x.com/exskeptic YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@exskeptic

Former atheist and Swedish physicist Krister Renard dismissed God at a young age, believing science was the key to understanding reality.  In his pursuit of knowledge, he came to see that the universe demanded a greater explanation, eventually believing in God.   Krister's Website: www.gluefox.com Resources Mentioned by Krister: C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity

Former atheist Dr. John Studebaker viewed religion as boring and inconsequential until he encountered surprising evidence about God and meaningful experiences with Christians.  Over time, his quest for truth led him to a profound personal relationship with Jesus. John's Resources:  Book, John Studebaker, editor (2023):  The Quest of World Religions, An Introduction and Anthology BMI Oasis website: www.bmioasis.com, a service of Bridge Ministries, Inc., which has helped thousands of people find and fulfill their God-given life calling www.lemaseminary.net John's Recommended Resources: Josh McDowell, Evidence that Demands a Verdict C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity Anthony Flew, There is a God

Daniel Ray did not have a religious upbringing, yet he somehow ‘knew’ God was real but  kept him at a distance.  He was living his own way on his own terms, but eventually he was found by God. Daniel's Resources:  Apologetics Ministry, The Watchman Fellowship: https://www.watchman.org/ Daniel's Recommended Resources: Greg Koukl, Tactics, Street Smarts www.exskeptic.org

Cambridge educated Dr. Sharon Dirckx was raised in a secular culture where religion played a minimal role. Intellectual authorities led her to believe that science and belief in God were incompatible until she began investigating the verifiable claims of Christianity. She came to see that a robust, intellectually grounded faith was possible. Sharon's Resources:  Website: www.dirckx.org Books: Broken Planet Am I Just My Brain? Why?  Looking at God, Evil, and Personal Suffering Sharon's Recommended Resources: Sean McDowell, www.seanmcdowell.org Premier Unbelievable, www.premierunbelievable.com OCCA The Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics, www.theocca.org The C.S. Lewis Institute, www.cslewisinstitute.org The Sanity of Belief, by Simon Edwards Can Science Explain Everything? by John Lennox

Former atheist Daniel’s questions about the world and morality were dismissed by the religious people around him. His skepticism eventually revealed the logical flaws of atheism, leading him from a godless perspective to a robust understanding of the Christian worldview and belief in Jesus Christ.  Daniel's X (Twitter) Profile Resources mentioned by Daniel: Dominion by Tom Holland The Righteous Mind by Jonathan Haidt

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Former atheist Dr. Dan Mizell left Christianity and embraced science as the most rational way to understand and live in the world.  Over time, he began to question whether the natural world was sufficient to explain reality.  His search for answers led him to a more solid foundation for knowledge, ethics, and life in God.

Nate Sala rejected his parents’ faith tradition of Christianity and pursued life on his own terms, but his life failed to bring satisfaction to his deepest longings. His search led him to find all that he desired in God. Nate's Resources: YouTube: YouTube.com/wisedisciple Summit Ministries: https://www.summit.org/ C.S. Lewis Institute's Study Courses