Mama Bear Apologetics

Talking about politics is hard enough, but throw kids into the mix and it can feel like navigating a mine field. That’s why we here at Mama Bear want to take a few minutes to help empower parents with a few tips on how to share their political beliefs in front of their children. In this podcast, Jennifer and Amy encourage parents not to let tempers flare when analyzing the views of their political opponent. Instead, parents are challenged to exercise self control while ROARing through the policies coming across the debate platform, recognize and unpack buzz words, vote for policies not personalities, and much more!Parents will leave feeling challenged and embolden help their children think critically, love biblically, and stand firm in the faith while exercising their right to vote.Main Points CoveredWe have a right to speak our views in public.Represent Jesus well in your conversations: Control your temperROAR through the informationVote Policy not PersonalityFact checkValue truth over feelings — all truth is God's truthPeople and Resources MentionedCNN report on what 10 year olds had to say about the electionVox piece on politics and kidsColossians 4:6Colossians 2:81 Peter 3:152 Timothy 2:15Toxic Empathy by Allie Beth Stuckey—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

SummaryJoin us as we tackle the crucial topic of biblical inerrancy and inspiration, particularly its impact on the faith of younger generations. We explore how the vast number of biblical manuscripts available today provides us with a unique opportunity to affirm the accuracy of Scripture through textual criticism. Drawing insights from the Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy, we aim to equip parents with practical tools to strengthen their children's faith against competing worldviews. We highlight its historical accuracy, fulfilled prophecies, and unbiased portrayal of flawed individuals, underscoring how archaeological discoveries continue to affirm biblical accounts. We explore the unity of Scripture and its transformative power through the Holy Spirit, as well as Jesus' endorsement of its divine inspiration. We emphasize that inerrancy is deeply rooted in God's nature, as He cannot lie, establishing the Bible as an authoritative and reliable guide for life and morality. Furthermore, we caution against false teachers who distort Scripture for personal gain, encouraging listeners to measure their teachings against God's truth.Main Points CoveredCan we trust that the Bible is the revealed word of God?What is Inspiration?What is Inerrancy?What is infallibility?People and Resources Mentioned1 Corinthians 2:132 Peter 1:20–21Mark 12:36John 14:26Titus 1:2John 5: 7-82 Timothy 3:16-17Recommended ResourcesTheology for Today by Elmer TownsArcheological finds that affirm scriptureChicago Statement on Inerrancy Actual PDF of Chicago Statement on InerrancyThanks To Our SponsorsAquaTruHaving safe, clean water is the last thing you want to worry about, but unfortunately, According to extensive research by the Environmental Working Group, virtually every home in America has harmful contaminants in its tap water. That's why we love our AquaTru water filter. AquaTru purifiers use a 4-stage reverse osmosis purification process, and their countertop purifiers work with NO installation or plumbing.Mama Bear Apologetics listeners can receive 20% OFF any AquaTru purifier! Just go to AquaTru.com and enter code “MBA“ at checkout. AquaTru comes with a 30-day Money-Back Guarantee.—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Apologetics and theology go hand in hand. But before we can defend the faith, we have to know what we believe. In this podcast listeners will make a look at an important aspect of theology: the revelation of God.Listeners will understand what revelation is, what it isn’t, how God reveals Himself in nature and through His word, and what He has communicated. Parents are then offered discussion topics and relevant resources to nurture discussions on the revelation of God.Main Points CoveredWhat Revelation is and isn’tWhat God has revealed about HimselfHow He has done thisPeople and Resources Mentioned1 John 4:1Isiah 1:182 Timothy 3:16Deuteronomy 29:29Romans 1:20Psalms 19:1Romans 2:15-162 Timothy 3:15Mark 12:30-31Recommended BooksThe BibleChristian Liberty Nature ReadersFearfully and Wonderfully MadeCrafted by God by Dr. Georgia Purdom and Stacia McKeeverKeeping your kid on God’s Side by Natasha CrainTheology for Today by Elmer TownsUnfamiliar VocabularyDivine Hiddenness: Argues that God hides to prevent created persons from reacting inappropriatelyPost-Modernism: a late 20th-century movement in philosophy and literary theory that generally questions the basic assumptions of Western philosophy in the modern periodCosmological Argument: God is the CauseTeleological argument (fine-tuning): God is the DesignerAnthropological argument: through human nature we see God is a personal God

Equip your children with the spiritual armor they need to navigate the cultural challenges they face in school. Join us as we walk through key strategies for instilling a strong sense of identity in Christ, using We'll discuss how to affirm your child's true worth and identity, rooted in their Creator, and provide practical advice for facing the unique pressures that come with today's social media-driven world. We also address the unique challenges faced by Gen Z and Gen Alpha, who are influenced by social media to seek validation externally. By reinforcing that their identity is rooted in being made in God's image, we guide parents on how to instill a Christ-centered worldview in their children, using examples from the Bible.We'll discuss how to guide your children to think critically, ask the right questions, and stand firm in their faith amidst the temptations and false ideologies promoted by secular society. Together, let's ensure our children are spiritually ready for the year ahead and ready to reflect God's image to those around themMain Points CoveredYour Identity is in ChristTruth MattersBe on GuardTest the SpiritsBe Willing to do the Hard Thing.People and Resources MentionedPsalm 139:13-141 Corinthians 6:19-20Luke 15Ephesians 6Proverbs 22:6John 14:6Colossians 3:9Colossians 4:61 Peter 3:15John 17:17-19Deuteronomy 41 Peter 5:8Nehemiah 4:17-23Mark 12:30Colossians 2:81 John 4Romans 1:16Esther 4:14Colossians 3Quote from Jason Whitlock: “When we are fearful before God we are fearless before culture.”A Look at Black Lives Matter with Monique DusonThanks To Our SponsorsAquaTruHaving safe, clean water is the last thing you want to worry about, but unfortunately, According to extensive research by the Environmental Working Group, virtually every home in America has harmful contaminants in its tap water. That's why we love our AquaTru water filter. AquaTru purifiers use a 4-stage reverse osmosis purification process, and their countertop purifiers work with NO installation or plumbing.Mama Bear Apologetics listeners can receive 20% OFF any AquaTru purifier! Just go to AquaTru.com and enter code “MBA“ at checkout. AquaTru comes with a 30-day Money-Back Guarantee.—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Mom’s have a lot go great questions regarding how they can share their faith with unbelievers, and raise kids who are empowered to do the same. Should we ambush our friends with all the knowledge we’ve streamed over the past week or keep silent for fear of rocking the boat? In this podcast Lindsey Medenwaldt gives some great advice on how build bridges with those around us. Listeners will find out where to start their witnessing journey, tool needed, how to navigate different worldviews, and witnessing in the midst of cancel culture.Main Points CoveredSharing Faith With Friends and FamilyCommon Misconceptions about ApologeticsNavigating Online Interactions With HumilityBuilding Bridges Through Truth and FriendshipBoundaries vs Bridges in RelationshipsPeople and Resources MentionedPsalm 91Bridge-Building Apologetics: How to get along even when we disagree by Lindsey MedenwaldtTactics by Gregory KouklUnfamiliar TermsShalom: concern for the wholeness, flourishing, completeness of a person.Chew and Spit Method —Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Prayer is many things: an act of worship, way to do battle, how we commune with the almighty, and an act of submission in supplication. So it shouldn’t come as a surprise that Satan is intent about warping their prayer life. In this podcast Amy discusses two commons myths that cripple the prayer life of kids and adults. Listeners will hear biblical truth break these strongholds and learn practical tips to nurture a healthy prayer life. Lastly, listeners are equipped with an important discernment skill that every believer needs to learn when it comes to prayer: testing the spirits. Filled with practical advice relevant for every walk, this podcast will leave you feeling refreshed and trained to disciple your children in prayer.Main Points CoveredWhat is prayer in the life of the believer?Recognize that not everything is a “Mountaintop Moment”There are no "lone wolves" when it comes to prayerTest the spirits. The Holy Spirit isn't the only spirit at work.People and Resources Mentioned1 Kings 19:11-132 Timothy 3:16-17Proverbs 27:17Romans 1:121 Thessalonians 5:11Hebrews 10:25Ephesians 6:12The Screwtape letters by CS LewisEpisode 69: Mentorship and How it Can Affect Your Kids with Gale Carter —Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Yoga is one of the most popular forms of exercise for women. It’s said to help with everything from balance to blood pressure, so there’s no problem with it, right? Turns out, there is more than meets the eye. In this podcast Alexa Kramer shares the background of yoga that you won’t get in your average class. Listens will learn the worldview of yoga, the purpose of worship behind each pose, and the surprising history behind “ooomhm.” She and Amy then discuss whether or not “christian yoga” is possible and how to help your kids speak truth and grace.If you’ve ever thought that yoga is just about stretching, you won’t want to miss this episode.Main Points CoveredDifference between yoga as an aspect of eastern religion vs what is done today.The history and worldview of yoga.How is the yoga done today? What do we see in the studios?What is “ooohm”?What are the purposes of the poses?Can you have Christian Yoga?How can we nurture a truth and grace approach with our kids?People and Resources MentionedCrash Course on YogaROARing through YogaThe Second Coming of the New Age - By Josh Peck & Steven BancarzThe Becket Cook Show on Yoga Podcast Episode—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Professor Nancy Pearcey, renowned author of "The Toxic War on Masculinity," joins us in this enlightening episode of Mama Bear Apologetics to tackle the complex issues surrounding masculinity, Christianity, and culture at large. We discuss the cultural assault on masculinity and how the church can counteract these negative narratives, providing a balanced view that uplifts men rather than tearing them down. Nancy offers valuable insights, supported by sociological data, that demonstrate how evangelical men who are deeply committed to their faith actually excel as husbands and fathers.We journey through the historical transformations in perceptions of masculinity, from family-centric values to the career-driven ambitions influenced by Darwinian evolution and social Darwinism. Highlighting the troubling narratives from influencers like Andrew Tate and Myron Gaines, we emphasize the urgency for the church to present a positive and healthy view of masculinity. These secular scripts, often equating manhood with promiscuity and primal behavior, are infiltrating even Christian educational environments, creating conflicting messages for young men about strength and character. We also explore the significant role of fatherhood in nurturing healthy masculinity. This episode is packed with thought-provoking insights, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding and supporting the role of men in the family and the church.Main Points CoveredWhere does the war on masculinity stem from?Is there a difference in “toxic masculinity” between evangelical and non-evangelical men?How the Industrial Revolution changed what the expectation of men in the home was.The difference between a real man and a good man.What does it mean to be a man?People and Resources MentionedNancy Pearcey - Author of "The Toxic War on Masculinity" and "Total Truth."Brad Wilcox - Sociologist at the University of Virginia, cited for his research on evangelical men and family dynamics. Washington Post Article "Why Can't We Hate Men?"The Moral Animal by Robert WrightUnfamiliar VocabularySocial Darwinism: The theory that individuals, groups, and peoples are subject to the same Darwinian laws of natural selection and plants and animals.Andrew Tate: An American-British social media personality, whose views are often seen as mysoginistic and controversial.The Cultural Mandate: Be fruitful and multiply and subdue the Earth.

Could your child's playlist be as influential as their peers? That's the question we tackle, as Taylor Swift's "Tortured Poets Department" sweeps through headphones and homes, stirring a wave of concern among Christian parents. We’re peering into the heart of the matter, unraveling how the melodies and lyrics that echo in our kids' ears might be shaping their worldviews and emotional landscapes. We're not just talking tunes here—we're discussing the seeds of beliefs being planted with every beat and verse they hear.The allure of beats and harmonies isn't simply a matter of taste—it's a powerful force with the capacity to sway moods and beliefs. This episode isn't shy about confronting the myths surrounding the impact of music like Taylor Swift's, challenging the notion that it's all harmless entertainment. Instead, we spotlight the psychological and spiritual battlegrounds within our children's mental health, leaning on both scripture and science to navigate this complex terrain. We're opening up the conversation to equip families with the discernment needed to face the subtle, yet profound, influences their children encounter in their favorite playlists.Navigating the celebrity culture maze becomes all the more important when stars like Swift command not just the airwaves, but also the hearts of their listeners. We dissect the weighty influence wielded by artists over their fanbases, recognizing the fine line between admiration and idolization. By fostering a foundation built on truth, we empower our listeners to guide their children in engaging with culture without losing their footing in faith. It's a call to all parents to anchor their young ones in a faith that withstands the tidal waves of cultural fads and fan fervor. Main Points CoveredShould I be concerned about my kids listening to Taylor Swift?How does music affect the brain?Art is an expression of worldview.Being a "Swifty" should not be a primary identity statement.Be on guard for yourself and your children so that you aren’t taken in by the culture.Tips for healthily engaging with your kids around music.People and Resources MentionedRomans 1:18Mark 12:30Romans 12:21 Corinthians 10:5University of Central Florida ArticleThanks to Our SponsorsThe CSB Bible TranslationThe brand-new CSB Men’s Daily Bible makes the ideal Father’s Day gift. Whether it be for a biological, adoptive, or spiritual father, they’ll love the thoughtfulness and intentionality behind a gift that walks with them through the finer points of fatherhood specifically and manhood generally. Use the code MDB50 at lifeway.com and you will receive 50% off your purchase.

SummaryMy heart swells with gratitude when I recall the gentle whispers of wisdom my own mother shared with me, shaping my spiritual path. This Mother's Day, join us as we celebrate the extraordinary influence mothers, both biological, adoptive and spiritual have on nurturing faith. Alongside my friend and ministry partner Alexa, we weave together touching narratives and Biblical wisdom to honor the irreplaceable role of mothers in faith formation.The world often measures success in material wealth and titles, but we want to acknowledge the profound beauty in the simplicity of a faith-filled home. Drawing inspiration from Proverbs 31:26, we discuss the pressures modern moms face, encouraging a return to wisdom, kindness, and the nurturing of young souls.We also discuss the importance of a nurturing church environment that shows respect, equips for the journey, and accepts every mom with open arms. As we wrap up, we offer parenting wisdom and encouragement, acknowledging the various expressions of motherhood and the power of speaking life into our children. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to all the 'mama bears' out there, standing firm in faith and love.to a resource that helps you have those conversations with your children.Main Points CoveredMom’s you are vital in nurturing the faith of your child.You don’t have to “have it all” to have it all.Your church is there for you.People and Resources MentionedProverbs 31:26https://www.barna.com/research/spiritually-vibrant-household/https://www.barna.com/research/faith-heritage-faith-practice/https://www.barna.com/research/moms-christians-households/Thanks to our SponsorsThe CSB Bible TranslationThe brand-new CSB Men’s Daily Bible makes the ideal Father’s Day gift. Whether it be for a biological, adoptive, or spiritual father, they’ll love the thoughtfulness and intentionality behind a gift that walks with them through the finer points of fatherhood specifically and manhood generally. Use the code MDB50 at lifeway.com and you will receive 50% off your purchase.

SummaryOn this episode we are Joined by Christopher Yuan to discuss The Holy Sexuality Project and what led him to create it. Christopher vulnerably shares his story of how he stepped into a homosexual lifestyle and how, as he says, the prayers of his own Mama Bear led to his salvation. We focus on the pivotal role of parents and grandparents in shaping the conversation on sexuality, emphasizing the necessity of home discipleship. Through the lens of Christopher's ministry, we explore why he felt the need to create resources aimed at equipping families to broach these topics from a biblical context.We also discuss the challenges and timing of introducing the concept of sexuality to children and the pressing need for parents to guide their children before the onset of puberty. We recognize the flood of "almost true" information that surrounds our kids on a daily basis, even from the Christian community and the hope of this episode is to not only help provide a biblical context for confronting that messaging but also point you to a resource that helps you have those conversations with your children.Main Points CoveredWhat is the current landscape of the sexuality conversation in our culture?When is right time to talk with your child about sexuality.The importance of clarity over agreement in the conversation of sexuality.What is Side A and Side B as it relates to the Christian conversation on sexuality?What is a biblical view of identity and sexuality?People and Resources MentionedThe Holy Sexuality ProjectChristopher Yuan's WebsiteJeremiah 29:11Matthew 18:6-14Thanks to our SponsorsThe CSB Bible TranslationThe brand-new CSB Men’s Daily Bible makes the ideal Father’s Day gift. Whether it be for a biological, adoptive, or spiritual father, they’ll love the thoughtfulness and intentionality behind a gift that walks with them through the finer points of fatherhood specifically and manhood generally. Use the code MDB50 at lifeway.com and you will receive 50% off your purchase. Unfamiliar VocabularySide A: Your sexual orientation is unchangeable and is part of your identity that should be accepted.Side B: Your sexual orientation is unchangeable and is a part of your identity that should be deprived.Celibacy (in relation to Side B same-sex orientation): A volitional vocation of being single. (This is a practice primarily informed by the worldview that your sexual orientation cannot be transformed, but is a part of who you are).

SummaryHello, fellow Mama Bears! On this episode we are ROAR'ing through the latest He Gets Us commercial that aired during the Super Bowl at the beginning of this year. We want to take a careful look at what the message is and what it isn't. Our hope is to highlight the importance of sifting through the media we consume, even media that appears wholesome of biblical on the surface. We want to hold the message of the He Gets Us commercial against the scriptures to examine where it does or doesn't line up with what the Bible teaches.We will do walk through each step of our ROAR method to discern what the appropriate steps are for engaging with that message and how to disciple our children accordingly. We're here to empower each other to raise discerning, wise, and loving families. So, let's sharpen our ability to recognize truth under the veneer of messages that surround us, and pass on this legacy of wisdom to our little ones.Main Points CoveredWhat is the He Gets Us campaign?The 4 issues we see with the message of the He Gets Us Super Bowl commercialHow to discern the the false and true messaging in the commercialHow shepherd your children in media consumptionPeople and Resources MentionedHe Gets Us CommercialCommercial ExplanationJohn 13:1-20Luke 22:24Prov 6:16-19James 1:19Colossians 4:6Thanks to Our SponsorsThis episode is made possible in part by the support of Summit Ministries. Our hope, like yours, is that your children will grow up to develop an unshakeable faith, to be followers of Jesus Christ and live out His call on their lives in a way that brings God’s glory and flourishing. That's one of the reasons we love Summit. Summit takes biblical worldview training and makes it seriously fun. If you have a child between the ages of sixteen to twenty-two, send them to a two week conference in Colorado or Georgia this summer. Register today at summit.org/roar/. Save $200 when you use the code ROAR24.

In this episode of Mama Bear Apologetics, we discuss all things bible translations — Formal, Functional, and Optimal

SummaryEvery mother's prayer journey is unique, yet bound by a common thread of seeking God's guidance through the chaos and beauty of raising children. Julie and Hillary, walk through the pages of "Honest Prayers for Mama Bears," a new book birthed from the depths of maternal hearts and a collaboration that spans the nation. We reveal the sometimes raw, unpolished dialogues with God that range from the humorous pleas of wanting to use the bathroom in peace to the heartfelt petitions of a mother facing a miscarriage.Hillary and Julie, alongside voices from the Mama Bear community, crafted a tapestry of prayers that we hope speaks to the soul of motherhood. Our conversation takes you behind the scenes of this unique creative process, emphasizing the importance of authenticity as we addressed delicate subjects like addiction and family dynamics. Poring over every word, we ensured that our prayers resonated with truth and relevance, offering a lifeline of hope and solidarity for mothers everywhere.As we share personal insights and practical tips for integrating prayer into the daily grind, "Honest Prayers for Mama Bears" is more than just a book—it's a spiritual companion for every season of motherhood. From fill-in-the-blank prompts to theological expertise, we've poured into this project with a shared goal: to empower mothers to foster honest, heartfelt communication with God, and to support one another as we navigate this transformative journey called motherhood. We hope it blesses you!Pre-order the book now at mamabearapologetics.com/bookMain Points CoveredWhy did we write this book?The difference between Honest and Shallow prayers.Creating a collective voice from momsPrayer book creation processHow to use this bookHonest journalingOur favorite, most convicting and hardest to write prayersPeople and Resources MentionedEvery Moment Holy - Douglas McKelvieHonest Prayers for Mama BearsThanks to Our SponsorsThis episode is made possible in part by the support of Summit Ministries. Our hope, like yours, is that your children will grow up to develop an unshakeable faith, to be followers of Jesus Christ and live out His call on their lives in a way that brings God’s glory and flourishing. That's one of the reasons we love Summit. Summit takes biblical worldview training and makes it seriously fun. If you have a child between the ages of sixteen to twenty-two, send them to a two week conference in Colorado or Georgia this summer. Learn more at summit.org/roar/. Save $200 when you use the code ROAR24–and another $200 if you register before March 31st. Register today at summit.org/roar/Quotable Quotes“I think sometimes learning how to do honest prayers often starts with shallow prayers. And so I just want to give mom's permission to pray the shallow prayers, if that's where you are starting." - Hillary Morgan Ferrer"We made it. We're not saying it's perfect, but... our heart's desire was to make sure that these prayers were Theologically sound." - Hillary Morgan Ferrer"I know I thought back on what were some of the times that really drove me to prayer, maybe as a younger mom, as a mom of a teenager, and then even now. I had some opportunities to write some prayers that maybe approach more being a mom of an adult child too, because that's a whole other season there." - Julie Loos

Summary Join us for a thought-provoking discussion with Dr. Jeff Myers of Summit Ministries, as we explore the vital connection between a biblical worldview and the flourishing of science, justice, and compassion in society. Listen in as we tackle the myth that Christianity is at odds with scientific progress and uncover how faith has been […]

Summary In this episode, Amy Davison and Alexa Cramer examine the Enneagram’s influence on faith and family. They question the Enneagram’s purported ability to peel back layers to our ‘true self’ and the implications it has on how we interpret Scripture, raise our children, and understand our own identities. They explore how it stands apart […]

Summary In this episode, Hillary and Amy address four different types of love in-depth — Agape (unconditional, self-sacrificial love), Storge (familial love), Phileo (strong friendship love), and Eros (sexual attraction). They stress how each type of love is different from the other and should not be confused. Hillary and Amy also discuss how today’s culture […]

Summary The hardest conversations to have often aren’t with strangers, but with our own family, especially when it comes to hot-button issues like a woman’s right to an elective abortion. In this podcast, mama bear Jennifer DeFrates chats with host Amy Davison on how to speak with truth and grace on the subject of abortion […]

Summary In this impromptu podcast, Hillary and Amy wished the Mama Bears a Happy New Year and a challenge: to focus on discipling the home in spiritual faithfulness. In the past 5 years a focused attack has been waged on societal unity and the sanctity of the home. Secular culture has focused on vilifying the […]

This is the third podcast in our Advent 2023 series. Did you miss the third one about “Joy to the World”? You can watch it here. Summary As we close out the season of advent, we reflect upon the theme of love. Acts of love quickly come to mind at Christmas in the form of […]