104. How Culture Creeps In and Steals Your Confidence in Christ—And How to Get It Back | with Dr. John West

Many believers have unknowingly exchanged truth for cultural influence—and wonder why they feel spiritually dry, confused, or insecure. In this powerful conversation, Dr. John West exposes the subtle ways culture shapes our thinking—and how returning to God’s Word can restore your peace, clarity, and confidence in Christ. Bible Verses Referenced:Acts 2:38 – “Repent and be baptized… and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”Romans 6:4 – “We were buried with Him through baptism into death… so that we too may walk in newness of life.”Galatians 6:8 – “Whoever sows to please their flesh… will reap destruction.”Galatians 5:22–23 – “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace…”Philippians 2:12–13 – “Work out your salvation with fear and trembling… for it is God who works in you…”John 14:6 – “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”Galatians 5:13–25 – [Read in full during the episode] Key Takeaways:1. You Can Be Sincere—and Still Be Captivated by CultureWithout a biblical foundation, it’s easy to unknowingly absorb values that oppose God’s truth.2. Spiritual Maturity Welcomes QuestionsA healthy Church doesn’t shut down honest doubts. Growth comes through open dialogue rooted in Scripture.3. Truth Must Be Held with LoveTruth without grace misrepresents Jesus. We must love well and stand firm.4. Bitterness Is a Trap—but Healing Is PossibleEven deep wounds can be healed by Jesus. Bitterness doesn’t have to define your story.5. Lies About Sin Keep People in BondageTwo common lies:– “My sin doesn’t really matter.”– “My sin is too big to be forgiven.”Both are false. God calls us to holiness and offers full forgiveness.6. You’re Not Called to Carry the Weight—God IsFaithfulness, not success, is our calling. God builds His Church—even in dark times.7. Jesus Is the Only WayHolding fast to John 14:6 may be countercultural—but it’s the most loving and life-giving truth we can offer. Resources & Links: Stockholm Syndrome Christianity by Dr. John WestVisit: stockholmsyndromechristianity.com for free resources for parents, pastors, and truth-seeking believers.Related Episodes:– [Episode 5] The Bible: Many Books, One Story– [Episode 42] How to Interpret the Bible: Tools for Exegesis and Hermeneutics– [Episode 45] How to Understand the Bible Beyond Cultural BiasCall to Action: If this episode stirred something in you—– Share it with a friend– Leave a review– Join our FREE Curious for Christ community where we ask honest questions that lead us closer to Jesus Until next time—stay curious, stay faithful, and stay free in Christ. Much love, AlexandraThanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement on your faith journey. Want to go deeper? Let's connect—set up a FREE Discovery Call today. See you next time!