From Biblical History to Extraterrestrial Life: A Candid Talk with Craig L. Blomberg

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: [email protected] and Context Setting (00:00-05:45)Hosts Josh Burtram and Will Wright kick off the podcast by introducing their guest, Craig L. Blomberg, a distinguished New Testament scholar. They set the stage for the conversation to come, outlining the main topics of discussion: the historical reliability of the Gospels, critical thinking in Christian faith, and even the potential intersection of theology with the concept of extraterrestrial life.The Reliability of the Gospels (05:46-20:35)Craig dives deep into the reliability of the Gospels, drawing from historical, textual, and archaeological evidence. The discussion touches on the rigorous academic methods applied to biblical texts and the importance of approaching them critically yet faithfully.Critical Thinking in Faith (20:36-37:15)The conversation shifts to the importance of critical thinking in faith. Craig, Josh, and Will discuss the necessity of scrutinizing faith-based claims and the impact of "internet theology." They also delve into the dangers of accepting information at face value without questioning its validity.Media Influence on Faith (37:16-50:00)The trio dives into the influence of social media and sensationalism on modern Christianity. They share personal experiences and cautionary tales about misleading online content that distorts biblical teachings and history.Extraterrestrial Life and Theology (50:01-01:05:00)The conversation takes an unexpected turn when Will brings up the topic of aliens and how their existence would fit into Christian theology. Craig offers a thoughtful perspective, noting that if there is extraterrestrial life, it would not undermine Christianity.Morality, Purity, and the Bigger Picture (01:05:01-01:09:00)The podcast wraps up with a talk on "contagious holiness." Craig discusses the need for Christians to model a life of love, joy, and peace, as highlighted by the fruits of the Spirit.Conclusion and Closing Remarks (01:09:01-01:12:58)Josh and Will thank Craig for his insights and ask him how listeners can keep up with his work. They sign off with their traditional closing: "Keep your conversations not left or right, but up."This detailed summary serves to give potential listeners a clear understanding of what to expect from the podcast. Each segment is designed to appeal to different interests, whether it be rigorous theological study, the role of critical thinking in faith, or even speculative topics like the existence of extraterrestrial life. Support Sarah Stankorb’s work and preorder Damned If She Does: Why Women Quit Church and What It Means for the Future of Religion, Releases September 15, 2026.  Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9798889837091Website: https://www.sarahstankorb.com/Support the showKeep the conversation going.Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, suggest a future guest, or connect with us directly?Visit our website:faithfulpoliticspodcast.comBrowse our bookstore, featuring books from many of our guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstoreSupport the show and help us keep these conversations going:patreon.com/cw/FaithfulPoliticsSubscribe for behind-the-scenes content, reflections, and updates:faithfulpolitics.substack.comContact the hosts:Josh Burtram, Faithful Host: [email protected] Wright, Political Host: [email protected] Faithful Politics:Instagram: faithful_politicsFacebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast