How Christianity Transformed the World

How Christianity Transformed the World

Author: The Gospel Coalition January 31, 2025 Duration: 41:50

Many today claim Christianity is toxic, bigoted, patriarchal, Western, imperialist, and repressive. However, the biblical teaching that every human being is made in God's image is the foundation for our regard for human dignity and freedom.

In this breakout session from TGCW24, Sharon James explores the profound ways Christians have influenced the world for the better in areas such as justice, philanthropy, health care, education, and the dignity of women.

She discusses the following:

  • The story of Sarah Martin
  • The influence of Christianity on human rights and freedom
  • Justice and the rule of law
  • Protection of life and the sanctity of human dignity
  • Relief of human need and philanthropy
  • Education and women's empowerment
  • The dignity of women and Christian ethics
  • The role of Christianity in modern society

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.


Drawing from the archives of live events, the TGC Podcast from The Gospel Coalition offers a front-row seat to thoughtful discussions that sit at the intersection of faith and everyday life. This collection presents keynote addresses and breakout sessions recorded at their various conferences, capturing moments of teaching and dialogue meant to deepen understanding. The conversations you'll hear are grounded in a Christian worldview, exploring how timeless truths engage with contemporary issues in culture, philosophy, and society. It’s a resource for anyone curious about how spiritual conviction informs our approach to art, work, community, and leadership. By sharing these talks, the aim is to provide practical theology and thoughtful commentary that helps listeners navigate the complexities of modern life with wisdom and grace. Each episode serves as a standalone session, whether it's a deep dive into a biblical text, an analysis of cultural trends, or reflections on pastoral ministry. Tuning into this podcast means accessing a wealth of perspectives dedicated to forming resilient faith. The content is crafted not just for pastors and church leaders, but for any believer seeking to connect their Sunday faith to their Monday reality. You will encounter a range of voices from within The Gospel Coalition network, all united by a commitment to the centrality of the gospel. The hope is that these recordings equip and challenge you to think more deeply about your own spiritual journey and your role in the world.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 438

TGC Podcast
Podcast Episodes
Preparing Teens for Life in a Secular World [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:14
A recent Barna study showed that the ages of 18 to 25 are when many professing Christians will leave the church, especially as they transition to college life.In this breakout session from TGCW24, Michael Kruger shares i…
Is the Bible Good for Women? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:36
In this episode, Kendra Dahl, Rebecca McLaughlin, Jen Oshman, and Wendy Alsup consider the Bible’s teaching about women through a Jesus-centered understanding of Scripture. They observe Christianity's historical and cult…
Longing for the Holy Spirit’s Power [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:00
Jesus told his disciples it’d be to their advantage that he was going away because, if he didn’t, the Helper wouldn’t come to them. Then in Acts, we read about the Holy Spirit's descent on believers. So what advantage do…
Ligon Duncan Interviews New TGC President Mark Vroegop [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:31
In this special episode, Ligon Duncan sits down with Mark Vroegop, the new president of The Gospel Coalition, to discuss his journey of faith, pastoral ministry, and vision for TGC's future. Hear Mark's testimony, the pe…
Why People Are Leaving the Church [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:11
We’re currently living through the largest and fastest religious shift in U.S. history, with 40 million people having left houses of worship, mainly in the last 25 years.In this breakout session from TGCW24, Jim Davis an…
Spiritual Disciplines for Every Season [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:52
Joanna Kimbrel, Amy Gannett, Gretchen Saffles, and Trillia Newbell reflect on their practice of spiritual disciplines, offering encouragement and practical suggestions for various seasons of life. They discuss the value…
Top Theology Stories of 2024 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:09:29
Join Collin Hansen and Melissa Kruger for their annual discussion as they look back on the top theology stories of 2024. They also share their favorite books from 2024, updates on personal projects, and what they're each…
Jesus, the God-Man, Is Born [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:58
John Piper delves into the Gospel of Luke, showing how the first chapters highlight God's central role in the birth of Jesus. He explores the significance of faith, humility, and obedience, drawing insights from biblical…
Opportunities at Christmas with Glen Scrivener and Andrew Wilson [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:03
In this episode of TGC Podcast, Kendra Dahl, Andrew Wilson, and Glen Scrivener explore the incarnation's richness and the unique opportunities for evangelism during Christmas.They discuss the following:Cultural challenge…
How Music Helps Us Understand the Meaning of Advent and Christmas [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:05:29
Isn't it fascinating how melody, harmony, and even chord progressions in music can stir our hearts to worship God and remind us of the beauty of his character? In this episode of TGC Podcast, Brett McCracken talks with m…