Cultural Update: "Looksmaxxing"; Grok's Sexual AI-Generated Images; Crime in Decline

Cultural Update: "Looksmaxxing"; Grok's Sexual AI-Generated Images; Crime in Decline

Author: Talbot School of Theology at Biola University / Sean McDowell & Scott Rae January 23, 2026 Duration: 1:03:22
This week, Scott and Sean discuss: America's Historic Crime Drop - The U.S. has experienced its largest homicide rate reduction in 125 years, with all seven categories of violent crime falling below pre-pandemic levels. Baltimore serves as a compelling case study, cutting homicides by nearly 60% through proactive outreach to at-risk individuals and community investment.The Dark Side of AI - Elon Musk's AI chatbot Grok has released millions of sexually inappropriate images on X, includin...

What does it look like to live out a thoughtful Christian faith in a complex world? That’s the central question explored in Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith & Culture. Each week, hosts Sean McDowell and Scott Rae, both professors at Biola University’s Talbot School of Theology, sit down for genuine discussions that bridge the gap between timeless scripture and contemporary life. Rather than offering simple answers, they delve into the nuances of current events, ethical dilemmas, and shifting cultural trends with a blend of scholarly insight and pastoral concern. You’ll hear them engage with a variety of guest experts, drawing out practical wisdom for everyday application. This isn’t about echo chambers; it’s about equipping listeners to navigate modern challenges with both conviction and compassion, rooted in a deep understanding of biblical principles. Tuning into this podcast feels like joining a substantive, gracious conversation where faith is taken seriously as a lens for understanding everything from politics and science to art and personal relationships. It’s for anyone seeking to move beyond superficial takes and cultivate a more integrated, resilient worldview.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith & Culture
Podcast Episodes
"Dad Deprivation" and the Importance of Fathers (with Anthony Bradley) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:01
What accounts for the dramatic growth of kids living without their biological father in the home? What are some of the social impacts of what is called “dad deprivation?” What is the effect of dads on the mental health o…
Spiritual Warfare and the Powers of Darkness (with Clint Arnold) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:19
Whether in the occult, astrology, or New Age, interest in the supernatural has increased in the past few years. What can we learn about the spiritual realm, and spiritual warfare, from the letters of Paul? Talbot profess…
How Much Can Christians Compromise on Sexuality? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:18:37
Is it time for the church to set aside theological differences about the morality of same sex unions and gender identity and find common ground in the Gospel? Is same sex marriage a disputable issue that should not divid…
Is Business a Force for Good? (with Jim Otteson) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:36
What’s a business for? Why is there skepticism about business among younger generations today? What do we say to the notion that business is based on greed, that it creates consumerism and contributes to growing economic…
A Biblical Guide to Navigating Youth Sports (with Ed Uszynski) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:26
How can Christian parents and other Christian leaders best navigate youth sports? What are some of the toxic elements of youth sports that Christians can avoid, or strategically use as an opportunity for ministry and gro…