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Listen in as we discuss the spiritual questions and concerns of different generations, from Baby Boomers all the way to Generation Alpha. We explore how each generation's unique experiences shape their worldview and spiritual inquiries and provide insights on how to engage in meaningful conversations about faith and truth.

Resources and research:

The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt

Generations by Jean Twenge

Custom research by James Choung from Inner Varsity

Chapters:

00:00
Introduction to Generational Perspectives

01:15
Understanding Baby Boomers: The Search for Truth

04:35
Exploring Generation X: Authenticity and Trust

10:49
Millennials: The Quest for Goodness

18:24
Gen Z: Beauty and Justice in a Post-Truth World

28:22
Looking Ahead: Generation Alpha and the Future of Truth

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In this episode of the In and For podcast, Brock Anderson and Shelley Komoszewski explore the cultural crisis of hopelessness and how hope has been misdefined in society. They contrast this with the biblical understanding of hope as a confident expectation based on God's promises. The conversation delves into practical takeaways for individuals to examine their own sources of hope and how to engage with others in a meaningful way, ultimately challenging listeners to be a source of hope in their communities.

takeaways

• Hopelessness is a cultural crisis affecting many individuals.
• Cultural definitions of hope often equate to wishful thinking.
• Biblical hope is a confident expectation based on God's promises.
• Misplaced hope can lead to disappointment and anxiety.
• Hope should be anchored in God's character and rooted in Jesus.
• True hope is a living hope that transcends circumstances.
• We must examine where we functionally place our hope.
• Engaging with others about hope requires honesty and vulnerability.
• The gospel invites others to share in the hope we have in Christ.
• Being a source of hope means being prepared to share our faith with gentleness and respect.

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In the inaugural episode of the In and For podcast, hosts Brock Anderson and Shelley Komoszewski of the Josh McDowell Ministry discuss the intersection of faith and culture, emphasizing how to be 'in and for' culture for its ultimate good. They explore the definition of culture, the biblical mandate to engage with it, and the three approaches Christians can take toward culture (and which one is most effective). This episode highlights the need for understanding cultural issues, finding personal influence, and being authentically present in conversations about faith. The episode concludes with practical steps for listeners to engage their communities and share the message of Jesus effectively.

Resources mentioned:
Josh McDowell Ministry
Evidence that Demands a Verdict
More than a Carpenter
Sharing Jesus without Freaking Out

Key moments
00:00
Introduction to the In and For Podcast

03:05
Understanding the Mission of the Podcast

05:52
Defining Culture and Its Importance

09:09
Navigating the In but Not Of Concept

11:59
The Men of Issachar: Understanding the Times

14:46
Approaches to Culture: "Against" and "Of"

18:56
The "In and For" Approach to Culture

24:03
Practical Steps to Engage Culture

29:54
Understanding Cultural Issues

33:10
Finding Your Influence

37:06
Knowing Your Limits in Cultural Engagement

40:55
Recap and Next Steps