In this episode of Counterculture: Biblical Truth for a Confused World, host Will Bakker explores the complex issues surrounding immigration and refugee services through the lens of God's word. Joined by co-hosts Andrew, Sarah, and Kerrie, the discussion encompasses personal anecdotes, scriptural guidance, and practical ways to embody Christian compassion in a divided world. Highlighting the challenges and misconceptions faced by immigrants and refugees, the episode emphasizes the importance of seeing each person as an image-bearer of God and fostering a culture of hospitality over hostility. The episode also includes an impactful interview with Olga, a member of the Grace Church community, who shares her personal journey of finding belonging and support as an immigrant in the United States. The conversation closes with actionable steps for listeners to support and engage with the refugee community in Erie, Pennsylvania, reinforcing the call to see immigration as an opportunity to make disciples of all nations.

00:00 Introduction and Opening Thoughts

00:30 Welcome to Counterculture Biblical Truth

01:12 Meet the Hosts

01:33 Icebreaker Stories

06:23 Discussing the Sermon: Immigration and Refugees

11:04 Biblical Lens on Immigration

13:54 Personal Reflections and Actions

18:40 Thinking Christianly About Immigration

26:50 Hospitality Over Hostility

27:38 Embracing Hospitality in the Immigration Conversation

28:03 The Root of Hospitality: Seeing Everyone as Image Bearers

29:58 Humility and Hospitality: Treating People with Worth and Value

32:02 Transition to Q&A: How Would Jesus Respond to Refugees?

32:57 Jesus' Compassionate Response to Refugees

39:41 The Challenge of Integration and Belonging

40:38 Immigration as an Opportunity for Discipleship

47:15 Interview with Olga: A Journey of Faith and Belonging

58:18 Closing Thoughts and Next Steps

CounterCulture: Thinking Christianly in a Secular World

In this episode of CounterCulture, host Will Bakker and co-hosts Andrew Silbert, Sarah Burtt, and Derek Sanford explore what it means to think Christianly in today's divided world. They discuss how secularism has influenced both society and the church, and offer strategies for reclaiming a Christian mindset. Topics include the importance of abiding in God's word, the concept of secularism, and the role of politics in personal relationships. The conversation also touches on original ideas, mindfulness, and the need for intentional thought auditing. They call for placing God's truth above cultural narratives and translating thoughts into actions based on Christian principles.

00:00 Introduction and Opening Thoughts

00:30 Welcome to Counterculture Biblical Truth

01:12 Meet the Hosts

02:36 Discussing Original Ideas and Inventions

09:23 The Concept of Secularism

13:12 Reclaiming the Christian Mind

21:23 Abiding in God's Word

29:06 Navigating Political Differences as Christians

32:23 Be a Leader in Relationships

32:57 The Danger of Political Morality

34:28 Navigating Cultural and Relational Challenges

36:36 Understanding and Respecting Differences

41:33 Thinking Christianly vs. Self-Help

47:46 Reclaiming the Christian Mind

01:02:03 The Importance of Mind Renewal

01:02:50 Challenges Facing the Christian Mind

01:08:40 Abiding in God's Word

29:13 Navigating Political Differences as Christians

01:28:51 Concluding Thoughts and Next Steps