The AC Podcast

Apologetics Canada

The Apologetics Canada Podcast helps churches understand and speak the language of our culture and address questions being asked with intellectual honesty, gentleness and respect.

Hosted by Troy Lydiate

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28 episodes
weekly
Avg 49 min
English

Episodes 28

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#622
Friday · 57 min
Denominations in Conversation: Lutherans with Dr. Jordan B. Cooper
Lutherans have a unique place in the Christian family. They’re the original Protestants, yet they’re often more liturgical and sacramental than many people expect. In this episode of our Denominations in Conversation series, Ben sits down with Dr. Jordan Cooper, host of the popular Just & Sinner Podcast to explore all things Lutheran. What sets Lutherans apart from other traditions? What's unique about their theology and style of worship? And just how central is Martin Luther himself to modern Lutheran theology? Whether you’re Lutheran, curious about Lutheranism, or just want to understand your Christian neighbour better, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.
#621
October 2 · 1 hr 3 min
The Lion, the Logos, and Meryl Streep
What happens to Aslan when Meryl Streep gives him a voice? We open with the news that Streep will voice the Great Lion in the upcoming film adaptation of The Magician's Nephew, and we ask what this casting could mean for the deeper themes of the story. This week on the AC Podcast Dr. Steve West joins us to look at the theological and philosophical depth of C.S. Lewis's prequel. We talk about how Aslan singing Narnia into existence echoes the biblical creation account and the concept of the Logos, the Word through which all things were made. Dr. West explains how each character's reaction to creation shows what is in their heart, and he compares the ways Uncle Andrew and Jadis each explain away the moral law to justify themselves. Drawing on Lewis's own experience of grief, we look at Aslan's tears and what they reveal about the compassionate heart of God. Whether you grew up with Narnia or you're coming back to it with new eyes, this conversation will help you see the beginning of the story in a new way.
#620
September 24 · 54 min
More Than a Sunday Praise | Phil Wickham on “Everyday Hallelujah"
In this episode of the AC Podcast, hosts Troy and Wes are joined by special guest and worship leader Phil Wickham. Wickham reflects on his musical journey, including how he was pushed onto stage at age 13 and his parents' faith background. The group discusses Wickham's book, Everyday Hallelujah, which challenges believers to embrace a lifestyle of worship in their everyday, mundane moments. He shares a personal story of how a frightening vocal injury helped reshape his identity and shifted his songwriting focus toward creating prayers for the church. Finally, the conversation explores the heart of a believer, emphasizing how staying grounded in Jesus can inspire purpose and impact regardless of one's platform.
#619
September 18 · 51 min
Praying to a Higher Power?
Is Science encouraging people to pray? Stanford neuroscientist Andrew Huberman recently opened up about God, faith, and prayer on The Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett—and he’s not the only public figure doing so. Are skeptics genuinely rediscovering faith, or just finding another good way to reduce stress? This week, Wes, Ben, and Andy break down what’s encouraging in this conversation and discuss the dangers of turning prayer into deistic therapy. Are God and the universe interchangeable titles? What happens when we pray to a God who calms our nerves but never asks anything of us in return? Join us for the conversation on this response episode of the AC podcast.
#618
September 11 · 53 min
Reclaiming Beauty and Reverence in Christian Art | with Joshua Leventhal
What happens when Scripture becomes more than something you study and becomes something you step into? Juno nominated artist Joshua Leventhal joins us to talk about the road from the flatlands to the stage, and how biblical studies, music, and growing up with a professional illusionist for a father shaped the way he sees truth and tells stories. At the heart of the conversation is Tapisieri, his ambitious three volume, 25 song project that journeys from Genesis to Revelation through intimate, first person perspectives. We unpack the process behind the project, the relationship between art and the Church, and Joshua’s hope that Tapisieri might become more than an album, serving as a discipleship tool that helps reignite wonder, imagination, and a love for Scripture.
#617
September 4 · 30 min
From Secularity to New Age Witchcraft: Modern Spiritualism in London
In this special on location episode from London, the AC Podcast team records inside St. Mary Woolnoth Church, the historic parish of John Newton, writer of “Amazing Grace.” A chance encounter with parish priest Rev. Wole becomes a fascinating conversation about the spiritual transformation happening across the UK. From secularism and progressivism to the rise of New Age spirituality, manifestation, and witchcraft, Rev. Wole shares why a new generation of seekers is being drawn back to prayer, Scripture, and the Church. As the first Black priest to lead Newton’s former parish, he also reflects on carrying forward a remarkable legacy of faith, freedom, and the gospel in the heart of modern London.
#616
August 28 · 47 min
Would Society Collapse Without Christianity?
Whether you like it or not, living alongside other people is inevitable. So, the question is, what’s the best way to do it? What values should shape our life together? Sociologist, David M. Haskell, unapologetically argues that it is the Christian norms and values that lead to the maximum freedom and flourishing of a society and that our governance should be based on them. This bold claim is highlighted in the title of his book—even bolder—Christ or Collapse. How does he sustain such a bold claim? Is there any empirical evidence to support that? Hasn’t Christianity done more harm than good? What about Japan which is not a Christian country? Shouldn’t governance be neutral in value? Does he want theocracy? Steve sat down with him in this week’s edition of the AC Podcast to delve into these questions and more.
#615
August 21 · 41 min
What Christians Can Learn From The Odyssey
In this episode, Troy and Trystan journey into The Odyssey, exploring its timeless themes of longing, temptation, sacrifice, and the desire to find our way home. Through a Christian lens, they uncover surprising connections between Homer’s ancient story, our modern culture, and the biblical story of humanity’s deepest desires. What do the things we long for reveal about us? What makes a sacrifice truly costly? And beneath all our wandering, are we ultimately searching for home?
#614
August 14 · 1 hr 6 min
How God Uses Every Part of You with Terrance Richmond
What if the greatest thing holding back your ministry isn’t your gifting, but the parts of yourself you’ve never surrendered? Troy sits down with Pastor Terrance Richmond, Founding and Lead Pastor of Love Quest International Church, for a conversation on sonship, discipleship, and becoming fully alive in Christ. Together they challenge modern ideas of church growth and reveal why God’s priority has always been forming people, not filling buildings. From Oakland to church planting, Terrance shares how every part of your story, personality, and gifting can be used for God’s Kingdom when fully surrendered.
#613
August 7 · 45 min
The Ongoing Impact of Alpha with Nicky Gumbel
Alpha has introduced millions of people to Jesus, but what can it teach us about sharing our faith today? In this episode, Nicky Gumbel reflects on his journey from atheist to Christian, the story behind Alpha’s global impact, and why people are still searching for love, purpose, and belonging. Together, Andy, Wes and Nicky explore how evangelism has changed in a post Christian culture and why genuine friendship, not pressure, remains the most powerful way to introduce people to Jesus.
#612
July 31 · 48 min
Denominations in Conversation: Pentecostalism with Pastor Tim Woodcock
In this episode of the AC Podcast, Ben continues our “Denominations in Conversation” series with pastor Tim Woodcock. Pastor Woodcock, the lead pastor of Glad Tidings Pentecostal Church in Burlington, Ontario, Canada, shares insights into Pentecostalism’s history, beliefs, and practices. He addresses common misconceptions within the charismatic movement and explores the experience of spiritual gifts, such as speaking in tongues.
#611
July 24 · 41 min
Heroes or Heretics? The AC Team in Oxford
While filming the next episode of Can I Trust the Bible? at Yarnton Manor in Oxford, Ben sits down with Wes and Andy to explore the story of Bible translation and the men who risked their lives to make Scripture accessible to ordinary people. Were pioneers like John Wycliffe (1328–1384) and William Tyndale (1494–1536) courageous heroes of the faith, or dangerous heretics who challenged the authority of the Church? Join us as we examine their lives, their legacy, and why the translation of the Bible remains one of the most controversial chapters in Christian history.
#610
July 17 · 48 min
Finding Hope in Addiction Recovery with Dr. Quentin Genuis
What is addiction really about—chemistry, choice, or something deeper? In this episode, Andy Steiger sits down with Dr. Quentin Genuis, an emergency physician and ethicist at St. Paul's Hospital in Vancouver, Canada. Dr. Quentin argues that addiction points to a universal human longing for identity, belonging, and purpose. Drawing on medicine, theology, and lived experience, he explains why lasting recovery requires more than policy or medication: it needs community, mercy, and a vision of human flourishing in Christ.
#609
July 10 · 49 min
The Truth About Poverty and Prosperity
The prosperity gospel promises wealth as a sign of faith—but what does the Bible actually say about prosperity and suffering? In this conversation, Troy, Ben, and Steve unpack how prosperity theology distorts Scripture and why true prosperity is found in Christ, not possessions.
#608
July 3 · 53 min
Sports: A Reflection of God’s Creative Design
In a world where sports can feel like a religion, what happens when we place them back in their proper place? In this episode, Troy and Ben explore the beauty, danger, and identity-shaping power of sport, from the World Cup to the NFL, and ask how Christians can enjoy the game without letting it become their god.
#607
June 26 · 47 min
The FUTURE of Apologetics
In this episode, Ben, Andy, and Wes reflect on their visit to Europe and their meeting with John Lennox, discussing a question that feels more urgent than ever: what does the future of apologetics look like?Culture is shifting beneath our feet. New technology is reshaping how people think, connect, and search for meaning. In the midst of it, there have been some surprising changes. People are returning to spirituality, but what kind of spirituality is it? Is the church ready to meet them there?Join us for a wide-ranging conversation about faith, culture, and what it means to commend the gospel in a world that is quickly changing.
#606
June 19 · 52 min
What is a Good, Good Father?
Most people instinctively approach God as distant or just a cosmic ruler. But what if understanding God as Father radically transforms your relationship with Him and your life? On this episode, Troy, Andy, and Trystan challenge you to see God through the lens of biblical fatherhood, sharing personal stories, biblical insights, and practical applications that could reshape your faith.
#605
June 12 · 44 min
Does Christianity Conflict with Greek Epics?
What’s Homer got to do Christianity? With the upcoming film adaptation of The Odyssey, there is a renewed interest in Ancient Greece. In one way, the way of life idealized by Ancient Greeks was very different from how Christianity would later shape culture around the world. But, in another way, there is substantial agreement between the two. Dr. Scott Masson, Associate Professor of English at Tyndale University, joins us today to discuss an unexpected pairing of ancient writings: The Odyssey and the book of Proverbs. Is there something we in the 21st-century West could learn from Homer’s epic poem? How does Scripture shed light on it? Tune into this week’s edition of the AC Podcast to find out.
#604
June 5 · 1 hr 3 min
Denomination Series: Anglicans with Rev. Dr. Ephraim Radner
In the next episode of Denominations in Conversation Ben talks with the Rev. Dr. Ephraim Radner, professor emeritus of historical theology at Wycliffe College, about the history and identity of the Anglican Church. Radner traces the fascinating history of Anglicanism from Henry VIII to the formation of the Book of Common Prayer. They explore the role of prayer and Scripture, and how these shaped everyday life in England through the Reformation era.
#603
May 29 · 46 min
Implications of a Holy (Just) War
What does it mean to pursue peace in a world marked by conflict, violence, and war? In this episode, Wes Huff, Ben McDonald, and Steve Kim explore the complex Christian conversation around war and peace, from Augustine’s just war theory to pacifism, realpolitik, and the example of Jesus. Together, they wrestle with hard questions like, when is violence justified, and does God permit war? This conversation touches on how biblical wisdom, church history, and Christ-centered conviction can shape the way we think about conflict and peacemaking today.

Showing 1–20 of 28 episodes