Best James Heppner Podcasts (2025)

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James and the Question of Faith and Works | Joel B. Green 55:52

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19d ago55:52

55:52

What does James really mean when he says, “faith without works is dead”? In this episode, I talk with New Testament scholar Joel B. Green about his latest commentary on one of the most misunderstood books in the Bible. We explore how James connects faith and works, why he’s often (wrongly) set against Paul, and what it looks like to live out a fait…

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The Last Eight Days of Dietrich Bonhoeffer | John McCabe 52:54

4d ago52:54

52:54

In this episode, I sit down with John McCabe to discuss his new book "Dietrich Bonhoeffer: The Last Eight Days." We talk about the myths that have grown around Bonhoeffer’s death, the unreliable testimonies that shaped past biographies, and the fresh sources that reveal a truer picture of his courage, faith, and humanity in the final days of the Th…

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Rebranding the Church: Is it Possible? | Eric Mason 46:15

6d ago46:15

46:15

In this episode I have the chance to sit down with Dr. Eric Mason to talk about his new book, "Rebranding the Church." We dig into what “rebranding” really means (and doesn’t mean), how the church’s witness has been distorted, and what it will take to restore credibility and trust to the church.Eric Mason is the founder and senior pastor of Epiphan…

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Why GODS KINGDOM will OUTLAST EVERY THREAT 5:50

15d ago5:50

5:50

From 120 believers in Acts to billions today, God’s Kingdom has faced epidemics, persecution, political hostility, and cultural opposition—yet it has never stopped growing. The lesson? No matter what threats arise in our own day, the Church will endure because God’s purposes cannot be stopped. ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Personal Website/Writing⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Apologet…

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Does Exercise Lead to Greater Joy in Jesus? | David Mathis 56:58

22d ago56:58

56:58

What does exercise have to do with following Jesus? In this conversation, I talk with David Mathis from Desiring God, about his new book "A Little Theology of Exercise: Enjoying Christ in Body and Soul." We explore how movement, discipline, and embodied habits can actually deepen our joy in Christ, shape our discipleship, and help us serve others b…

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Art as Apologetics: Hip Hop, Culture, and the Gospel | Troy Lydiate 1:18:59

24d ago1:18:59

1:18:59

What happens when hip hop, art, and apologetics collide? In this conversation, I sit down with Troy Lydiate—better known as Scribe Music—to talk about how art shapes culture, how the church has often struggled to engage with it, and why beauty and creativity matter for apologetics. We explore the tension between the sacred and the secular, the prop…

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What the Global Church Can Teach Us About Worship | Tim Challies 27:49

29d ago27:49

27:49

+ Listen to the end for an exclusive new song preview from CityAlight, written in conjunction with Tim Challies' and Tim Keesee's new book, "From the Rising of the Sun." Together again with Tim Challies, this time to talk about his new book, "From the Rising of the Sun," co-written with Tim Keesee. The book journeys around the globe, following the …

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Inside the Editing of the Westminster Study Bible | Emerson B. Powery 56:06

1M ago56:06

56:06

As the one-year anniversary of the Westminster Study Bible approaches, I am joined by one of its editors, Dr. Emerson Powery, to dive into the vision, process, and purpose behind it. What really goes into the notes, commentary, and theological decisions of a study Bible? How does a study Bible shape the way we read Scripture? And why does the Westm…

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How Aristotle Helps Clarify the Christian Faith | Louis Markos 55:23

1M ago55:23

55:23

Can ancient philosophy help us understand the Christian faith? Louis Markos joins me to talk about his latest book, "From Aristotle to Christ," and how Aristotelian thought shaped the way the early church expressed its beliefs. Our conversation digs into topics like why Aristotle still matters, how philosophy can sharpen faith, and what it means fo…

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How Paul PROVED CHRIST from the SCRIPTURES 6:38

1M ago6:38

6:38

The most important question you will ever answer is this: Who is Jesus? In Acts 17, Paul reasoned with people from the Scriptures, showing that the Messiah had to suffer and rise again—and that Jesus fulfilled those promises. His simple argument was this: 1)The Scriptures foretold a suffering and risen Messiah 2) Jesus died and rose again. Therefor…

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John on Patmos: The Power of HISTORICAL CONTEXT 6:18

1M ago6:18

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Historical context can bring incredible weight to the Bible. Take Revelation 1:9 as an example. John wasn’t just casually writing from an island; he was exiled to Patmos, a place reserved for Rome’s most serious criminalshttps://www.ryleyheppner.comhttps://apologeticscanada.com/ryley-heppner/

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The Church According to Scripture | Guy Waters 57:08

1M ago57:08

57:08

What is the church and why does it still matter? In this episode I chat with Dr. Guy Waters to explore the beautiful biblical doctrine of the church. Drawing from his book One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church, we discuss the church’s identity, its purpose, and its essential role in the Christian life. Guy Waters is the James M. Baird Jr. Profe…

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What Do Biblical Scholars Think of The Chosen? | Doug Huffman and Paul Gondreau 1:07:41

2M ago1:07:41

1:07:41

Biblical scholars Doug Huffman and Paul Gondreau join for me a conversation to explore the historical, theological, and interpretive dimensions of The Chosen. Drawing from their new book "Watching The Chosen: History, Faith, and Interpretation," we discuss how the series portrays Jesus and His followers, where it aligns with the biblical text, wher…

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Did JESUS ever claim to be GOD? 5:48

2M ago5:48

5:48

Did Jesus ever claim to be God? In John 8:58, Jesus declares, “Before Abraham was, I am.” and his audience responds by picking up stones to execute Him for blasphemy. https://www.ryleyheppner.comhttps://apologeticscanada.com/ryley-heppner/

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What if we switched our phone/bible habits? 1:00

2M ago1:00

1:00

I wonder what the impact would be if this week, everywhere you normally would take your phone, you took your Bible instead, or also? And then, what if every time you wanted to pick up your phone to scroll this week, you picked up your Bible instead and read it?

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If I PASTORED again... 12:05

2M ago12:05

12:05

Seven years of lead pastoring and I have now resigned. I don't know what is next, but if it is pastoring again, there are some things I would do differently and a few things I'd do the same. https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://apologeticscanada.com/ryley-heppner/

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Why the Bible Is Funnier Than You Think | Anthony Russo 1:01:36

2M ago1:01:36

1:01:36

In this episode, I sit down with comedian and creator Anthony Russo to talk about his latest release, "The Bible Is Funny: Volume 2" - a card game that finds comedy in the most unexpected corners of Scripture. In our conversation we explore why the Bible is funnier than most people realize, how humor can deepen our engagement with God’s Word, and w…

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Left Behind, Literalism, and the Fall of Dispensationalism 56:39

2M ago56:39

56:39

In this episode, I chat with historian Daniel Hummel about his new book, "The Rise and Fall of Dispensationalism." We explore the story behind the Left Behind series, the Scofield Bible, rapture theology, literal bible interpretation and dispensationalism's move from fringe to mainstream.Daniel G. Hummel (PhD, University of Wisconsin-Madison) is th…

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Peterson, O’Connor, and the Secular Shift | Benjamin MacDonald 1:13:28

2M ago1:13:28

1:13:28

In this episode, I talk with Benjamin MacDonald (Apologetics Canada) about the rise of secularization in the West: what it is, where it came from, and how it’s quietly reshaping not just our culture, but our churches. Ben MacDonald is a theologian, speaker, and educator with a heart for engaging faith and culture. After a brief career in television…

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AI Shepherds and the Future of the Church | Paul Hoffman 56:16

2M ago56:16

56:16

In this episode, I sit down with pastor, author and scholar, Paul Hoffman, to talk about his book "AI Shepherds and Electric Sheep" and to explore how artificial intelligence and digital habits are shaping the way pastors lead, churches function, and disciples are formed. Paul A. Hoffman (PhD, University of Manchester) is associate professor in the…

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Seeing the Apostle Paul With Fresh Eyes | Frank Thielman 1:00:01

2M ago1:00:01

1:00:01

What kind of man was the Apostle Paul? In this episode, Frank Thielman joins me to explore Paul’s life, mission, and message. We talk about how Paul’s years in chains shaped his message of grace, why he often concealed the deepest parts of his story, and the surprising misconceptions people still carry about him today.Frank Thielman joined Beeson D…

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Ignatius, Dallas Willard, and Learning to Dwell in Scripture | Dave Ripper 50:23

3M ago50:23

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In today's episode I chat with Dave Ripper about his new book Experiencing Scripture as a Disciple of Jesus: Reading the Bible like Dallas Willard. Dave unpacks how Dallas Willard’s vision of the “with-God life” can transform the way Christians approach Scripture—not as a textbook to master, but as a living Word to encounter and experience. Dave Ri…

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What Does it Really Mean to FOLLOW JESUS? 5:57

3M ago5:57

5:57

What does it really mean to follow Jesus? And is it possible that it's simpler than we think? When we look at the first disciples—the twelve who left everything to follow Jesus—we see a template for what it means to walk with Him. They weren’t perfect. They stumbled, doubted, and even failed. Yet their lives reveal three core patterns that defined …

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SIMPLE TIP for Reading the Bible COVER to COVER 5:06

3M ago5:06

5:06

For years I thought reading the entire Bible was too much for me—until I broke it down in the simplest way! You don’t need to be a fast reader or super disciplined—just a little math and a small daily habit can transform your Bible reading.https://www.ryleyheppner.comhttps://apologeticscanada.com/ryley-heppner/…

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How the Psalms Can Teach Us to Pray | Reed S. Dunn 49:56

3M ago49:56

49:56

In this conversation, Reed Dunn joins me to talk about his new book "When You Don’t Have the Words: Praying the Psalms." Reed shares how the Psalms give us language for every season of life—joy, sorrow, doubt, and hope—and how they point us to Christ as they shape our prayers. Reed Dunn is the pastor of Redeemer Hudson, New Jersey. He cares deeply …

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Theology, Gender, and the Body | Robert S. Smith 46:53

3M ago46:53

46:53

In this episode, I talk with Robert S. Smith about his new book The Body God Gives: A Biblical Response to Transgender Theory. We explore what transgender theory is, how it became so influential in Western culture, and why the Bible’s vision of the body as “given” rather than self-crafted offers a more hopeful and truthful foundation for identity. …

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Why all the GOSPELS Leave you HANGING 9:00

3M ago9:00

9:00

The Gospels don’t wrap up with neat closure, and maybe that’s the point. The story isn’t finished—and you have a role to play in how it continues! https://apologeticscanada.com/ryley-heppner/By Ryley Heppner

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The Transhumanist Dream and the Christian Response | Steve Kim 1:04:51

3M ago1:04:51

1:04:51

In this episode, I sit down with Steve Kim, a speaker with Apologetics Canada and a PhD student researching transhumanism, to explore one of the most pressing worldviews emerging in our time. We talk about what transhumanism is, why it matters, and how it’s already shaping how people think about identity, purpose, and salvation. Drawing on the idea…

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Why Do We Keep Favoring Christian Celebrities? 7:57

3M ago7:57

7:57

When news broke about Michael Tait’s confession and the disturbing allegations surrounding him, many Christians were shocked. But should we be? Maybe it is worth considering what James 2 has to say about favoritism and Christian celebrity culture. https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://apologeticscanada.com/ryley-heppner/…

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What Happens When Faith and Creativity Collide? | Ray Barbee 1:20:48

3M ago1:20:48

1:20:48

In this episode I sit down with skateboarding legend, Ray Barbee, to explore the heart behind his creativity and faith. We talk about the early days of his skateboarding journey and how music, photography, and especially his relationship with Jesus have shaped the way he approaches art and life. Ray Barbee is a legendary skateboarder, musician, and…

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What's the NEXT STEP when God FEELS FAR? 6:38

3M ago6:38

6:38

A promise that no one else can make, but God; if you seek Him with all your heart, you will find Him. https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://apologeticscanada.com/ryley-heppner/By Ryley Heppner

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Scrolling Ourselves to Death | Brett McCracken 48:50

4M ago48:50

48:50

In this episode, Brett McCracken joins me to talk about his new book Scrolling Ourselves to Death and the spiritual toll of living in a world of endless scrolling, constant noise, and digital distraction. Brett offers insight into Neil Postman’s prophetic warnings, the dangers of dopamine-driven media, and how the church can resist the tide with a …

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Apologetics Canada's NEWEST and LEAST Requested Speaker! 1:00

4M ago1:00

1:00

I’m now officially a speaker for Apologetics Canada! https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://apologeticscanada.com/ryley-heppner/By Ryley Heppner

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Should Christians Care About the Dead Sea Scrolls? | Andrew Perrin 57:50

4M ago57:50

57:50

What do ancient manuscripts found in desert caves have to do with the Bible in your hands today? In this episode, Dr. Andrew Perrin—author of Lost Words and Forgotten Worlds—joins us to unpack the strange, surprising, and deeply relevant world of the Dead Sea Scrolls. We talk lost texts, wild apocalyptic imagination, messianic hopes before Jesus, a…

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Memory, History and The Reliability of the Gospels | Craig S. Keener 54:17

7M ago54:17

54:17

Are the Gospels historically reliable? In this episode, I sit down with renowned New Testament scholar Craig Keener to discuss his book Christobiography: Memory, History, and the Reliability of the Gospels. We explore how the Gospels fit within the genre of ancient biography (bios), what that means for their historical accuracy, and how eyewitness …

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Galatians and the Fight For the Gospel | Thomas R. Schreiner 53:55

7M ago53:55

53:55

What is the heart of Paul’s message in Galatians, and why does it still matter today? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Thomas R. Schreiner to explore the powerful themes of his book, Christ Crucified: A Theology of Galatians. We discuss justification by faith, the role of the law, Christian freedom, and the centrality of the cross in one of Pau…

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The Unlikely Journey of Joshua S. Porter 1:22:33

8M ago1:22:33

1:22:33

Joshua Porter has lived a life of raw creativity and radical faith. From fronting a beautifully chaotic band to becoming an author, filmmaker, and pastor, his journey has been anything but conventional. In this episode, we dive into his unexpected path—exploring music, storytelling, and the intersection of art and faith. Joshua S. Porter is pastor …

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Life, Faith, and Wakeboarding | Shaun Murray 57:25

8M ago57:25

57:25

In this episode, I talk with wakeboarding legend Shaun Murray about the role of faith in his life and career. We discuss what it means to trust God through the ups and downs of professional sports, how his faith has shaped his perspective on success and identity, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Shaun shares how he stays grounded, what k…

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The Beauty of The Gospel According to Matthew | Charles Quarles 44:35

8M ago44:35

44:35

Matthew’s Gospel is more than just a historical account—it’s a masterpiece of theology, fulfillment, and discipleship. In this episode, I sit down with New Testament professor Charles Quarles to explore the depth, structure, and significance of The Gospel According to Matthew, and to talk about his new Matthew commentary in the Evangelical Biblical…

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The Power of the Gospel in Romans | Beverly Gaventa 52:25

8M ago52:25

52:25

In this episode, I sit down with renowned biblical scholar Beverly Gaventa to discuss her latest work, a groundbreaking commentary on Paul's letter to the Romans. We explore the rich theology of Romans, focusing on its central themes of grace, righteousness, and the transformative power of the Gospel. Beverly shares her insights on how this letter …

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Guiding Kids Toward Christ-Centred Identity | Jonathan Holmes 52:07

8M ago52:07

52:07

In this episode, I sit down with Jonathan Holmes, author of Grounded in Grace: Helping Kids Build Their Identity in Christ. We discuss the challenges kids face in today’s culture, from performance-driven identities to issues of gender and peer pressure. Jonathan shares practical insights for parents, youth leaders, and mentors on fostering gospel-c…

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Following Christ in Action Sports | Beaver Fleming 50:39

9M ago50:39

50:39

In this episode I dive into a conversation about faith, skateboarding, and Nitro Circus with professional skateboarder Beaver Fleming. From his journey into action sports to joining the legendary Nitro Circus team, Beaver shares the highs and challenges of his career, the wildest stuff he's attempted, and the lessons he's learned along the way. We …

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A Conversation About Film, Faith and Seasons | Abby Olcese 1:00:28

9M ago1:00:28

1:00:28

In this episode, I sit down with film critic and author Abby Olcese to discuss her new book, "Films for All Seasons." Abby highlights how the changing seasons influence our emotional connection to movies, how certain films reflect the rhythms of life in profound and unexpected ways and how Christians can engage thoughtfully with film. Abby Olcese i…

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The Revelation Conversation (Part 1) | G. K. Beale 40:18

9M ago40:18

40:18

I had the immense privilege today of getting to chat with renowned biblical scholar G.K. Beale to explore the profound depths of the Book of Revelation. Known for his expertise in biblical theology and his groundbreaking works on Revelation, Dr. Beale unpacks the book’s rich symbolism, its connections to the Old Testament, and its enduring message …

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Wonders From Your Law | Kevin Chen 55:25

9M ago55:25

55:25

In this episode, I sit down with Kevin S. Chen, author of "Wonders From Your Law: Nexus Passages and the Promise of an Exegetical Intertextual Old Testament Theology." Kevin shares insights into the "nexus passages"—key texts that bridge themes, stories, and promises across Scripture—and why they matter for understanding the Bible as a whole. Wheth…

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The Quest for the Historical Baptizer | James F. McGrath 56:09

9M ago56:09

56:09

In this episode, I sit down for a second time with James McGrath to discuss his fascinating new book, "John of History, Baptist of Faith: The Quest for the Historical Baptizer." We dive into the life and legacy of John the Baptist, exploring his historical significance, his relationship with Jesus, and how his ministry shaped the Gospel story. Jame…

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Thinking Biblically About Danger and Risk | Jeremy Lundgren 54:05

10M ago54:05

54:05

In this episode, I am joined by Jeremy Lundgren to explore his new book, The Pursuit of Safety: A Theology of Danger, Risk, and Security. Jeremy challenges assumptions about safety in modern life, asking how a biblical worldview reshapes our understanding of risk, fear, and trust in God. Together, we discuss what it means to follow Christ in a worl…

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Bonhoeffer for the Church | Matthew D. Kirkpatrick 1:01:41

10M ago1:01:41

1:01:41

In this episode, I sit down with Bonhoeffer scholar, Matthew D. Kirkpatrick to discuss his new book, "Bonhoeffer for the Church: An Introduction." Kirkpatrick offers a fresh and accessible look at the life, theology, and enduring legacy of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, one of the most influential Christian voices of the 20th century. In our conversation we …

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Mobilizing for the Gospel | Jim Essian 49:01

10M ago49:01

49:01

In this episode, I sit down with pastor and author, Jim Essian, to discuss his latest book, "Send: Loving Your Church by Praying, Giving, or Going." Jim shares about his journey from professional baseball to church planting and founding the Plant Fort Worth network, which has helped plant 15 churches in just six years. He unpacks the heart of his n…

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From Southtown to P.O.D. | Sonny Sandoval 1:17:11

10M ago1:17:11

1:17:11

In this episode I have the amazing privilege of getting to sit down with Sonny Sandoval, the legendary frontman of P.O.D., to talk about his upcoming autobiography, Son of Southtown: My Life Between Two Worlds. This conversation was one of, if not the highlight of this podcasting thing so far. Sonny was one of a kind. The nicest guy, and clearly so…