The AC Podcast

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 i...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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 forwar...

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 Christia...

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?

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.

​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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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...

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.

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...

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.

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.

"Are aliens among us?" A question that for generations has sparked entertainment, conspiracy theory, and outright hysteria. Most Christians are unprepared for the growing attention on extraterrestrial life—but what if these encounters are spiritually significant rather than alien? In this episode, we unpack the recent media frenzy fueled by government files and celebrity sightings, exploring what it truly means for faith and theology. From ancient Ezekiel’s celestial visions to modern UFO debates, Troy, Andy and Wes discuss whether ET could fit within God's grand design or threaten your trust in the Creator of the universe.

In the next episode of the Denominations in Conversation podcast series, Ben sits down with Dr. Anna Robbins, President of Acadia Divinity College, to discuss what it means to be a Baptist: Baptist ethics, views on Scripture, the role of baptism, and the autonomy of the church.
Whether you’re looking to learn more or just seeking more theological depth, join us for an insightful discussion.

Happy Mother's Day to... some? Motherhood isn't just about functions—it's a profound identity rooted in biblical truth and eternal value. Join Lindsay as she hosts Bonnie Pue (of The Union Movement) and Melissa (wife of Wes Huff), whose stories and insights illuminate the true beauty and significance of being a mother. They empathize and speak to the mom who may be questioning her role amidst the weight of high expectations or insecurities. From the lessons of their own childhoods to biblical principles of serving and spiritual motherhood, they reveal how motherhood is both a gift and a calling th...

Is the gospel message meant to be marketable? Most Christians intuitively understand the importance of sharing their faith, but many feel overwhelmed or unsure how to communicate the gospel authentically and effectively. In this episode, Andy sits down with Andrew VanderPloeg—VP of Marketing and Communication at Shareword Global. They discuss defining evangelism properly as a relational, ethical, and strategic process rooted in the life and teachings of Jesus. They reveal that effective gospel communication isn’t about tricks or formulas, but about understanding your audience, cultivating genuine relationships, and trusting God with the results

Andy and Steve reflect on their trip to The Netherlands, where two cities—Amsterdam and The Hague—became the backdrop for deeper conversations about peace, justice, and human dignity. From the sobering witness of the Anne Frank House to the legal and moral vision represented by the Peace Palace and the International Criminal Court, this week’s edition of the AC Podcast traces the connection between memory and responsibility. What is the relationship between peace and justice? What happens when people are stripped of their dignity? Join Andy and Steve as they think through how history, memory, and international instit...

Fame. It’s something most of us want. We see famous people and want the glamour of it all—the recognition and the accolades. But what are the costs and challenges of a life put on public display? How does someone negotiate the tension between who she is and whom people want her to be? Wes and Troy sat down with Sadie Robertson Huff. From Duck Dynasty to Dancing with the Stars and more, fame found her at a young age. Discover how she has wrestled with the pressures of public life while staying true to her faith and her...

This week, Apologetics Canada dives back into its series, Denominations in Conversation. Ben sits down with Irish Catholic theologian, Dr. David Deane, Professor of Theology at Newman Theological College in Edmonton, AB, as they discuss some challenging and uncomfortable questions: What does it mean to be part of the “one true Church”? How do Roman Catholics understand the Protestant Reformation? And is it possible to find unity across the divide?

Join us as we explore the role of tradition, and how we might faithfully engage across denominational lines.

Since its release, The Passion of the Christ has been met with shock, awe, confession, and controversy. 21 years later, does Mel Gibson's interpretation still stand as a chilling depiction of the crucifixion of Christ? Join Troy, Ben and Steve as they revisit the film’s raw intensity and lasting impact. From its brutal realism to the deeper questions it raises about suffering, justice, and grace, this conversation goes beyond the screen and into the heart of the cross.

Christians who read the Bible regularly are no strangers to passages that make them pause and scratch their heads. Who are the Nephilim? Who are the “sons of God”? What does it mean that Jesus “went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison”? Many interpretations have been offered, but many of them still leave us bewildered. Steve sat down with Dr. Joel Muddamalle, a theologian and self-described “Bible nerd” to help us understand how the Divine Council view brings these biblical puzzle pieces together into a coherent picture. What does “elohim” mean? Does this view commit us to polytheism? Join us in this...

This week on the AC Podcast we discuss the urgent implications of Canada's Bill C-9 on religious freedoms and free speech. This episode reveals how the legislation could criminalize biblical teachings and silence religious expression. Discover the ambiguity in defining "hate" and how it threatens civil liberties. Learn about the strategic patterns eroding constitutional rights and the chilling effect on faith-based speech. Perfect for pastors, ministry leaders, and believers, this episode equips you with the knowledge to defend your rights and the Gospel. Understand what's at stake and how you can stand for truth in our changing nation.

Are spiritual attacks and oppression real? Where does apologetics fit into the fight? Andy and Steve sat down to address a question submitted by a listener of the AC Podcast. They discuss how apologetics can help ground believers in truth, resist shallow extremes about spiritual warfare, and think carefully about the spiritual dimension of reality. Along the way, they highlight the importance of humility, prayer, Scripture, confession, accountability, and practical boundaries. We need more than good arguments. We need faithful obedience.

In this episode of the AC Podcast, Ben continues our Denominations in Conversation series with an episode on Wesleyanism, featuring AJ Thomas, Associate Pastor of King’s Church Saint John.
We explore the life and legacy of John Wesley, diving into key themes of Wesleyan theology: Entire Sanctification, the sacraments, and the influence of the Holiness Movement. We also talk about the centrality of preaching the Word and what faithful pastoral ministry looks like today.
Whether you’re familiar with Wesleyan theology or just curious about the distinctives of different Christian traditions, this conversation offers clarity and dept...

Western culture has been disciplining young men in narcissistic masculinity that's consumed by wealth, sex, and power but it doesn’t satisfy. The church is currently seeing an influx of young men getting serious about God as they search for meaning, purpose, and value and who need to be discipled. Join Wes, Andy, and special guest John Lovell as they discuss biblical masculinity.

In this episode of the AC podcast, the hosts engage in a conversation about the various styles and expressions of worship. They explore the cultural influences on worship, the distinction between sacred and secular music, and the importance of authenticity and community in worship practices. The discussion emphasizes that worship is not confined to music but is a heart posture directed towards God, and it can take many forms across different traditions and settings. The hosts encourage listeners to seek a genuine relationship with God through worship, whether in a communal setting or in personal reflection.

In this enlightening conversation, Ben McDonald sits down with David Goa to explore the essence of the church from an Eastern Orthodox perspective, emphasizing the importance of communion, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the significance of tradition in spiritual growth. They discuss the challenges of modern ideology, the relationship between scripture and tradition, and the need for a deeper understanding of faith that transcends mere dogma. The dialogue encourages listeners to embrace a holistic view of spirituality that fosters unity and compassion in a diverse world. Listen as they break down the sacred connection between evangelism and...

Most people struggle with self-doubt, comparison, and feeling unworthy, especially when it comes to sharing their faith or stepping into their calling. In this episode, Andy Steiger chats with Ed Newton, pastor of Community Bible Church, in San Antonio Texas. Ed’s unlikely background and struggles with confidence became the foundation for a thriving ministry and his new book, "Why Not You?".
Listen as they break down the sacred connection between evangelism and discipleship, showing that sharing Jesus and building others up are inseparable pursuits.

In this episode of the AC Podcast, Troy, Lindsay, and Ben explore their diverse denominational backgrounds and the significance of unity within the Christian faith. They discuss the importance of understanding different traditions, the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding transitions, and the necessity of love and humility in inter-denominational conversations. The conversation emphasizes the value of obedience to God's calling and the need for mutual support among believers, while also addressing the dangers of tribalism and the importance of recognizing distinctives within various denominations. Looking ahead, they announce plans for future discussions that will delve deeper into...

We live in a world of likes, shares, and posts. What does it mean to be a Christian in the online space and our calling to "making disciples" and "giving an answer for the hope that we have?" Our very own Wes Huff sat down with Tim Barnett (aka Red Pen Logic with Mr. B) to discuss being faith content creators, the highs, lows, and dangers of navigating the online space as a Christian in 2026.

There are seasons in life that force us to confront our unavoidable end. Knowing that we will all die, how then should we truly live? Join Wes and Andy as they respond to a recent listener question and explore what it means to live with hope even in the face of death.

In this episode of the AC Podcast, hosts Troy, Ben, and Steve delve into the complexities of Christian orthodoxy and the importance of unity within the faith. They explore the historical and theological underpinnings of orthodoxy, discuss the challenges of maintaining unity amidst diverse interpretations, and emphasize the core tenets that define Christianity. Join them as they navigate through the nuances of tradition, scripture, and the role of doctrine in shaping a unified Christian identity.