Stephen offers some historical and literary context for the Bible, revealing the common dangers of using Scripture as an "E-Z-Reference."

As President Obama's second inauguration approaches, Stephen looks back at our country's most famous Second Inaugural Address. Related Articles A List of Inaugural Addresses: http://www.bartleby.com/124/ Taking a Closer Look at Presidential Inaugurations: http://blogs.loc.gov/teachers/2013/01/taking-a-closer-look-at-presidential-inaugurations-lincolns-second-inaugural-address/

We're living in tough times, but despair is not an option. Stephen discusses the reasons this is true. Related Articles Read The Tennessean's recent piece on Stephen: http://www.tennessean.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2013301060095 Why this is not the worst Congress ever: http://www.forbes.com/sites/peterjreilly/2012/12/30/dysfunctional-congress-at-least-they-are-not-maiming-one-another/ More commentary on the idea of a Golden Age: http://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2013/01/actually-dont-write-like-youre-dead/266934/

Recording from the historic Washington D.C. Union Station, Stephen offers an optimistic reminder for our nation in light of a troubling year.

Stephen lists his favorite books of the year.

Stephen examines the problems behind the Universalism taught in Rob Bell's book "Love Wins." This episode was originally released on March 26, 2011. In light of the recent article by Kalefa Sanneh in New Yorker magazine, we thought we'd share it again. You can read Sanneh's "The Hell Raiser" [read more]

Stephen urges new approaches in conservative politics.

Stephen discusses the results of the 2012 presidential race and what it means for the Republican party.

Stephen discusses an important phrase Romney used in the final presidential debate.

Stephen discusses the two presidential candidates in light of their final debate performance.