---

An encore presentation for the Christmas season. Prof. John Mark Reynolds (Houston Baptist University) discusses the life, times, and writing of Charles Dickens, with special reference to his well-known masterpiece “A Christmas Carol.” He reveals a number of nuances that most people miss in this classic work, and best of all, we discuss Muppets!

Please share our podcast with your friends. We are the gift that keeps on giving!

[ READ THE FULL ARTICLE ]

---

Who doesn’t love the movie “It’s A Wonderful Life?” Author Jon Sweeney explores the spiritual themes of temptation, resurrection, and salvation that are found in the town of Bedford Falls. We walk through this epic film focusing on certain “turnkey” moments in George Bailey’s life leading up to the second half of the film wherein Jimmy Stewart’s character faces temptation, prays for relief, and experiences a resurrection. Jon Sweeney adds a twist to the familiar story, though, by talking about a little noticed aspect of the final scene involving the character of Sam Wainwright. This is a great primer for those folks who are about to see the film for the first time, and it is allows experienced viewers look at the storyline with fresh eyes. Grab a glass of mulled cider, curl up by the fire, and share this fascinating podcast with a good friend.

Share our podcast with your friends, family, and congregants with the social media links below. Thanks!

[ READ THE FULL ARTICLE ]

---

Our special Christmas show examines the life, times, and writing of Charles Dickens with John Mark Reynolds (Houston Baptist University) with particular attention to “A Christmas Carol.” Prof. Reynolds discusses recurrent themes in Dickens’ stories and reveals a number of nuances and insights that many people miss in his timeless tale of Ebeneezer Scrooge’s redemption. And yes, we talk Muppets!

Give the gift of knowledge by telling your family and friends about our free educational podcast.

[ READ THE FULL ARTICLE ]

---

Who doesn’t love the movie “It’s A Wonderful Life?” Author Jon Sweeney explores the spiritual themes of temptation, resurrection, and salvation that are found in the town of Bedford Falls. We walk through this epic film focusing on certain “turnkey” moments in George Bailey’s life leading up to the second half of the film wherein Jimmy Stewart’s character faces temptation, prays for relief, and experiences a resurrection. Jon Sweeney adds a twist to the familiar story, though, by talking about a little noticed aspect of the final scene involving the character of Sam Wainwright. This is a great primer for those folks who are about to see the film for the first time, and it is allows experienced viewers look at the storyline with fresh eyes. Grab a glass of mulled cider, curl up by the fire, and share this fascinating podcast with a good friend.

An iTunes subscription to Research on Religion makes a great holiday gift, and it is absolutely free! Share it with your friends, family, and congregants with the social media links below. Thanks!

[ READ THE FULL ARTICLE ]

---