Noted Christian apologist, Lee Strobel, joins Wayne Shepherd in conversation about his book, The Case For Christmas. (click for more...)

Website: https://leestrobel.com/

Lee Strobel—former atheist, journalist, and now well-known Christian apologist—joins Wayne Shepherd to discuss The Case for Christmas and the historical credibility of the Christmas story. Drawing from his investigative approach, Strobel explains how a deeper look at language, culture, and prophecy clarifies long-held misunderstandings, such as the translation of the Greek word kataluma, which likely refers not to a commercial inn but to a guest room in a first-century home, suggesting Jesus was born in a family setting rather than a detached stable. He also highlights that many supposed parallels between Christianity and ancient myths collapse under scrutiny, reinforcing the uniqueness of the virgin birth and the reliability of biblical accounts. Strobel examines the legitimacy of Isaiah’s prophecy about a virgin birth, noting its placement within a cluster of Messianic expectations and its accurate rendering in early translations. The conversation touches on modern skepticism—particularly among Gen Z—yet Strobel notes a surprising openness to truth when evidence is thoughtfully presented. He emphasizes that Christianity rests on solid historical and factual foundations, but ultimately invites a heart response to God’s incarnation and redemptive mission. Strobel closes by expressing optimism about spiritual awakening among young people and announces his forthcoming film, The Case for Miracles, which documents contemporary evidence of God’s ongoing work.

NEXT WEEK: DL Moody Biographer Kevin Belmonte

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Doug Shaw, the author of CURATIVE CULTURE, Stepping Away from A Toxic Workplace, talks with Wayne Shepherd. (click for more...)

Websites: www.dougshawperspective.com AND www.douglasshaw.com

Doug Shaw, chairman and CEO of Douglas Shaw & Associates and author of Curative Culture, discusses his humble upbringing in a hand-built cabin in Washington and how those early experiences shaped his sense of purpose and work ethic. He explains the concept of a “curative culture” as the opposite of a toxic workplace—an environment grounded in hope, opportunity, trust, and recognition of each person's humanity, influenced by his Christian faith and the belief that people are created in the image of God. Shaw emphasizes servant leadership, the legitimate use of power, and the responsibility of leaders to desire the success of their coworkers and support them through personal and professional challenges. Drawing from personal stories, including the loss of his father and past unhealthy work experiences, he advocates for values-driven organizations where excellence, empathy, accountability, and genuine care shape how people work together. His book aims to help both nonprofit and for-profit leaders create healthier, more life-giving workplaces.

NEXT WEEK: Lee Strobel, the author of THE CASE FOR CHRISTMAS

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Anita Deyneka has a long history of ministry to the people of Soviet and post-Soviet cultures, including children. She talks with Wayne Shepherd. (click for more)

Websites: missioneurasia.org Read about giving a gift of hope at Christmas

afamilyforeveryorphan.org

Anita Deyneka is a longtime missionary, author, and advocate for vulnerable children, whose life and ministry have spanned the Soviet era, the collapse of communism, and the current crisis in Ukraine. Raised in Washington State and called to Christ at age 11, Anita later married missionary Peter Deyneka Jr., joining the influential Slavic Gospel Association founded by his father. Together they supported Christian radio broadcasts, distributed Bibles, and worked closely with persecuted believers across Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union—efforts that sometimes resulted in denied visas due to their advocacy writings.

After communism fell, Anita played a major role in expanding ministry opportunities, including leadership of Peter Deyneka Russian Ministries (now Mission Eurasia) and development of programs for emerging Christian leaders. Her deepest long-term focus, however, has been orphan care. Inspired by Ukrainian believers after the Soviet collapse, she helped encourage national movements such as Ukraine Without Orphans, Russia Without Orphans, and eventually the global coalition World Without Orphans, now active in over 90 countries.

Today, Anita’s central concern is the plight of Ukrainian children affected by Russia’s 2022 invasion, including the forcible abduction of more than 20,000 children into Russia and Russian-controlled territories, where they are separated from families, indoctrinated, or even forced into military service. She urges prayer, awareness, and support for bipartisan U.S. legislation aimed at ensuring the safe return of these children and upholding family unity.

This conversation reflects Anita’s lifelong commitment to bringing the hope of Christ to vulnerable communities and championing the well-being and protection of children in crisis.

NEXT WEEK: Douglas Shaw

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