The Living Youth Podcast
The Living Youth Podcast helps teens and young adults think biblically about culture and current events. It’s hosted by Wallace Smith and John Robinson.
Episodes
A Debilitating Crisis of Purpose (Part 2)
In this follow-up episode, we discuss biblical approaches, principles, and truths for addressing the lack of purpose and meaning overcoming many young adults in today's world. Followers of Jesus Christ have every reason to face life with a real sense of purpose, and have tools and help within reach.
Our Humble Apologies!
Please accept our humble apologies! The topic we began last week is so important and our time has been so pressed that we just didn't believe we could do it justice with the little space we had available this week. Our listeners have been so kind over the years, and we hope you don't mind if we skip this week and come back next week—which we will work hard to do! Until then, we hope you&
A Debilitating Crisis of Purpose (Part 1)
All available evidence says that many under 30 are suffering a life-damaging crisis of meaning and purpose. What factors and forces are behind this trend, and how can biblical thinking make a difference? Beginning in this episode and concluding in the next, we'll take a look at this crisis and consider both its causes and its solutions.
"What Denomination Are You?"
If it hasn't happened to you, it will! What do you say when someone asks what denomination you are? How do you keep it simple and answer the question while also being clear about what matters? Today, we enjoy the company of guest Mr. Everett McNair, who covered the topic extremely well in a recent sermonette. We hope you'll join us!
Prehistory from the Bible
What does the Bible say about what took place before man began writing anything down—the history of all of existence? Quite a lot, actually! Join us today, along with guest Phil Sena, as we take a look at prehistory according to the Bible. And the free resource mentioned today can be found here: https://www.tomorrowsworld.org/booklets/evolution-and-creation-what-both-sides-miss
Thinking Biblically About Fiction (and Supergirl)
Fiction can be fun to read or watch, but you have to keep your biblical brain engaged—not just in what you choose to consume but as you consume it. Today we talk about that and dive into the recent movie Supergirl to discuss how it might illustrate what we're talking about.
Bad News (and Some Good News!) on U.S. Morals
Pew Research surveyed Americans concerning their moral stances, and while the nation's moral slide continues, there are some interesting, quirky details in the results. Join us as we take a look at the findings with our biblical thinking hats on.
Why Prophecy?
What's the point of Bible prophecy? It can seem strange, intimidating, or even unnecessary. But prophecy is a vital part of the Bible—and of the faith. And on this week's episode, we talk about why. (Also, for everyone on their way to the LYP camp in Texas, we are praying you have a wonderful time!)
The Dangers of (Bad) Therapy Culture
A psychotherapist recently warned about how therapy seems to have shifted away from encouraging people to grow and overcome, emphasizing instead validation, externalizing problems, and pathologizing many ordinary struggles, and the same trend can be seen in the culture at large, outside of the therapy room. As usual, the Bible gives us vital principles we need to keep in mind to think clearly in a
The Toxic Effects of Believing You’re “Going to Heaven”
The idea of a vague "heaven" waiting at the end of a life in which God places few real obligations on you is demotivating when compared to the reality. On today's episode, we chat about the difference.
Thinking Biblically About "Project Hail Mary"
Sci-Fi "buddy movie" with Ryan Gosling and an alien friend, what's not to love? "Project Hail Mary" was very popular, but what thoughts or meditations does it spark if we're willing to think biblically? Today, we explore just that question.
El Salvador & Millennial Musings
A recent visit to El Salvador (thank you to all who were there!) and the changes President Nayib Bukele has made there has us musing about the Millennial reign of Jesus Christ and what is possible—and impossible—in this world without Him. Join the conversation!
Why Does Gen Z Want to Live in the Past?
A poll recently showed that many young adults wished they lived in the past—not the distant past, but often just the 1980s or 1990s. What is driving those feelings? And how do we respond biblically when we feel the pull ourselves? Let's talk about it.
Seven Reasons You Need God's Holy Spirit
“The Holy Spirit is the difference maker.” So said special guest Mr. Phil Sena on this episode of the podcast! With Pentecost right around the corner, join us as we discuss the differences God's Spirit makes in your life.
A Super-Quick Post-Council of Elders Update!
Not much time today! But all the more since we will both miss next week, we thought we'd sit down with you and give you a super-quick update on the Council of Elders meeting that just took place (with a tip of the hat to very old Episode 18!). Please pray for all the men and their wives who will be traveling home!
President Trump's "National Sabbath" Proclamation
On May 4, 2026, the White House published a "National Sabbath" proclamation from U.S. President Donald Trump. Was this an egregious violation of the separation of church and state? A wholehearted embrace of the biblical Sabbath? Or something else? It caught the attention of a lot of Sabbath-keepers (like us), so let's take a closer look.
What a Time to Be Alive!
It struck us recently that we are living in momentous times—in terms of technology, current events, and prophetic fulfillment. So today, we touch on just a few of the many reasons why it is quite a time to be alive!
Simplifying Faith
Faith is often misunderstood and, to be sure, is a concept rich with meaning. It helps to break it down into simpler ideas that, while having their own profound depths, are perhaps easier to grasp—and to understand how to grow in. Join us today as we discuss a simple take on faith and what it means to have it (or not).
Jane Austen & Thinking Biblically
Every book, movie, or miniseries we consume presents an opportunity to practice biblical thinking. So do our conversations later with others about it. So, we practice that today, ourselves, by looking at some of Jane Austen's works—favorites of some of our listeners—and discuss biblical principles they might prompt us to consider.
Relationship Red Flags & Green Flags
At some point in the lives of young adults, dates begin to narrow from showing someone a nice time or enjoying a social activity with a friend to "OK, which of these folks are husband or wife material?" (Or, equally important, "Am I husband or wife material?") On today's episode, we take a listener question and apply some biblical thinking to the question of "red flag
Taming Your Shoggoth
We know it's a weird title, but bear with us for a bit... Lift the hood (or bonnet for some of our non-U.S. friends) on A.I. and you see some strange things. But some of those strange things can teach us a lot about our own battle with human nature and about what God is trying to achieve in our lives. Join us today as we look at just one fascinating (if a little terrifying) example.
Seven Tools for Self-Examination
In God's Festivals, the spring Holy Days are a time of self-examination. While we might hear the admonition to examine ourselves fairly frequently, how do you go about doing that? Are there any "boots on the ground," practical approaches? Yes, there are. Today, we share seven approaches you can use, not just during this Festival season, but any time.
Because of Passover...
Passover is a little more than a week away! As the first of God's annual festivals and the one picturing Jesus Christ's sacrifice for us, it has much to teach us. Join us today as we discuss five lessons we learn from this momentous day.
Thinking Biblically About the War in Iran
Depending on the news outlet you listen to, the U.S.-Israel war against Iran is either extremely successful or doomed to failure. But while pundits and newscasters throw out analysis and predictions, we need to ask ourselves: How do we think biblically about the situation and see God's perspective? Join us as we talk about that! (Bonus points to listeners who catch our suggestion that Europe
Are the 7 Churches of Revelation 2 & 3 Prophesied Eras?
Are they just letters to seven first-century congregations, containing general advice that applies to all of us, or are they all of that and more? In fact, the letters to the seven churches of Revelation 2 & 3 are indeed more: They represent prophesied, successive eras of the Church of God over two millennia, from the first century to end-times. On today's podcast, we'll look at some
Biblical Thinking on Tattoos and Piercings
Tattoos and body piercings seem to be on their way to becoming the norm in society. How do we think biblically about such things? What are the right questions to ask ourselves?
Three Insights for the Young from Our Time at the NRB
Sitting here in a car with Messrs. DeSimone and West, coming back from the Religious Broadcasters Convention, it hit us that some of the things we heard and experienced this week prompted some very particular thoughts concerning the teens and young adults in the Church (and those who love them). So, if you'll put up with a little recorded-on-the-phone-and-in-the-car audio, it's our pleas
All About Men's Training Camps!
The Living Church of God's Men's Training Camp weekends are phenomenal opportunities for men to come together and grow as Christians. Seen properly, they benefit not just the men who attend, but all of us. On today's podcast, Mr. Jonathan McNair, the Director of Living Education, stops by to discuss the goals and purposes of these programs and to give us a sense of what they are lik
Philadelphia, Laodicea, & the End-Time Church of God
Received a question from a young listener about what it means to be Philadelphian or Laodicean and how that relates to us individually as a part of the Church of God. So, we crack open your Bibles with us and let's look at the answer!
Ambassadors for the Prince of Peace
As the world descends into angry, hateful collections of people, it will be easier than we might think to join in. But blessed are the peacemakers! We are to represent a coming kingdom of peacemakers, which means we need to learn how to make peace in the small, personal worlds we've each been given. Today, we discuss being a peacemaker and offer three pieces of biblical advice for becoming on
They Want to Draft Your Mind...
There is an ongoing effort—from big corporations and governments to social movements and influencers—to draft your mind to help with their causes. Many of us sign right up without realizing it. Maybe you have, too. But God desires you to be part of a different cause. Stop signing up for theirs and stay focused on His. On today's podcast, we talk about principles to help keep us focused.
Remembering Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong
Today, January 16, 2026, marks 40 years since the death of Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong. On this episode of the podcast, we look with gratitude at only a small handful of the precious truths he was used by God to restore to the Body of Christ.
Between the Old and New Testaments
With Mr. Mark Sandor still in the studio, we lean on him for some historical insight into what took place between the Old and New Testaments, which adds a lot of helpful context for what we read concerning the first-century beginnings of the Church. Enjoy!
It's YOUR Church, Too!
Today, Mr. Phil Sena joins us again to discuss steps teens and young adults can take to embrace the fact that the Church of God is not just their parents' church, but theirs as well. Join us!
Answering Your Questions (with Help from Mark Sandor!)
Mr. Mark Sandor is in town for the big family weekend, so we decided to take advantage of his presence and address some questions sent in by our wonderful listeners. On this episode, we have questions about who can keep the Passover, when to counsel for baptism, avoiding worldly attitudes about dating, and being open with God in prayer. We hope you'll join us!
The Blessings of Keeping the Bible's Holy Days
If we're willing to step out in faith and observe the Bible's holy days—the feasts of God listed in its pages and kept by the first-century Church—instead of the counterfeit days proffered to us by counterfeit Christianity, we find there are many blessings that become ours. In this episode we discuss five blessings we hope you won't take for granted. Join us!
Christians Don't Celebrate Christmas
It might seem paradoxical, but it's a fact: Christians don't celebrate Christmas. And they don't because Jesus would not want them to. If following Christ means anything to you at all, then listen in this week to learn what everyone needs to understand this time of year.
You CAN Study the Bible!
Many know they should be studying their Bible, but it can feel intimidating. But don't let doubt (or the devil) stop you! You can do it! Join us today as we give you six approaches to getting over the hump and getting started in your Bible study.
Taking Personal Responsibility—with Mr. Phil Sena!
Today, Mr. Phil Sena stops by, and we talk about the vital importance of taking personal responsibility—especially in a world that is passionately teaching us to invest more in blaming others or characterizing ourselves as victims. Join us as we open our Bibles and see what God has to say on the topic.
The Inside Always Affects the Outside
It's easy to think that we can be one way when we're alone and another in public, or to buy into the idea that one's private, personal choices are not in any way anyone else's business, because one has nothing to do with the other. But, in reality, the inside always impacts the outside, and individual choices do have societal ramifications. Let's apply some biblical thinki
The Dangers of Ingratitude
With Thanksgiving coming up here in the U.S.—and thankfulness important any time—we thought it a good time to meditate on the very real dangers of ingratitude. Join us as we examine six biblical examples and the lessons we can learn from them.
Brain Rot Destroys A.I. Brains (and Yours!)
A fascinating study on how "brain rot" content devastates the capabilities of A.I. models points us to frightening conclusions about its effects on us and our children—causing potentially permanent damage. Join us on the program today as we talk about what scientists are learning and what God teaches, and let's think biblically about brain rot—while we can still think!
No, You Shouldn't Keep Halloween
Sometimes the most obvious conclusions are the right ones! Halloween seems obviously heathen-ish, doesn't it? Still, some claim it is actually Christian in origin or otherwise a good thing and that those who claim it is evil in nature are naïve simpletons, unable to appreciate subtlety. Don't be fooled! What does God think about Halloween? When you think biblically, the right answer is,
Our Takeaways from Feast of Tabernacles 2025
We each had an amazing Feast of Tabernacles this year, but the Feast isn't really about what you experience, but what you learn and take away. Today, we each talk about lessons we learned this year that we want to keep in mind as we move forward.
Some of Our Favorite Millennial/Feast-time Passages
There are so many beautiful passages in God's word describing the coming reign of Jesus Christ and His saints. Today, we review some of our favorites while looking forward to the Feast of Tabernacles, only a few days away! Have a wonderful Feast, everyone!
A Few of Satan's Favorite Things
With the Day of Atonement only a few days away, we have the coming banishment of Satan from the world for a thousand years on our minds today. Join us today as we chat about a few of the devil's favorite snares and traps. Forewarned is forearmed!
How NOT to Prepare for the End-Times
With the Feast of Trumpets just around the corner, we have the end-times on our minds. Today, we thought we'd take a different angle and discuss various ways you should NOT prepare for the end of the age—then, wrap things up with a very important way you should.
Why Is Political Violence Skyrocketing in the U.S.?
The public murder of Charlie Kirk in Utah has grabbed the attention of the world. Sadly, it is only the latest example of a growing tendency toward political violence in the United States. What is going on? And how can we avoid getting caught up in worldly, carnal takes and think about these things biblically? Join us as we talk about it.
Get to Know Mr. Adam West!
Today, Mr. Adam West joins us in the studio (a.k.a. Mr. Robinson's office). He was relocated here a few months ago to assist with the work at HQ, and you have already seen him in a few sermons on the Living Church of God YouTube channel. He kindly agreed to sit down with us a bit so you could get to know him a little better. So, sit down with us!
Biblical Reasons to Identify the U.S. & U.K. as Tribes of Israel
We are asked often why we believe the United States, the United Kingdom, and many other nations are tribes of ancient Israel and why many prophecies about Israel apply to them. And there are very good biblical reasons. Today, we preview an article coming out in the September-October Tomorrow's World magazine and take a look at some of those reasons.
If It's Worth Doing, It's Worth Doing Poorly
That might seem like terrible advice, but sometimes, it is exactly the advice you need—even when it comes to prayer, Bible study, and other disciplines of life in Christ. Join us today as we explain.
Youth Camp History and a New Year of Living Ed!
Messrs. Gerald Weston and Jonathan McNair join us to respond to a listener's question about the history of the Church's youth camps, and we take the opportunity to discuss the benefits of Living Education as a new year kicks off!
Four Tools for Handling Peer Pressure
Peer pressure can be a challenge at any age, but especially so when we're young. Today, we take a look at four different things you can do to push back against peer pressure and do the right thing.
Your Questions About Jesus—Answered!
Some listeners had some interesting questions about Jesus Christ and His sacrifice. Today, we answer them!
You've Been Lied To About Jesus
Jesus has probably been lied about more than any other historical figure. Today, we take a look at just five of those lies, both large and small, and contrast them with the Bible truth.
A Truth "Too Wonderful for Me"
Today, we take a brief look at a beautiful truth that King David felt was simply too wonderful for him—beyond his reach to fully grasp and appreciate. If we reflect on it, we can begin to see where he was coming from and benefit from the perspective it provides.
Seven Signs of the Antichrist
The word "antichrist" has come to be genericized to mean "super-evil dude." Even when treating the topic seriously, many are confused about what "antichrist" even means. Yet in the years ahead, recognizing the very real, prophesied individual will become very important! The topic doesn't have to be intimidating. Join us as we talk about seven specific characteris
How to Love Your Country: Patriotism and the Bible
Well, it's Fourth of July weekend here in the United States, when America celebrates its independence. With that in mind, it seemed fitting to address a question that comes up from time to time: Is patriotism biblical? Are loving one's country and being a Christian compatible? Join us as we talk about it!
Two Great Quotes About Marriage
We stumbled on two great quotes about marriage that really seemed to get things right and thought they'd be worth sharing. Join us as we apply some biblical thinking to that most foundational of human institutions.
Just What Do You Mean "Jesus"?
Many are talking about religious revival, and a lot of people are mentioning Jesus. But just who are they talking about? Don't be deceived! Join us this week as we talk about it.
Israel Attacks Iran—What Does the Bible Say?
As Israel attacks Iran and the news analysts go into overdrive, the Bible provides key principles that give insight about the current moment and what is prophesied to lie ahead. Don't cram today's news into the Bible—instead, let the Bible reveal the meaning behind today's news. Join us on the podcast as we talk about today's attack by Israel on Iran's leadership and nucle
How to "Watch" with Your Head on Straight
God's word encourages us to watch world events, yet it's easy to do so in an unhealthy way or in a way that fails to make the prophetic connections. Today, we talk about how to keep your head on straight and think biblically while keeping an eye on world affairs.
The Surprising Blessings of Physical Bibles
As helpful as digital Bibles can be, there are real blessings and benefits to spending time with physical, tangible, good ol' paper Bibles. Here's why you should put down the Bible app, close the laptop, and "go analog" more often with your Bible reading and study.
You Don't Belong to You
Is humanity at peak self-centeredness? Possibly! But the antidote is to recognize the vital truth that you don't belong to you. Let's talk about it.
Dire Wolves: Did We Just Resurrect an Extinct Species?
The claims were bold: Extinct species—resurrected! Thanks to genetic engineering, huge, white, fluffy dire wolves are again among us. Or are they? In the podcast this week, we look at the claims, look at the facts, and look at the Bible for guidance in how to think of it all. Join us!
Get to Know Dr. Douglas Winnail!
For this week's podcast we had the privilege of sitting down with Evangelist Dr. Douglas Winnail to talk about his growing up, how he became involved in education and health, and what drew him to the truth. Sit down with us and get to know Dr. Winnail!
Have We Found Alien Life on Planet K2-18b?
The headlines recently trumpeted possible signs of alien life on Planet K2-18b. How would we know? What did we find? And how do we think biblically about such claims? We'll answer those questions on today's podcast. Join us!
The Death of Pope Francis and Why It Matters
The death of Pope Francis brings attention to divisions in the Roman Catholic Church—divisions which students of Bible prophecy would do well to watch. Join us today as we talk about why.
Classic Episode: Why a Second Holy Day at the End of Unleavened Bread?
This week, we revisit a classic episode, asking the question, Why is there a second holy day at the end of the Days of Unleavened Bread? We'll jump back in anew at the very end for a closing thought, but we know many of you are new listeners to the podcast, and we hope you enjoy this episode from much earlier in the podcast's history! And we hope, as well, that you have an edifying and u
Three Different Angles on Sin
The Spring Holy Days represent an opportunity for self-examination, and in this week's podcast, we look at three different ways sin is defined in Scripture, each expanding on the others. We hope you find it helpful and that your Passover and Days of Unleavened Bread are rich and meaningful.
Lessons from an Alabaster Flask
As the Passover season approaches, in today's episode we reflect on one woman's example that has been told and retold for 2,000 years, just as Jesus prophesied it would be. Her sacrifice of an alabaster flask of oil holds many lessons for us.
A Rocket Scientist's Take on Flat Earth, Science, and Faith
A good friend and real-life rocket scientist dropped by our studio, and we interviewed him about his experience with NASA, "flat earth" ideas, the intersection of science and faith, being Christian in modern academic environments, and more. What a treat! Our thanks to him for taking the time. Listen and learn!
What Is a Date, Anyway?
The world has completely ruined dating to the point that even the meaning of the word "date" has been lost. This week, we discuss some principles behind dating to help make it the wonderful part of life it really can be when we are willing to think biblically.
Podcast Takeover: Mr. Phil Sena Interviews Us!
Mr. Phil Sena showed up this week with his own idea for the podcast—completely taking it over and turning the tables by interviewing us. So, sit back and learn a little bit about what it's like working on the Church's publications in the effort to preach the Gospel to the world.
Prophecy Comes Alive!
Bible prophecies that the Church of God has spoken about for generations, even in the face of mockery, seem to be coming alive right before our eyes these days. And they are good examples of how prophecy doesn't need to be complicated. Having a basic understanding of the arc of prophecy can help you put the news into a biblical context and provide insights available no other way.
What Is It Like Being a Minister?
It's not just giving a sermon once a week! Today we welcome our own pastor to the studio, Mr. John Strain, and ask him to help all of us understand some of what it's like being a pastor in the field.
When Honoring Your Parents Seems Difficult
God wants us to obey His commands even when it is difficult to do so. And, in a broken world, even the Fifth Commandment—to honor our father and mother—can feel like a real challenge. Today, we discuss some of those challenges and how to approach them.
Christ's Return Is Not (Just) About You
If life seems good, we might be tempted to think we'd like Christ's return to come later instead of ASAP, maybe after we've "lived" a little more. But with a little perspective, it becomes clear: We have every reason to pray with sincere conviction, "Your kingdom come!" Join us as we talk about it.
Help with God's Work—TODAY!
It's easy to think of Jesus Christ's commission to do the Work of God and reach the world with the truth as something other people do. But it isn't! It's something you and I—and everyone in God's Church—play a role in. So today we discuss seven very real ways you can help with God's Work, ways you can begin doing today!
Did Jesus Rise?
If you did not believe that the Bible was the inspired word of God, would you still have cause to believe in Jesus' resurrection? It was a real question for the Gentiles to whom Paul preached, who were unfamiliar with the Bible, and it's a real question for many today. But if we are open to the evidence, it points to one conclusion above all others. Join us on the podcast today as we loo
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