Summer Seminar 2021
CHRIST & CULTURE
Rod Dreher’s Live Not By Lies: A Manual for Christian Dissidents
A book that every serious and informed Christian should know
The Summertime Christ & Culture Series features engaging discussions led by Dr. Jefrey Breshears and other speakers, each offering diverse perspectives on themes from Rod Dreher’s Live Not by Lies. Each video critiques a specific chapter, tackling the challenges Christians encounter in contemporary society. The series aims to equip viewers with practical tools for navigating faith amid societal issues, making it accessible to all, regardless of their familiarity with the book.
Session Descriptions
Week 1 – Dr. Jefrey Breshers
In this session, we outline the course structure, discussing key themes from Rod Dreher’s Live Not By Lies: A Manual for Christian Dissidents over the next few weeks. Topics include the ongoing culture war in America, the influence of Christian values on society, and the implications of a secular humanist agenda. As we delve deeper, we address pressing questions about the moral state of American culture and whether true Christianity remains countercultural. This video serves as an essential guide for Christians seeking to understand and engage with the challenges of our time, encouraging a faithful witness to truth in an increasingly complex world.
Week 2 – Eric Smith
In this thought-provoking presentation, the second of a four-part summer series, we explore themes from the book Live Not by Lies by Rod Dreher. The discussion covers how progressivism functions as a modern religion, fulfilling societal and spiritual needs, and examines the rise of “woke capitalism.” Drawing connections between historical totalitarian regimes and contemporary social movements, this talk delves into the dangers of surveillance, censorship, and the loss of individual freedoms in a culture driven by ideological conformity. Thought-provoking questions on faith, truth, and societal control are raised throughout.
Week 3 – Larry Keener
This week we explore the complex challenges facing American culture, faith, and education. The discussion delves into topics such as the cultural decline, the rise of totalitarianism, and the growing influence of Marxist ideologies. Drawing from historical and current events, the presentation emphasizes the importance of truth, family values, and maintaining Christian beliefs in the face of societal pressure. Key themes include the rejection of “doublethink,” the dangers of political correctness, and the push for critical race theory in education. Tune in for a thoughtful analysis of how to navigate these turbulent times.
Week 4 – George Weaver
In this session of our summer series, we dive deep into the pressing cultural and spiritual challenges Christians face in today’s world. The discussion explores the current state of American society, including the ongoing culture war and the shift away from traditional Christian values. Drawing from works like The Benedict Option and Live Not By Lies, we examine how authentic Christianity has historically been countercultural and continues to be so today. The session emphasizes the importance of courage, truth, and faith in navigating these dark times, while offering insights from those who endured persecution under communist regimes. We also explore the soft totalitarianism emerging in modern society and how Christians can stand firm in their beliefs amidst growing pressures.
Handouts
Details & Registration
TUESDAY, JULY 6
Article: Jefrey Breshears, “A Necessary Preface”
Introduction, and Chapters 1 and 2
Review and critique by Dr. Jefrey Breshears
TUESDAY, JULY 13
Chapters 3 and 4
Review and critique by Eric Smith
TUESDAY, JULY 20
Chapters 5, 6 and 7
Review and critique by Larry Keener
TUESDAY, JULY 27
Chapters 8, 9, and 10, and Conclusion
Review and critique by George Weaver
NOTE: THIS IS NOT A BOOK CLUB… so join us whether or not you’ve read the book, Live Not by Lies. You’ll not only be better informed but also better prepared to understand and dialogue with others about the great issues and challenges that Christians face today and in the future.
Join us via Zoom for this series
beginning Tuesday, July 6, 2021
7:00-8:30 PM
Videos
Guest Speakers
Eric A. Smith
Eric Smith received his Master’s Degree in Physics from Vanderbilt University where he was a member of the Supernova Cosmology Project, the co-discovers of dark energy. He has spoken on both scientific and apologetics topics at the Atlanta chapter of Reasons to Believe, the Areopagus Forum, and Ratio Christi. He currently resides in Milledgeville, GA, where he is an Associate Professor of Physics at Georgia Military College.
Larry Keener
Larry Keener is a businessman who engages in discussions about the intersection of faith, culture, and societal issues. He emphasizes the importance of grappling with doubts in one’s faith journey and draws from personal experiences, referencing C. S. Lewis and other influential thinkers. Keener critiques modern secularism and socialism for their attempts to control thought and undermine individual freedom, advocating for a faith-driven approach to societal improvement.
George Weaver
George Weaver is an accomplished attorney based in Atlanta, Georgia, with a rich background in law, having served as a prosecutor and assistant attorney general. His extensive legal experience complements his passion for writing, resulting in a diverse array of published works that bridge Christian faith and legal insight. His most notable publication, Significant Me? Our Need to be Noticed and Remembered (2017), explores themes of identity and the human desire for recognition.
