The Luke Mertz Podcast

Ep 23. Can We Trust The Bible?

In this episode, we walk through the 4 tests to determine historical credibility and then apply them all to scripture. You will be able to understand how the internal consistency, manuscript and archaeological evidence, and literary style of scripture all point to the credibility of the Bible.

Ep 22. Is Morality a Christian Apologetic?

Is morality just a product of culture and upbringing? What happens when Christianity is pushed out of a society? In this episode, we examine the philosophical and biblical case for why Christianity is the only reliable preserver of objective morality. We take a hard look at current events — the rapid rise of Islam in the West and the growing influence of progressivism and secular humanism — and how both are radically redefining good and evil. We also break down the three phases of Islamic development and why understanding them matters. Then we do a deep Bible study on the end times, including 2 Timothy 3 and 2 Thessalonians 2, exploring the role of the Restrainer and the coming moral collapse during the Tribulation when Christian influence is removed. If you’ve ever wondered why society seems to be losing its moral compass, this episode connects philosophy, current events, and biblical prophecy in a sobering but hopeful way.

Ep 21. Before & After the Crucifixion: Historical Evidence for the Resurrection

In this kickoff to our new apologetic series, we examine one of the most compelling pieces of evidence for the resurrection of Jesus: the radical transformation of His disciples. Imagine a group of terrified men hiding behind locked doors after watching their leader brutally crucified. Fast-forward a few weeks, and these same men are boldly preaching the resurrection in the very city where Jesus was killed, defying authorities, planting churches, and ultimately dying as martyrs, while none of them ever recanting. Using the “criterion of embarrassment,” eyewitness accounts in the Gospels, and historical records from Josephus and Eusebius, we walk through the “before and after” stories of Peter, James (Jesus’ brother), Paul, Thomas, John, and the other apostles. Why would scared failures suddenly become fearless witnesses willing to die for their claim, unless of course they really encountered the risen Christ? This episode equips you with clear, historical reasons to defend your faith and gives you practical information you can share with skeptics. We are not called to blind faith — we are called to know why we believe.

Ep 20. How do I Lay Down my Struggles to the Lord?

In this episode we discuss the idea of submitting your like and your struggles to the Lord, so he can become greater through you.

Ep 19. Is James Talarico Right About Christianity?

In this episode, I react to claims James Talarico makes about Christianity, Jesus’ teachings, and the Bible. We talk through topics like homosexuality, welcoming the stranger, Christianity and politics, and more. Instead of just reacting emotionally, we slow down and examine what Scripture actually says and whether the arguments being made truly hold up.