Deep Wells with Michael Lusk

Michael Lusk
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Ancient Insights into Enduring Questions

  1. FEB 14

    Salutogenesis & Social Prescribing - EP17

    In this insightful episode, the podcast explores the concept of Salutogenesis, a holistic approach to health coined by Aaron Antonovsky. Lucy, the host's daughter, contributes her sociological perspective, offering insight into how this concept shifts the focus from disease treatment to health promotion. The discussion highlights the importance of addressing the origins of health, emphasizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and soul. The episode introduces the idea of social prescription, a practice championed by Julia Hotz in her book "The Connection Cure," which advocates for personalized, community-driven activities to enhance one's well-being.

    28 min

  2. FEB 6

    What Islam Teaches With Dr. John Bitar - EP16

    In the latest episode of Deep Wells, podcast host Michael welcomes Dr. John Bitar, an expert in Islamic Studies, to discuss the shared beliefs and differences between Islam and Christianity. They explore the common ground found in the monotheistic nature of both religions and the history of spiritual practices such as prayer, fasting, and pilgrimage. Dr. Bitar emphasizes the importance of engaging constructively with Muslim communities to foster understanding and build relationships that transcend cultural and religious barriers.

    12 min

  3. JAN 30

    Islam: Its Origins & Tenets - Islam & Christianity with Dr. John Bitar - EP15

    Dr. John Batar, a survivor of Lebanon's civil strife, shares his moving journey from vengeance to forgiveness in a Deep Wells podcast episode. Once a victim of violence, a bullet from a Muslim sniper left him near crippled, fostering deep hatred. Over time, however, his life transformed through faith, converting animosity into a mission of outreach. Today, as the Executive Director of Good News Global Outreach, he spreads messages of peace and salvation, focusing on Christian engagement with Muslims. His story exemplifies how personal tragedy can be redirected towards broader interfaith understanding and cooperation.

    38 min

  4. JAN 24

    St. Basil of Caesarea: On the Holy Spirit - EP14

    In this episode of Deep Wells, we explore the contributions of Basil of Caesarea to Christian theology, particularly his defense of the Holy Spirit's divinity. Born in 330 AD, Basil, along with his friend Gregory of Nazianzus and brother Gregory of Nyssa, known as the Cappadocian Fathers, played a critical role in defining the orthodox view of the Holy Spirit during the tumultuous 4th century. The episode highlights Basil's arguments against heresies that undermined the Holy Spirit's consubstantiality with the Father and the Son, leading to a broader acceptance in key councils, including the Council of Constantinople in 381.

    19 min

  5. JAN 5

    The Incarnation (pt. 2) - EP13

    In this episode, the focus is on Tertullian of Carthage, an influential early Christian writer, and his work on Christ's Incarnation. Tertullian argued for the necessity of Jesus assuming full humanity to accomplish his redemptive mission. This idea challenged Greek philosophical notions that saw physical existence as inferior. The discussion highlights Tertullian's defense against Gnosticism and Marcionism, emphasizing the goodness of God's physical creation. The episode also explores how Tertullian viewed the Incarnation and Mary's role as pivotal elements in God's salvific plan, presenting a significant paradigm shift in early Christian thought.

    18 min

  6. 12/27/2025

    The Incarnation - EP12

    In this podcast episode, we delve into the profound contributions of Tertullian of Carthage, a pivotal figure in early Christian theology. With the holiday season as a backdrop, the episode illustrates the centrality of the Incarnation—a key doctrine of Christmas. Tertullian's treatise, 'De Carne Domini,' is explored for its vigorous defense of the true humanity of Christ against Gnostic heresies. His assertive rhetoric and theological insights underscore the essential belief in Jesus's full humanity and divinity, a cornerstone of Christian orthodoxy that remains vital for faith today.

    19 min

  7. 12/21/2025

    Was the content of the Bible decided by a church council? with Dr. Michael Svigel - EP11

    This episode of Deep Wells features Dr. Michael Svigel as he debunks common misconceptions about the development of the biblical canon. Contrary to what is popularly believed, the canon was not formalized by a council or through a vote. Instead, the process was organic, hinging on the inherent qualities of the writings, such as their apostolic origins and functional authority. Dr. Svigel elaborates on the misunderstanding of terms like 'canonical' and how early church leaders discerned authoritative texts amid circulating writings. This discussion highlights the complex historical journey to our present-day Bible. To learn more about Dr. Michael Svigel and his publications, visit https://www.dts.edu/employee/michael-svigel/ Dr. Svigel’s newest book, Essentials of Christian Theology https://www.amazon.com/Essentials-Christian-Theology-Foundations-Faith/dp/0764245600 Urban Legends of Church History: 40 Common Misconceptions https://www.amazon.com/Urban-Legends-Church-History-Misconceptions/dp/1433649837

    46 min

  8. 12/14/2025

    What do Christians believe about Heaven?: The Nicene Creed - EP10

    This podcast episode delves into the Christian understanding of heaven and the afterlife, contrasting popular cultural depictions with biblical teachings. Referencing the Nicene Creed, the episode discusses the belief in Jesus Christ’s physical return to judge the living and the dead, emphasizing this as a foundational tenet of Christian orthodoxy. The episode also explores the misconception of a disembodied eternal state and reaffirms the belief in a renewal of creation, aligning with scriptures from Isaiah, Paul’s letters, and Revelation. The influence of Platonic philosophy in shaping incorrect views of the afterlife is also examined.

    30 min
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