Twenty four hours ago, I had never heard the names Wesley Huff or Billy Carson. And I had never listened to an episode of The Joe Rogan Experience. But, thanks to a road trip, online access, and curiosity, I’ve spent over 5 hours listening to each of them today.
Billy Carson is a self-proclaimed researcher, author, and online content creator who has gained a large following by addressing topics like ancient civilizations and what he calls "forbidden knowledge." He has been very antagonistic toward biblical Christianity.
Wesley Huff is a 33 year old Christian apologist and Director of Apologetics Canada.
Last month, Wes and Billy engaged in an online conversation that went viral. During the conversation Wes gently and articulately draws on his vast knowledge of history, language, and biblical literature to give a convincing presentation of the reliability of the testimony of scripture and the person and work of Jesus. With a winsome spirit, Wes exposed the intellectual gaps in many of Billy’s claims.
Many viewed it as a debate that Wes won convincingly. The debate was so detrimental to Billy’s reputation and career, he has threatened to sue if the debate was allowed to be released for viewing. Yet, the entire two hour, unedited conversation was released four weeks ago.
As a result, Wes has gained over 250,000 subscriptions on his YouTube Channel and he was invited by Joe Rogan to be on his podcast, which is widely considered one of the largest and most influential podcasts in the world.
During the podcast which aired yesterday, January 7, Joe provided Wes a three hour window to offer a scholarly perspective on the trustworthiness of the Bible, evidence for the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus, and the necessity for faith and repentance in response to the gospel.
In the last 15 minutes of the conversation, Wes asked Joe, “In all of this, what do you think of Jesus, in terms of your own journeying and trying to find answers to ultimate questions? What do you think of the historical person of Jesus?” After acknowledging the sincere faith of many believers he knows, he ultimately gives his answer, “I don’t know.”
Joe sounds like he has a sincere interest in truth, even spiritual truth. May God open his eyes and heart to believe the truth of the gospel. And may this episode of Joe’s podcast reach those who have never heard the gospel in such a clear and compelling way.
As I thought about it, because of the audience that Joe Rogan has (19 million subscribers on YouTube), it is possible that more people will hear a well-reasoned, long-form presentation of the gospel from this online conversation than from any other source in history. In the first 24 hours it has been viewed on YouTube 2.2 million times.
May God continue to raise up messengers of the gospel like Wes. And may I be faithful to share the gospel in whatever sphere of influence God gives me.
Comments