It is common to hear people lament about how the world is getting worse and worse, and as we look at the news and what is happening around the world. Yet there are secular optimists who make a strong, data-driven case that in many ways the world is better than in the past. Marlin and Jaran engage with this idea and the concept of Christian optimism. They also look at how this interacts with historical events.A previous episode on thinking well about global politicsA Rival Nations article on Christian optimism “Christian Fundamentals (Mennonite Church, 1921)”“God of Grace and God of Glory““Rise Up, O Men of God”“Father Eternal, Ruler of Creation” Factfullness The Better Angels of Our Nature Data on declining poverty rates A source for data about a bettering worldThis is the 319th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought. Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.Mentioned in this episode:Give online: https://anabaptistperspectives.org/donate or mail gifts to 127 County Road 616, Athens TN 37303