Fulfilled with Rebecca Sheehan

What did the earliest Christian hymns actually sound like? For the first time, it's no longer a mystery.In this intriguing episode of Fulfilled, The First Hymn documentary filmmaker Dr. John Dickson shares how he stumbled upon the world’s oldest surviving Christian hymn, decoded its original tune, and ultimately, with the help of singer/songwriters Chris Tomlin and Ben Fielding, transformed it into a modern-day hymn that’s already being sung in churches worldwide.Hear how a song written nearly 1,800 years ago proclaims the same theology we still confess today—and even dismantles the long held skeptic’s claim that the Trinity was a later invention. At a moment when the church longs for unity, discover how music can bind believers across centuries, as a new generation lifts up the very hymn sung by the earliest Christians.The First Hymn documentary will begin streaming on major platforms in October. If you’d like to watch it now, the full documentary is available on the film’s website.Listen to Chris Tomlin and Ben Fielding's modern version of 'The First Hymn' on Spotify.The Wheaton College Choir rendition of The First Hymn provided courtesy of The First Hymn documentary. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fulfilledpodcast.substack.com

If someone asked you why you’re a Christian, would you be able to fully explain the reason for the hope within you? Would your kids?School isn’t just about math and reading—it’s where kids encounter new ideas, worldviews, and challenges to their faith. In this timely back-to-school episode, Rebecca continues her conversation with Amy Davison of Mama Bear Apologetics, digging into how parents can equip kids with the tools of apologetics.From teaching them to think critically, to helping them see that Christianity is both reasonable and beautiful, this conversation will encourage you to prepare your kids not just for the classroom, but for life. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or mentor, you’ll walk away with practical ways to raise kids who stand strong in truth.You’ll learn:• Why apologetics isn’t just for adults—but crucial for kids heading back to school• Practical ways to help children and teens recognize truth from lies in today’s culture• How to equip the next generation with both confidence and compassion when sharing their faithUseful linksLearn more about Mama Bear Apologetics:📚 Explore Mama Bear Apologetics’ books and other resources 📲 Follow the Mama Bears on Instagram @mamabearapologeticsOther books recommended in the episode:📚 Why Does God Allow Evil? Compelling Answers for Life’s Toughest Questions by Clay Jones📝 10 Questions Every Teen Should Ask (and Answer) about Christianity by Rebecca McLaughlin🙏 Keeping Your Kids on God's Side: 40 Conversations to Help Them Build a Lasting Faith by Natasha CrainIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and share with any other 'mama bears' (papa bears, grandparents and caregivers, too) who might appreciate it! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fulfilledpodcast.substack.com

What sparked the shift from churches singing hymns to performing hits - and can both distinct styles have a place in modern worship?In this episode of Fulfilled, Rebecca Sheehan sits down with Worship Historian Lester Ruth and Sacred Music Professor Swee Hong Lim to explore the rich history and evolving landscape of worship music.From the theological depth of traditional hymns to the emotional power of contemporary praise songs, they unpack how worship music shapes our relationship with God, binds us in community, and invites our faith to go deeper. The conversation dives into the commercialization of worship music, songwriting trends, and how churches can thoughtfully blend both genres in their services to engage hearts and minds.Whether you love modern worship or prefer classic hymns, you’ll come away with a deeper understanding of the music that shapes how we experience God today.EPISODE LINKS:Check out Fulfilled's worship playlist on Spotify!Access bios and links to our guests' published books, music, and essays below:* Worship Music Historian Lester Ruth, Duke Divinity School* Sacred Music Professor Swee Hong Lim, Emmanuel CollegeMusic featured in this episode: “The First Hymn” by Chris Tomlin and Ben Fielding. Used with permission. You can watch the documentary about the discovery and revival of the First Hymn here.If you've enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and pass it along! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fulfilledpodcast.substack.com

What do we do with pain that won’t go away?Therapist and author Tabitha Panariso joins host Rebecca Sheehan to talk about healing from deep wounds—rejection, betrayal, and abandonment—through Christ-centered therapy. They explore why Jesus’ resurrection—not just his death—changes how we heal, forgive, and engage with those who’ve wounded us.Drawing from her own story and her new book Loyal in His Love, Tabitha shares how the gospel speaks into our suffering, why self-reflection isn’t self-indulgent, and how God’s love meets us in our trauma, but doesn’t leave us there.Because the cross wasn't the end—and neither is your pain.🕊 Loyal in His Love is available on Amazon and wherever books are sold.📲 Follow Tabitha @tabithapanariso on Instagram + Substack. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fulfilledpodcast.substack.com

Why is Easter celebrated with bunnies, eggs, and baskets—and does the holiday really have pagan roots?In this special Holy Week episode, host Rebecca Sheehan is joined by Amy Davison of Mama Bear Apologetics to break down myths and explore how Christian families can enjoy the fun—while keeping Christ at the center of the celebration.They also take a deep dive into how parents can equip their children with a confident, evidence-based Christian faith—especially around Easter. The conversation explores how to gently but firmly teach truth in a culture leaning toward relativism, and how to help kids lovingly explain their beliefs to friends who don’t celebrate Easter the same way.Whether you're frosting hot cross buns or wondering if Cadbury eggs are a distraction from Christ, this conversation will leave you inspired, grounded—and maybe a little hungry.You can check out the Mama Bear Apologetics resources, including their Easter Guide, here. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fulfilledpodcast.substack.com

Welcome to Fulfilled! Episode 1 focuses on host Rebecca Sheehan's faith testimony. Rebecca is a TV personality and community leader, thrilled to be using her platform to share the gospel.Rebecca's story is a bit unconventional—she grew up Jewish but always felt Jesus in her heart. Ultimately, her journey to Christianity has been incredibly rewarding, despite the challenges she's faced along the way.What you can expect from this podcast: future episodes will delve into Scripture, tell powerful stories of gospel-driven action, and tackle cultural challenges through the lens of God's word...all with the goal of helping you strengthen your faith and live it out every day. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit fulfilledpodcast.substack.com