Ben Sasse on Life, Cancer, and the Gospel

Before entering public office, Ben Sasse served as executive director of White Horse Inn and Modern Reformation at Sola Media. On February 7, 2026, he joined longtime friends Michael Horton and Dan Bryant to discuss his cancer diagnosis, the early days of Sola Media, and the hope of the gospel.

As director of programs at Sola Media from 1998 to 2000, Ben Sasse helped articulate our vision for a modern reformation. "[We want to teach] individuals about historic Protestant theology," Sasse wrote, "creating a community of Protestants who take their particular church bodies and confessions very seriously, and (not "but") take their pan-Protestant, evangelical identity seriously as well." Ben's work in Sola's early years was invaluable in advancing our mission to serve the church with resources for reformation. We are profoundly grateful for his work, his friendship, and the legacy he has helped build.

0:00 An update on Ben Sasse's cancer diagnoses and treatment

6:55 Ben Sasse's history with Sola Media and friendship with Mike Horton

11:50 What is the gospel?

17:04 How Ben's theological knowledge shaped his time as a US Senator

20:35 How theology helps us face death and suffering

26:28 How can I reorder the priorities of of my life?

32:04 1 Corinthians 15, the resurrection, and the reason we have to die

35:17 "AND THE DEAD SHALL BE RAISED"

40:44 Gallows humor

45:21 Heidelberg Catechism Q&A