Stay ConnectedOn The Denison Forum Podcast, host Dr. Mark Turman interviews knowledgeable guests on timely news and relevant spiritual topics.
Each week an author, commentator, pastor, theologian, or a topical expert joins the show to bring biblical insight and practical applications to help Christians further develop a biblical worldview on current events.
Copyright: © 2022 Denison Ministries
In this episode of the Denison Forum podcast, Dr. Mark Turman and Steph Thurling discuss Jonathan Haidt’s book The Anxious Generation, examining the impact of technology on parenting and childhood development. They cover the shift from play-based childhoods to phone-centered experiences, the mental health crisis among youth, and the role of community in addressing these challenges. The conversation highlights the need for intentional parenting in a technology-driven world, balancing the benefits of technology with efforts to protect children from its potential harms.
Mark and Steph also discuss the significant impact of social media on youth, especially its negative effects on girls. They address the link between technology use and mental health struggles, stressing the importance of setting boundaries and engaging in open conversations with children about technology. Additionally, they offer strategies for managing technology use, such as delaying smartphone access and encouraging unsupervised play, while recognizing the unique challenges parents face in the digital age.
Steph Thurling is executive director of Christian Parenting, host of The Christian Parenting Podcast, and a mom of three amazing kids!
Steph has her master’s in youth, family, and culture from Fuller Theological Seminary and has a background in youth and children’s ministry. She is co-author of Raising Prayerful Kids, a book that shares easy, life-giving, and fun ways to teach kids to pray. She loves helping families grow closer to each other and to God through meaningful experiences and conversations. Steph is a frequent speaker at churches and mom groups and is known for her relatable stories, practical ideas, and gentle encouragement.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this episode of the Denison Forum podcast, Dr. Mark Turman talks with Mark Jones, Micah Tomasella, and Conner Jones about the dynamics of intergenerational discussions, particularly around controversial topics like politics and faith. They share insights on meaningfully engaging younger generations, especially Gen Z, who are characterized by their spiritual curiosity and unique perspectives shaped by technology and social media. Their discussion emphasizes the importance of relationship-building over political debates, encouraging listeners to approach family gatherings with openness, prayerfulness, and a focus on understanding rather than confrontation.
Conner is the Director of Performance Marketing here at Denison Ministries. After graduating from Dallas Baptist University in 2019 with a degree in Business Management, he worked in the PAC-3 Missile program at Lockheed-Martin as a contracts negotiator before coming to Denison Ministries. His role is to leverage many digital platforms to increase the reach of our content and grow the audience of Denison Forum and our three other brands. He passionately follows politics, sports, pop-culture, entertainment, and current events. He enjoys fishing, going to movies, and traveling the world with his wife, Raigan, and son, Nolan.
Micah Tomasella is the Advancement Officer at Denison Ministries. A graduate of Dallas Baptist University, Micah is married to Emily, and together they are the proud parents of two young daughters, Olivia and Joanna. With an extensive background in nonprofit work, finance, and real estate, Micah also brings experience from his years in pastoral church ministry.
Mark is the State Director for Texas Baptist Student Ministry (BSM). He has served with BSM for 27 years, including 21 years in Tyler, working with Tyler Junior College and UT Tyler. Mark grew up in San Antonio and came to Christ through a campus-based high school ministry (Youth for Christ / Campus Life). He attended Baylor University (BA in English & Religion) and sensed a call to full time ministry. Mark continued his education at both Southwestern Seminary (M.Div) and Samford University / Beeson Divinity School (D.Min). It was at Baylor that he met his wife, Becky. They have three boys: T.J. (Heather), Mason (Michaela), and Grant (Annie). He also has three grandchildren: Savvy (4.5 years), Miles (2 years), Margot (6 months). He and Becky enjoy time with family, all Baylor sports, and finding great pizza places in Dallas.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Mark Turman engages in a clarifying conversation with Chris Sadler, acting CEO of My Faith Votes. They discuss the importance of Christian participation in the democratic process, the origins of My Faith Votes, and the barriers that prevent many Christians from voting. Chris shares his personal faith journey and emphasizes the need for Christians to be informed and engaged in political matters.
The conversation also touches on the spiritual implications of voting and the responsibility of Christians to protect their freedoms. Chris outlines the fivefold approach of My Faith Votes and encourages listeners to pray and act in their communities.
(02:58): Understanding Democratic Participation
(06:10): Chris Sadler's Faith Journey
(08:51): The Origins of My Faith Votes
(11:53): Barriers to Christian Voting
(14:53): The Importance of Engagement
(18:05): Voting Dilemmas and Spiritual Perspectives
(20:52): The Role of Citizens in Democracy
(23:55): My Faith Votes' Fivefold Approach
(27:00): Equipping Christians to Pray
Chris Sadler is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 40 years of experience in building and expanding companies in the US service and manufacturing sectors worldwide. His expertise spans education, real estate, oil and gas, technology innovation, healthcare, and private equity mergers and acquisitions. Chris is a sought-after speaker for college students and a mentor to emerging Christian entrepreneurs.
His dedication to integrating faith and business led to his invitation to join the Board of Directors for My Faith Votes in 2017. After years of serving in this capacity, Chris now also serves as Acting CEO of My Faith Votes. He also is a drummer and an ordained deacon at his home church. In addition to his role at My Faith Votes, he serves on the Board for the Center for Occupational Research and Development (CORD). Chris is the proud father of two children and three grandchildren. He lives in Waco, Texas, with his wife, Susan.
My Faith Votes is a non-partisan movement that motivates, equips and activates Christians in America to vote in every election, transforming our communities and influencing our nation with biblical truth. We desire to see an America where God is honored in the public square and biblical truth is advanced in our culture. We exist because a battle is raging for the heart of this nation. It’s a battle over truth—and how you and I will live out our faith in the public square.
My Faith Votes calls Christians to “Pray, Think and Vote” in order to protect four core pillars of faith which are religious freedom, the sanctity of life, strong families and marriages, and compassion and support for those in need. We reach Christians to stand boldly for these values in every election and in every community and city across our nation.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this episode of the Denison Forum podcast, Dr. Mark Turman and Josh Miller discuss the intersection of peace and politics, emphasizing the importance of faith over fear. They explore the role of fear in our lives, the significance of community, and the current political landscape. The conversation highlights the need for vulnerability and honesty in addressing cynicism in politics and the church, while also providing practical resources for navigating political anxiety and fostering peace.
(03:03): Exploring the Intersection of Peace and Politics
(06:12): Faith Over Fear: A Core Principle
(09:06): The Role of Fear in Our Lives
(12:03): Navigating Fear and Anxiety
(15:01): The Importance of Community and Vulnerability
(17:49): Political Landscape: A Reflection on Change
(20:56): Cynicism in Politics and the Church
(23:54): Practical Steps for Peace in Politics
(27:08): Resources for Navigating Political Anxiety
Josh Miller is the Chief of Staff and Chief Strategy Officer at Denison Ministries. He is also a disciple of Jesus, husband, and father. He has been a musician, filmmaker, restaurant manager, songwriter, barista, worship leader, pastor and is still trying to figure out who the heck he is. He and his wife Deven live in Plano, TX with their two young boys.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this episode of the Denison Forum podcast, host Dr. Mark Turman converses with Dr. John Inazu, the Sally D. Danforth Distinguished Professor of Law and Religion at Washington University in St. Louis. They discuss his new book Learning to Disagree: The Surprising Path to Navigating Differences with Empathy and Respect. Dr. Inazu emphasizes the need for Christians to engage in nuanced disagreement and to approach difficult conversations with relational trust.
The conversation explores the challenges of disagreement in today's culture, the role of empathy in understanding others' perspectives, and the intersection of law and religion, emphasizing the importance of civil liberties for all, not just for Christians. It explores the distinction between wrongness and evil, highlighting the need to separate people from their beliefs and actions. The conversation also touches on the power of forgiveness and the challenge of speaking the truth in love. It concludes with the importance of rest and Sabbath as a strategy for disagreeing better.
John Inazu is the Sally D. Danforth Distinguished Professor of Law and Religion at Washington University in St. Louis. He teaches criminal law, law and religion, and various First Amendment courses. He writes and speaks frequently about pluralism, assembly, free speech, religious freedom, and other issues. John has written three books and published opinion pieces in the Washington Post, Atlantic, Chicago Tribune, LA Times, USA Today, Newsweek, and CNN. He is also the founder of the Carver Project and the Legal Vocation Fellowship and is a senior fellow with Interfaith America and the Trinity Forum. He holds a B.S.E. and J.D. from Duke University and a Ph.D. in political science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this conversation, Dr. Mark Turman interviews Preston Perry, a poet, performance artist, teacher, and apologist, about his new book, How to Tell the Truth. They discuss the importance of sharing the truth with gentleness and respect, the role of Christians as witnesses, apologists, and evangelists, and the significance of authenticity and boldness in sharing one's faith.
They also explore the challenges and opportunities of living and sharing one's faith with family and friends. Preston emphasizes the need for dependence on the Holy Spirit and the power of beauty and the arts in communicating the message of the gospel.
Preston Perry is a poet, performance artist, teacher, and apologist from Chicago. Preston’s writing and teaching have been featured on ministry platforms such as The Gospel Coalition, the Poets in Autumn Tour, and Legacy Disciple. Preston is cohost of the popular podcast With the Perrys. He created Bold Apparel and the YouTube channel Apologetics with Preston Perry in order to engage the public in theological discourse. Preston and his wife, Jackie, reside in Atlanta with their four children: Eden, Autumn, Sage, and August.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this final episode of the special eight-episode series called ‘Politics discerned differently,’ Dr. Mark Turman and Curtis Chang discuss the intersection of faith and politics, particularly in the context of the upcoming election. They explore the implications of political violence, the role of the church in political discourse, and the importance of character in political candidates.
The conversation also delves into the unique American experiment of majority rule and minority rights, the relationship between Christianity and democracy, and the need for Christians to engage meaningfully in the political process, especially as they may find themselves in a minority position.
Curtis emphasizes the importance of renouncing political violence and fostering a culture of life, while also addressing the limitations of relying solely on law to shape moral values. The episode concludes with advice for future political leaders on how to govern inclusively and with integrity.
Curtis Chang bridges the worlds of secular institutions and theology. In the former world, he is the founder and CEO of Consulting Within Reach (CWR), a firm serving nonprofits and government agencies. His consulting work has won an award in social innovation from the Obama White House, and he teaches strategic planning as a faculty member of American University’s School of International Service.
In the Christian world, he is a consulting professor at Duke Divinity School and a Senior Fellow at Fuller Theological Seminary. Curtis is also a former senior pastor of an Evangelical Covenant Church in San Jose, California. He is the author of The After Party: Towards Better Christian Politics (with Nancy French), The Anxiety Opportunity: How Worry Is the Doorway to Your Best Self, and Engaging Unbelief: A Captivating Strategy from Augustine and Aquinas.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this seventh episode of the special eight-episode series called ‘Politics discerned differently,’ Dr. Mark Turman discusses the sanctity of life and the issue of abortion with Dr. Katie Fruge and Dr. Ryan Denison. The conversation explores the cultural and political landscape surrounding abortion and the challenges faced by the pro-life movement. They emphasize the importance of approaching the conversation with a biblical perspective and a recognition of the innate dignity and worth of every human being. They also discuss the need for a holistic pro-life approach that not only focuses on the pre-born but also supports families and creates a culture of life.
The conversation explores the complex and nuanced topic of the sanctity of life, particularly in relation to abortion and IVF. The speakers discuss the different perspectives on when life begins and the sacredness of every stage of life. They emphasize the importance of understanding and respecting differing viewpoints, as well as the need for better conversations around the topic.
They also address the role of politics and political parties in addressing the sanctity of life, highlighting the need for a holistic approach and the dangers of oversimplification. The speakers conclude by urging churches to take a comprehensive approach to promoting a culture of life and addressing the various causes of abortion.
Katie Frugé, Ph.D., earned her Master of Divinity degree and Ph.D. in systematic theology from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Katie Frugé has been named director of Texas Baptists’ Center for Cultural Engagement and the Christian Life Commission. Frugé began her service with the Baptist General Convention of Texas in 2019 as the hunger and human care specialist with the CLC. She later took on the role of associate director of the CLC.
Ryan Denison, PhD, is the Senior Editor for Theology at Denison Forum. Ryan writes The Daily Article every Friday and contributes writing and research to many of the ministry’s productions. He holds a PhD in church history from BH Carroll Theological Institute after having earned his MDiv at Truett Seminary. He’s authored The Path to Purpose, What Are My Spiritual Gifts?, How to Bless God by Blessing Others, 7 Deadly Sins, and has contributed writing or research to every Denison Forum book.
Mark Turman, DMin is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this sixth episode of the special eight-episode series called ‘Politics discerned differently,’ Dr. Mark Turman discusses the importance of being salt and light for Christ in uncivil times and navigating the political season. He is joined by Carmen LaBerge and Patrick Miller, who share their insights on echo chambers, media consumption, and the role of Christians as cultural missionaries. They emphasize the need to engage in diverse conversations, listen to different perspectives, and represent Christ in every interaction. They also challenge the idea of winning in the culture and highlight the importance of suffering and serving as missionaries in a broken world.
In this conversation, Patrick and Carmen discuss the tension and frustration that some Christians in America feel about their role in society. They explore the idea of Christians as outsiders and the historical context of America as a new Jerusalem. They emphasize the need for a complex understanding of American history and the importance of recognizing that Christians have been outsiders at various points in history.
They also discuss the concepts of majority rule and minority rights, and how Christians should navigate being in the majority or minority position. The conversation then shifts to the topic of extremism and the vulnerability of Christians to becoming radicalized. They encourage Christians to be curious, open-minded, and willing to admit when they don't know or have changed their minds. They also remind Christians to focus on the kingdom of God and to engage in local communities to make a real difference.
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Carmen LaBerge is a Christian author, speaker and radio host equipping Christians to get off the sidelines and into the cultural conversations of the day. Her weekday show is Mornings with Carmen on the Faith Radio Network and Carmen engages with audiences via CarmenLaBerge.com. With clever candor, Carmen is a distinctively Christian voice in today's cultural conversations and she has influence with a wide variety of audiences. As both a theologian and everyday communicator, Carmen takes large complex subjects and helps readers and listeners develop the mind of Christ on the matters of the day. She addresses everything from foreign affairs to affairs of the heart, politics to parenting, reconnecting the eternal with the everyday. She holds a B.S. in Business from the University of Florida and an M.Div. from Princeton Theological Seminary. She resides on a farm west of Nashville with her husband, Jim, where they raise kids, cows, and chickens and cultivate fruit trees, laughter and a very good life.
Patrick Miller is a pastor and cultural commentator who writes about politics, culture, and technology, contributing articles to Christianity Today, Newsweek, The Gospel Coalition, and other publications. His podcast, Truth Over Tribe, is one of Apple's top news commentary podcasts, featuring interviews with leading Christian thinkers, writers, and scholars. He's the co-author of Truth Over Tribe: Pledging Allegiance to the Lamb, Not the Donkey or the Elephant and Joyful Outsiders: Six Ways to Live Like Jesus in a Disorienting Culture. Patrick received a Master of Divinity from Covenant Theological Seminary and pastors a politically diverse church, The Crossing. He and his wife, Emily, have two children.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this fifth episode of the special eight-episode series called ‘Politics discerned differently,’ Dr. Mark Turman is joined by Micah Tomasella to discuss the complex relationship between faith and politics, particularly in the context of families, churches, and society at large. They explore how political issues have become increasingly divisive within families and church communities, especially over the past decade.
The conversation touches on historical and cultural factors that have contributed to the rise of Christian nationalism and the blending of faith with politics. They emphasize the importance of keeping politics in its proper place, not allowing it to overshadow one's faith or become an idol.
The discussion also covers the role of the church in guiding believers through political engagement, encouraging them to prioritize their faith and witness for Christ over political affiliations.
Micah Tomasella is the Advancement Officer at Denison Ministries. A graduate of Dallas Baptist University, Micah is married to Emily, and together they are proud parents of two young daughters, Olivia and Joanna. With an extensive background in nonprofit work, finance, and real estate, Micah also brings experience from his years in pastoral church ministry.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this fourth episode of the special eight-episode series called ‘Politics discerned differently,’ Dr. Mark Turman, Dr. Jim Denison, and Dr. Ryan Denison explore the intersection of faith and politics as America approaches the presidential election. They discuss the concept of America as a Christian nation, the role of biblical perspectives in civic life, and the implications of Christian nationalism.
The conversation extends to historical and theological insights from the American and French revolutions and emphasizes humility, prayer, and living according to biblical teachings to navigate the political landscape.
(03:25): Foundational Questions on God's Perspective
(06:06): The Role of Prophecy in Modern Times
(10:49): Replacement Theology and Its Implications
(14:50): American Pride and Patriotism
(18:15): Defining a Christian Nation
(27:10): Challenges of Legislating Morality
(36:31): America as a City on a Hill: Historical Context and Implications
(45:27): Christian Nationalism: Definitions and Debates
(52:19): Theological Foundations: Human Nature and Democracy
(56:51): Comparing the American and French Revolutions
(01:05:41): Practical Advice for Christians in Politics
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Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Ryan Denison, PhD, is the Senior Editor for Theology at Denison Forum. Ryan writes The Daily Article every Friday and contributes writing and research to many of the ministry’s productions. He holds a PhD in church history from BH Carroll Theological Institute after having earned his MDiv at Truett Seminary. He’s authored The Path to Purpose, What Are My Spiritual Gifts?, How to Bless God by Blessing Others, 7 Deadly Sins, and has contributed writing or research to every Denison Forum book.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this third episode of the special eight-episode series called 'Politics discerned differently,' Dr. Mark Turman and Kaitlyn Schiess explore the intersection of faith and politics. Kaitlyn, an author and doctoral student in political theology, shares her insights on how Christians can live biblically, engage in political discussions redemptively, and navigate the complexities of elections.
They discuss the role of political theology and the impact of extreme rhetoric and offer practical ways to integrate faith into political life. Discover the deeper meaning of Christian engagement in the public sphere and learn how to maintain a balanced and thoughtful approach to politics.
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Kaitlyn Schiess is an author, speaker, and perpetual theology student. She is the author of The Ballot and the Bible: How Scripture has been Used and Abused in American Politics and Where We Go from Here (Brazos, 2023) and The Liturgy of Politics: Spiritual Formation for the Sake of Our Neighbor (IVP, 2020). Her writing has appeared at Christianity Today, The New York Times, Christ and Pop Culture, RELEVANT, and Sojourner. She has a Masters in systematic theology from Dallas Theological Seminary and is currently a doctoral student in political theology at Duke Divinity School. She lives in Durham, North Carolina.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this second episode of a special eight-episode series called “Politics discerned differently,” Dr. Turman and Conner Jones, Director of Performance Marketing at Denison Ministries, explore the complex world of news, journalism, and media in the context of today's political climate. They discuss the importance of seeking truth in politics, the evolving nature of journalism and media, and the role of truth from a Christian perspective.
They also touch on the influence of social media, independent journalism, conspiracy theories, censorship, and the emerging impact of artificial intelligence on the information landscape. This episode will help you navigate this political season thoughtfully and redemptively.
Conner is the Director of Performance Marketing here at Denison Ministries. After graduating from Dallas Baptist University in 2019 with a degree in Business Management, he worked in the PAC-3 Missile program at Lockheed-Martin as a contracts negotiator before coming to Denison Ministries. His role is to leverage many digital platforms to increase the reach of our content and grow the audience of Denison Forum and our three other brands. He passionately follows politics, sports, pop-culture, entertainment, and current events. He enjoys fishing, movie-going, and traveling the world with his wife Raigan, and together they will soon be welcoming a baby boy into the world.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this first episode of a special eight-episode series called “Politics discerned differently,” Dr. Turman and Dr. Denison discuss the importance of understanding and engaging in politics from a biblical perspective, the role of Christians in political discourse, and how to maintain faith and civil responsibility during this unprecedented political season.
They also talk about the historical context of democracy, the moral foundations of politics, and practical ways to balance political engagement with spiritual growth. This conversation is designed to equip and encourage Christians in navigating today's political landscape.
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Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Welcome back to the Denison Forum podcast! This episode features Dr. Mark Turman, executive director of Denison Forum, in conversation with Janet Denison about her ministry and her evening devotional book, Wisdom Matters. They discuss the importance of biblical wisdom, the differences between knowledge and wisdom, and how wisdom can help us navigate life's challenges. Janet shares personal stories and insights from her journey of faith, including early experiences in ministry and how desperation led her to a deeper understanding of scripture. They highlight the role of the Holy Spirit in ministry and the tendency to misuse Bible knowledge.
Janet emphasizes the need to lean on God's understanding and not our own, especially in difficult times. They also explain how the devotional book is structured to provide daily wisdom and how it can be accessed both as a hardcover and through the Foundations with Janet app, where users can hear Janet read each devotional. Discover practical ways to end your day with God's wisdom and explore the powerful impact it can have on your life.
Janet Denison has been writing and teaching Bible study for almost forty years and speaks with a voice that has experienced the truth of God’s word. She often says the reason she gets out of bed each day is to help others understand and apply the truth of God’s word to their daily lives. Teaching the Bible is her great privilege, and her goal is to help people live a life that God is able to bless. She is the primary author of the Bible studies at Foundations with Janet.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this enlightening podcast episode, Jared Wilson joins Dr. Mark Turman on the Denison Forum podcast to discuss his latest book Friendship with the Friend of Sinners: The Remarkable Possibility of Closeness with Christ. Jared shares his personal faith journey, his roles in ministry, and the inspiration behind his new book. The conversation explores themes of loneliness, the true meaning of a relationship with Christ, and the importance of community and church in one's spiritual life. Jared also examines the tangible friendship believers can have with Jesus, emphasizing the significance of both personal and communal aspects of faith.
(00:25): Jared Wilson's Backstory
(03:23): Journey to Midwestern Seminary
(04:18): Current Roles and Responsibilities
(06:24): Discussing the Book: Friendship with the Friend of Sinners
(09:58): The Concept of Friendship with God
(12:24): The Role of Religion and Relationship
(17:16): The Reality of Jesus as a Person
(28:04): The Importance of the Local Church
(38:43): Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Jared is assistant professor of pastoral ministry and author in residence at Midwestern Seminary and director of the Pastoral Training Center at Liberty Baptist Church, all in Kansas City, Missouri. He is the author of numerous books, including The Imperfect Disciple,Love Me Anyway,The Prodigal Church, and The Gospel According to Satan. He is the host of the For The Church podcast and co-host of Christianity Today's The Art of Pastoring podcast. Jared also blogs regularly at the For The Church website, and he speaks at numerous churches and conferences around the world.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this episode of the Denison Forum podcast, Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison address the complex and sensitive issue of moral failures among church leaders. They examine the implications of such failures, differentiate between moral and legal mistakes, and discuss the appropriate processes for handling these situations. The conversation covers potential disqualification from ministry, biblical examples, and measures for restoration. Additionally, they discuss recent news about the Ten Commandments being posted in schools, considering both historical and religious implications.
(01:39): Understanding Moral Failures in Church Leadership
(06:56): Distinguishing Moral Failures from Capacity Issues
(10:22): Exploring the Concept of Disqualification in Ministry
(19:30): Navigating the Restoration Process
(25:54): The Devil's Strategy and the Importance of Confession
(30:56): Failures Among Religious Leaders
(32:27): The Impact of Pornography on Ministry
(34:32): Unique Temptations for Spiritual Leaders
(38:05): Handling Moral Failures in the Church
(43:22): The Debate Over Displaying the Ten Commandments
(46:13): Historical vs. Religious Expression
(54:11): Balancing Church and State
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Join Dr. Mark Turman, executive director of Denison Forum, in a profound discussion with J. Warner Wallace on the latest episode of the Denison Forum podcast. Wallace, a celebrated cold case homicide detective and best-selling author, discusses the themes of his new book, The Truth in True Crime: What Investigating Death Teaches Us About the Meaning of Life.
They explore humanity's obsession with drama, the nature of truth and grace, and the deep implications of holding justice and mercy in balance within the Christian faith. This episode offers rich insights into cultural and spiritual identity, humility, and provides practical tools to help listeners think biblically, live holy, and serve redemptively.
(00:57): Society's Obsession with Drama
(02:39): Interview with Jim Wallace: True Crime and Christianity
(04:29): Jim Wallace's Journey to Faith
(11:00): The Human Condition and Need for a Savior
(17:59): Identity and Trauma
(32:21): Exploring Hope and Mortality
(34:47): Christian Worldview and Hope
(38:46): Humility: The Secret to Flourishing
(45:02): The Dangers of Celebrity Culture
(51:18): Balancing Justice and Mercy
(01:00:18): Concluding Thoughts and Recommendations
Cold-Case Christianity: A Homicide Detective Investigates the Claims of the Gospels
'The Truth in True Crime: What Investigating Death Teaches Us About the Meaning of Life
J. Warner Wallace is Dateline-featured cold-case homicide detective, popular national speaker, and best-selling author. Relying on more than two decades of investigative experience, Wallace provides the tools needed to investigate the claims of Christianity and make a convincing case for the truth of the Christian worldview.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Join Dr. Mark Turman, executive director of Denison Forum, as he speaks with Courtney DeFeo, host of the 'Pardon the Mess' podcast. They discuss the importance of integrating faith into family life and resources available through Christian Parenting such as the valuable prayer journal, 'A Life of Faith: Knowing, Loving, Following, and Sharing Jesus.' They also discuss the challenges of managing technology and social media, the apologizing to children, and the power of prayer. Through open, honest dialogue, they aim to provide practical, faith-based support for families navigating today's world.
(02:06): The Story of Timothy and Christian Parenting
(03:31): Introducing Courtney DeFeo
(04:30): Courtney's Background and Passion for Parenting
(06:56): Navigating Parenting Challenges and College Choices
(10:19): Courtney's Faith Journey and Ministry Work
(14:58): The Impact of Working at Chick-fil-A
(17:34): Pardon the Mess Podcast and Prayer Journal
(22:53): The Power of Prayer in Parenting
(23:49): Challenges and Realizations in Parenting
(26:57): The Importance of Apologizing and Personal Growth
(29:00): Journaling as a Tool for Spiritual Growth
(36:06): Resources for Christian Parenting
(38:24): Navigating Technology and Social Media
(44:29): Final Thoughts and Encouragement
A Parent’s Prayer Journal: A Life of Faith: Knowing, Loving, Following, and Sharing Jesus
Courtney is the host of Pardon the Mess! She is the author of In This House, We Will Giggle and Treasured. She is also the creator of ABC Scripture Cards and the kindness movement, Light ‘Em Up Acts. She loves to encourage parents and women through speaking, writing, and podcasting. She also serves on the board of Lighthouse Family Retreat.
Her deepest desire is to encourage others and give generously in a way that draws people to God. Her most honorable mention is her husband Ron and their two wildly fun girls (Ella, 17 and Larson, 15). Courtney is passionate about Jesus, coffee, Auburn football, Coca-Cola classic, her dog Mazie, spending time with friends and family, and finding deals at TJ Maxx.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, host Dr. Mark Turman converses with Elizabeth Neumann, former Assistant Secretary for Counterterrorism and Threat Prevention at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Elizabeth discusses her book, 'Kingdom of Rage: The Rise of Christian Extremism and the Path Back to Peace' which highlights her professional journey and insights into radicalization post-9/11 leading up to January 6.
The conversation explores the intersections of fear, anger, extremism, and the misuse of Christian principles for political aims. Elizabeth emphasizes the role of communities, especially faith communities, in addressing radicalization and fostering peace. Additionally, she shares her experiences and current work with Moonshot, a company aimed at redirecting those at risk of radicalization towards mental health support.
(01:07): Elizabeth's Background and Career
(03:27): The Impact of 9/11 and Rise of Domestic Extremism
(06:28): Understanding Radicalization and Extremism
(15:44): Self-Care and Navigating a Toxic Environment
(18:49): The Role of Fear and Anger in Extremism
(23:42): The Scale of the Problem and Potential Solutions
(29:25): Reclaiming Civility in a Post-COVID World
(33:26): The Merging of Extremist Movements
(35:07): The Threat of Political Violence
(42:09): Radicalization and the Role of Networks
(49:30): Addressing Extremism in Communities and Churches
(57:19): Elizabeth's Current Work and Final Thoughts
Kingdom of Rage: The Rise of Christian Extremism and the Path Back to Peace
🎧 When politics get extreme, what should Christians do? A conversation with Tim Alberta
🎧 What does it mean to be a Christian patriot?
What the controversial God & Country documentary gets right and wrong: Should you watch?
Elizabeth Neumann served as the Assistant Secretary for Counterterrorism and Threat Prevention at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Neumann is a frequent guest on national news outlets, and the Chief Strategy Officer at Moonshot. She is based in the Denver, CO area.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this conversation, Dr. Mark Turman interviews Steve Carter about his new book, which explores his journey of resignation from Willow Creek Community Church in the wake of misconduct allegations against the former pastor, Bill Hybels. The book is titled 'Grieve, Breathe, Receive: Finding a Faith Strong Enough to Hold Us,' which reflects the three key words that guided Steve through his season of struggle and healing. The conversation delves into the events surrounding the resignation, the decision-making process, and the challenges of leadership in the face of institutional preservation.
Steve also discusses the themes of grief, breathing, and receiving in the context of personal and ministry transitions. They explore the significance of the Easter weekend and how it aligns with the process of grieving, breathing, and receiving. They also delve into the importance of waiting and how pastors can care for themselves and their families during challenging times. Steve shares insights on the pain, privileges, and promises of ministry, emphasizing the need for both firsthand and secondhand healing.
(03:20): The Traumatic Events at Willow Creek
(08:14): Writing the Book: Why Now?
(12:59): Resignation: Staying or Leaving?
(28:46): Losing Loved Ones and the Impact on Identity
(30:40): The Mantra of Grieve, Breathe, Receive
(36:30): The Journey from Grief to Receiving
(40:34): The Difference Between Hope Preached and Hope Embodied
(43:34): The Relationship to Waiting and the Definition of Grief
(46:38): Honoring Feelings and Trusting God in the Waiting
(49:14): Caring for Family in Ministry and the Importance of Healing
(52:08): Acknowledging the Pain, Privileges, and Promises of Ministry
(54:08): Steve Carter's Current Work and Podcast
Grieve, Breathe, Receive: Finding a Faith Strong Enough to Hold Us
Why the church doesn’t want to talk about trauma
The truth about triggers: What the church needs to know about trauma
Steve Carter is a pastor, speaker, author, podcast host, and the former lead teaching pastor of Willow Creek Community Church in Chicago. He hosts the Craft & Character podcast, where he helps people get better at the art and craft of communication while ensuring their character always leads the way.
An avid sports fan, Steve has co-hosted with ESPN sports anchor Samantha Ponder, NFL player Sam Acho, and Trey Burton The Home Team Podcast, which unpacks the intersection between faith, culture, sports, and family.
With a degree in Biblical Studies from Hope International University, Steve has a heart for the local church. He is currently a teaching pastor at Forest City Church in Elgin, IL, and often speaks for churches, conferences, events, camps, and retreats all over the country. Steve lives in Chicagoland with his wife, Sarah, and their two kids.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Dr. Mark Turman, Executive Director of Denison Forum, hosts Dr. Ryan Denison to discuss the challenging issues of immigration and refugees from a biblical standpoint. As a nonpartisan ministry, they seek to approach the topic holistically, emphasizing compassion, the importance of borders, and the rule of law. Touching on recent political actions, historical contexts, and biblical principles, this episode aims to equip listeners to think biblically and live out their faith in practical and impactful ways. Highlights include understanding refugee rights, the complexities of asylum policies, and actionable steps for individuals to get involved.
President Biden issues “Proclamation on Securing the Border”
Separating children at the border: 3 options and my response
Ryan Denison, PhD, is the Senior Editor for Theology at Denison Forum. Ryan writes The Daily Article every Friday and contributes writing and research to many of the ministry’s productions. He holds a PhD in church history from BH Carroll Theological Institute after having earned his MDiv at Truett Seminary. He’s authored The Path to Purpose, What Are My Spiritual Gifts?, How to Bless God by Blessing Others, 7 Deadly Sins, and has contributed writing or research to every Denison Forum book.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Mark Turman speaks with Dr. Hormoz Shariat, an Iranian-born Christian with an inspiring journey. Hormoz shares his story of growing up in a devout Muslim family in Iran, his eventual questioning of Islam, and his transformation after coming to the United States to study. He details his intellectual and spiritual journey comparing the Bible and the Quran, and how simple gospel truths changed his life.
Dr. Shariat also discusses his ministry, Iran Alive, which broadcasts Christian messages to millions in Iran through satellite TV and secure online platforms, leading to countless conversions. The conversation touches on the historical and current cultural landscape of Iran, its prophetic significance, and the transformative power of integrating faith and technology. Dr. Shariat emphasizes the urgency of spreading the gospel and training new believers in Iran.
Dr. Hormoz Shariat is a remarkable individual whose journey is nothing short of awe-inspiring. He is known as “the Billy Graham of Iran,” and when you learn about his life, you’ll understand why. Joel C. Rosenberg, a renowned author, has even hailed him as “the most influential Iranian American.” But there’s so much more to Dr. Shariat than just titles and accolades. His story is one of deep personal conviction, heartbreak, and unwavering faith.
Armed with a Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence from the prestigious University of Southern California and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Bible and Theology from Jessup University, Dr. Shariat began his ministry journey. In 1987, he took a leap of faith and planted a church in San Jose, California. Little did he know that this church would grow to become one of the largest of its kind in the United States, with hundreds of Muslim converts finding solace, community, and a profound connection to their newfound faith.
But the story doesn’t end there. In the year 2000, guided by divine purpose, Dr. Shariat founded Iran Alive Ministries. This organization harnessed the power of Satellite TV to reach millions of lost and broken souls not only in Iran but throughout the Middle East. From their studio in Dallas, Texas, they broadcast the Gospel 24/7, driven by an unyielding belief that God will use their efforts to bring about a transformation in an Islamic nation like never before.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Mark Turman sits down with Nancy French to discuss her newly released memoir, 'Ghosted: An American Story.' Nancy, a renowned ghostwriter whose work has landed five times on the New York Times bestseller list, opens up about her personal journey including the challenges behind ghostwriting for celebrities and her decision to finally share her own story.
The conversation delves into Nancy's traumatic past marked by childhood abuse, her journey in understanding her faith, and the cultural and spiritual homelessness she has felt. They also explore her family life, including her husband's transformative experience after military service and their adoption of a daughter from Ethiopia.
Nancy's insights into the complexities of American politics, her change in perspective on patriotism, and the issues of sexual abuse within the church are eye-opening. This deeply engaging and inspiring discussion is a must-listen for anyone grappling with faith, trauma, and the search for identity in today's tumultuous times.
Topics
(01:45): Nancy's Journey to Writing Her Memoir
(02:51): The Life of a Ghostwriter
(06:59): Nancy's Early Life and Challenges
(10:06): Overcoming Trauma and Family Influence
(13:22): Nancy's Faith Journey and Struggles with the Church
(16:39): Addressing Abuse and Accountability in the Church
(27:32): The Stigma Around the Term 'Victim'
(30:18): Challenges in Addressing Sexual Abuse in the Church
(32:44): The Southern Baptist Convention's Stance
(35:42): The Impact of War on Family and Faith
(37:27): Political Engagement and Personal Growth
(39:38): Reflections on Partisan Rhetoric
(44:24): Adoption and Divine Providence
(47:17): The Concept of Being 'Holy Ghosted'
Resources
Book Review: In "Ghosted," Nancy French shares her unique and compelling life story
About Nancy French
Nancy French is a five-time New York Times bestselling author. As a ghostwriter, she has written for a variety of people, from Sarah Palin to Kim Kardashian. As an investigative journalist, she uncovered sexual and spiritual abuse in America’s largest Christian camp. She lives in Franklin, Tennessee with her husband, journalist David French, and family.
About Dr. Mark Turman
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
About Denison Forum
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Join Dr. Mark Turman, executive director of Denison Forum, for an insightful conversation with Pastor Chris Legg as they discuss biblical and psychological insights on sex and marriage. In this episode, they explore concepts from Chris's new book, co-authored with his son, Mark, titled 'Sex and Marriage: Unlocking and Restoring the Power of Sex Through Biblical and Psychological Insight.' Learn about the sacred nature of sex in marriage, the pitfalls of transactional relationships, and how a healthy, godly perspective can transform marriages. Perfect for couples at any stage, from premarital to the many-year mark, this conversation aims to equip you to think biblically, live beautifully, and serve redemptively.
Topics
(02:10): Diving Deep into 'Sex and Marriage': A Clarity Conversation
(05:44): Exploring the Sacred Mystery of Marriage and Sexuality
(18:36): Reclaiming the Garden: The Sacredness of Sex in Marriage
(23:45): Paul's Teaching to the Corinthian Church: A Sacred Mystery Unveiled
(30:45): Unpacking Sexual Intimacy and Identity
(33:53): The Impact of Stress and Energy on Marital Intimacy
(35:53): The Power of Language in Understanding Each Other
(37:05): Marriage, Sexuality, and Identity in Biblical Context
(40:48): Unveiling the True Essence of Marriage and Sexuality
(49:51): Navigating Identity and Sexuality: A Deeper Dive
(56:43): Concluding Thoughts on Identity, Freedom, and Grace
Resources
About Rev. Chris Legg, LPC-S
Pastor Chris Legg, LPC, and his wife Ginger have been living out the parable of God’s love for His people since 1993 and have been blessed with five great kids. He is the Lead Pastor at South Spring Baptist Church in Tyler, TX and is also the founding owner and clinical director of Alethia Family Counseling Center, which offers counseling, speaking and business consulting.
About Dr. Mark Turman
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
About Denison Forum
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this final episode of our special eight-episode series called “Being Christian in today’s culture,” Dr. Denison discusses the significance of cultural engagement. He explores how Christians can utilize their influence in various areas of society like family, church, community, and job, to foster a closer relationship with God and help the world flourish biblically.
The conversation highlights the concept of being a 'cultural missionary' rather than a 'cultural warrior,' stressing the importance of the Holy Spirit’s role in empowering believers to make a practical, tangible difference in the kingdom of God.
For more, read this episode’s accompanying articles, “Changed people change the world” and “Lies that lead us astray.”
Topics
(01:22): The Foundation of Cultural Engagement: White Papers and Biblical Flourishing
(04:02): Understanding and Embracing Cultural Engagement
(07:31): Strategic and Spirit-Led Cultural Engagement
(16:44): Leveraging Spiritual Gifts for Kingdom Impact
(29:49) The Challenge of Being Transformational in a Complex World
(34:15): The Pursuit of a Christian Majority: Goals and Realities
(39:13): The Power of the Holy Spirit in Christian Life
(48:46): Cultural Engagement and the Normal Christian Life
Resources
About Dr. Jim Denison
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
About Dr. Mark Turman
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
About Denison Forum
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this seventh episode of our special eight-episode series called “Being Christian in today’s culture,” Dr. Denison discusses the significance of political civility. He answers questions such as:
Are we living in “unprecedented” times? Why are so many Christians now energized by politics? How can Christians deepen their reliance on the Holy Spirit?
He emphasizes the binary choice between exhibiting the fruit of the Spirit or the flesh, urging Christians to act as cultural missionaries through biblically rooted political engagement and daily reliance on the Holy Spirit.
For more, read this episode’s accompanying article, “The lost art of civility.”
(03:14): Diving Deep into Political Civility and Biblical Flourishing
(07:23): Unpacking the Unprecedented: Navigating Today's Political Landscape
(12:03): The Power of Participation: Engaging in Democracy with Hope
(15:45): Navigating Politics with Faith Over Fear
(32:27): The Role of Christians in Promoting Biblical Civility
(35:31): The Importance of Preserving Christian Witness in Politics
(39:26): The Role of Civility in Political Engagement
(43:11): Challenging the 'End Justifies the Means' Mentality in Politics
(52:11): The Dangers of Celebrity in Politics and Leadership
(01:02:25): Embracing the Holy Spirit in Political Civility
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this sixth episode of our special eight-episode series called “Being Christian in today’s culture,” Dr. Denison discusses biblical sexuality. He explores the history of sexual ethics, the impact of cultural shifts on biblical truths regarding sexuality, and the need for clear teaching and reliance on the Holy Spirit to live out God's design for sex and relationships.
The conversation also touches on topics such as cohabitation, same-sex attraction, transgenderism, and pornography, emphasizing the importance of community, biblical teaching, and the transformative power of God's love and redemption.
For more, read this episode’s accompanying article, “Is biblical sexuality outdated and irrelevant? ”
(01:22): Inspirations from CS Lewis and Tolkien: Seeking Clarity in Today's Culture
(03:20): The Pillars of Being Christian in Today's Culture: A Series Overview
(04:46): Diving Deep into Biblical Sexuality: A Critical Pillar for Believers
(10:53): The Historical Journey: From Biblical Authority to the Sexual Revolution
(18:41): The Consequences of the Sexual Revolution: Legal Battles and Cultural Shifts
(21:55): The Future of Marriage and Family: Declining Birth Rates and Societal Impacts
(26:26): Addressing the Spiritual Battle: Satan's Role in Undermining Biblical Values
(29:32): The Enduring Relevance of Biblical Marriage and Family
(32:41): Pop Culture's Reflection on Relationship Dynamics
(35:03): The Societal and Psychological Impacts of Polygamy and Polyamory
(39:44): Transitioning to New Testament Teachings on Marriage
(46:26): The Challenge of Living Out Biblical Sexual Ethics Today
(49:59): The Role of the Holy Spirit in Overcoming Sexual Temptation
(55:56): Concluding Thoughts on God's Love and Redemption
Is biblical sexuality outdated and irrelevant?
Sacred Sexuality:Reclaiming God's Design
A pathway for becoming culture-changing Christians - Part 1
Live by biblical truth and authority- Part 2
The power of Christ to change the culture - Part 3
Who determines the value of life? - Part 4
What does it mean to hunger and thirst for righteousness? - Part 5
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this fifth episode of our special eight-episode series called “Being Christian in today’s culture,” Dr. Denison discusses biblical righteousness. He answers questions such as:
What is the difference between righteousness and biblical righteousness? Is righteousness the same thing as justice? What does it look like to be righteous in today’s society?
The conversation with Dr. Denison also addresses topics such as racism, gender inequality, economic disparities, immigration, and environmental stewardship. Their conversation seeks to encourage Christians to think biblically, live holy lives, and act redemptively in order to foster a world that flourishes by God's design.
For more, read this episode’s accompanying article, “What is biblical righteousness?”
Topics
(01:55): Diving Deep into Biblical Righteousness
(08:12): The Challenge of Hypocrisy in Pursuing Righteousness
(14:05): Hungering and Thirsting for Righteousness: A Biblical Perspective
(22:28): Navigating Complex Cultural Issues with a Biblical Lens
(31:40): The Role of Social Media and Celebrity Culture in Shaping Public Values
(33:09): Addressing Racism: From Historical Context to Personal Experiences
(38:03): The Complex Landscape of Progress and Challenges in Combating Racism
(45:35): Exploring Gender Equality and the Biblical Perspective on Women's Roles
(50:5): Immigration, Borders, and the Biblical Call for Compassion
(57:53): Confronting Simplification and Polarization in Societal Debates
Resources
What is biblical righteousness?
A pathway for becoming culture-changing Christians - Part 1
Live by biblical truth and authority- Part 2
The power of Christ to change the culture - Part 3
Who determines the value of life - Part 4
About Dr. Jim Denison
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
About Dr. Mark Turman
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
About Denison Forum
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this fourth episode of our special eight-episode series called “Being Christian in today’s culture,” Dr. Denison discusses the sanctity of life as a pillar for biblical flourishing. He answers questions such as:
Is life intrinsically sacred? Who determines the value of life? Is euthanasia a sin?
The conversation with Dr. Denison highlights the intrinsic value of life from a biblical standpoint, spanning from issues like abortion to broader considerations of human dignity and societal values. He also tackles ethical dilemmas related to human life, euthanasia, and the impact of evolutionary and psychoanalytic theories on society, emphasizing the significance of recognizing the value of every human life.
For more, read this episode’s accompanying article, “The sanctity of life from conception to natural death.”
(01:04): Introducing the Series: Being Christian in Today's Culture
(02:31): Exploring the Sanctity of Life: A Deep Dive
(08:11): The Impact of Christianity on Society and Culture
(15:01): Christianity's Role in Advancing Women's Status and Addressing Immigration
(22:13): Ontology and the Sacredness of Life: A Philosophical Examination
(30:14): The Ethical Dilemmas in Modern Conflicts and Surveillance Societies
(35:43): The Slippery Slope of Utilitarian Ethics in Euthanasia and Abortion
(45:11): Marxism, Capitalism, and the Sanctity of Life
(55:04): The Importance of a Biblical Worldview on Identity and Value
The sanctity of life from conception to natural death
A pathway for becoming culture-changing Christians - Part 1
Live by biblical truth and authority- Part 2
The power of Christ to change the culture - Part 3
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this third episode of our special eight-episode series called “Being Christian in today’s culture,” Dr. Denison discusses the necessity of faith in Christ as a pillar for biblical flourishing. He answers questions such as:
What is faith? How can a life transformed by faith in Christ transform the culture? What is the difference between religion and morality?
The conversation with Dr. Denison also covers the significance of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers to live out their faith, the challenge of maintaining Christian beliefs in an increasingly secular culture, and the practical ways Christians can influence society positively.
For more, read this episode’s accompanying article, “The necessity of personal faith in Christ.”
Topics
(00:31): Introducing the Series: Being Christian in Today's Culture
(02:09): Defining Terms: Equipped vs. Armed
(03:24): The Cultural Warrior vs. Cultural Missionary Debate
(07:28): Exploring Worldviews and Metanarratives
(11:10): The Impact of Technology on Storytelling and Worldviews
(18:02): The Necessity of Faith in Christ for Personal and Corporate Flourishing
(22:06): Understanding Biblical Flourishing in Marriage and Society
(31:08): Exploring the Necessity of Faith in Christ
(34:23): The Role of the Holy Spirit in Empowering Believers
(39:34): The Impact of Faith on Morality and Democracy
(43:52): Christianity's Unique Contribution to Moral Society
(47:19): Navigating Faith in a Pluralistic Society
(53:02): Living Out Faith in Today's World
(01:01:24): Concluding Thoughts on Being Christian in Today's Culture
Resources
The necessity of personal faith in of Christ
A pathway for becoming culture-changing Christians - Part 1
Live by biblical truth and authority- Part 2
About Dr. Jim Denison
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
About Dr. Mark Turman
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
About Denison Forum
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In part two of our special eight-episode series called “Being Christian in today’s culture,” Dr. Jim Denison explores the intersection of biblical truth, authority, and cultural relevance for Christians today answering questions such as:
What does it mean to embrace biblical truth and authority in the modern world? What does it mean to love God with all your mind? What is truth?
The conversation highlights the significance of understanding and adhering to biblical principles, not as mere beliefs but as authoritative guides for life's decisions. It emphasizes the transformative power of submitting to biblical authority and striving to live out one's faith authentically in society. Dr. Denison also discusses the role of education and critical thinking in faith, underscoring the need for discernment and engagement with culture without compromising biblical integrity.
For more, read this episode’s accompanying article, “Why we should live by biblical truth and authority.”
Topics
Resources
About Dr. Jim Denison
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
About Dr. Mark Turman
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
About Denison Forum
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this first episode of a special eight-episode series called “Being Christian in today’s culture,” Dr. Jim Denison lays out seven essential convictions that a Christian who wants to engage and influence their culture most effectively should adhere to.
These seven pillars of biblical flourishing are:
At Denison Forum, we often use the phrase “culture-changing Christian.” But what does it truly mean to be a Christian who changes the culture? Can one person even do something so seemingly large?
In this opening episode, Christians are encouraged to use their gifts, skills, and influence to serve God and draw others to him. Because when a life is deeply rooted in Christ and a Christian chooses to think biblically and act redemptively, the world can’t help but change.
For more, read this episode’s accompanying article, “How to become a culture-changing Christian.”
(00:00): Welcome to the Journey: Equipping Culture-Changing Christians
(00:22): Introducing the Seven Pillars of Biblical Flourishing
(03:05): Exploring the Beatitudes and the Foundation of Christian Beliefs
(06:24): The Challenge of Spreading the Gospel in Today's World
(12:20): Understanding Biblical Flourishing and Abundant Life
(17:33): The Inclusiveness and Uniqueness of Christianity
(23:53): Unveiling the Seven Pillars of Biblical Flourishing
(33:52): The Dangers of Hypocrisy in Believers
(37:47): The Inevitable Consequences of Sin
(40:35): The Power of Accountability in Spiritual Growth
(55:56): Living a Life of Redemption and Influence
How to become a culture-changing Christian
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
What does “Easter” mean? How did Easter begin? Why is Easter essential to Christianity? Join Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman as they discuss the deep importance of Easter, why every Sunday should be an Easter celebration, and why Jesus’ death and resurrection matters to your life right now.
(00:25): Exploring the Origins and Cultural Impact of Easter
(01:14): The Etymology of Easter: From Pagan Roots to Christian Celebration
(01:42): Easter Celebrations in American Culture: Statistics and Reflections
(04:17): The Challenge of Separating Biblical Facts from Cultural Traditions
(05:52): Engaging with Culture: From Easter Eggs to the Resurrection Story
(24:26): The Power of the Easter Story: Transformative Insights from Scripture
(30:27): Revisiting Easter: The Importance of Recurring Celebrations in Faith
(34:04): Exploring the Power of Repetition in Faith
(35:24): The Importance of Visual Theology
(36:52): Discovering New Insights in Familiar Stories
(44:11): The Profound Impact of Jesus' Crucifixion
(51:24): Understanding the Resurrection's Significance
(58:51): The Personal Journey of Faith
Was the cross really necessary? What does the Bible say about Easter?
Why did Jesus rise from the grave?
Awaken My Heart: A 47-day Lenten Journey
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Aaron Renn’s latest book is Life in the Negative World: Confronting Challenges in an Anti-Christian Culture.
As Renn writes in his book, this “negative world poses a profound challenge to American evangelicals and their churches, and it also helps to explain why there’s been so much turmoil and conflict within the evangelical world.”
Renn sat down with Denison Forum Podcast host Dr. Mark Turman to discuss his latest book. They delve into the historical transition of Christianity's societal perception from positive to neutral to negative, the impact of societal changes on evangelical adaptability, and strategies for Christians to engage meaningfully in a skeptical society.
Key topics include the importance of trustworthiness in Christian institutions, the state of marriage and family, and the need for Christians to cultivate excellence and adaptability while staying biblically grounded.
You will be both challenged and inspired by this interview with author Aaron Renn.
(00:33): Introducing Aaron Renn
(01:09): Exploring Life in the Negative World
(01:46): Understanding the Shift: From Positive to Negative World
(02:38): The Evolution of American Christianity: A Historical Perspective
(05:33): Navigating the Negative World: Strategies and Expectations for Christians
(09:18): Adapting to Change: The Evolution of Evangelical Strategies
(17:41): The Future of Christianity: Challenges and Opportunities
(19:37): The Political Landscape and Its Impact on Evangelicalism
(27:36): The Church's Response to a Changing Culture
(29:00): Navigating the Intersection of Christianity and Politics
(29:49): The Future of Christian Institutions Amidst Societal Shifts
(30:51): Embracing Exploration and Adaptability in Uncertain Times
(31:33): The Call to Personal Excellence, Obedience, and Resilience
(32:30): The Importance of Excellence in Christian Life
(46:25): Addressing the Crisis of Competence and Trust in Institutions
(52:21): Confronting Challenges in Gender and Sexuality
(56:05): Finding Hope and Opportunity in a Negative World
Life in the Negative World: Confronting Challenges in an Anti-Christian Culture by Aaron Renn
Aaron M. Renn is a consultant and writer in Indianapolis. He is a Senior Fellow at American Reformer, a former Senior Fellow at the Manhattan Institute for Public Research and former partner at Accenture. He has written extensively on cities, culture, the future of the evangelical church, and men's issues.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Dr. Jim Denison, cultural apologist and founder of Denison Ministries, joins Denison Forum Executive Director Dr. Mark Turman to discuss biblical accountability and judgment, emphasizing the importance for Christians to comprehend and think about their accountability to God.
Dr. Denison clarifies misconceptions around guilt, shame, and God's judgment and explains how understanding and embracing divine accountability can lead to holy and redemptive living.
Additionally, they touch on the significance of Jesus' teachings and his pronouncements of woe on certain communities, examining the implications of personal and corporate sin and judgment.
Their conversation also addresses the practical aspect of living out one's faith in today's cultural context, making meaningful connections between biblical times and contemporary society.
And they close with a discussion centered on Denison Forum’s latest book, a cultural commentary on the gospel of Matthew simply titled Matthew: A Guide to Genuine Discipleship.
(01:50): The Doctrine of Accountability
(03:04): The Practical Consequences of Biblical Teachings
(04:02): The Role of Accountability in Human Nature
(05:57): The Balance Between God's Love and Righteousness
(09:59): The Consequences of Moses' Actions
(10:39): Understanding God's Judgement
(15:21): The Duality of God's Love and Righteousness
(25:55): Understanding Boundaries and Rules
(26:31): The Importance of Social Interactions
(27:27): The Desire for a Right Relationship with God
(29:12): Denison Ministries and Its Resources
(30:12): The Role of the Holy Spirit in Our Lives
(32:53): The Impact of Guilt and Shame
(39:10): Understanding Corporate Accountability
(43:55): Introducing a New Resource: A Cultural Commentary on the Gospel of Matthew
(50:51): Closing Remarks and Gratitude
What does the Bible say about accountability?
The line between judgment and accountability
Matthew: A Guide to Genuine Discipleship
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Dr. Preston M. Sprinkle joined The Denison Forum Podcast to talk about his latest book, Exiles: The Church in the Shadow of the Empire. Along with host Dr. Mark Turman, they delve into biblical history as a guide for today’s Christians navigating the political arena. They warn against intertwining your religious and political identity, and they advocate for a stronger biblical lens when forming political perspectives. They also explore what “exile” and “empire” meant to the first-century church, providing a thought-provoking perspective on how Christians should engage with today’s contentious political atmosphere.
(00:21) The Role of Christians in Politics
(02:35) The Impact of Politics on Church Unity
(05:25) The Shift in News Consumption and its Impact on Politics
(11:15) The Role of Identity in Politics
(12:26) The Influence of Christianity on Politics
(16:01) The Dangers of Christians Seeking Political Power
(21:41) Historical Examples of Christian Influence in Politics
(26:15) Jesus as a Political Figure
(27:32) The Subversive Nature of Jesus's Teachings
(28:38) Understanding the Eternal Context
(29:15) Christianity and Slavery
(30:28) The Power of Sacrifice
(32:27) The Metaphor of Exile
(38:06) Political Involvement as Christians
(47:45) Practical Implications: Pledge of Allegiance
(51:36) Conclusion: Faith as the Primary Lens
Exiles: The Church in the Shadow of Empire
Center for Faith, Sexuality & Gender
🎧 “Does the Bible Support Same-Sex Marriage?” A conversation with Preston Sprinkle
New York Times bestselling author Dr. Preston M. Sprinkle has written more than a dozen books. He serves as the president of the Center for Faith, Sexuality & Gender and the host of the Theology in the Raw podcast. His most recent book is Exiles: The Church in the Shadow of Empire.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
International women’s minister Toni Collier joins The Denison Forum Podcast to discuss her life journey and her pivotal role in the Unshakable Moxie docu-series from Our Daily Bread.
Collier opens up about her own experiences of hardship, brokenness, and redemption, shining a light on how she uses her story in her ministry called Broken Crayons Still Color.
She also provides insights into Unshakable Moxie, explaining its aim to help women channel their strength and resilience through faith, even in times of darkness.
Toni touches upon the important role of community for healing, growth, and accountability, encouraging listeners to rekindle connections. The episode ends with a discussion about Women's History Month and the ongoing battle for fairness and equality.
(00:00) Introduction and Guest Presentation
(01:56) Toni Collier's Personal Journey
(04:45) What is Unshakable Moxie?
(07:22) The Essence of True Moxie
(15:36) The Importance of Community in Faith
(21:05) The Power of Connection and the Enemy's Tactics
(21:23) Women of Moxie in the Bible
(25:45) Avoiding the Comparison Trap
(27:56) Celebrating Women's History Month
(31:18) The Importance of Women's Voices
(34:45) Unshakable Moxie: A Docuseries
Unshakable Moxie: Growing a Resilient Faith, A 6-Session Women's Bible Study with Video access
Toni Collier is the founder of an international women’s ministry called Broken Crayons Still Color, which helps women process through brokenness and get to hope. She is a speaker, host, author of Brave Enough to Be Broken, and consultant who has helped organizations with creative marketing, leadership, student ministry, and strategic planning. She has spoken and worked with organizations such as North Point Community Church, TBN, Chick-fil-A, IF:Gathering, Orange Conference, MOPS International, and more.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Tim Alberta, author of The Kingdom, The Power, and The Glory: American Evangelicals in an Age of Extremism, joins The Denison Forum Podcast to discuss his book and the shift in attitude among evangelicals toward accepting extreme political viewpoints, as well as how their faith has influenced their politics.
Alberta shares his experience and research as he explores the historical and contemporary landscape of American evangelicalism, its intersection with politics, and the challenges it faces today.
Along with Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman, the conversation offers insights into where evangelicalism is today and its continuing effect on national politics.
Topics
00:05 Introduction and Guest Presentation
00:35 The Intersection of Politics and Religion
01:36 Introducing Tim Alberta and His Work
02:54 Discussion on Sports and Personal Experiences
04:02 Tim Alberta's Journey and Motivation for His Book
12:43 The Evolution of Evangelical Christians in Politics
22:49 The Concept of Good vs Evil in Politics
32:19 The Art of Fundraising and Political Strategy
33:06 The Power of Speaking Biblical Truth
33:47 The Importance of Loving Our Neighbors
34:35 The Role of Evangelicals in Politics
37:10 The Influence of Abortion on Political Alignment
43:17 The Danger of Stereotyping Evangelicals
45:42 The Challenge of Making Decisions as Christians
50:21 The Impact of Personal Morality on Leadership
55:24 The Dilemma of Choosing Between Two Evils
01:02:13 The Importance of Viewing Politics Through Faith
Tim Alberta is an award-winning journalist, best-selling author, and staff writer for The Atlantic magazine. He formerly served as chief political correspondent for POLITICO. His most recent book is The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory: American Evangelicals in an Age of Extremism.
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this wide-ranging discussion, Jim and Janet Denison open by sharing their surprising Valentine’s Day tradition.
Next, Janet shares why she wrote her book A Great Calm and how it can help those who are suffering.
Then, along with cohost Dr. Mark Turman, they talk about why Christians observe the season of Lent.
And they conclude with a discussion on the historical value of observing Women's History Month and the important roles of women in the Bible and society.
(00:00) Introduction and Welcome
(00:38) Valentine's Day Traditions and Marriage Stories
(03:02) The Importance of Celebrating Valentine's Day
(05:14) Introducing 'A Great Calm' - A Resource for Difficult Times
(09:22) The Power of God's Word in Difficult Times
(10:41) The Role of Women in Society and the Church
(15:44) Understanding the Season of Lent
(28:08) The Significance of Women's History Month
(49:08) Conclusion and Gratitude
📘 A Great Calm: Finding God’s Peace When You Need It Most by Janet Denison
📙 Awaken My Heart: A 47-Day Lenten Journey by Dr. Jim Denison
🎧 Women in ministry and leadership: A conversation with Alex Kondratev and Steph Thurling
Should women be pastors? Or church leaders, deacons, or teachers? Dr. Jim Denison
Can a woman be a pastor? “40 Questions About Women in Ministry” offers many answers
Janet Denison has been writing and teaching Bible study for almost forty years and speaks with a voice that has experienced the truth of God’s word. She often says the reason she gets out of bed each day is to help others understand and apply the truth of God’s word to their daily lives. Teaching the Bible is her great privilege, and her goal is to help people live a life that God is able to bless. She is the primary author of the Bible studies at Foundations with Janet.
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Aaron Pierce, the International Mission Director for Steiger International, answers with an emphatic no in his latest book, Not Beyond Reach: How To Share Jesus with the Young, the Deconstructed, and the Non-Religious.
But that’s not to say significant obstacles still remain, especially in our post-Christian and hyper-wired yet lonely culture.
In this episode of The Denison Forum Podcast, Pierce and Dr. Mark Turman dive deep into the challenges and opportunities of Christian outreach with the emerging, global, digitally native generation.
They talk about how Christians can effectively engage with Gen Z by striking a balance between being immersed in the world and holding onto biblical principles.
They also touch on the idea of deconstruction, the role of technology, and dealing with a post-Christian culture.
Pierce also stresses the importance of starting spiritual conversations and intentionally pursuing relationships with nonbelievers, guided by an understanding of the gospel and a love for people.
Aaron Pierce serves as the International Mission Director of Steiger International, a global mission organization dedicated to mobilizing followers of Jesus to reach young people who would not walk into a church.
Growing up as a missionary kid in the heart of Amsterdam, the Netherlands, Aaron witnessed the life-changing impact of the Gospel through his parents' ministry, who founded Steiger as a missionary movement. This experience ignited a deep love for Jesus and a strong desire to live a life fully dedicated to following Him.
Aaron is deeply passionate about inspiring and equipping followers of Jesus to live lives of radical faith and to courageously share the message of Jesus in our increasingly secularized culture. His prayer is that God would raise up a radical missionary movement that will transform the Global Youth Culture for Jesus.
Aaron’s most important role is his role as husband to Jennifer and dad to Asher, Selah, Hudson, and Wesley. Aaron and his family live in Minneapolis, MN (USA).
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Introduction
Dr. Mark Turman introduces guest Tyrone Johnson, a Dallas-area pastor and worship leader who’s also a friend of both Dr. Turman and Dr. Denison. They set the stage for a conversation on biblical equality and racism in the context of Black History Month.
Racial equality and biblical teachings
Johnson discusses the origins of Black History Month, emphasizing its importance in recognizing the contributions of African Americans and addressing racial inequalities in the context of biblical teachings.
Historical perspectives
Dr. Jim Denison joins the conversation, offering insights into how the Bible addresses both good and bad events and how this relates to acknowledging the full scope of American history, including its darker aspects like slavery and racism.
The role of the church and believers
The podcast explores the responsibility of the church and believers in addressing racism, promoting equality, and fostering reconciliation, drawing parallels with biblical principles.
Current social dynamics
Johnson and Dr. Denison delve into contemporary social issues, including voting rights, economic disparities, and systemic racism, and how these issues are intertwined with historical contexts and Christian values.
Personal reflections and experiences
Johnson shares personal anecdotes and reflections, illustrating how historical events and personal experiences shape our understanding of race and equality.
Call to action for believers
The conversation emphasizes the need for Christians to be actively involved in understanding and addressing racial injustices, encouraging listeners to engage with Black History Month and to reflect on their roles as agents of change.
Concluding thoughts
The podcast ends with a discussion on the potential for societal change, the importance of historical awareness, and the role of faith in driving positive transformations in society.
Tyrone Johnson is Pastor at the One Faith Community Church in Plano, TX. His music is rooted and grounded in a deep and sincere desire to worship God with his whole heart.
A gifted worship leader and choir director, Tyrone has been blessed to lead people of many ethnicities and nationalities in praise to the God he serves and adores. His ministry has taken him all over the U.S., as well as internationally to such countries as Cuba, Greece, Turkey, Israel, Ethiopia, Kenya, Brazil and Romania. Tyrone's high-energy worship is infectious, glorifying God and edifying the Body of Christ through encouragement, instruction, and inspiration.
Tyrone began singing at the age of 7 in his native Louisiana. A graduate of Dillard University of New Orleans, he performed classical, spiritual and gospel music as a featured soloist in the university's Concert Choir and Male Quartet during his college years.
Since moving to the Dallas area, Tyrone has served as a choir director and worship leader in a number of area churches. A highly sought-after performer, studio vocalist, producer and arranger, he has also taken the stage in concert venues throughout the Dallas Metroplex and worked on various Jazz, Gospel and Contemporary Christian Music recordings in addition to his own "Smooth Jazz"-flavored projects: Never Alone, which contains original sacred music and new arrangements of favorite hymns, Heaven and Nature Sing, a collection of popular Christmas carols and holiday songs, and After Sunset, a compilation of jazz standards and classic R&B tunes delivered in Tyrone's inimitable silky style.
Tyrone followed a calling to plant a church in Plano, TX. He and his wife are looking forward to spreading the good news of Christ to all people.
Tyrone and his wife, Angela, are the proud parents of college twins, Faith and Mark.
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
International Holocaust Remembrance Day is January 27, and we must remember its victims and understand its significance in today's world.
In this episode of The Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Jim Denison, Dr. Ryan Denison, and Dr. Mark Turman discuss the relevance of remembrance, both for events like the Shoah and in our own lives.
The conversation begins with International Holocaust Remembrance Day, an essential day marking the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau. This largest concentration camp witnessed the merciless killing of over a million victims during the Holocaust, serving as a stark reminder of humanity's potential for brutality.
While many call this horrific occurrence a "Holocaust," our Jewish friends often refer to it as the "Shoah," a Hebrew word meaning catastrophe. This preference arises from the fact that "holocaust" refers to a willing sacrificial offering; its victims were not willing.
Witnessing history, we’re reminded that anything that has transpired can still happen, and any atrocity we've committed, we can still commit. This understanding propels us to be more mindful of our actions and strive not to repeat the mistakes of the past.
The discussion led to an exploration of the collective sense of guilt and shame that accompanies remembrance. Often, nations implement memorials and monuments to serve as a silent apology and continuous expression of regret and repentance. These become tangible reminders of the past, ensuring we don't forget, and more importantly, don't repeat past atrocities.
But what role does guilt and shame play in this context? Guilt can often bind us to our past, trapping us in a cycle of sin and confession. However, collective guilt or shame can be valuable, acting as a vital reminder of our collective past mistakes and urging us to learn and evolve.
Understanding history goes beyond reciting dates or facts—it’s about learning from the past, commemorating our growth, and understanding our potential for both good and evil.
Applying this concept to our personal lives becomes more nuanced. Guilt or shame regarding personal sins only serve to repress and bind us. However, the Holy Spirit has a precise objective—to convict us of our specific sins, not generically. The purpose here isn't to condemn but to identify malignancies so they can be treated and removed.
While it is necessary to remember our past sins—to learn from them—it is also crucial to understand that God forgives, forgets, and bears no resentment. Even in collective forms, our guilt and shame should be a channel for redemption and positive change, not a means of torment.
Reflecting on our past—both individual and collective—is a necessary and pivotal aspect of growth. Days of remembrance like the International Holocaust Remembrance Day serve as bridges between the past and the present, reminding us of humanity’s capacity for brutality. By appropriately remembering and honoring these events, we can ensure that history doesn't repeat itself and strive for a better collective future.
Ultimately, it's crucial to remember that anything God has done he can still do today. Thus, we should always aim to be faithful to the teachings of God and remain enthusiastically open to the new lessons the Lord bestows upon us each day.
Why the “Holocaust” was not a holocaust: A reflection on the gravest crime in human history
On the ground in Israel: An Israeli’s perspective on the war (Podcast)
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
About Dr. Ryan Denison
Ryan Denison, PhD, is the Senior Editor for Theology at Denison Forum. Ryan writes The Daily Article every Friday and contributes writing and research to many of the ministry’s productions. He holds a PhD in church history from BH Carroll Theological Institute after having earned his MDiv at Truett Seminary. He’s authored The Path to Purpose, What Are My Spiritual Gifts?, How to Bless God by Blessing Others, 7 Deadly Sins, and has contributed writing or research to every Denison Forum book.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
As the National Sanctity of Human Life Day arrives this January 21, Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss why being pro-life matters so deeply.
Before they launch into that important conversation, they discuss the historical and biblical significance of the liturgical Christian calendar, including how the season of Lent came about, as well as Denison Forum’s latest book, a Lenten devotional entitled Awaken My Heart.
Then they launch into an in-depth discussion on abortion, its moral implications, and how the church should respond, especially given the current increase in chemical abortions.
Dr. Denison calls believers to take a practical, compassionate, and prophetic stand against the issue of abortion, with a focus on supporting mothers as well as unborn children.
(00:04): Introduction and Overview
(00:37): Understanding the Liturgical Christian Calendar
(01:28): The History and Significance of the Liturgical Calendar
(03:23): The Role of Rhythms and Seasons in Christian Life
(04:39): The Protestant Reformation and its Impact on Liturgical Traditions
(09:55): The Concept of Lent in Christian Tradition
(18:37): The Importance of Sanctity of Life Sunday
(22:29): The Seven Pillars of Biblical Flourishing
(23:01): The Sanctity of Life and its Biblical Foundation
(29:38): Abortion: A Moral Issue of Our Day
(31:57): Understanding the Cultural Phenomenon of Abortion
(32:24): Reasons Women Choose Abortion
(32:57): The Desire for Personal Autonomy
(34:12): The Shift in Cultural Morality
(35:09): The Importance of Responsibility in Freedom
(35:39): The Impact of Personal Privilege on Society
(36:36): The Rise of Moral Therapeutic Deism
(37:14): Being Pro-Life in Every Biblical Sense
(38:16): The Church's Role in Supporting At-Risk Pregnancies
(38:48): Understanding the Complexity of Abortion Decisions
(39:47): The Aftermath of the Overturning of Roe v. Wade
(42:58): The Increase in Chemical Abortions
(45:12): The Role of Church Leaders in Addressing Abortion
(50:46): Guidance for Individuals Supporting Someone Considering Abortion
(56:33): The Spiritual Battle Surrounding Abortion
National Sanctity of Human Life Sunday
Awaken My Heart: A 47-Day Lenten Devotional
Evangelical, Sacramental, and Pentecostal: Why the Church Should Be All Three
Why is Lent relevant for evangelicals?
What does the Bible say about abortion?
How can so many Americans be so wrong on abortion?
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this episode, Israeli citizen and tour guide Rueben Nevo provides insights about the Israel–Hamas conflict from his perspective as an Israeli living in the country.
Discussions cover the experiences of Israeli soldiers returning from battle, tensions among citizens, the effects of Hamas' actions on Israel and the Palestinians, to potential strategies for peace in the region.
Nevo is joined by Mike Fanning, the founder of MBF Enterprises, a Bible study tour ministry; Dr. Jim Denison, the CEO of Denison Ministries; and Dr. Mark Turman, the Executive Director of Denison Forum.
Topics
(00:00): Introduction and Guest Introductions
(00:25): Guest Backgrounds and Personal Stories
(01:41): Discussing Israel Tours and Experiences
(02:48): Introducing Reuben and His Background
(06:27): Reuben's Personal Experiences and Observations
(06:37): Understanding the Impact of Conflict on Kibbutz Life
(08:54): The Role and Importance of Kibbutzim in Israel
(14:02): Personal Experiences and Impact of the Conflict
(15:42): The Psychological Impact of the Conflict
(21:54): Supporting Soldiers and Their Families
(24:01): Discussion on Relationships with Palestinian Arabs
(24:47): Arab Israelis and the Impact of October 7th
(26:01): Differentiating Palestinian Groups
(26:50): The Impact of October 7th on Israeli Politics
(28:13): Understanding the Complexities of Israeli and Palestinian Identities
(28:36): The Intricacies of Geography, Race, and Religion in Israel
(31:01): The Challenges of Defining Identity in Israel and Palestine
(44:33): The Need for New Leadership in Israel and Palestine
(50:23): The Power of Unity in Israel
(51:17): Closing Thoughts and Prayers for Peace
Resources
About Reuben Nevo
Reuben Nevo is an Israeli citizen and tour guide. Since 1984, he’s guided tours of Israel for many Christian groups, government delegations, educational programs, and Jewish federations. Nevo has spoken at many US churches about Jewish heritage. He served as an officer of combat forces in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), representative of the Jewish Agency and the government of Israel in Chile, as a teacher and director of a guide school in Jewish agency, as developer of the program “Jewish roots in Spain and Europe,” and as an official government tourist guide at the Ministry of Tourism. He holds a masters in History of the Jewish People from Hebrew University in Jerusalem.
About Mike Fanning
Mike Fanning is the founder and president of MBF Enterprises, “a group tour operations company that specializes in organizing, marketing and leading unique, one-of-a-kind trips. These trips include pilgrimage tours to Israel, Jordan and Egypt, as well as "Journeys of Paul" cruise tours to Greece, Turkey and Italy.” He holds a PhD in Hebrew Bible (Old Testament), Ancient Near Eastern Archaeology, Modern Middle East History, Anthropology, and Hebrew/Greek from Baylor University.
About Dr. Jim Denison
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
About Dr. Mark Turman
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
About Denison Forum
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
David French, Curtis Chang, and Russell Moore have launched a new, free, online resource for Christians called The After Party: Toward Better Christian Politics.
In this engaging and timely conversation, as we begin a presidential election year, French and Chang delve into the intersection of politics and faith within American society. They unpack the need for Christians to engage in politics with humility and hope, grounded in the teachings of Jesus.
They also explain the origins and aims of The After Party, a small group curriculum designed to rejuvenate political discussion within Christian communities.
Their goal?
To move Christians toward Jesus-centered, compassionate, and civil political engagement.
(01:51): The Backstory of 'The After Party'
(02:57): The Need for a New Approach to Politics
(03:55): The Challenges of Discussing Politics in Church
(05:14): The After Party: A New Approach to Christian Politics
(05:24): Addressing Objections and Clarifying the Project's Goals
(06:42): The Importance of 'How' in Christian Politics
(10:12): The Role of Humility and Hope in Christian Politics
(12:55): The After Party Curriculum: What to Expect
(18:11): The Role of Justice, Kindness, and Humility in Christian Politics
(24:22): The Connection Between Anxiety, Fear, and Politics
(26:42): Engaging in Politics Amidst Personal Anxiety
(28:05): Understanding the Big Sort and the Law of Group Polarization
(31:04): The Impact of Echo Chambers and Group Polarization
(39:33): The Role of Politics in Shaping Identity and Future Security
(41:11): The Challenge of Balancing Character and Policy in Politics
(44:15): The Call for Christians to Bring Virtue into Politics
(49:36): The Role of Pastors in Shepherding Their People Through Election Season
🎧 Anxiety is an opportunity: A conversation with Curtis Chang
🎧Can you trust American institutions? A conversation with Curtis Chang
🎧Faith in the public square: A conversation with David French
🎧Should Christians pursue power? A conversation with David French
📖 In “The Anxiety Opportunity,” Curtis Chang says that worry opens doors to our best selves
David French is an opinion columnist for the New York Times, where he writes about law, culture, religion, and armed conflict. He also serves as senior editor of The Dispatch and occasionally writes for The Atlantic. French is the author of Divided We Fall: America's Secession Threat and How to Restore Our Nation, and he has argued high-profile religious liberty cases.
Curtis Chang is the founding executive director of Redeeming Babel and host of the Good Faith podcast. He bridges the worlds of secular institutions and theology. In the former world, he is the founder and CEO of Consulting Within Reach (CWR), a firm serving nonprofits and government agencies. His consulting work has won an award in social innovation from the Obama White House, and he teaches strategic planning as a faculty member of American University’s School of International Service. In the Christian world, he is a consulting professor at Duke Divinity School and a Senior Fellow at Fuller Theological Seminary. Curtis is also a former senior pastor of an Evangelical Covenant Church in San Jose, California. He is the author of the book The Anxiety Opportunity: How Worry Is the Doorway to Your Best Self.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
What is the greatest thing Jesus ever said? How can we listen, follow, and know him more deeply? How will knowing Jesus enable us to love better in every area of life? How can we look back historically and biblically so we can see the future more clearly?
In this conversation between Dr. Jim Denison, Dr. Ryan Denison, and Dr. Mark Turman, they discuss:
May you be encouraged, challenged, and inspired in your faith and in your witness to the culture.
(01:34): What is the greatest thing Jesus ever said?
(04:32): Because Jesus shared the greatest commandment, why do we need the rest of the Bible?
(06:42): What can people expect when they take the Greatest Commandment course?
(11:18): What does the January 6, 2021 riot reveal about our culture? Was it an insurrection?
(18:20): How will history consider the January 6 events?
(22:21): How should Christians allow history to influence their faith?
(29:32): How important is history to Christianity?
(36:14): How does history help us trust Scripture?
(42:09): How is an understanding of history important to living out the greatest commandment?
Free course: The Greatest Commandment: How to Love God and Others with All Your Heart, Soul, Mind, and Strength
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
About Dr. Ryan Denison
Ryan Denison, PhD, is the Senior Editor for Theology at Denison Forum. Ryan writes The Daily Article every Friday and contributes writing and research to many of the ministry’s productions. He holds a PhD in church history from BH Carroll Theological Institute after having earned his MDiv at Truett Seminary. He’s authored The Path to Purpose, What Are My Spiritual Gifts?, How to Bless God by Blessing Others, 7 Deadly Sins, and has contributed writing or research to every Denison Forum book.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
In this wide-spanning conversation on current events and the Christmas season, Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss what’s happening in the Israel–Hamas war, Pope Francis' recent declaration concerning the blessing of irregular relationships, and the incarnational miracle of Jesus' birth as the Savior of the world.
(00:24): Why are the Houthis disrupting commerce on the Red Sea?
(09:39): How should Israel handle its Hamas hostage crisis?
(16:37): What does the Bible say about relating to people who don’t act in good faith?
(24:16): Why did Pope Francis allow priests to bless same-sex couples?
(32:50): How does the world define “blessing”? Should we seek blessings?
(41:54): What’s your favorite rendition of A Christmas Carol?
(43:56): The incredible reality of the Christmas story
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Guest bio
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Cultural apologist Dr. Jim Denison answers a few challenging questions about the Bible from our audience, many of which seemed to ask the same question: Is God just? For example, can people in hell be saved? Did Jesus go to hell after his crucifixion and before his resurrection? If “God is love,” as 1 John 4:16 says, is hell necessary?
And what about the millions of people who lived before Jesus came to earth? Are any of them saved? What about people living today who may never hear the gospel? And did God condone genocide in the Old Testament?
Dr. Denison also speaks to the postmodern belief underlying the popular statement that “God made me this way” as it relates to same-sex attraction, alcoholism, and other temptations.
(00:51): Did Jesus go to hell after his crucifixion?
(08:10): Can salvation happen after death?
(13:05): Why is hell necessary?
(18:21): If salvation is only through Jesus, what about the people who lived before Jesus?
(22:24): If people today never hear the gospel, will they go to hell?
(31:15): The danger of saying “God made me this way”
(41:17): Is God guilty of genocide in the Old Testament?
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Skye Jethani is an award-winning author, former pastor, and speaker. He is also the cohost of the popular Holy Post podcast.
In this episode of The Denison Forum Podcast, Jethani discusses his latest book, What If Jesus Was Serious about Heaven?. The conversation contrasts Christians’ traditionally held views of heaven with what the Bible actually says about heaven.
Jethani discusses the idea of viewing heaven as a restoration mission rather than a rescue mission. This perspective shifts the narrative from an afterlife escapism to a present-life commitment toward living in union with Jesus.
Host Dr. Mark Turman and Jethani also reflect on Jesus' teachings about the earthly application of his “kingdom come” and how that should influence our lives today as Christians.
(01:48): Skye Jethani’s journey to faith
(05:24): What did Skye’s father think about his choice to go to seminary?
(07:25): The story behind the uniqueness of Skye’s name
(08:24): How did you come to meet and later work with Phil Vischer on The Holy Post?
(11:12): Why did you start a series of books titled What If Jesus Was Serious About . . . ?” And why did you decide to write on heaven in your most recent book?
(14:39): An accessible but challenging devotional with deep theology
(18:43): A heaven-centered faith vs. a Christ-centered faith
(24:06): What does Jethani mean by “thin places”?
(28:05): Why we pray “Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven”
(30:24): Is Jesus coming on a rescue mission or a restoration mission?
(36:20): Scriptural fallacies that well-meaning Christians believe because of tradition
(40:21): What did Peter mean when he wrote that “the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved”?
(43:54): Oneness with Christ
(47:39): Why does a right understanding of heaven matter to us today?
Skye Jethani (MDiv, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School) is an award-winning author, former pastor, and speaker. He is cohost of the popular Holy Post podcast, with over 600,000 downloads per month. Jethani has written numerous books, including the What If Jesus Was Serious? series, and served for more than a decade in numerous editorial and executive roles at Christianity Today. He also writes a daily devotional called With God Daily. He and his wife live in Wheaton, Illinois, with their three children.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Denison Forum recently released a free ebook entitled The War in Israel: What You Need to Know about This Crisis of Global Significance. In this episode of The Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Jim Denison shares what led him to write this book, why the current war in Israel differs from the many that have preceded it throughout history, and how this war could be a catalyst for spiritual awakening, both in the Middle East and in one’s own heart.
(00:12): How did Dr. Denison’s passion for the people and place of Israel begin?
(06:01): Why did Dr. Denison write his book The War in Israel?
(08:27): How do you define Israel? (race, region, religion)
(12:33): Does Israel’s geographic location matter in its war today?
(15:51): Why is Israel “the home of hope”?
(18:22): Is Israeli solidarity built around race, religion, or both?
(19:43): Are the Jewish people the most oppressed people group across history?
(23:14): Are the Jews still “God’s chosen people”?
(26:57): Do the Jewish people need Jesus?
(29:56): A brief account of Israel’s recent history
(36:38): Have any Arab nations disavowed Hamas as a terrorist group?
(39:25): Are Hamas’s claims and Israel’s claims morally equivalent?
(43:32): Why is the current war in Israel different from its previous conflicts?
(49:37): How can we best pray for those affected by the Israel–Hamas war?
Download The War in Israel ebook for free
Read the ebook in online chapters
Our collection of resource on the war in Israel
Dreams and Visions: Is Jesus Awakening the Muslim World? By Tom Doyle
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Dr. Yarhouse is a professor and the director of the Sexual & Gender Identity Institute at Wheaton College. He is also the author of multiple books, including his most recent, Talking to Kids about Gender Identity: A Roadmap for Christian Compassion, Civility, and Conviction.
In this episode of The Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Yarhouse helps parents understand gender identity issues that their kids and teenagers may be facing and how to talk about these issues with them in a practical and helpful manner.
(02:10): Who is Dr. Mark Yarhouse?
(04:53): Why is gender identity suddenly a popular cultural topic? What gender-identity-related terms should people know (e.g., transgenderism, nonbinary, gender dysphoria)? How prevalent is transgenderism today?
(10:19): What does it mean to be a “cultural ambassador of compassion, civility, and conviction”?
(17:51): Can we say with confidence what causes transgenderism?
(21:05): How to reduce fear-based parenting
(26:25): How can the Bible help us today with gender-identity issues?
(30:21): Why should people understand the differences between issues like transgenderism and homosexuality?
(34:23): What role does “social contagion” play in increased gender-identity issues among children and teenagers?
(38:37): Defining social (e.g., pronoun usage), hormonal, and surgical transitioning
(43:19): Would you use preferred pronouns with a child or teenager?
(45:22): What’s your advice for the parent or church leader who wants to welcome a person wrestling with gender-identity issues?
(48:48): Is there a framework for talking to your kids in age-appropriate ways about sexuality, including gender identity?
(53:26): Where can people follow Dr. Yarhouse’s work?
Talking to Kids about Gender Identity: A Roadmap for Christian Compassion, Civility, and Conviction, Dr. Mark Yarhouse
The Sexual and Gender Identity Institute at Wheaton College
@MarkYarhouse on X (formerly Twitter)
How and When to Tell Your Kids about Sex: A Lifelong Approach to Shaping Your Child’s Sexual Character, Stan and Brenna Jones
Start Talking to Your Kids about Sex: A Practical Guide for Catholics, Julia Sadusky
What does the Bible say about transgenderism?, Denison Forum
Is cross-dressing a sin?, Denison Forum
The “transgender craze” seducing teenage girls and doing “Irreversible Damage”, Mark Legg
Transgender ideology and what it means to be a woman: A conversation with Dr. Katie McCoy
“Does the Bible Support Same-Sex Marriage?” A conversation with Preston Sprinkle
Sex, singleness, LGBTQ+, and marriage idolatry: A conversation with Lou Phillips
Ask Jim: Gay “Side-B” Christians, the spectrum of abortion positions, and church discipline
What is biblical manhood? And, “The Toxic War on Masculinity”: A conversation with Nancy Pearcey
Dr. Mark Yarhouse is the Dr. Arthur P. and Mrs. Jean May Rech Professor of Psychology at Wheaton College, where he also directs the Sexual & Gender Identity Institute. An award- winning teacher, psychologist, and researcher, Dr. Yarhouse has authored numerous books and articles, including the featured white paper on sexual identity for the Gospel Coalition's Christ on Campus Initiative. He lives in Winfield, Illinois.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Steven Bouma-Prediger, PhD, is an author and professor at the intersection of theology and ecology. In this episode of The Denison Forum Podcast, he discusses the concept of “earthkeeping” as a Christian practice, ecological issues like climate change, and the importance of Christianity in driving change—including whether “just one person” can truly change the world.
(02:14): How Dr. Bouma-Prediger got involved in combining ecology and theology
(10:42): Defining earthkeeping
(20:48): What do you say to people who question if the climate is in crisis?
(24:45): The biggest challenge to creation care discipleship
(31:20): An invitation to curiosity
(39:38): On listening to a wide variety of voices in Christian thought
(43:07): What gives Dr. Bouma-Prediger hope for creation care issues?
Creation Care Discipleship: Why Earthkeeping Is an Essential Christian Practice by Steven Bouma-Prediger, PhD
Evangelical Environmental Network
Steven Bouma-Prediger (PhD, University of Chicago) is the Leonard and Marjorie Maas Professor of Reformed Theology at Hope College in Holland, Michigan. He also oversees the Environmental Studies minor and cochairs the Campus Sustainability Advisory Committee. In addition, Bouma-Prediger has taught theology and ethics at Western Theological Seminary and is a board member of the Au Sable Institute of Environmental Studies. He is author or coauthor of 6 books, including Earthkeeping and Character: Exploring a Christian Ecological Virtue Ethic and For the Beauty of the Earth: A Christian Vision for Creation Care.
His most recently released book is Creation Care Discipleship: Why Earthkeeping Is an Essential Christian Practice.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Among the many surprising incidents surrounding the war in Israel, the size and vitriol of many American college students decrying Israel’s ground invasion of Gaza is among the most surprising. What’s spurring their protests? And how can parents and families discuss the war in Israel with their college students with truth and in love so that serious discussions can happen without fracturing relationships?
(00:34): The latest news from Israel and the ground offensive in Gaza
(05:29): Iran’s role in the Israel war
(07:26): How Israel and Hamas are responding to global pressure
(11:06): Why Israel’s government has Arab representation
(18:00): Why Critical Theory calls Israel an “oppressor”
(21:59): Has Critical Theory replaced “majority rule with minority rights”?
(24:49): Why are many college students protesting the Israel war?
(26:59): Blending anti-Zionism with antisemitism
(29:34): Why does Palestine keep rejecting a two-state solution?
(34:15): Why do so many believe Israel is an “occupying colonizer”?
(40:12): How to navigate conversations about the war in Israel with family and friends
Is Israel committing genocide?
Hamas and Radical Islam: What Christians need to know
Antisemitism on American college campuses
Podcast: How to talk to your kids about the Israel crisis
When Critical Theory collides with conflict in the Middle East
Why do so many people hate the Jews?
Book: Respectfully, I Disagree
Further Denison Ministry resources on the war in Israel
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Janet Denison is the author of numerous Advent devtionals, including this year’s most recent release, The Gift of Immanuel. As a long-time Bible study teacher, Janet offers accessible insight into God’s word at Foundations with Janet.
In this episode of The Denison Forum Podcast, she discusses her newest Advent devotional, how to ensure Christmas remains a holy celebration and not just a holiday season, why Jesus had so many names, and why Isaiah predicted that the savior would be called Immanuel but Joseph named him Jesus.
(02:58): The Janet Denison story (briefly)
(05:35): Settling in to a new place
(06:48): How Janet Denison became a Bible study teacher
(11:43): What’s your favorite part of the Bible?
(12:50): What is Advent?
(14:47): Why is this year’s Advent devotional called The Gift of Immanuel?
(19:59): Why are Christmas devotionals popular?
(24:20): On writing this year’s Advent devotional
(28:36): How to have a quiet time
(34:57): What is Wisdom Matters?
Janet Denison has been writing and teaching Bible study for almost forty years and speaks with a voice that has experienced the truth of God’s word. She often says the reason she gets out of bed each day is to help others understand and apply the truth of God’s word to their daily lives. Teaching the Bible is her great privilege, and her goal is to help people live a life that God is able to bless. She is the primary author of the Bible studies at Foundations with Janet.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Kaitlyn Schiess is the author of The Ballot and the Bible: How Scripture Has Been Used and Abused in American Politics and Where We Go from Here. She joined The Denison Forum Podcast to discuss her latest book, which Publisher’s Weekly called “a nuanced look at America's legacy of scriptural language.”
Schiess talks about how we can read, interpret, and apply Scripture with integrity to the working of our democracy. She also speaks to how we can rightly bridge these worlds and discover what God is saying to us through his word, the Holy Spirit, and our communities of faith. In an intriguing phrase, she calls America “a Bible-haunted nation,” and she speaks to why she labeled our country that way.
Ultimately, you’ll be led to ask: “How should I see myself, my opportunities, my problems, and my politics through the lens of Scripture and God's eternal and good purposes?”
(02:20): “I think the rest of my life is studying this stuff.”
(06:16): How Schiess became involved with the Holy Post Podcast
(08:49): Why Schiess wrote The Ballot and the Bible
(13:37): The benefits of political fatigue
(18:28): “We are a Bible-haunted nation.”
(22:55): An overview of the history in The Ballot and the Bible
(27:54): Why should Christians “understand the times” and the Bible?
(33:50): Who should read The Ballot and the Bible?
(38:04): How we misapply “Render unto Caesar” today
(43:08): How Jeremiah 29 profoundly affects our political outlook today
(49:40): Culture warriors vs. cultural missionaries
(52:00) Schiess’s hope for The Ballot and the Bible
Kaitlyn Schiess (ThM, Dallas Theological Seminary) is a writer, speaker, and theologian. She is the author of The Liturgy of Politics: Spiritual Formation for the Sake of Our Neighbor and is a regular cohost on the Holy Post podcast with Skye Jethani and Phil Vischer. Her writing has appeared in the New York Times, Christianity Today, Christ and Pop Culture, Relevant, and Sojourners. Schiess is currently a doctoral student in political theology at Duke Divinity School. She lives in Durham, North Carolina.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
So when terrorists strike, missiles are fired, and ground wars begin in the Middle East, it’s easy to question whether the end times are coming.
To add to our anxiety, the words surrounding how Christians discuss the end times are daunting: Eschatology. Premillennialism. Postmillennialism. Dispensationalism. Replacement theology. What do they mean? Do they all have the same importance? Should we care about them today?
In this episode of The Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Jim Denison and his son Dr. Ryan Denison join Dr. Mark Turman for an insightful discussion on end-times thinking as it relates to the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza.
In the end—whenever the end truly may come—let’s remember how Jesus completed his statement on the rumors of wars: “See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place” (Matthew 24:6).
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Ryan Denison, PhD, is the Senior Editor for Theology at Denison Forum. Ryan writes The Daily Article every Friday and contributes writing and research to many of the ministry’s productions. He holds a PhD in church history from BH Carroll Theological Institute after having earned his MDiv at Truett Seminary. He’s authored The Path to Purpose, What Are My Spiritual Gifts?, How to Bless God by Blessing Others, 7 Deadly Sins, and has contributed writing or research to every Denison Forum book.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Andrew L. Whitehead’s accessible book American Idolatry: How Christian Nationalism Betrays the Gospel and Threatens the Church raises difficult but necessary questions about the influence of Christian nationalism in America.
What is Christian nationalism? Why is it dangerous for our faith, our churches, and our country? How can Christians see through Christian nationalism as a false god that twists the good news of Jesus away from his call to “love your neighbor as yourself”?
Many Christians have influence, power, and opportunity, but many of us also need to learn more holy ways to utilize power. We need to be wise and wary of the devil's call to fear and the culture's call to violence. God's call is for us to steward our salt and light well personally and in community so that all, and not just some, can flourish.
Andrew L. Whitehead (PhD, Baylor University) is associate professor of sociology at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, where he codirects the Association of Religion Data Archives in the Center for the Study of Religion and American Culture. He is the author of American Idolatry: How Christian Nationalism Betrays the Gospel and Threatens the Church and the coauthor of Taking America Back for God: Christian Nationalism in the United States, which won the 2021 Distinguished Book Award from the Society for the Scientific Study of Religion. Whitehead has written for the Washington Post, NBC News, Time, and Religion News Service and speaks frequently about Christian nationalism.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Denison Forum seeks to help people think biblically and act redemptively as culture-changing Christians. In the midst of the war in Israel, we seek to inform believers with resources on how to think biblically about this current crisis. We are also calling on Christians to act redemptively by praying fervently, giving sacrificially, and going eagerly as the Holy Spirit directs. Texas Baptist Men is one of the most effective ministries through which believers can be that redemptive servant in this crisis.
John-Travis Smith is the Associate Executive Director/CFO for Texas Baptist Men (TBM).
He grew up in Royal Ambassadors, where he earned the Legion of Honor Award and has served Texas Baptist Men in a variety of capacities, including as vice president for finance and a member of the TBM Forever Foundation board.
He also was pastor to young adults at First Baptist Church in Bryan since June 2013. Previously, he served 11 years at First Baptist Church in Hempstead, first as youth minister, later as associate pastor and eventually as interim pastor.
Smith manages overall financial operations for TBM, oversees the office staff and updates policies and procedures in areas ranging from accounting to human resources.
Smith earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree in finance from Texas A&M University and his Master of Divinity degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Kayla, have four children.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Evangelical altar calls are urgent invitations to respond to the Holy Spirit and the truth of God with humility, repentance, trust, and renewed obedience. Why do American evangelical Christians need to hear and answer such a call?
Have some evangelicals turned things like influence, authority, credibility, and stability into idols? How can Christians become better missionaries to our current culture rather than cultural warriors?
Our guest Dr. Russell Moore deals with these and other questions in his newest book, Losing our Religion: An Altar Call for Evangelical America. Dr. Moore also briefly discusses events happening in Israel.
Russell Moore is Editor in Chief of Christianity Today and is the author of Losing Our Religion: An Altar Call for Evangelical America and many other books.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Parents and grandparents may feel overwhelmed and underprepared when it comes to talking about the ongoing crisis in Israel, but children are still affected by what they see and hear—and they often see and hear much more than we think, especially in our media-saturated culture. So how much should you share? How can you educate yourself on the conflict to speak confidently about it? To speak biblically about it? And how can we encourage our children to make a difference where they live even when war seems so far away?
Steph Thurling, Executive Director of Christian Parenting, talks with Denison Ministries CEO Dr. Jim Denison. Together, they offer keen biblical insight and practical ways to talk about this crisis with your children and grandchildren.
(01:48) A very short history of Israel and Palestine|
(04:21) Who’s occupying whom?
(08:30) The difference between Palestine and Hamas
(12:38) Why is Israel so important to so many?
(14:43) What does the Bible say about the current crisis in Israel?
(17:20) How can we talk with our kids about the Israel crisis?
(24:10) How can families show support for Israel?
(27:25) More resources on the crisis in Israel
(29:54) A prayer for the Middle East
Steph Thurling is executive director of Christian Parenting, host of The Christian Parenting Podcast, and a mom of three amazing kids!
Steph has her master’s in youth, family, and culture from Fuller Theological Seminary and has a background in youth and children’s ministry. She is co-author of Raising Prayerful Kids, a book that shares easy, life-giving, and fun ways to teach kids to pray. She loves helping families grow closer to each other and to God through meaningful experiences and conversations. Steph is a frequent speaker at churches and mom groups and is known for her relatable stories, practical ideas, and gentle encouragement.
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Dr. Jim Denison shares biblical insight and expert knowledge on the many questions swirling around the ongoing war in Israel:
● How can we pray for Israel? Foundations with Janet
● Talking with your kids about the war in Israel, Christian Parenting
● Current DF resources on the war in Israel
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
The crisis between Israel and the terrorist group Hamas based in the southern region of Israel called Gaza is now in its fifth day. News media includes startling reports of horrific atrocities by Hamas. The Israeli government and military are mobilizing for a strong and significant response. Innocent people and children on all sides are caught in the middle. Countries around the world are on heightened alert as more violence is feared. Blame is being randomly assigned.
How should Christians understand this conflict from a biblical perspective?
How can people be so cruel and brutal to each other?
Where can we find hope as we watch and pray and seek to help?
Additional resources:
What is the crisis in Israel? Who is Hamas, and why did they attack Israel? How is Israel responding? Why should Christians care, and how should we pray and help? What might this new conflict mean for larger nations? How is faith and religion sometimes used as a cloak to cover a relentless pursuit of power?
Dr. Jim Denison discusses these and other critical issues connected to the new war between Israel and Hamas.
Note: This episode was recorded on the morning of Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2023.
Topics
● Who is Hamas? | 03:02
● How does Hamas view Christians? | 05:15
● Understanding Israel’s geography | 07:21
● Defining “occupied territory” | 12:30
● Why did Hamas attack now? | 19:10
● What are the larger ramifications of war in Israel? | 21:59
● Defining radical Islam | 29:14
● Cloaking power in religious garb | 36:08
● How should Christians view this conflict? | 41:46
● A prayer for the crisis | 51:25
● Hamas and Radical Islam: What Christians need to know
● How did the war in Israel happen? Israeli intelligence failures and spiritual warfare
● “This is our 9/11”: Why did Hamas attack Israel? What comes next?
● How to think biblically about Israel
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
The Holy Spirit who moved through the first-century church is still the same today. God’s power is still just as powerful. So why aren’t most of us experiencing his power in our churches and in our personal lives? Dr. Jim Denison joins The Denison Forum Podcast to discuss Bold Faith: First-Century Lessons for Twenty-First-Century Christians, his biblical commentary on the Book of Acts.
How should we discuss the book of Acts? | 02:28
How do we discern abiding truth within the narrative parts of the Bible? | 03:49
Who should read Bold Faith? | 09:05
What is the kingdom of God? Why does it matter? | 11:28
The beauty and joy of obeying Christ as king | 15:37
Why does the Bible offer macro and micro stories? | 19:44
Do you believe in a big God? | 22:23
Every Christian needs an Acts 1:8 strategy | 24:30
What are we getting right, or wrong, about the Holy Spirit? | 30:05
On being Pentecostal, evangelical, and sacramental | 34:00
How does Acts 8 show God turning evil to good? | 42:00
Why God is concerned about all of us—and each of us | 49:30
Why the book of Acts is still relevant today | 55:10
BOOK: Bold Faith: First-Century Lessons for Twenty-First-Century Christians, by Dr. Jim Denison
ARTICLE: See the one: An excerpt from "Bold Faith" by Dr. Jim Denison
BOOK: Evangelical, Sacramental, and Pentecostal: Why the Church Should Be All Three, by Gordon T. Smith
PODCAST: “The most exciting moment in my lifetime for the gospel in Cuba”: A conversation with Proclaim Cuba
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
With a population of more than 11 million people just ninety miles off the coast of Florida, Cuba was once considered the "paradise of the Caribbean," welcoming tourists from around the world. Today, its history, culture, and faith are shrouded in legend and myth.
But God has not abandoned Cuba. He is present, active, and igniting both revival in the church and awakening across this beautiful island.
In this episode, we talk with Cuban natives Pastor Carlos Alamino and his son Carly about their thirty-plus years of planting churches and creating relevant gospel ministries to children, students, women, and sports enthusiasts.
You'll also hear about Proclaim Cuba's strong work in discipleship and ministry training and its vision to plant seven hundred new churches and eighteen ministry hubs across Cuba.
The best of Cuba | 02:09
How Dr. Denison met Pastor Carlos | 04:40
Spiritual awakening in Cuba | 08:03
The power of ideas | 09:53
Visiting Cuba | 12:05
How Pastor Carlos Alamino came to faith | 14:32
Proclaim Cuba and the Cuban church today | 19:55
Proclaim Cuba’s sports ministry | 21:19
What is seminary like in Cuba? | 23:00
Equipping Cuban Christians to share the gospel | 27:13
Church planting in Cuba | 31:24
Establishing ministry centers throughout Cuba | 37:26
On being Christian in Cuba | 39:37
How to pray for Cuba | 48:17
A prayer for Cuba | 51:11
Denison Forum articles on persecution
Proclaim Cuba’s “ministry divisions include a seminary, church planting, pastoring pastors, children’s and youth ministries, women’s ministry, sports evangelism, intercessory prayer, an institute for the arts, and international missions” in Cuba. Their mission is to “reach Cuba and the nations for Christ. Because we are empowered by God, we empower others. Much work still remains, but we know that God has been and always will be faithful. ‘To God be the glory, great things He has done!’”
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries.
Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
J. Warner Wallace’s enduringly popular book on apologetics, Cold-Case Christianity, has been thoroughly updated and expanded for its tenth-anniversary edition. He joins The Denison Forum Podcast to discuss the book, how to read the gospels as an investigator, how conspiracy thinking works, why the church should be overflowing with apologists, why we’re addicted to crime shows, and more.
Updating Cold-Case Christianity | 02:03
Reading the gospels as an investigator | 05:54
How the gospels’ differences show reliability | 13:02
Subjective truth vs. objective truth | 18:31
Proving Christianity | 26:02
If Christianity is true, then what? | 30:42
The necessity of humility | 35:34
Understanding evidence | 41:41
How conspiracy thinking works | 43:53
Determining reliability | 45:32
Employing common sense | 48:15
Cold-Case Christianity 10 years later | 53:09
The problem of being an abbreviated Christian | 58:43
Why are we addicted to crime shows? | 1:03:22
Cold-Case Christianity: A Homicide Detective Investigates the Claims of the Gospel
The Truth in True Crime: What Investigating Death Teaches Us About the Meaning of Life (May 2024)
Person of Interest: Why Jesus Still Matters in a World that Rejects the Bible
Jesus and the Eyewitnesses: The Gospels as Eyewitness Testimony, Richard Bauckham
With a master’s degree in theological studies, J. Warner Wallace is an award-winning detective who has been featured on Dateline more than any other homicide investigator.
A popular national speaker and podcast host, he is the bestselling author of numerous books including Cold-Case Christianity, Person of Interest, Forensic Faith and God’s Crime Scene.
An adjunct professor of apologetics at Biola University, a senior fellow at the Colson Center for Christian Worldview, and a faculty member at Summit Ministries, Jim and his wife live in Southern California.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries.
Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Art Rainer is the founder of Christian Money Solutions and the author of Money in the Light of Eternity. He joined The Denison Forum Podcast to discuss our collective money problems (and their solutions), seeking contentment in our finances and in our lives, the importance of giving to the church, and more.
Art Rainer’s testimony | 01:42
Why do Christians struggle to honor God with their money? | 06:00
Why the rich young ruler walked away from Jesus | 11:22
Is enough ever enough? | 17:12
Art’s foundational Bible passages | 26:43
What common money problems do Christians often face? | 36:00
Building financial confidence | 47:00
The importance of generosity in the church | 48:57
How the “great wealth transfer” could reach every tribe with the gospel | 55:21
Money in the Light of Eternity: What the Bible Says about Your Financial Purpose
The Money Challenge: 30 Days of Discovering God's Design for You and Your Money
Art Rainer is the founder of Christian Money Solutions. He writes and speaks widely about issues related to finance, wealth, and generosity. He is the author of The Money Challenge: 30 Days of Discovering God's Design for You and Your Money. You can read and hear more from Art at ArtRainer.com.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries.
Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
America is more divided and hostile along political lines and tribes than ever before. For some, politics may have become their substitute religion in place of a true faith in Christ Jesus as King of kings.
So how can Christians understand and engage in our political processes as culture-changing Christians who use their influence in redemptive ways for the glory of God and the good of others?
Dr. Jim Denison joins Dr. Mark Turman to discuss the presidential political season and the intersection of faith, hope, and love with politics, government, and power.
Download the unedited transcript
Podcast episodes
Books
Articles
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. Jim speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries.
Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
That’s Stay Here’s opening line on their website. As a "mental health organization and movement dedicated to ending suicide and healing the broken hearted,” Stay Here aims to lower the tragic suicide rate of one person every 40 seconds through “equipping millions of individuals in hope-filled suicide prevention training and awareness.”
Founder Jacob Coyne joins The Denison Forum Podcast to discuss how you can help prevent suicides by watching the Giants–Cowboys NFL game on September 10, World Suicide Prevention Day. He also shares how to talk with others considering suicide, the training resources that Stay Here offers, as well as a prayer on behalf of those who are struggling with this issue.
NOTE: If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, please get help immediately. Call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or visit 988lifeline.org.
● Jacob Coyne’s testimony | 02:39
● How suicide has affected Coyne | 08:37
● When to talk to others who are wrestling with suicidal thoughts | 11:30
● What does Stay Here do? | 14:47
● When someone admits to suicidal thoughts | 22:35
● Why the church needs to speak up about suicide | 27:06
● Why is Gen Z struggling so much? | 35:59
● Why 57 NFL QBs are uniting on Sept. 10 | 47:21
● Jacob’s prayer for those considering suicide | 55:25
● 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
● What does the Bible say about suicide?
Jacob Coyne is a preacher, a Christian content creator, and the founder of Stay Here, a mental health organization that raises awareness through bold and encouraging messaging and equips others to save lives from suicide. With more than 1.4 million social media followers, Jacob is known for offering tangible hope and help for the brokenhearted and hurting. He and his wife, Mariah, have three daughters and live in east Tennessee. Learn more at stayhere.live.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries.
Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Dr. Jonathan Witt joins The Denison Forum Podcast to discuss this central question of his book, A Meaningful World: How the Arts and Sciences Reveal the Genius of Nature
When we encounter, discover, or help to create things in our world that express the unmistakable qualities of depth, harmony, clarity, and elegance, how do we explain them? What are they pointing us to?
From great literature to music, to mathematics, biology, chemistry and physics, the majestic fingerprints of an all-powerful, good and majestic creator are all around us—if we have the eyes, ears, and heart to receive them.
It just may be that breathtaking beauty and order will lead us to the greatest discovery of all.
Introducing Dr. Jonathan Witt | 00:00
Dr. Witt’s journey of faith | 03:42
Why do the beliefs of Darwin, Dawkins, and similar thinkers hold so much sway in our culture? | 10:03
How did Christianity influence the rise of modern science? | 15:19
What’s the difference between science and scientism? | 21:11
Post-pandemic, should we “trust the science”? | 22:04
Why Dr. Witt wrote A Meaningful World | 25:19
How Hamlet reveals God (The four characteristics of genius) | 28:58
What does genius mean? | 38:16
How does human genius reflect God’s genius? | 39:38
How does elegance reveal God’s genius? | 43:33
How does mathematics reveal God’s genius? | 50:48
How can a loving, genius God allow pain? | 54:49
Where can listeners learn more about Dr. Witt? | 1:00:43
Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
A Meaningful World: How the Arts and Sciences Reveal the Genius of Nature, Dr. Jonathan Witt
Return of the God Hypothesis: A conversation with Dr. Stephen Meyer, The Denison Forum Podcast
Your Designed Body, Steve Laufmann and Howard Glicksman
The Wonder of Water, Michael Denton
Jonathan Witt, PhD, is Executive Editor of Discovery Institute Press and a senior fellow and senior project manager with Discovery Institute’s Center for Science and Culture. His latest book is Heretic: One Scientist’s Journey from Darwin to Design (DI Press, 2018) written with Finnish bioengineer Matti Leisola. Witt also authored Intelligent Design Uncensored (IVP, 2010) with William Dembski, and A Meaningful World: How the Arts and Sciences Reveal the Genius of Nature (IVP, 2006) with Benjamin Wiker.
He is also the author of The Hobbit Party: The Vision of Freedom That Tolkien Got, and the West Forgot (Ignatius, 2014), written with Jay Richards.
Witt is also the lead writer and associate producer for Poverty, Inc., winner of the $100,000 Templeton Freedom Award and recipient of over 50 international film festival honors.
He also scripted three other documentaries that aired widely on PBS and were translated into multiple languages for airing in countries around the globe: The Privileged Planet (written with Lad Allen), The Birth of Freedom, and The Call of the Entrepreneur.
Additionally, he scripted two Acton Media DVD curricula carried by Zondervan, including Effective Stewardship, and he served as the lead writer for The PovertyCure DVD Series and the PovertyCure initiative, which includes a content-rich website, more than a million Facebook followers, and a network of 400+ poverty-fighting organizations from around the world.
Witt also has provided editing or deep editing work for several successful books, including three New York Times bestsellers.
Before returning to work full time again with Discovery Institute’s Center for Science and Culture, Witt served as the managing editor for the news and commentary site The Stream, and as a research fellow for the Acton Institute in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Witt’s academic essays have appeared in various periodicals and he has been interviewed by numerous regional and national radio programs. He is a regular annual speaker for Discovery Institute’s summer seminar on science and culture and has spoken at universities on a range of topics connected to political and economic freedom, cultural renewal, and the arts.
Witt previously served as a tenured professor of literature and writing at Lubbock Christian University. He has a Ph.D., with honors, in English and Literary Theory from the University of Kansas.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries.
Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
How the atheist writings of Richard Dawkins led Alister McGrath—and many other intellectuals—to the Christian faith
Dr. Alister McGrath was an atheist when he entered Oxford University to study natural sciences. Through a series of influences he switched to theology and became a Christian. In his new book, Coming to Faith through Dawkins, coauthored with Denis Alexander, McGrath compiled twelve essays from fellow scientists, an engineer, a graphic designer, a journalist, and others who were led to question their atheism by reading the work of atheist Dr. Richard Dawkins.
In our conversation, McGrath explains how he and others from around the world admire much of the scientific work of Dawkins. But Dawkins’ sometimes-scathing attacks on religion led them to discover the credibility of Christ and Christianity—and eventually to their personal conversions to faith.
Download the unedited transcript here (PDF).
Summary
Introduction 0:01
Coming to faith through atheism 2:42
The current state of faith in the UK 5:00
The motivation of the New Atheists 11:53
Johanna Erasmus and the journey of faith 18:13
The most transformative essays in Coming to Faith through Dawkins 26:58
The myth of a conflict between science and faith 32:58
The story of a young atheist turned Christian 37:41
Open about faith lead to job loss? 44:00
The role of science and faith 49:07
The power of intellectual pursuit and personal story 52:22
Download the unedited transcript here.
Dr. Alister E. McGrath is a former atheist who studied natural sciences at Oxford before switching to theology and becoming an Anglican priest. He served as the Andreas Idreos Professor of Science and Religion at the University of Oxford from 2014 to 2022. He holds three doctorates from Oxford in molecular biophysics, theology, and intellectual history. McGrath is also the author of the international bestseller The Dawkins Delusion?, as well as C. S. Lewis: A Life and his latest book, Coming to Faith Through Dawkins: 12 Essays on the Pathway from New Atheism to Christianity.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries.
Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Dr. Tom Rudelius is a postdoctoral researcher in theoretical physics at UC–Berkeley and the author of Chasing Proof, Finding Faith. In that book, he chronicles his conversion to Christianity while still wrestling with the doubt that science often bears upon faith. An excerpt from his book is available here.
In this conversation with Denison Forum Executive Director Dr. Mark Turman, Dr. Rudelius discusses:
Download the unedited transcript (PDF).
Tom Rudelius completed his undergraduate work at Cornell, earned a doctorate in physics at Harvard, and has conducted postdoctoral research at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, New Jersey. Currently a postdoctoral researcher in theoretical physics at the University of California, Berkeley, Tom will begin a faculty position at Durham University (UK) in the fall of 2023. His research focuses on string theory, quantum field theory, and early universe cosmology. A man of faith and an avid sports fan, he is frequently requested to speak on topics related to science and faith. He is also on the board of the Mamelodi Initiative, a tutoring organization based in Mamelodi, South Africa. Tom's newest book, Chasing Proof, Finding Faith, released on August 8, 2023, from Tyndale.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries.
Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
What does science tell us about God?
Dr. Stephen Meyer is a renowned philosopher of science and the author of "Return of the God Hypothesis." He joins The Denison Forum Podcast to discuss his latest book and insights on how scientific discoveries point to the reality of God as the creator of all things. From the Big Bang theory to the intricate code of DNA, Dr. Meyer presents a compelling case for the compatibility of faith and science.
Download the unedited transcript (PDF).
Stephen C. Meyer received his Ph.D. in the philosophy of science from the University of Cambridge. A former geophysicist and college professor, he now directs Discovery Institute’s Center for Science and Culture in Seattle. He is the author of multiple books including his latest release, Return of the God Hypothesis. Meyer has been published in many national newspapers like The Wall Street Journal and has been featured on national television and radio shows such as The Jim Lehrer News Hour, NBC Nightly News, and more.
Return of the God Hypothesis by Dr. Stephen Meyer
Darwin's Doubt by Dr. Stephen Meyer
Signature in the Cell by Dr. Stephen Meyer
God and the Astronomers by Robert Jastrow
The Mystery of Life's Origin by Charles Thaxton
For the Glory of God by Rodney Stark
The Language of God by Francis Collins
First Three Minutes by Steven Weinberg
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries.
Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture.
Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
Dr. Preston Sprinkle joins Dr. Mark Turman to discuss his book Does the Bible Support Same-Sex Marriage, how to have uplifting conversations about controversial issues, the Bible’s view of marriage, and common objections to the “historical” interpretation of marriage.
Dr. Preston Sprinkle covers his reasons for writing Does the Bible Support Same-Sex Marriage, how to have a loving, respectful conversation about tough issues, and how he became an author and speaker in this field (2:42). He talks about the need for graciousness, humility, and genuine curiosity, how Gen Xers and Boomers can easily fail at this (12:40). They speculate as to why Christians, and everyone else, seem so bad as having hard conversations (21:17). Dr. Sprinkle defends his using secular psychology and why he uses the term “historical Christian view” (24:19). They turn to discuss singleness, and why life without sex or marriage is still fulfilling in the Christian worldview (34:59). Dr. Sprinkle reflects on the foundational chapters, how to have a healthy disagreement and the foundation for the Bible’s view of marriage (40:06). They hone in on two conversations: could Paul have known about sexual orientation and why some people think the evangelical view is dangerous (48:19).
NOTE: We’ve launched our summer campaign. As a 100-percent donor-supported ministry nonprofit, we rely on believers like you to give toward our calling “to equip the saints for the work of ministry” (Eph. 4:12). If our work has encouraged or inspired you, please give today.
Does the Bible Support Same-Sex Marriage?: 21 Conversations from a Historically Christian View, Dr. Preston Sprinkle (available August 1st)
Embodied: Transgender Identities, the Church, and What the Bible Has to Say, Dr. Preston Sprinkle
People to be Loved: Why Homosexuality is Not Just an Issue, Dr. Preston Sprinkle
“What does the Bible say about homosexuality?” Dr. Jim Denison
“Sex, singleness, LGBTQ+, and marriage idolatry: A conversation with Lou Phillips” Podcast
Theology in the Raw, Podcast
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Dr. Preston Sprinkle is a biblical scholar, speaker, podcaster, a New York Times bestselling author, and the co-founder and president of The Center for Faith, Sexuality & Gender. He earned a Ph.D. in New Testament from Aberdeen University in Scotland (2007) and has taught theology at Cedarville University (OH), Nottingham University (UK), and Eternity Bible College (CA).
Preston has written a dozen books, including Erasing Hell (with Francis Chan), Nonviolence, Scandalous Grace, People to Be Loved, Living in a Gray World, and Embodied. Preston also hosts a popular bi-weekly podcast titled Theology in the Raw, where he engages in honest conversations with interesting people.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman respond to popular reader questions, discussing the spectrum of positions on abortion, how to have honoring conversations about controversial subjects, homosexual attraction versus activity, and healthy church discipline.
Dr. Jim Denison unpacks the various positions on abortion and the spectrum between extreme positions (3:14). They consider the importance of avoiding self-righteousness and heatedness in conversations while preserving ethical consistency (10:14). Dr. Denison reflects on the “post-Dobbs world,” and how we can get involved in pro-life initiatives (19:19). They discuss “side B” gay Christians and how homosexual attraction is not sinful (24:06). They unpack the philosophical framework of various “identities,” how postmodernism infects our language about identity, and why God provides our true foundation (31:41). Dr. Denison continues by addressing how churches should interact with gay visitors, how to treat them with love, and how to navigate church discipline (38:59). Dr. Denison closes by giving thoughts on accountability and Paul’s “handing over to Satan” and how we change our approach to sin when handling non-believers (50:53).
NOTE: We’ve launched our summer campaign. As a 100-percent donor-supported ministry nonprofit, we rely on believers like you to give toward our calling “to equip the saints for the work of ministry” (Eph. 4:12). If our work has encouraged or inspired you, please give today.
Denison Forum’s curated collection of our most-visited LGBTQ resources
“Number of abortions in Texas dropped 99 percent,” Dr. Jim Denison
“The Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade: Dr. Jim Denison weighs in on abortion,” Podcast
“What does the Bible say about abortion?” Dr. Jim Denison
“What does the Bible say about homosexuality?” Dr. Jim Denison
The Coming Tsunami, Dr. Jim Denison
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries.
Denison Ministries includes DenisonForum.org, First15.org, ChristianParenting.org, and FoundationsWithJanet.org.
Jim speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening.
Jodie Berndt joins Dr. Mark Turman to discuss why praying the Scripture helps draw us closer to God, uplifts our marriages, helps us get started talking to God in creative ways, and why Christians should pray with our spouses.
Jodie Berndt shares her testimony, how she met her husband, and how she became an author of the acclaimed series on praying the Scriptures (3:32). She reflects on why she prays with the Bible, how to share your heart with God, and heroes of the faith who’ve inspired her (14:06). Berndt discusses why it's so encouraging to pray the Scriptures over your marriage and how her new book leads couples (20:28). She shares why it's so hard for spouses to pray together and how Praying the Scriptures for Your Marriage can uplift marriages into new spiritual depths, including how it has helped her marriage (30:04). Berndet closes by talking about her chapter on kindness, encouraging people in difficult marriages, and explaining why her book is not just for wives (46:21).
Praying the Scriptures for Your Marriage: Trusting God with Your Most Important Relationship, Jodie Berndt
“What does the Bible say about spiritual health?” Dr. Jim Denison
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Jodie Berndt is bestselling author of the Praying the Scriptures book series, which includes volumes for Children, Teens, Adult Children, and Life, plus the brand new Praying the Scriptures for Your Marriage. Jodie has been a trusted speaker, Bible teacher, and prayer warrior for over thirty years. She and her husband, Robbie, have four married children, and they live in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
Nancy Pearcey joins Dr. Mark Turman to discuss the rise of secular masculinity, what makes a “good” man versus a “real” man, how Christianity makes men less misogynistic, not more, why young men are struggling, and how Christians can reclaim manhood.
Nancy Pearcey discusses why she wanted to write on masculinity, sharing her story of meeting Francis and Edith Schaeffer, converting from agnosticism, and her experience with an abusive father (3:01). She reflects on the history of masculinity, the growth of toxic masculinity during the Industrial Revolution, and why modern women seem to hate men (11:26). Pearcey talks about why she wrote the Toxic War on Masculinity, which delves into the ideas of Christ-like and secular masculinity (19:61). They reflect on the dangers of nominal Christianity, why dedicated evangelical men have the best marriages, but Christian-in-name-only men create the worst marriages (36:44). She says, “nominal Christian men can take the secular script and then sort of baptize it, and the end of actually living worse than secular men.” She provides a multitude of research demonstrating that men becoming evangelical Christians makes them less misogynistic (52:31). She closes by reflecting on the current landscape, how men are falling behind women in all areas, and how true Christians can reclaim masculinity in a healthy way (56:09).
NOTE: We’ve launched our summer campaign. As a 100-percent donor-supported ministry nonprofit, we rely on believers like you to give toward our calling “to equip the saints for the work of ministry” (Eph. 4:12). If our work has encouraged or inspired you, please give today.
The Toxic War on Masculinity: How Christianity Reconciles the Sexes, Nancy Pearcey
“What is the “death movement”? Nancy R. Pearcey defends a biblical view of the body in Love Thy Body” Mark Legg
Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide, Nicholas D. Kristof, Sheryl WuDunn
Soft Patriarchs, New Men: How Christianity Shapes Fathers and Husbands, Brad Wilcox
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Nancy R. Pearcey is a bestselling author and speaker. A former agnostic, she was hailed in The Economist as “America's pre-eminent evangelical Protestant female intellectual.” Her work has appeared in the Washington Post, Washington Times, First Things, Human Events, American Thinker, Daily Caller, The Federalist, CNS News, and Fox News. She has appeared on NPR, C-SPAN, and Fox & Friends.
She is currently a professor and scholar in residence at Houston Christian University. Pearcey's books have been translated into 18 languages and include Total Truth, The Soul of Science, Saving Leonardo, Finding Truth, and Love Thy Body.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss Psalm 42, how we get the idea of the “soul” wrong, evangelicalism’s weak spot, why we should yearn for God, and how to start hungering for a relationship with Jesus.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss the image of a deer panting after water in Psalm 42 (2:12). They talk about how evangelicalism can unhealthily swing the pendulum away from spiritual discipline to praying “the prayer” of salvation (7:50). They consider in-depth how the Hebrew authors thought of the “soul” and how it differs from the modern notion (17:36). Dr. Denison talks about C.S. Lewis, why we can only find peace in God, and the difference between knowing “about” God versus knowing God personally (27:45). They point listeners to where they should start if they want to yearn for God and consider how to grow that true, intimate longing to be with God (32:50).
NOTE: We’ve launched our summer campaign. As a 100-percent donor-supported ministry nonprofit, we rely on believers like you to give toward our calling “to equip the saints for the work of ministry” (Eph. 4:12). If our work has encouraged or inspired you, please give today.
You Are the Beloved, Henri Nouwen
Celebration of Discipline, Richard Foster
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy and a Master of Divinity degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He also received an honorary Doctor of Divinity from Dallas Baptist University. Dr. Denison is the Theologian in Residence for the Baptist General Convention of Texas. Prior to launching Denison Forum in 2009, he pastored churches in Texas and Georgia.
Scot McKnight, PhD, Cody Matchett, and Dr. Mark Truman discuss the flaws of dispensationalism, Revelation’s message for discipleship, the Christian life as a peaceful political dissident, how to read Revelation generally, and what this means for Christian worship today.
New Testament scholars Scot McKnight, PhD, and Cody Matchett explain their background with the book of Revelation and why they wrote Revelation for the Rest of Us (2:41). Dr. McKnight explains dispensationalism, its history and ideas, why it fails, and why their reading of Revelation leads to hope rather than paranoia (10:04). They explain what it means to be a dissident disciple, the importance of politics in Revelation, and John’s constant allusions to Rome (24:52). They talk about why this more biblical interpretation makes Revelation apply so fervently to modern Christians. They consider the drama in Revelation’s colorful language and how to interpret John’s vision (30:01). They discuss why John was exiled to Patmos and how Christianity was deemed threatening to the political order (38:19). Revelation compares and contrasts the woman of Babylon and the woman of Jerusalem, revealing to modern churches how to worship more powerfully (47:31).
NOTE: We’ve launched our summer campaign. As a 100-percent donor-supported ministry nonprofit, we rely on believers like you to give toward our calling “to equip the saints for the work of ministry” (Eph. 4:12). If our work has encouraged or inspired you, please give today.
“Revelation for Too Many: An excerpt from Revelation for the Rest of Us”
Revelation for the Rest of Us: A Prophetic Call to Follow Jesus as a Dissident Disciple, Dr. Scot McKnight, Cody Matchett
Pivot: The Priorities, Practices, and Powers That Can Transform Your Church into a Tov Culture, Dr. Scot McKnight, Laura Barringer
Reading Revelation Responsibly, Dr. Michael J. Gorman
The Rise and Fall of Dispensationalism, Dr. Daniel G. Hummel
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Scot McKnight (PhD, University of Nottingham) is a world-renowned speaker, writer, professor, and equipper of the Church. He is a recognized authority on the historical Jesus, early Christianity, and the New Testament. His books have been translated into Chinese, Korean, Russian, and Portuguese. He is the author of The Jesus Creed, The Blue Parakeet, The King Jesus Gospel, Revelation for the Rest of Us, numerous commentaries, and is now writing a sixteen-volume series of reflections called The Everyday Bible Study.
Cody Matchett is the Scholar in Residence at First Assembly Church in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Cody holds a bachelor’s degree in biblical Studies (Briercrest College) and a Master of Arts in New Testament (Northern Seminary). He is pursuing his PhD at Ridley College, Melbourne. He lives in Calgary with his wife Brianna and his daughter Aleitheia Theodora.
Abdu Murray, JD, and Dr. Mark Turman discuss Murray’s conversion from Islam, ho the Bible is neither sexist nor racist, why Christianity historically propelled human rights, why he’s optimistic about race relations in the church, and the effect of Ravi Zacharias’ abuse.
Abdu Murray, JD, begins by talking about his upbringing as a devout Muslim in Detroit, Michigan, and how he came to faith in Christ (1:45). As a now full-time apologist, Murray describes how the younger generation doubts Christianity because they question the Bible’s morality, which led him to write on sexism and racism in More Than a White Man’s Religion (9:05). Murray and Dr. Turman consider how deconstructing can be good, but how historically, Christian thought has led to greater human rights, for women and ethnic minorities. Murray explains the difference between description and prescription in the Bible (21:00). They consider how Anglo people weren’t the first Christ-followers and how Christianity is currently growing most in non-western places (26:40). They talk about why Murray is optimistic about the way churches have pursued diversity, that we can continue to heal from racism despite lingering challenges (33:18). Murray talks about his unique experience as a Muslim outsider in his community. They then celebrate how Jesus opposed sexism in his culture (40:25). They close by reflecting on the legacy of Ravi Zacharias, his treatment of women, and the need for a gracious savior (49:50).
NOTE: We’ve launched our summer campaign. As a 100-percent donor-supported ministry nonprofit, we rely on believers like you to give toward our calling “to equip the saints for the work of ministry” (Eph. 4:12). If our work has encouraged or inspired you, please give today.
More Than a White Man's Religion: Why the Gospel Has Never Been Merely White, Male-Centered, or Just Another Religion, Abdu Murray.
“Racial injustice and the fierce urgency of now: A conversation with Jemar Tisby, author of ‘The Color of Compromise’” Jemar Tisby
“What does the Bible say about racism?” Dr. Jim Denison
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Abdu Murray (JD, University of Michigan) is an apologist who has led dialogues, open forums, and debates around the world at universities, churches, and business and government gatherings. He hosts the podcast All Rise and is the author of many articles and three books, including Grand Central Question and Saving Truth.
Dr. Russell Moore and Dr. Mark Turman discuss Tim Keller's legacy, how to live in courage rather than fear, loneliness in standing for what’s right, cynicism inside and outside the church, and why the wedding of politics to Christianity is so disastrous.
Dr. Russell Moore and Dr. Mark Turman discuss Tim Keller, his impact, and Dr. Moore’s friendship with him (3:41). They discuss why Dr. Moore decided to write a book about courage, especially one that focuses on Elijah as an imperfect exemplar (10:39). They talk about signs of when you might be living according to fear instead of faith, and why it is God works most in the most uncertain moments (20:54). Dr. Moore explains why loneliness is sometimes necessary in pursuing courage, and why brave people often don’t realize their own courage (29:43). Dr. Moore talks about Losing our Religion, a future book release of his that discusses cynicism inside and outside the church, especially in the case of politics and Christianity (47:55).
NOTE: We’ve launched our summer campaign. As a 100-percent donor-supported ministry nonprofit, we rely on believers like you to give toward our calling “to equip the saints for the work of ministry” (Eph. 4:12). If our work has encouraged or inspired you, please give today—and know that your gift will be doubled by a generous $75,000 match.
Losing Our Religion: An Altar Call for Evangelical America, Dr. Russell Moore
The Courage to Stand: Facing Your Fear Without Losing Your Soul, Dr. Russell Moore
“How to die like Tim Keller” Dr. Jim Denison
Between Compromise and Courage: The Choice Every Christian Must Make, Dr. Jim Denison
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Russell Moore is Editor in Chief of Christianity Today and is the author of the forthcoming book Losing Our Religion: An Altar Call for Evangelical America.
Dr. Moore was named in 2017 to Politico Magazine’s list of top fifty influence-makers in Washington and has been profiled by such publications as the New York Times, the Washington Post, TIME Magazine, and the New Yorker.
An ordained Baptist minister, Moore served previously as President of the Southern Baptist Convention’s Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission and, before that, as the chief academic officer and dean of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, where he also taught theology and ethics. He also hosts the weekly podcast The Russell Moore Show and is co-host of Christianity Today’s weekly news and analysis podcast, The Bulletin. Russell was President of the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention from 2013 to 2021. Prior to that role, Moore served as provost and dean of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky, where he also taught theology and ethics.
A native Mississippian, he and his wife Maria are the parents of five sons. They live in Nashville, where he teaches the Bible regularly at their congregation, Immanuel Church.
Dr. Katie McCoy and Dr. Mark Turman discuss Dr. McCoy’s upcoming book, To Be a Woman, the origin of transgenderism, why so many more women and girls are transitioning, and how to practically, lovingly, engage with trans ideology.
Dr. Katie McCoy talks about why she wrote To Be a Woman and the definition of gender dysphoria (3:13). She discusses the history of ideas that led to the transgender movement and reflects on the surge in female-to-male trans people (13:17). Dr. McCoy defines other terms like gender-affirming care and the effect of social contagion, pointing to social media as a reason for the rise in trans teens (22:24). She ties together critical theory, trans identity, and philosophy to explain how gender and sexuality became separated (42:14). They close by reflecting on gender pronouns, whether Christian kids should be in public schools, and other practical questions of how to live faithfully (51:06).
NOTE: We’ve launched our summer campaign. As a 100-percent donor-supported ministry nonprofit, we rely on believers like you to give toward our calling “to equip the saints for the work of ministry” (Eph. 4:12). If our work has encouraged or inspired you, please give today—and know that your gift will be doubled by a generous $75,000 match.
Visit DFpodcasts.org to give today.
To Be a Woman, Dr. Katie McCoy
“What does the Bible say about transgenderism?” Denison Forum
“Responding to Pride Month with Fidelity Month,” Dr. Jim Denison
“Is Critical Race Theory Marxist,” Mark Legg
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Katie J. McCoy serves as Director of Women's Ministry at Texas Baptists. She holds a PhD in Systematic Theology from Southwestern Seminary (TX), where she served on faculty for five years. Katie teaches and writes on the intersection of theology, culture, and women's issues, and has co-authored a work on the doctrine of humanity as part of the Theology for the People of God series (B&H Academic). Included among her research is discovering the pattern of justice for women in Old Testament laws. You can find Katie online at blondeorthodoxy.com.
Chris Legg, LPC, joins Dr. Mark Turman to discuss how psychology and faith integrate, how Legg works as a therapist and pastor, a biblical understanding of mental disorders, Jesus’ flawed but sinless life, and the need for a healthy community.
Chris Legg talks about his family and career, how he became a licensed counselor, owner of a counseling practice, and head pastor of South Spring Church (2:14). Dr. Turmans asks for the definition of mental illness, which brings their discussion to a biblical understanding of disorders (8:00). Legg talks about how therapy and Christianity integrate in a holistic way, and explores how everyone is broken in one way or another (15:27). They consider how God’s will is not for us to be perfectly healthy in this life, and how we can pray for disorders to be healed (37:37). They talk about Jesus being perfect but not flawless as a sinless human and the need for a community to battle isolation (45:54). Legg closes by encouraging anyone struggling to seek help, that counselors, pastors, friends, family, and the Lord want to walk alongside you in dark times (56:34).
About the host
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Chris Legg received his Master’s in Marriage and Family Counseling and Christian Teaching from Southwestern University and is a licensed professional counselor (LPC). He is the founder and owner of Alethia Counseling Center (which offers counseling, speaking, and business consulting) and is the head pastor at South Spring Baptist Church in Tyler, Texas.
He is passionate about helping others find freedom in Christ and training disciples to make disciples, equipping them to live life to the fullest. Legg speaks on various subjects to schools, camps, and conferences, but he is particularly expert in unpacking marriage, sex, and healthy relationships. He previously worked as the chaplain for Pine Cove Christian camps, establishing the Christian leadership program The Forge. He publishes a wide range of articles in his casual blog on Chrismlegg.com.
He has been joyfully married to his wife, Ginger, for over twenty-five years and has five children, two of whom are adopted. He cherishes his family and prioritizes his role as husband and father, which are second only to his allegiance to Christ.
Curtis Chang joins Dr. Mark Turman to talk about his book, The Anxiety Opportunity, how anxiety affected Chang’s life, why anxiety is not a sin but a chance for spiritual growth, how anxiety reflects a fear of loss, and how Jesus speaks into our worries.
Curtis Chang begins by sharing a deeply personal story about struggling with his anxiety disorder as a senior pastor and how God helped him see anxiety as an opportunity for spiritual growth (3:04). Chang explains how some level of anxiety is natural and why we can’t just “pray it away” (8:04). They discuss how anxiety is the fear of future loss, and this should prompt us to ask: what are we afraid of losing (20:10)? Chang gives practical ways to overcome the symptoms of anxiety while warning that we must also address the deeper heart issues, relying on the power of the Holy Spirit (29:31). They consider the danger of avoiding loss at all costs, remembering that we will lose everything on this earth at some point, and how loss avoidance can end in a false version of the gospel (38:46). They close by talking about the importance of community to deal with anxiety, taking it first to God and then to others who love us (54:10).
The Anxiety Opportunity: How Worry is the Doorway to Your Best Self, Curtis Chang
“In “The Anxiety Opportunity,” Curtis Chang says that worry opens doors to our best selves” Mark Legg
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
As a theologian, Curtis is on the faculty of Duke Divinity School and is a Senior Fellow at Fuller Theological Seminary. His ministry experience includes serving as a senior pastor of an Evangelical Covenant Church in California, a campus minister with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, and engaging in racial reconciliation work in Soweto, South Africa. He has authored or contributed to numerous books, including Engaging Unbelief: A Captivating Strategy from Augustine and Aquinas (IVP).
Curtis is the founding Executive Director of Redeeming Babel, a nonprofit that produces content to promote a reformation in how Christians engage the wider world. He also co-hosts (with David French) the Good Faith podcast, where they discuss how Christian faith intersects with culture, law, and politics. His biblical insights are enriched by his own secular career, which includes founding a White House award-winning nonprofit consulting firm and teaching strategic planning as a faculty at American University’s School of International Service. Curtis graduated from Harvard University and is a former Rockefeller Fellow.
Matt Jacobson joins Dr. Mark Turman to discuss being a biblical spouse, the pornography epidemic, how to have freedom from sexual temptation, and the power we have amid spiritual warfare through our identity in Christ.
Matt Jacobson begins by talking about his testimony, biblical marriage, and the severity of the sin of fornication in the Bible (1:32). Jacobson says that the way Christians believe the lie that they are weak in confronting sexual temptation leads to bondage (14:36). He emphasizes the spiritual warfare around us and at the same time, the choice we have to sin (17:21). They discuss how pornography leads to lonely emptiness, and why Christians must know their power in the Spirit (30:59). Jacobson talks about practical ways to fight the spiritual battle against sexual temptation, drawing on our identity as children of God (39:42). They close with advice for parents and a word of grace and hope for those addicted to pornography (47:53).
“What does the Bible say about pornography” Mark Legg
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Matt Jacobson is a teaching pastor of Cline Falls Bible Fellowship and founder of FaithfulMan.com, an online social media community focusing on marriage, parenting, and biblical teaching. He is the creator of Freedom Course, teaching men the powerful, biblical path to getting completely free from porn and sexual sin. Matt is the author of the bestselling Loving Your Wife Well and 100 Words of Affirmation Your Wife Needs to Hear. He lives with his wife, Lisa, in the Pacific Northwest, where they have raised their eight children. Together Matt and Lisa are cohosts of the popular Faithful Life podcast.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss Dr. Denison’s most pivotal book, The Coming Tsunami, one year later, the history of American ideals, AI ethics, Paul’s example of peaceful cultural engagement, and hope.
Show notes:
Dr. Denison begins by giving the elevator pitch of The Coming Tsunami, discussing the history of how America’s ideals and why the culture opposes Christianity (1:58). They discuss how America has turned to politics as a new religion and why postmodernity cripples us against AI ethics questions (11:51). They discuss how to prepare rather than panic, to hope rather than fear, and how Paul and Jesus modeled peaceful engagement with the culture (14:48). They discuss why looking at the history of ideas is so important and how one kind of freedom can turn into tyranny (29:14). They talk about why opposition to Christianity in the US is significant, even if persecution against Christians is not new to the world or history (40:21). They close by considering how Christians can practically steward their influence to act as salt and light to the world (45:25).
Get your copy today: The Coming Tsunami: Why Christians Are Labeled Intolerant, Irrelevant, Oppressive, and Dangerous―and How We Can Turn the Tide, Dr. Jim Denison
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dallas-based Denison Ministries includes DenisonForum.org, First15.org, ChristianParenting.org, and FoundationsWithJanet.org. Jim Denison speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at DenisonForum.org and DrJimDenison.com, as well as on radio, TV, podcasts, and social media.
Dr. Jeff Myers, the president of Summit Ministries, joins Dr. Mark Turman to discuss apologetics for Gen Z through Summit’s summer camps. They also consider the idea of worldviews, explain the philosophical nature of truth, and talk about his book, The Truth Changes Everything.
Dr. Jeff Myers begins by sharing his testimony and how he became president of Summit Ministries, which helps kids stand firm in a biblical worldview through camp and student conferences (5:44). Dr. Myers explains Summit and how they help prepare Gen Z for defending their faith and thinking critically. They also talk about pivotal life moments when faith becomes relevant (11:57). Dr. Myers talks about what a “worldview” is and what led him to write Truth Changes Everything (23:30). Armed with a PhD in philosophy, Dr. Myers provides a deep, philosophical understanding of truth (29:21). Dr. Turman asks why the Christian worldview is unique, given the incarnate person of Christ (47:36).
Truth Changes Everything: How People of Faith Can Transform the World in Times of Crisis, Dr. Jeff Myers
Summit Ministries, website
The Coming Tsunami, Dr. Jim Denison
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Dr. Jeff Myers is the president of Summit Ministries. As an educator and entrepreneur, Dr. Myers has become one of America’s most respected authorities on youth leadership development.
Through his speaking engagements and media appearances, Dr. Myers has become a fresh voice offering humor and insight from a Christian worldview. He is the author of 14 books, including Understanding the Faith, Understanding the Times, and Understanding the Culture textbooks, which are studied by tens of thousands of students. Dr. Myers holds a Ph.D. from the University of Denver.
He continues to engage college students and adult learners by serving as a trustee of Colorado Christian University and through a Signature Leadership Course offered by the Lumerit Corporation, which serves the training needs of many Fortune 100 companies. Jeff and his wife Stephanie and their family live in Colorado.
Dr. Jim Denison sits down with Dr. Mark Turman to discuss the brevity of life, sudden deaths of loved ones, human suffering and God’s sovereignty, and to pastorally unpack Psalm 23.
Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison begin by discussing why the brevity of life is on their minds, both with personal stories of sudden deaths (1:29). They consider the tension between being frightened of the unexpected and trusting the purpose of God; we’re “vapor” and yet have eternal value to God (6:33). Dr. Turman asks whether it was God’s plan for his church member’s six-year son to die and the theology of death and God’s foreknowledge (14:31). They move thinking about practical advice for if you or someone you know loses a loved one (25:47). They discuss how Psalm 23 can speak into the darkest times of our lives and how we can intimately know the good shepherd (31:28).
“If God is sovereign, why does evil exist?” The Denison Forum Podcast
“What does the Bible say about suffering?” Dr. Jim Denison
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Lou Phillips, Director of Church Relations for the Center for Faith, Sexuality, and Gender, joins Dr. Turman to discuss his work in Christian sexual ethics apologetics, how churches make an idol of marriage and sex, the way to reach out to LGBTQ+ people, and why the culture finds its identity in sexuality.
Lou Phillips starts by sharing his testimony, why he works in teaching Christian sexual ethics in an apologetic setting, and how he’s been received by secular audiences (1:50). They turn to consider how marriage has become an idol in the church and how Christians seek fulfillment in marriage rather than in God (11:20). Phillips and Dr. Turman talk about why sexuality, tied together with suffering, has become the biggest obstacle for our culture coming to Christ (18:17). They dive into the issues of identity, why culture finds it in sexuality, and whether sexual sin is worse than others (29:19). Phillips goes into a complex practical question: Should Christians with homosexual attraction call themselves gay (43:40)? They close by returning to how churches need to do better at supporting single people, which is equally as fulfilling as marriage—it needs to be the crux of the entire argument for Christians (56:02).
“What does the Bible say about homosexuality?” Dr. Jim Denison
Embodied: Transgender Identities, the Church, and What the Bible Has to Say Dr. Preston Sprinkle
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Lou Phillips is the Director of Church Relations for the Center for Faith, Sexuality, and Gender.
Phillips attended Grove City College and graduated with a Bachelor of Science, double majoring in molecular biology and political science. Lou also received his certificate of theological studies from the University of Oxford (Wycliffe Hall) and was trained at The OCCA (The Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics).
For the past eight years, Lou has been traveling and speaking at universities, conferences, and churches, entertaining people’s biggest objections to Christianity. Lou is most interested in topics such as meaning, identity, and sexuality as they relate to the Christian worldview, especially in the lives of students and young adults.
Dr. Ryan Denison joins Dr. Mark Turman to discuss church history and heretics, the book he coauthored on the Sermon on the Mount, The Path to Purpose, and the meaning behind Jesus’ preaching.
Dr. Ryan Denison discusses his love of church history, how heretics are formed, and the book he partnered with his dad Dr. Jim Denison to write, The Path to Purpose (2:07). They discuss the meaning behind the title of the book, which covers Jesus most famous sermon, The Sermon on the Mount while giving the broad points behind the sermon (19:39). Dr. Ryan Denison talks about the context and the importance of the beatitudes for framing Jesus’ teachings (30:44). They consider the holistic purpose behind the sermon, why it's not meant as a spiritual scorecard, and why it remains relevant to our lives today (39:30). Dr. Ryan Denison closes by sharing what he hopes readers will get out of the book—a deeper relationship with God (55:40).
Denison Forum's newest book, The Path to Purpose, takes a closer look at the Sermon on the Mount and how Jesus’ timeless truth can help you discover God’s will for your life.
The Path to Purpose: Christ’s Vision for your Life in the Sermon on the Mount, Dr. Ryan Denison and Dr. Jim Denison
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Ryan Denison is the Senior Editor for Theology at Denison Forum, where he contributes writing and research to many of the ministry’s productions. He holds a PhD in church history from BH Carroll Theological Institute after having earned his MDiv at Truett Seminary. Ryan has also taught at BH Carroll and Dallas Baptist University. He and his wife, Candice, live in East Texas and have two children.
Calev Myers, a prominent Israeli lawyer, discusses with Dr. Mark Turman his civil rights advocacy, efforts to support justice in Israel, and the origin and solution to the current civil unrest against the Israeli government.
Calev Myers begins by talking about his career and the founding story of the Jerusalem Institute for Justice, which focuses on Hamas’ abuse of Palestinians while also advocating on behalf of Israeli citizens (4:21). He discusses the relatively peaceful coexistence of Israelis and how to communicate inter-religiously (15:31). Myers elaborates by unfolding the origin of modern Israel and the specific issues he’s dealt with in their Supreme Court (19:47). He then talks about ARISE, a group that helps make business connections and grows Israel economically, which combats an insidious boycott movement called “BDS” (33:52). He shares some of ARISES’ success stories (41:55). Myers and Dr. Turman then consider the current protests and unrest, starting with Israel’s lack of a founding constitution and the imbalance of power in its government (47:44). Myers closes with how we can pray for Israel (1:04:04).
Crucial Alliance: African-Americans, Jews, and the Middle East Conundrum, Calev Myers
"What I learned in Israel about the recent Israeli elections," Dr. Jim Denison
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
In 2004, Myers became a partner at Yehuda Raveh & Co., a law firm. In 2004, Myers also founded the Jerusalem Institute of Justice (JIJ), a human rights group active in Israel and its adjacent territories, and has presented reports on their behalf before governmental bodies.
In 2009, Myers became a founding partner of the Jerusalem City Center Branch of Yehuda Raveh and Co., which primarily serves foreign clients investing or donating in Israel. Myers’ legal practice focuses primarily on corporate and intellectual property law, as well as non-profit law, immigration law, and civil rights.
Myers is the Founder and Chairman of ARISE – Alliance to Reinforce Israel’s Security and Economy and serves as the Chairman of the Anti-BDS Commission of the Israel Association of Bi-National Chambers of Commerce.
Tara-Leigh Cobble and Dr. Mark Turman discuss Cobble’s testimony, the importance of biblical literacy, reading Scripture in the community, and their deep love for Israel.
Tara-Leigh Cobble begins by sharing her testimony, how she fell in love with the Bible, and how The Bible Recap grew to become one of the most listened to podcasts (2:37). She then shares why reading the Bible in a community is so important and how D-Groups began in her living room (18:27). Dr. Turman and her share their experiences in Israel, their favorite memories, place, and restaurants, and how making a pilgrimage to the Holy Land can bring new light to biblical stories (29:29).
The Bible Recap website
Israel: Beauty, Light, and Luxury, Tara-Leigh Cobble
The Bible Recap, Tara-Leigh Cobble
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Tara-Leigh Cobble’s zeal for biblical literacy led her to create and develop an international network of Bible studies called D-Group (Discipleship Group). Every week, over 250 men's and women's D-Groups meet weekly in homes and churches around the world to study Scripture. She also writes and hosts a daily radio show called “The God Shot” and a daily podcast called "The Bible Recap," designed to help listeners read and understand the Bible in a year.
In just over a year, the podcast has been downloaded nearly 20 million times, and more than 20,000 churches around the world have joined their reading plan to know and love God better.
Mary Jo Sharp joins Dr. Mark Turman to discuss Gen Z’s unique needs, why we need apologetics, and Dark Room, the free high-budget video series aimed to help Gen Z navigate the hardest questions.
Mary Jo Sharp shares her testimony of becoming a Christian after atheism and why she ended up studying apologetics (1:36). Sharp then discusses “Dark Room,” a video series and curriculum built on real questions and stories from Gen Z. She then specifically addresses why Gen Z is seeking rational answers to deep questions and why Gen Z distrusts the church (10:48). She talks about the problem of evil and sin nature, explaining why those ideas are so important for young generations (21:38). She points out the needs of Gen Z at this time, their interest in science and faith, and the need for spiritual mentorship (31:06). Sharp shares her favorite episodes from Dark Room, the mission behind it, and how churches and parents can use it for free (35:13).
Mary Jo Sharp (website)
Why I Still Believe: A Former Atheist’s Reckoning with the Bad Reputation Christians Give a Good God Mary Jo Sharp
Why Do You Believe That?: A Faith Conversation Marj Jo Sharp
“What does Gen Z value? 4 truths about what they believe” Mark Legg
“The viral revival at Asbury reveals Gen Z’s unique approach to faith and spirituality” Laurel Wood
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
A former atheist who came to faith, Mary Jo Sharp is now an assistant professor of apologetics at Houston Christian University and the founder and director of Confident Christianity Apologetics Ministry. She has been featured in Christianity Today’s cover story “The Unexpected Defenders” and is an international speaker on apologetics.
She serves on the faculty with Summit Ministries Student Conferences and is a published author with Kregel Publications, B&H Publications, and Zondervan. Mary Jo is the author of the top-selling Bible study, “Why Do You Believe That?” as well as Living in Truth with LifeWay Christian Resources. She recently released Why I Still Believe.
Alex Kondratev, Steph Thurling, Dr. Mark Turman, and Dr. Jim Denison discuss women in leadership, especially in ministry, the discrimination women often face in churches, the SBC removing Saddleback for having a female pastor, complementarianism, and egalitarianism.
Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison begin the discussion by talking about the theological and historical background of women in leadership, the patriarchy, and complementarian versus egalitarian views (4:27). Alex Kondratev discusses her background, God calling her to lead, and the difficulties she has faced. Steph Thurling steps in to relate her story and similar calling to leadership, as well as the roadblocks she faced (12:53). Dr. Denison and Kondratev continue by discussing hermeneutics, feminism, and the cultural differences in the Bible (25:56). Thurling and Kondratev discuss the hindrance to their careers because of them being women pursuing leadership in ministry (39:34). Then, they delve into the SBC controversy. The denomination believes the office of pastor is restricted to men and removed Saddleback church and others when they didn’t comply (46:27). They close by discussing the “Billy Graham rule,” its upsides and downsides, and why Christian men in leadership should especially think critically about issues of sexual accountability in a way that doesn’t lead to the hindrance of women (56:55).
“Should women be pastors? Or church leaders, deacons, or teachers?” Dr. Jim Denison
“Can a woman be a pastor? “40 Questions About Women in Ministry” offers many answers” Denison Forum
“Redeeming the “shecession”: How Christian working women can reframe their careers post-Covid” Dr. Joy Dahl
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Alex Kondratev serves as the Chief Content Officer at Denison Ministries. With experience in creating and aggregating media from hundreds of Christian ministries, she leads the Denison Ministries brands in getting relevant and transformative content to the world.
Steph Thurling is the Executive Director of Christian Parenting and host of The Christian Parenting Podcast. Steph has her master’s in youth, family, and culture from Fuller Theological Seminary and has a background in youth and children’s ministry. She is co-author of Raising Prayerful Kids, a book that shares easy, life-giving, and fun ways to teach kids to pray. She loves helping families grow closer to each other and to God through meaningful experiences and conversations.
Erin Kerry joins Dr. Mark Turman to discuss how functional and traditional medicine can complement each other, why self-care done right can be biblical, the importance of seeing ourselves as body, mind, and soul, and why nutrition is important to mental health.
Erin Kerry talks about her life story, including her struggle with serious mental illness and how she developed a passion for helping others in the same place (1:40). Kerry discusses integrative nutrition, functional medicine, and how they can complement traditional medicine (8:01). The conversation turns to the difference between self-medicating and self-care, whether Christians should use self-care, and the necessity of sabbath (18:09). She highlights the importance of silence and spiritual rest (31:33). Kerry talks about gluten and why it’s become trendy, as well as how digestion works in your body (38:15). She ends by sharing practical tips better to integrate your life with healthy habits (45:50).
“How to practice biblical self-care” Erin Kerry
“Should I take meds for my depression? A Christian approach to the mental illness epidemic” Erin Kerry
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Erin Kerry is a certified integrative nutrition health coach and mom to three children. She has received training from The Institute for Integrative Nutrition and The School of Applied Functional Medicine. As a survivor of mental illness, she is passionate about advocating for mental health. She is the owner of Sparking Wholeness, host of the Sparking Wholeness podcast, and works as the Integrative Health Coach at Living Well Counseling and Wellness Center in Tyler, Texas.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman sit down to discuss the mission of Denison Forum, the origin story of the ministry that now reaches millions of people, how he writes The Daily Article, and the different brands of Denison Ministries.
To begin, Dr. Jim Dension gives the elevator pitch for Denison Forum and how James Davison Hunter’s idea of “manifesting faithful presence” clarified his vision for Denison Forum (0:25). Dr. Denison discusses how Christians should use their influence in America (7:59). Then, he launches into the history of Denison Forum, starting with the early years then moving into The Daily Article (16:15). They consider what “culture” means, and why we want to equip Christians to change the culture (28:57). Dr. Denison shares how he makes The Daily Article and how he picks the topics for it (33:35). They talk about what Denison Ministries does, and its unique mission with multiple brands (44:57). Dr. Denison closes by talking about whether strategic planning is biblical, and how we can use influence to advance Christ’s kingdom (48:34).
The Coming Tsunami, Dr. Jim Denison
To Change the World, Dr. James Davison Hunter
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Jon Erwin, director of Jesus Revolution, joins Dr. Mark Turman and Mark Legg to talk about the inspiration for Jesus Revolution, the true story behind the movie, how the Holy Spirit moved on set, and his hope for a new Jesus movement among Gen Z.
Acclaimed director Jon Erwin shares his heart behind moviemaking, how he got started with humble beginnings in Alabama, and why he loves to tell true dramas (3:41). He shares the reason for making Jesus Revolution in particular and how Time magazine’s 1971 cover story inspired his interest in the shocking true story (11:52).
Erwin talks about how they were connected to Lionsgate and Kelsey Grammer and the resurgence in Christian media in Hollywood (18:31). He discusses the striking similarities between Gen Z and the generation that took part in the counterculture movement in the 60s and 70s portrayed in Jesus Revolution.
He expands on this theme by encouraging Christians to go on the spiritual offense by living on mission with optimism. (28:57) Erwin shares his favorite theme and scene in the movie, why “Pirate’s Cove” in California is so important to Jesus Revolution, and the way the Holy Spirit moved in miraculous ways while they filmed (40:53)
He closes by challenging the audience to trust Jesus, get out of their seats to reach Gen Z, and watch for God to work in this generation. (49:53)
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Mark Legg is an Associate Editor for Denison Forum. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2021 with a degree in Philosophy and Biblical Studies.
In 2002, Jon Erwin founded a production company with his brother, Andrew Erwin. Their first ventures were commercials, documentaries, and music videos. The brothers soon directed videos and produced concerts and television programs for platinum recording artists such as Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, Casting Crowns, Switchfoot, Skillet, and others and received eleven GMA Dove Awards nominations and three wins for Music Video of the Year.
Alongside their award-winning music videos, Jon and Andrew have also produced and directed several documentaries. These include the multi-award-winning 9/11 story, The Cross and the Towers.
Their features have all opened in the top ten box office on opening weekend, and they have received the coveted A+ Cinema Score twice. Their features include October Baby, Mom’s Night Out, Woodlawn, and the 2018 surprise hit I Can Only Imagine, which became the #1 independent film of 2018, earning over $83 million at the box office.
In 2019, Jon and Andrew launched Kingdom Story Company, alongside their partners Kevin Downes and Tony Young, with a first-look deal with Lionsgate. Jon serves as Chief Executive Officer at Kingdom Story Company as well as writes and co-directs feature films with Andrew. He is also the author of the upcoming book For Love and Honor.
Dr. Katie Frugé, Dr. Mark Turman, and Mark Legg discuss why new technology shapes the culture war, the positives and negatives of social media, why algorithms require more regulation, and how parents should navigate social media.
Dr. Katie Frugé talks about her background in seminary and her multi-faceted job as the Director of the Center for Cultural Engagement at the BGCT (1:33). She talks about the so-called culture wars and how social media changes the landscape of public discourse (10:52). She discusses social media algorithms, needed regulation, and tech exploiting sin nature (19:19). Dr. Frugé continues by explaining the upsides to social media and why we’re more connected than ever, but also lonelier than every (28:40). They discuss how rapidly technology advances and the generational gaps in understanding about social media (35:44). Dr. Frugé ends by covering some basic rules for parenting and how to navigate the often dark world of tech, facing the potential dangers of pornography and sexual grooming (42:54)
Following Jesus in a Digital Age (Bible Study)
“Why are teens sadder, lonelier, and more depressed than ever before?” Mark Legg
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Mark Legg is an Associate Editor for Denison Forum. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2021 with a degree in Philosophy and Biblical Studies.
Katie Frugé, Ph.D., earned her Master of Divinity degree and Ph.D. in systematic theology from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Katie Frugé has been named director of Texas Baptists’ Center for Cultural Engagement and the Christian Life Commission. Frugé began her service with the Baptist General Convention of Texas in 2019 as the hunger and human care specialist with the CLC. She later took on the role of associate director of the CLC.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss the state of moral and legal authority in America, why God is our ultimate spiritual and moral authority, different ways of knowing God’s truth by interpreting the Bible, where Baptists and Catholics disagree, and how Christians should view authority.
Dr. Jim Denison begins by discussing how Americans view authority and why we regard the rule of law as higher than even the president’s power and the difference between legal, moral, and spiritual authority (0:59).
They cover why religion was important to America’s founders and how Americans are sorting our views on morality through the judicial courts and legislation at a state, and even city, level (12:07).
They comment on the conflict between religious liberty and the civil rights of the LGBTQ+ community (16:01). Dr. Denison considers the differences of spirituality and morality from an “epistemological” perspective for Christians: the intuitive, rational and practical (28:09). This is relevant for Christians to how we pray, read the Bible, and ultimately our view of authority (34:14).
They close by tying everything together, discussing the priesthood of all believers, community, church leadership, and the Bible’s grounding authority for our lives (42:43).
“The power of living biblically” Sermon by Dr. Jim Denison
“The rise of a post-truth culture” Podcast with Dr. Turman and Dr. Denison
“How we should think” Podcast with Dr. Turman and Dr. Denison
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Phil Boone, Director of Generosity for the He Gets Us campaign, discusses their research of America’s modern culture and their strategy to showcase Jesus’ humanity, love, and story to get spiritual explorers interested in Jesus and connect seekers to local churches to become deeply rooted disciples.
Phil Boone begins by talking about how He Gets Us started, why he became passionate about its mission, and their in-depth research behind the media strategies of He Gets Us (2:49).
He describes the way local churches and ministries get involved and make connections with spiritual “explorers” that He Gets Us hopes to make curious and eventually win over to Christ (17:33).
They talk about why Jesus used stories and met us as a human incarnate and how their ministry showcases Jesus’ relatability and love to get deeper into theology and right living (31:43).
Boone closes by explaining their unique strategy to make disciples and deep connections through mass media and how you can get involved (39:57).
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Phil Boone is the Director of Generosity for He Gets Us. He has experience in sales, consulting, executive leadership, and capital fundraising. He sits on several widely-ranging boards of directors. He graduated from Abilene Christian University.
Jackson McNeece and Dr. Mark Turman discuss the bioethics of euthanasia, why our culture has begun to accept physician-assisted suicide, and what the Bible says about “pulling the plug” on people on life support.
Jackson McNeece begins by explaining biomedical ethics, giving the state of the modern debate and culture’s view on euthanasia, and how Christians should react (2:52).
They move to define terms like physician-assisted suicide, active and passive euthanasia, and “letting die” (10:10). They talk about why people are choosing physician-assisted suicide in such large numbers (20:44).
Then, they discuss “brain death” and persistent vegetative states, comas, heroic measures, life support, and how to treat people with these conditions (26:45).
They talk about biblical dualistic versus holistic views on the soul and body, and why it's important to talk to loved ones about death and dying (36:43). If the holistic view is correct, how should we treat comatose patients? Can Christians ever “pull the plug” on a dying loved one (41:42)?
They end by considering why the disabled community is so against physician-assisted suicide and why Christians should never take their own lives (56:39).
About the host
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Jackson McNeece is a Master of Divinity student from Oklahoma City, OK. In May of 2021, Jackson graduated from Baylor University with a degree in Medical Humanities. Throughout his studies at Baylor, he developed an intense curiosity for medical ethics, particularly within a healthcare setting. While studying at Duke Divinity, Jackson hopes to continue to cultivate his fascination with medical ethics, learn to ground medical ethics within a theological context, and develop an understanding of what it means to serve in a pastoral capacity in medicine.
Erick Goss and Dr. Mark Turman discuss the importance of discipling young children and teens, why he founded Minno, a Christian streaming service for kids, challenging how churches neglect children’s programming, and ideas for how Christians should handle screen time with their kids.
Erick Goss begins by sharing his testimony, his time in Naval Academy, his struggle against legalism, and how he rose in the ranks at Amazon (2:01). He moves on to tell the story of how he co-founded Minno, a Christ-centered streaming service for children, how the Lord called him to complete dependence, and why gospel-centered media tailored for kids is so critical (15:53). Goss and Dr. Turman discuss why imagination is so important to Christian faith, what to expect on Minno, and why they include devotionals in addition to cartoons (29:14). Lastly, they turn to a crucial issue for parents: screen time. Instead of authoritarian, fearful rules, Goss recommends discussing media with kids and tailoring screen time to each kid for each age (41:47).
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Erick Goss holds an MBA from the University of Michigan and an M.A. in international relations from Troy University. He was a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Navy and a spokesperson to the Pentagon. He held senior management positions at Amazon until he moved into the world of Christian media as the Co-CEO of Creative Trust Ventures. In 2018, he became the CEO and co-founder of Minno, a subscription digital media platform with a focus on supporting Christian kids and families. He and his wife Lisa live in Nashville with their three daughters.
David French sits down with Dr. Mark Turman to discuss how Christians should view power, the rise of radicalization and alienation, how to read the news well, and how to be informed without being alarmist.
David French and Dr. Mark Turman begin by discussing the nature of power, why the “will to power” leads to all kinds of sin, whether Christians should pursue influence, and Micah 6:8 (1:06). They discuss apocalyptic language in political commentary, the deepening divide that media encourages, and rising radicalization and alienation (17:24). French worries that the reasonable majority are starting to stay silent and considers why we should start thinking smaller in our communities (30:00). They consider how to be well informed without being alarmist (41:42). Then, they talk about good news outlets, the difference between reporting and opinion, and the value of a free press (49:22). Finally, French closes by commenting on the difference between Christian cultural warriors and cultural missionaries (57:43).
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
David French was senior editor for The Dispatch and before that, a senior writer for National Review. He recently accepted a position to write full-time as an opinion columnist for the New York Times. He has written for The Atlantic, as well as many other notable publications. French is a New York Times bestselling author and graduate of Harvard Law School, the past president of the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education, and a former lecturer at Cornell Law School.
He has served as a senior counsel for the American Center for Law and Justice and the Alliance Defending Freedom. David is a former major in the United States Army Reserve. In 2007, he deployed to Iraq, where he was awarded the Bronze Star.
Bruce Miller, Dr. Mark Turman, and Mark Legg discuss Bruce Miller’s book, The Seven Big Questions, our doubts and questions about faith, life’s purpose, and apologetics.
Bruce discusses why he wrote The Seven Big Questions, and it’s important to ask the deepest questions of life (2:02). They discuss the way the Bible asks dark, honest questions in Ecclesiastes (7:52). Miller talks about the mystery that often persists when we pursue these questions and why we need “epistemic humility” (20:06). Miller delves more deeply into postmodernism and why it’s unsatisfying to our biggest questions of life (32:32). They talk about scientism, and the renewed interest in spirituality shown by the youngest generation (42:45). Miller closes by talking about why ending on the idea of a personal relationship with Jesus is so important (48:23).
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Mark Turman, D.Min., is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Bruce is the pastor of Christ Fellowship, a consultant, and an author. He’s written ten books ranging from apologetics to church leadership. He founded The Centers for Church Based Training, and served as a mentor with Leadership Network to equip next-generation and mid-career pastors. He has recently directed his thinking toward LGTBQ+ consulting for Christian leaders to whom he brings a fresh approach full of both grace and truth in full measure.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss the “Respect for Marriage Act,” the tension between politics, state’s rights, and the church, religious liberty updates, and whether Christians should try to legislate morality.
First, they discuss the recently passed, so-called, “Respect For Marriage Act,” and its connection to Obergefell, Congress, and the Supreme Court (6:46). They then consider the cultural events that led up to our present time and why we strayed from biblical marriage (12:00). Dr. Denison explains Constitutional law, and why it’s relevant to the conversation of religious liberty, State’s rights, and whether Christians should defend biblical marriage in the legal arena (20:00). They hone in on the separation of the Church and State, and what the Bible says about Christian’s involvement in politics in the New Testament (33:00). They then discuss whether the Respect For Marriage Act impedes religious liberty (48:00). Dr. Denison closes by explaining the difference between the civil rights protecting LBGTQ people and the civil rights of ethnic minorities, and why we can’t make the legal comparison (56:05)
Resources and further reading:
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
In this bonus episode, Jack Countryman joins Dr. Mark Turman to discuss the miracle of peace, how to give over your anxiety to Jesus, Christian publishing, and to give his Christmas blessings to the Denison Forum Podcast audience.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Jack Countryman is the founder of JCountryman Gift Books, a division of Thomas Nelson, and the recipient of the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association Jordan Lifetime Achievement Award. Over the past 30 years, he has developed bestselling gift books such as God's Promises for Your Every Need, God's Promises for Men, God's Promises for Women, God Listens, and Red Letter Words of Jesus. Countryman's books have sold more than 20 million units.
Joshua S. Porter (stage name Josh Dies) joins Mark Legg to discuss deconstruction, offensive Christian art, orthodoxy, objective truth and relativism, and how Jesus’ ministry was like a rebellion.
Josh Porter begins by defining deconstruction, and why we can’t neglect the emotional, personal side of the issue (1:20). They talk about why Death to Deconstruction feels dark and provocative, and the place of offensive, Christian art, and literature in church tradition (9:30). They move on to discuss how faithfulness is an act of rebellion, and how Jesus was radical (16:13). Porter discusses the book’s unique, but orthodox, perspectives and his own belief in pacificism (28:41). They talk about why Porter personally arrived at orthodoxy and the process of his deconstruction (33:24). Although intellectual arguments are important, they consider the personal, emotional side of the deconstruction movement (44:59). The end by reflecting on truth itself, relativism, worldview, and apologetics (52:06).
Mark Legg is an Associate Editor for Denison Forum. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2021 with a degree in Philosophy and Biblical Studies.
Joshua S. Porter (Josh Dies) is the lead singer of the American Christian hardcore punk rock band, Showbread. Though the band disbanded, he continues to take on alternative musical side projects. He is a prolific fiction writer, and pastor of teaching and creative vision at Van City Church.
Craig Denison and Dr. Mark Turman share how to cultivate a personal relationship with God through daily devotionals, prayer, and worship, how the First15 devotional was created, and how to hear God’s voice in your life.
Craig Denison opens by talking about being Dr. Denison’s son, how he made his faith his own, and his early career as a musician and worship leader (3:22). Then they talk about his heart behind writing First15, the daily devotional available for free (7:31). They discuss the idea of personal, devotional time with the Lord (11:00), and how to discern the voice and will of God in prayer (16:36). Then they consider how God wants us to both rely on him and grow to make our own decisions, guided by the wisdom that he’s taught us (22:07). They talk about why Craig Denison crafted First15 the way he did, and how to worship God with your whole being (24:16). They discuss how to cultivate a personal relationship with God, and how it can differ from person to person (35:10) Craig Denison closes by encouraging listeners to start now in alone time with God and start somewhere, regardless of your life circumstances (41:47).
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Craig Denison, son of Dr. Jim Denison, is a speaker, songwriter, worship leader, and the author of First15 daily devotional – helping almost 2 million believers a month in more than 200 countries connect with God in daily worship, reading, and prayer. Craig also serves as the Chief Innovation Officer of Denison Ministries.
Philip Yancey, Dr. Mark Turman, and Gerald Griffin discuss the good and bad of the local church, the dangers of fundamentalism, Yancey’s personal life story, and the power of memoirs.
Dr. Mark Turman begins by introducing Philip Yancey, thanking him for his personal impact (0:10). They talk about what prompted Yancey’s memoir, Where the Light Fell, and they talk about parallels between their own lives (5:13). Then, they discuss the spiritual abuse that takes place in many churches and how that was part of Yancey’s story (10:49). Yancey talks about when he realized how backwards his church was—and that was seeing how wrong racism was (14:44). They talk about fundamentalism and why Yancey continues to ascribe to evangelicalism even after abandoning fundamentalism (18:27). Yancey continues to share his testimony and why he started writing books (25:30). They talk about the local church and Yancey’s older brother (33:05). They discuss the power of memoirs and the message Yancey wants to come through—especially to Gen Z and those who’ve left the faith (44:36). They end by talking about Yancey’s dad and the trustworthiness of Jesus (51:30).
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Gerald Griffin is the pastor of Preston Ridge Baptist Church in Frisco, Texas. He received his MA in Christian Education from the Dallas Theological Society.
Philip Yancey's books have garnered 13 Gold Medallion Book Awards from Christian publishers and booksellers. He currently has 17 million books in print and is published in 50 languages worldwide. He’s still “in recovery” from a bad church upbringing, searching for the possibility of a faith rooted in grace instead of fear.
Philip Yancey began as an Editor and then Publisher for Campus Life magazine. In 1980 he and his wife moved to downtown Chicago where he began freelance writing. Yancey has written over 30 books, including A Companion in Crisis and his long-awaited memoir, Where the Light Fell.
Dr. John Mark Caton, Paul Cobb, and Dr. Mark Turman discuss church safety, how to run a safety team with laypeople and specialists, and why church security is a hospitality ministry.
Paul Cobb begins by addressing how we so often don’t think about safety at churches, and they explain what church safety should look like (2:23). They go over some stories of crime and medical emergencies that took place at their churches (6:25). Dr. Caton explains how he became aware as a pastor of the need for better church security (16:20). They go over the biblical foundation for smart church security (21:58). Cobb discusses the principle of victim avoidance and deescalation (33:43). They also point to the importance of churches having hospitable, friendly security teams (39:41). Cobb briefly talks about their firearm policy for churches, then they return to the importance of taking security seriously, and how lay people can be involved (50:16).
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
John Mark Caton, Ph.D., is the Senior Pastor at Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church for twenty-seven years and the author of several books. He received a Master of Theology from Criswell College, and a Master of Divinity with Biblical Languages degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He earned his Ph.D. from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2001.
Paul Cobb consults with churches for their security and safety needs. He’s worked in corporate America, serving in the banking industry, and data centers, and specializes in project management. He serves as an elder at Crosspoint Church in McKinney, Texas.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss the roots of morality, whether America was founded as a Christian nation, how to lovingly disagree with family, and why the Bible is our ultimate source of truth.
Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison discuss how culture flows from a people’s morality, and why morality is like a natural law (1:28). They talk about why everyone can’t escape truth and morality, how our deepest desires always become idols (7:05). They talk about whether a country can be moral without religion, and whether America was founded as a Christian nation (11:31). They turn to talk about discussing morality and politics with family at Thanksgiving, and love family over the long term (24:06). They discuss what Jesus means by loving him more than family (32:53). Dr. Denison leads listeners in how to pray for and talk to lost family members, and how to keep friendships beyond disagreements (45:05). Then, Dr. Denison closes by pointing to the Bible as being capital “T” truth as the foundation for our lives (51:11).
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Janet Denison talks with Dr. Mark Turman about her Advent devotional series, The Songs Tell the Story, why she wrote it, and shares her favorite hymn and how to make Christmas about Jesus.
Janet Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss Janet Denison’s book, The Songs Tell the Story (along with the kid’s version), a Christmas devotional that explores the meaning and origin of our favorite holiday songs. They talk about how Janet wrote the devotional study and the history of Advent (1:02). Janet especially loves O Holy Night, and was surprised to discover its origins (6:10). They discuss why hymns were so important in history for the layperson to understand theology, and their own most profound experiences with hymns (14:42). They give insiders perspective on Christmas in the lives of ministers (20:58). They close by talking about how to use The Songs Tell the Story, and how to make the busy season focused on Jesus (28:47).
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Janet Denison teaches others to live an authentic faith through her writing, speaking, and teaching ministry. She blogs weekly at FoundationsWithJanet.org and leads virtual and in-person Bible studies. She is also the author of The Songs Tell the Story and Content to Be Good, Called to Be Godly, among other books. Janet and her husband, Dr. Jim Denison, live in Dallas, Texas. When they’re not writing or ministering to others, they enjoy spending time with their grown children and their four still-growing grandchildren.
Mark Sayers, Mark Turman, and Mark Legg discuss the great shift the world is going through, the lingering effects of Covid, how the “gray zone” affects ministry, and how to remain a “non-anxious presence.”
Mark Sayers talks about his faith journey and how he started writing (2:14). The three Marks talk about the significance of our culture’s ongoing shift, and the anxiety that comes from it (8:08). Sayers discusses the role of the internet in that shift, and the “hardware” change our culture is going through, focusing on the effects of Covid (12:50). They turn to discuss the culture’s widespread sense of false security, and how abundance leads to us trusting God less (27:16). Sayers digs further into the idea of the “gray zone,” and why confusion leads to anxiety and fear, and how the Bible applies to those struggles (32:14). Sayers ends by discussing the importance of leadership, and why God’s presence is critical in times of transition (43:19).
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Mark Legg is the Associate Editor for Denison Forum. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2021 with a degree in Philosophy and Biblical Studies.
Mark Sayers is the senior leader of Red Church in Melbourne, Australia. He is passionate about spiritual renewal and the future of the church. Mark is the author of a number of books including Strange Days and Reappearing Church. Mark lives in Melbourne with his wife, Trudi, his daughter, Grace, and twin boys, Hudson and Billy.
Patrick Miller joins to talk about why Christians should value truth over their tribe, how to talk about politics with family and friends, why Jesus was “political,” and how to avoid fear in our post-truth culture.
Patrick Miller begins by discussing his podcast, Truth Over Tribe, why it was started, and how it’s become so successful (1:47). Then, he talks about writing the book, and how he learned how tribalism can be a good thing in its proper place, in addition to why it’s so dangerous (7:45). They turn to consider the loss of common ground and truth in our culture (16:47). They explore the importance of love in a post-truth culture, how to talk about politics, and how the left and right can be relativistic (21:00). Miller moves to talk about why Jesus was “political” (33:13). He then turns to focus on how Christian the state should be, and why we don’t need to worry (41:29). They close by talking about the way we should use social media redemptively (50:48).
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Mark Legg is the Associate Editor for Denison Forum. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2021 with a degree in Philosophy and Biblical Studies.
Pastor, Co-Director of Digital Relationships. Patrick Miller has called Columbia home since 2006. He met his wife, Emily, at Mizzou, where they both completed their undergrads. Together they have two children. Patrick started following Jesus his Freshman year of college after getting connected to The Crossing. He joined the Veritas college ministry staff team in 2010, helped co-direct the ministry in 2015, and became the Director of Crossing Twenties in 2017. He graduated from Covenant Theological Seminary in 2018 and was ordained as pastor shortly after. Patrick leads the Digital Relationships Team, co-hosts Truth Over Tribe, Ten Minute Bible Talks, leads two Covenant Seminary cohorts, and teaches Men's and Women's Bible studies.
Curtis Chang joins Dr. Mark Turman to discuss our failing trust in institutions and how to redeem them, the role of Christians in politics and the workplace, election integrity, and how to combat anxiety.
Curtis Chang begins by talking about his ministry Redeeming Babel, which trains Christians to engage redemptively in different kinds of communities (2:19). Chang talks about the rising distrust of institutions, and how we can help redeem them, specifically pointing to Colossians 1:15–17 (9:47). In particular, Chang and Dr. Turman talk about work and the role of jobs in Christianity (20:27). They talk about the Trinity and how it helps us understand community (29:14). Chang delves more into how we can trust broken institutions, and how throwing them away will probably lead to greater destruction (38:00). They turn to converse about idolatry, politics, election integrity, and the boundaries of governments (48:53). Chang concludes by touching on anxiety and fear (58:37).
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his degree from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Curtis Chang is consulting professor in innovation and organization at Duke Divinity School. He has won an Obama White House award for social innovation as the founder and head of Consulting Within Reach, a firm serving nonprofits and government.
He graduated from Harvard Summa Cum Laude. He holds a faculty appointment at American University and is also a senior fellow at Fuller Theological Seminary. He is the author of Engaging Unbelief: A Captivating Strategy from Augustine and Aquinas (IVP) and is a former Rockefeller Fellow.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss how God sees America, our culture’s individualism, midterm politics, whether God is judging America, and whether people can be moral without God.
Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison discuss the Bible’s understanding of the nations, as well as the difference between individualism and collectivism (1:36). They talk about the unity of the individual and community in the Bible (9:37). Dr. Turman asks about the different political issues to consider in the 2022 midterm elections (16:36). They talk about God’s passive and active punishment of cultures, then consider if America is in that process of judgment (23:09). They talk to what extent Christians should isolate themselves from the culture (39:18). They talk about whether we can be moral without God (50:38). They end by challenging whether a nation can be “Christian” at all (54:41).
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Josh Miller, Dr. Mark Turman, and Mark Legg discuss partisanship bias, Christian hypocrisy, dealing with anger and anxiety, and how to maintain peace during political uncertainty.
Mark Turman begins by asking about the top five issues for the 2022 midterms, and they discuss how the different politicized news sources will cover the topics (1:45). They turn to discuss the role fear plays in politics now, and how to try to get both sides of the perspective (7:31). Josh speaks about why he wrote Peace in Politics, and the hypocrisy of many Christians when they talk about politics, especially the prevalence of anger and anxiety (20:50). They turn to humility as a crucial part of wrestling with politics for the Christian (32:52). We must not dehumanize political “opponents”, instead we show compassion first and foremost (43:08). They discuss the technology behind social media and how that contributes to our division, and how to practically deal with the intrusion of bias, anger, and anxiety in this political season (47:42).
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Mark Legg is the Associate Editor for Denison Forum. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2021 with a degree in Philosophy and Biblical Studies.
Josh Miller is the Creative Director of Denison Ministries and author of First15's free e-book: "Peace in Politics." He’s also a musician, writer, and teacher for a local church in the Dallas area.
Jason Yates, CEO of My Faith Votes, discusses why our faith should matter to our politics, principles for voting based on biblical truth, and how to wrestle with imperfect political parties.
Jason Yates, CEO of My Faith Votes begins by explaining their mission and why they exist: To encourage Christians to pray, think, and vote (1:45). They discuss why Christians should vote and overcome apathy to begin with (10:31). Yates provides four principles to remember while we vote:
He continues by discussing the different levels of government and personal responsibility (19:10). Yates talks about how we often misuse the idea of “separation of church and state” (27:11). They move to talk about how to prioritize the issues when voting and how to struggle well with difficult political questions (31:50). Yates talks about the importance of how to disagree without giving up biblical principles (43:28). They close by affirming the importance pastors talking about the issues to their congregations, without endorsing any party (52:22).
Mark Legg is the Associate Editor for Denison Forum. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2021 with a degree in Philosophy and Biblical Studies.
Jason Yates has over 25 years of proven leadership experience in strategy development, marketing, and product development from Fortune 100 companies. In 2015, his passion to see Christians act on their faith to make a difference in their communities and our nation led him to leave corporate America and assume the role of CEO of My Faith Votes at its inception. With Jason’s leadership, My Faith Votes made a measurable impact on Christian voter turnout in 2016 and is continuing to do so by motivating and equipping every Christian to Think, Pray, and Vote. Jason has served in leadership roles on several non-profit boards, including his role as Chairman of the Board for Club Christ Ministries and Board Director of Governance and Strategic Planning at Junior Achievement. Jason has a BA from Carleton College and an MBA in Strategic Management and E-Business from the Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss Halloween, the rise of the occult, what happens when we die, spiritual warfare, Satan and demon possession, and how to rely on God to fight against temptation.
Dr. Jim Denison begins by giving the background of Halloween and why we should celebrate heroes of the faith (2:15). They move on to practical advice for parenting and why we must be careful of the occult and witchcraft (10:30).
Dr. Denison discusses death and what happens when we die (13:50). They consider Satan and demons and what power they have today (23:37).
They turn to talk about spiritual warfare and why David prays for the destruction of his enemies when Christ says to love them (30:23).
Dr. Turman returns the conversation to talking about demon possession, and Dr. Denison relates a story where he helped perform an exorcism (40:20). They hone in on how the Devil strategically tempts us and how to fight it (47:15).
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Mark Turman, DMin, is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Dr. John Mark Caton and Dr. Mark Turman discuss Dr. Caton’s personal experience with the tragic suicide of his older brother, lingering survivor’s guilt, the importance of community, and how to talk to people contemplating suicide.
Dr. John Mark Caton and Dr. Mark Turman begin this difficult discussion by talking about Caton’s tragic story and the suicide of his older brother (3:27). They talk about guilt, the lingering cloud of sorrow, and the importance of stories (11:15). They summarize how the Bible talks about suicide and whether it’s the unpardonable sin (17:01).
Dr. Caton discusses the importance of community and the church, how to talk to people considering suicide, and why calling 911 is of strong importance (24:46). Dr. Turman and Dr. Caton consider the state of our culture’s relationship to suicide and why it’s gotten worse in young people (40:21).
Dr. Caton brings up the impact of intergenerational relationships as a way to combat rising rates of isolation (48:18). He also gives closing thoughts on next steps in approaching someone in your life whom you’re worried about (56:04). They end by reflecting on the way Dr. Caton has been changed by the death of his brother (1:03:12).
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
John Mark Caton, Ph.D., is the Senior Pastor Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church for twenty-seven years and the author of several books. He received a Master of Theology from Criswell College, and a Master of Divinity with Biblical Languages degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He earned his Ph.D. from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2001.
Barnabas Piper joins Dr. Mark Turman and Mark Legg to discuss being a pastor’s kid, talking to teens and Gen Z about doubts, the importance of humor, and depending on Christ in all things.
Barnabas Piper begins by reflecting on his own life’s story and how the Lord refreshed the idea of the church to him (2:32). They discuss the hypocrisy of some Christian leaders and how to move forward with grace (12:31). Piper talks about the restoration of Christian leaders, how to talk to kids openly about your own doubts, and how to raise children who ask deep questions (18:09). They turn to converse about the openness and authenticity of Gen Z (30:56). With everything being in Christ’s hands, they discuss how we can live without fear, and how The Happy Rant podcast came from that sentiment (39:09). They look at the importance of humor, honesty, and self-depreciation in ministry (43:19). Barnabas ends by talking about political idolatry and faithful churches (52:11).
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Mark Legg is the Associate Editor for Denison Forum. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2021 with a degree in Philosophy and Biblical Studies
Barnabas Piper is an author, a speaker, and an assistant pastor at Immanuel Church of Nashville. He’s also the co-host of the Happy Rant podcast and co-author of the new book, The Happy Rant. Visit barnabaspiper.com. He has authored four other books: The Pastor’s Kid, Help My Unbelief, The Curious Christian, and Hoping for Happiness.
Jeff and Terra Mattson join Dr. Mark Turman to discuss the suicide epidemic, how to talk to children and teens about self-harm, suicide, and emotions, and how to navigate parenting through depression and anxiety.
Jeff and Terra Mattson begin by framing the suicide epidemic and mental health crisis (4:02). They discuss how to start early in parenting by putting language to different emotions, and why it’s so important to put words to feelings (10:30). They specifically look at suicide and suicidal ideation, and when to have that conversation with kids (19:15). The Mattson’s talk about the importance of vulnerability and relationships in parenting, and how technology can get in the way of healthy relationships (26:43). They consider when parents should be concerned about their child’s emotional wellbeing (34:14). Dr. Turman asks directly about how to deal with teens who struggle with self-harm (45:15). To close, they discuss the problem of bullying and how to draw healthy boundaries with immature people (52:25).
P.S. What are my Spiritual Gifts? by Ryan Denison Ph.D. is available now at Denison Forum. The book includes biblical examples of each gifting in action. We’ve also refreshed our free spiritual gifts test at whataremyspiritualgifts.org. If you don’t know your spiritual gifts or are unsure how to use them, we encourage you to take the test and pick up a copy of What are my Spiritual Gifts? today.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Jeff holds a master's degree in organizational leadership and has decades of experience as a leader in startup companies, family businesses, and nonprofit organizations, which includes universities and ministry settings. Since 2011, he has worked with business and organizational leaders to develop their potential and solve people issues.
Terra holds a master's degree in marriage and family therapy from George Fox University in Portland. She is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor, and now works as an executive coach. For the last 15 years, she has run a thriving private practice while speaking to women, couples, and leaders, including at the American Association of Christian Counselors conference. She is the founder and clinical director of Living Wholehearted counseling and has served as an adjunct professor at George Fox University's Graduate counseling department. She is the author of Courageous: Being Daughters Rooted in Grace.
Together, Jeff and Terra co-authored Shrinking the Integrity Gap: Between What Leaders Preach and Live. They founded a global movement called Courageous Girls, an online resource to help moms navigate the needs of their daughters through every season of their lives. They co-host the Living Wholehearted podcast and run the living wholehearted lodge and retreat, and co-host the Dear Mattsons podcast. They currently live just outside of Portland, Oregon, as they raise their two teenage daughters.
Michael McDonald, director of strategic relations at BibleProject, Dr. Mark Turman, and Mark Legg discuss how BibleProject approaches interpreting the Bible, communicating to the modern generation, how to face deconstruction, and why art communicates the Bible’s message so well.
Michael McDonald begins by sharing what BibleProject is and its heart to show how the Bible is a unified story that leads to Jesus (3:27). McDonald discusses how BibleProject videos and podcast approaches interpreting the Bible, and why they spend so much time in Genesis (10:00). They discuss how deconstruction can be healthy, and why BibleProject appeals to many unbelievers as well as Christians (13:26). They consider why the BibleProject’s videos exploring spiritual beings is so popular, and why we shouldn’t avoid hard questions (20:32). They turn to reflect on how BibleProject uses art so effectively to communicate deep truths (28:48). McDonald explains their new app, and why it’s unique as it provides wholistic learning (38:15). They discuss how the Bible is not a kid’s book, but how to teach children about the Bible (41:43). They close by reflecting on the history of BibleProject (45:08).
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Mark Legg is the Associate Editor for Denison Forum. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2021 with a degree in Philosophy and Biblical Studies.
About the guest
Michael McDonald is Director of Strategic Relationships for BibleProject, a crowdfunded nonprofit animation studio dedicated to communicating a single, powerful message to the world: the Bible is one unified story that leads to Jesus.
McDonald is a former pastor. Prior to joining BibleProject, he served for over a decade in more than 15 countries working to improve people’s daily lives. He focused on educational, micro/macro financing projects, conflict resolution, and economic development, he was able to impact over 100,000 people in over 60 communities. McDonald lives in Portland, Oregon with his wife Melissa.
BibleProject is a nonprofit animation studio that produces short-form, fully animated videos to make the biblical story accessible to everyone, everywhere. We create videos, podcast, and study guides that explore the Bible's unified story by focusing on its overarching themes and each book's literary design. We are committed to understanding the Bible in its historical context and communicating its wisdom for the modern world. Ultimately, we want to change how people read and use the Bible.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss Dr. Denison’s unique role and calling, apologetics and theology, “Loving your neighbor,” how to manifest our faithfulness well, and how Christians must avoid dualism.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss Dr. Denison’s various roles he’s taken on (including his job at Dairy Queen) and God’s calling on his life (2:00). They reflect on the meaning of apologetics and theology, especially in reference to culture (7:32). They turn to talk about how to shine our light into the world by manifesting faithfulness well, and how to love our neighbors (13:19). After this, Dr. Denison talks about the pitfall of dualism and Gnosticism, which says that the body doesn’t matter in this life as they unpack Jesus’ saying to Love God with “all of your heart, soul, mind, and strength” (32:31). They conclude by talking about whether we can measure our spiritual health and three steps on how to draw closer to God (46:45).
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
In tandem with the release of Denison Forum’s latest book, What Are My Spiritual Gifts?, Dr. Ryan Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss spiritual gifts, how they are powered by the Holy Spirit, how we can know our spiritual gifts, the difference between talents and gifts, and how the Lord uses them.
Dr. Ryan Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss Dr. Ryan Denison’s new book, What Are My Spiritual Gifts: How to Discover, Understand, and Apply Your Spiritual Gifts (2:11).
They talk about what spiritual gifts are, how the Bible talks about them, the motivation behind using them, and how they’re used in the church. They talk about how the Spirit uses our talents, personality, and experience to develop our gifts (10:06).
They turn to discuss the spiritual gifts inventory we’ve developed at whataremyspirituagifts.com.
Denison also discusses how to use the test, how it’s not the final say, and why you might want a friend to fill it out for you (22:46).
They also consider why Dr. Ryan Denison divided them up with his categories of “Public, Personal, and Paradigm.” (31:49) They hone in on music as a more unique gift that Dr. Denison identifies (37:31).
They end on specifically thinking about the gift of giving (55:40).
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Dr. Ryan Denison is the Senior Editor for Theology at Denison Forum. He holds a Ph.D. in church history from B.H. Carroll Theological Institute. He’s written four hundred articles for the Denison Forum in addition to other works, including How to Bless God by Blessing Others and the recently released What Are My Spiritual Gifts? Dr. Ryan Denison is Dr. Jim Denison’s son. He is married to his wife Candice; they have two children and live in East Texas.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss the difference between cultural missionaries and cultural warriors, how to engage with woke businesses, whether our souls are “sent to earth,” and how to make sense of the Uvalde massacre.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss how we define the difference between cultural missionaries and cultural warriors and why we should exemplify humility as well as boldness (1:29). They discuss the difference between spiritual war and loving people (10:00).
One listener asks whether they should write to the CEO of a grocery store they love expressing displeasure with the LGBTQ support shown by the company, and Dr. Denison responds with how to actively engage in cultural change (19:25). They then consider why businesses feel the need to make statements about LGBTQ issues in culture (24:24).
They turn to another listener question that asks why our souls were “sent to earth” if our goal is to be in heaven (34:10). Dr. Denison responds by addressing some possible confusion in the question, showing the influence of dualism in some Christian theology.
They answer a final question about the problem of evil: How can God redeem the Uvalde tragedy and SBC abuse (39:56)? They continue by talking about how we can lament while ensuring we’re not overwhelmed with compassion fatigue (46:30).
You can submit a question too at askjim@denisonforum.org.
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Radio show host, pastor, and writer Chris Brooks joins Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman to discuss urban ministry, discipleship and evangelism, and how the Bible defines the church.
Chris Brooks begins by giving his background and how he got into the world of pastoring and urban apologetics (6:13). They discuss the importance of evangelism and social justice—the advancement of salvation and living well in this life (10:54). They turn to talk about Marxism and Nietzsche’s ideas on human nature, and how Christianity responds to their claims (24:30). They talk about church membership, church leadership, and the connection between theology and practice (31:04). Brooks considers the importance of anthropology in the Bible in particular. They finish by reflecting on how God’s love for us can fight the despondency felt in our culture (47:12).
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Chris Brooks is the Senior Pastor of Woodside Bible Church, a multisite congregation across the metro-Detroit area. He served as the campus dean of Moody Theological Seminary in Plymouth, Michigan. A popular Detroit radio host since 2005, Chris is the author of Kingdom Dreaming and Urban Apologetics. He graduated from Michigan State University with a BA in Finance, completed his MA in Christian Apologetics at Biola University, and graduated from the Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics. He and his wife, Yodit, are the proud parents of 6 children, Christopher, Zewditu, Cameron, Judah, Sophia, and Christyana.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman reflect on the most meaningful mentor figures in their life, Dr. Denisons talking about Dr. John Newport, while Dr. Turman talks about the first church he ever pastored.
Dr. Denison and Dr. Turman briefly discuss certain mysteries of the Christian faith (2:41). Then, they turn to talk about mentors in their lives, Dr. Denison reflecting on Dr. John Newport’s academic and pastoral mentorship (10:41). Dr. Turman talks about his experience as a church pastor of five people and how the deacons mentored him (18:14). They conclude by talking about how eternally significance can come from present faithfulness.
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman continue the “summer favorites” series. In this episode, they each discuss the most impactful time they met someone and their recent trips to Israel.
Show notes: Dr. Denison and Dr. Turman talk about Jim's most recent experience in Israel and what he learned on this trip (1:03). Then, they talk about their most impactful meetings with heroes of the faith (11:42). For Dr. Denison, it was meeting with Billy Graham, and for Dr. Turman, it was meeting Jim Henry (16:03).
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman continue their summer favorites series by discussing their favorite vacation spots, favorite books, and the way Dr. Jim Denison reads.
Show notes: Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman begin by reflecting on their favorite vacation spots (1:43). They then discuss their favorite books, how Mere Christianity impacted Dr. Denison, and about C.S. Lewis’ life (5:00). They also discuss Dr. Denison’s reading habits, which includes reading or skimming about five books a week (25:45).
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
In their "summer favorites" series, Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss their favorite summer movies, summer eats, and summer vacations before delving into more spiritual matters and sharing their preferred Bible translations, favorite Bible verses, and their favorite Bible characters—not named Jesus.
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Summary: Pastor Bruce Miller is the author of Leading a Church in a Time of Sexual Questioning. He joins Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman for a robust and honest discussion on how Christians can relate to those in the LGBTQ+ community without sacrificing truth or love.
Show notes:
Grace/Truth 2.0: Five More Conversations Every Thoughtful Christian Should Have About Faith, Sexuality & Gender by Dr. Preston Sprinkle
About the hosts
Jim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett Seminary at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
About the guest
Bruce Miller has been the pastor of Christ Fellowship Church in McKinney, Texas, since 1997. He founded Centers for Church Based Training and helped develop The WISDOM Process©, a systematic way to think through issues and make decisions. Bruce taught theology at Dallas Theological Seminary and is the author of six books. He speaks at churches, organizations, and conferences about the culture’s changing views on human sexuality and the impact on the church. Bruce and his wife, Tamara, have five grown children and live in McKinney, Texas
NOTE: This episode was recorded the day before the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.
Dr. Mark Turman discusses protecting the sanctity of life with Holly and Aaron Snell, the executive directors of Hope Women's Center in McKinney, Texas. They are joined by Lisa Freeman, the executive director of Thrive, a crisis pregnancy center in the Dallas area.
Specifically, they talk about:
We're taking a short summer break. We'll be back in a couple of weeks with a "summer favorites" series. These will be episodes about Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman's favorite things, including movies, life Bible verses, and more.
Show notes:
Aaron begins by relating how Steiger International was founded about forty years ago in Amsterdam and how music became a part of the movement (1:24). They turn to talk about the situation in Ukraine and how Steiger International has seen the Lord work through courageous missionaries (6:50). They move into discussing the refugee crisis this war has created and more stories of ministry by Ukrainian Christians (18:57). Pierce talks about the need for gospel-centered humanitarian help (27:09). They turn to consider how the church has lost credibility in our modern context and how we can reach young people (30:18). Pierce explains how their ministry works on the city level in small groups to build relationships and bring people to Jesus (41:37). Although they originally focused on Europe, they’ve turned to building teams in America as well. Pierce ends by telling the true story of an American volunteer and how God uses unexpected people (45:14).
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Aaron Pierce oversees Steiger International’s strategic direction, while teaching at its training events, developing new church and ministry partnerships, continuing to participate in evangelistic outreaches and tours around the world, and much more. Aaron preaches regularly at churches, conferences, and events around the world. Aaron was a member of the evangelistic rock band No Longer Music from 2005 to 2011, preaching the Gospel all over Europe, South America, and the Middle East.
Carmen LaBerge, Dr. Jim Denison, and Dr. Mark Turman discuss the tragic shooting in Uvalde, how to respond to grief, how the church can help prevent shootings, and the recent SBC scandal.
Show notes: Carmen LaBerge, Dr. Jim Denison, and Dr. Mark Turman begin by talking about the tragedy of the mass shooting in Uvalde, Texas (2:20). They then turn to discuss how churches can step up to be proactive and redemptive to prevent shootings like these through care and love of the isolated (9:00). Carmen talks about bearing grief and how to respond to tragedies (15:34). They reflect on how important prayer is in these circumstances and how pastors can respond to these issues (23:04). They discuss how we can be cultural missionaries as opposed to cultural warriors and spiritual warfare (31:48). LaBerge considers how we can respond to the SBC scandal, her affiliation with the SBC, and how we can move forward (39:28). They end by discussing the ministry that Carmen does through her radio show, which is linked below.
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Carmen LaBerge is a writer, speaker, and Christian talk radio host. Carmen is a graduate of the University of Florida and earned an M.Div. from Princeton Theological Seminary. She lives outside of Nashville, TN with her husband Jim and family.
Currently, she is the host of Mornings with Carmen LaBerge heard live Monday-Friday, 7-9 a.m. nationwide on The Faith Radio Network, streaming at MyFaithRadio.com and via the Faith Radio app. Carmen’s passion is helping people reconnect the eternal with the everyday by equipping Christians to engage the culture in ways that honor Jesus. She has written for ChristianityToday.com, the Christian Post, and other outlets.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss the tragic findings of an investigation into the Southern Baptist Convention’s handling of sexual abuse, where they failed and mistreated the victims, and how the convention will move forward.
Show notes: Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman begin by giving a heartfelt apology to all the victims of sexual abuse, expressing their grief alongside them. They walk through the broader narrative of this report, where it started, and what the report broadly found (7:16). They discuss why this case is unique because of the way the Southern Baptist Convention works (13:10). They talk about the dilemma the SBC executive team faced, and why they failed to address cases and in some cases, were even guilty of further abuse and stonewalling hurting victims (17:32). They talk about what the board could have done differently (24:18). Then, Dr. Denison gives practical, pastoral application and why we need the Holy Spirit (34:32). They consider what will happen to the future of the SBC, and how this will bring about good change (39:21). They end by considering how Christians should be personally holding each other accountable and practical application (45:35).
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Dr. Albert Reyes and Dr. Mark Turman discuss how the gospel and meeting physical needs are two sides of the same coin of advancing God’s kingdom, how Buckner lives this out from “womb to tomb,” the importance of family, and how to get involved.
Show notes: Dr. Albert Reyes and Dr. Mark Turman discuss the unfortunate conflict between two supposed teams: Christians who help people with physical needs and Christians who help with spiritual needs (3:22). Actually, Jesus did both in an integrated way, they are two sides of the same coin (7:16). They talk about the importance of healing, peace, and justice, along with the importance of words (12:13). They discuss the history of Buckner International and the life of Robert Cooke Buckner, the baptist minister who lived out this idea in his life and founded the ministry as an orphanage (19:12). Dr. Reyes then talks about their senior living ministry, and why it's so important in our culture (28:40). Their ministry spans from “womb to tomb,” helping children through fostering, adopting, and orphanages (34:49). Then, they talk about the importance of family and how their ministry supports all kinds of families (38:42). Millennial Christians have learned the importance of adoption, it’s a beautiful return to the roots of Christianity (49:56). They end by talking about how our audience can get involved, and their slow, deliberate process of taking families through the decision to foster and adopt (50:52).
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Dr. Albert L. Reyes is the sixth President and CEO of Buckner International. He previously served as president of Buckner Children and Family Services. Prior to his tenure at Buckner, Albert was president of Baptist University of the Américas in San Antonio. He also has served as pastor of three churches and as a manager for Sprint’s National Customer Service Call Center. Albert and his wife, Belinda, have three children. They are members of Park Cities Baptist Church in Dallas.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman answer four audience questions: does the “1619 project” reflect badly on the New York Times, is God male or genderless, when does life begin, and how do you love people in public sin without compromising your witness?
Show notes:
Dr. Jim Denison responds to your questions on a wide range of topics. In this episode, he begins by addressing the controversial “1619 project.” The journalistic project looks at history and claims that American history truly began when the first African slaves arrived in 1619. Dr. Denison explains why this is faulty reasoning and discusses journalistic standards and the New York Times (1:28). They digress into discussing political biases in reporting. They then move on to discuss whether God is a “male,” whether God has a gender, and the use of metaphor in the Bible (15:10). Third, they go in-depth into Dr. Denisons’ position on when life begins. They consider IVF and think through the consequences of differing views (26:15). Finally, they answer a question about doing ministry alongside people in public sin. They consider Jesus’ heart, which is to become friends with sinners (like we all are), and how to not be naive or compromise our witness, especially with friends in the LGTBQ community (51:24).
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Tommy Woodard and Eddie James (the Skit Guys) join Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman to discuss why humor is so important to faith, why we should pursue excellence in the arts, and their new film: Family Camp.
Show notes:
Tommy Woodard and Eddie James begin by sharing their testimonies with Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman; how God called them to comedy, how church media picked up in the ‘90s, and what they do in their ministry (0:49). They discuss how Christian media doesn’t need to be bad, why laughter is important to the Christian faith, and how Jesus used humor (6:41). They dive into how God can use humor to redeem hurt (15:31). Woodard and James then go through the backstory of their first full-length movie: “Family Camp,” and how God was involved throughout the process (20:02). They talk about why they wanted to make an excellent, faith-based, family-friendly movie that defies expectations (26:16). Dr. Denison then discusses the history of why the arts have become less important to many modern Christians, and why we should change that (31:25). In fact, God used “secular” media to reach Dr. Turman and James before they became Christians (39:26). They also discuss the idea of a “faith-based comedy” and the preconceptions of Christian movies (43:30). In closing, they consider how this movie will uniquely speak to our culture and give a hopeful picture of family (48:00).
P.S. We highly encourage our audience to go see Family Camp on its opening weekend, in theaters on May 13th. You can buy individual tickets or take a group. You can visit their website: https://familycampmovie.com/
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Tommy Woodard and Eddie James are the “Skit Guys,” and have traveled the world performing for families at events, churches, and conferences. Their SkitGuys.com website has grown into a treasured media resource for families, pastors, and churches. Their numerous short films, skits, and scripts are used to reach families all over the world. On YouTube alone, their channel has collectively reached over 33 million views.
Show notes:
Commentator David French joins Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman to discuss the leaked Supreme Court ruling that could overturn Roe v. Wade and why the partisan divide threatens our country.
They discuss the overreactions of conservatives and liberals, how Christians can go beyond hateful political exchanges, and why we should not be cultural warriors (3:12). French points out how good we have it in America and the persecution complex that Christian conservatives often have. He also talks specifically about Donald Trump and how evangelicals have a worrying tendency to defend Trump’s problems (8:36).
They then look to the Civil Rights movement as a model for real cultural change through peaceful means under actual persecution (12:58). French explains why he isn’t worried about the Equality Act under the current Senate (17:14).
They address the “all-or-nothing” trap that politics puts us in and how we subconsciously become lawyers for blue or red instead of the jury or judge (19:10). French points out that God is on the throne, so Christians cannot lose, whether Biden or Trump is president (27:11).
They discuss how making abortion illegal won’t solve the problem of abortion. Rather, it will take a cultural heart change, and there is hopeful news there (31:17). They consider how we need to make change through small institutions and communities, like through Little League, church, and making friends, not through politics.
They also consider how and why fewer and fewer abortions are being done and the current cultural backlash against the sexual revolution (45:47). Lastly, they reflect on Jesus’ teaching to love your enemy with no qualifications and why we need to be Christians in every area of our lives, not just on Sunday (50:16).
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
David French is a senior editor for The Dispatch and was formerly a senior writer for National Review. David is a New York Times bestselling author. He is a graduate of Harvard Law School, the past president of the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education, and a former lecturer at Cornell Law School. He has served as a senior counsel for the American Center for Law and Justice and the Alliance Defending Freedom. David is a former major in the United States Army Reserve. In 2007, he deployed to Iraq, where he was awarded the Bronze Star. He has written for The Atlantic, as well as other notable publications.
Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison discuss the breaking news that suggests the Supreme Court will overturn Roe v. Wade, taking this special episode to consider the implications, as well as the arguments for and against abortion from a biblical perspective.
Show notes: Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison discuss the morally defining issue of our age: abortion. They address the breaking news that a draft of the Supreme Court’s majority opinion shows the judge’s plan to overturn Roe v. Wade in an upcoming decision. They discuss the details of this breaking news (0:23). They talk about the history of abortion becoming legal, how this decision affects America, and where this initial report came from (10:05). They discuss in-depth arguments for pro-life and for pro-choice positions, which are often complex. Dr. Denison considers all of the strongest arguments for abortion and responds to them (13:33). He considers all spectrums of positions, and how some, like Peter Singer, are even advocating for the utilitarian killing of some infants after pregnancy (29:28). They then discuss the Bible’s position, why the Bible doesn’t ever say: “thou shalt not abort a pregnancy,” and what the Bible does say (43:41). Then, Dr. Denison discusses the practical implications of these ideas in the States, about how you may be able to help, how you can pray, and how you can love people who have had abortions, who are thinking about getting one, and what the government’s role should be (48:02).
“This is not a war on women. This is actually as you said earlier, a spiritual war for the abundant life that the flourishing God intends for every human being.” - Dr. Jim Denison
About the hosts
Dr. Jim Denison is CEO and co-founder of Denison Forum and a cultural scholar. He received his Ph.D. in philosophy and Master’s in Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Show notes: Kerby Anderson, Dr. Jim Denison, and Dr. Mark Turman discuss several trends of decline in American culture. They begin by considering the pandemic, and the effects it has had on our culture, inflation, and sociological trends (6:55). They discuss how mRNA vaccines could revolutionize medicine, but how we can’t put our entire trust in scientists (17:23). They look into some positive news in the midst of what feels like lots of bad news, how God is redeeming technology and how we can be a light in the dark world right now (19:13). They consider the sanctions against Russia and their repercussions (24:23). Dr. Denison talks more about the “post-truth” state of our culture, and they consider why religious liberty cases are so important in the face of LGBTQ issues (31:00). They then delve into how Christians should be involved in politics, how we can do good in it, how to handle Trump, and how we shouldn’t allow our involvement with politics to interfere with the gospel (42:23).
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Kerby Anderson is a cultural apologist and serves as host of “Point of View” (USA Radio Network) and president of Probe Ministries. He holds a master's degree from Yale and Georgetown University. He is also the author of twenty-five books.
Dr. Lee Bratcher and Dr. Mark Turman dive into the world of cryptocurrency, why Bitcoin is uncensorable, how refugees use it to flee oppression, why Bitcoin will likely rival gold, and why blockchain technology is already being used by banks and governments.
Show notes: Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Lee Bratcher discuss the Institute for Global Engagement at Dallas Baptist University and the Texas Blockchain Counsel, the nonprofit run by Dr. Bratcher. They reflect on what money is, the basics of economics, and the history of Bitcoin (8:16). They discuss the power of Bitcoin to be uncensorable, how even the US government cannot track it, and how it’s already helping refugees escape from authoritarian regimes (16:41). They discuss online “wallets,” how Bitcoin gained value, where it comes from, and how it uses the internet to be decentralized (19:50). Dr. Bratcher goes in depth into why Bitcoin is so secure and why Bitcoin has a market cap of around one trillion dollars right now (28:06). They consider why so many use Bitcoin and how it can be an asset like a stock (even though they are technically not) (38:25). Interestingly enough, they consider how this blockchain technology can make banking as a whole much more efficient and how China is using it already (45:35). Finally, they discuss why religious freedom and Bitcoin are connected, and why Bitcoin is fair according to biblical standards (51:25).
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Lee Bratcher serves as the Chair for the Politics, Philosophy, and Economics major at Dallas Baptist University as well as the Executive Director for the Institute for Global Engagement, a DBU affiliated think tank. He is a Captain in the US Army reserves working as an instructor for ROTC cadets at DBU and UT Dallas.
Lee received a master's in International Relations from St. Mary's University and is in his sixth year as a Ph.D. candidate at UT Dallas writing a dissertation on the implications of blockchain technology on property rights and real estate. Prior to his transition to academia, Lee served in the military and as a police officer in the DFW area. Lee has been married to Becca Bratcher for 6 years and they have two daughters, Kenzie and Ivy.
Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison discuss how to understand modern Israel through a theological lens, the current political climate, the history of the Jewish people, how to pray for Israel, and how Christian and Jewish beliefs differ.
Show notes: Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison begin by giving a brief description of Israel’s geography and its demographics as of today (5:37). Then, Dr. Denison provides a summation of the history of Israel and of the Old Testament (12:05). They discuss how going to Israel makes the Bible 3D and tangible (15:42). He then goes on to fit the story of Jesus into the context in a vivid description in the historical context and discusses why most modern Jews today reject Jesus as the “suffering servant” Messiah (21:43). Dr. Denison then explains differing views on the fulfillment of God’s purpose for Israel and Judaism, including Dispensationalism and “replacement theology.” (27:49) Dr. Denison relates his own view that, while the Jewish people are not chosen by God in fulfillment of prophecy, they have a special quality about their culture that is blessed by God. While God loves all people, Palestinians, Arabs, Muslims, and Jews, he seems to particularly bless the Jewish culture, even in the modern day (31:04). Dr. Turman presses in, asking more about how we can uniquely evangelize to Jews, recognizing that Jesus, his disciples, and the earliest churches were all Jewish (34:41). Within that, they discuss the evident spiritual warfare going on in the hearts of the Jewish people and in Israel right now, which is manifesting as violence. They discuss the current political climate of Israel and how to pray urgently for them (45:45).
P.S. Jim’s most pivotal book to date, The Coming Tsunami, is now available on Kindle, hardcover, and Audible.
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison discuss the differences between patriotism and nationalism, why Christians should be good citizens, what role nationalism plays in the war in Ukraine, and how to avoid echo chambers.
Show notes: Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison discuss Jesus’ trial at the crucifixion and how politics played into the crucifixion (0:39). Dr. Denison then helps the audience understand the difference between patriotism and nationalism and why their definitions are so important (6:03). They discuss how Christians should be good citizens while still giving their ultimate allegiance to Christ and why modern expressions of nationalism over patriotism are misplaced. They then consider how nationalism might play a role in the Russian and Ukrainian war (14:07). Social media plays a massive role in the discussion about patriotism in today’s America. Dr. Denison and Dr. Turman give practical advice on how to get a wide range of sources to avoid echo chambers, reflecting on long-gone journalistic standards (20:20). They close by reflecting on taxes and the biblical idea that Christians can be good citizens and patriots without being nationalists (39:02).
P.S. Jim’s most pivotal book to date, The Coming Tsunami, is now available on Kindle, hardcover, and Audible.
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Dr. Randel Everett joins Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison to discuss religious freedom, the 21st Century Wilberforce Initiative, and why the state shouldn’t be run by religion.
Show notes:
After giving his personal story, Dr. Randel Everett discusses the surprising role of a Baptist in religious freedom in the US’s founding (7:22). He then talks about the 21st Century Wilberforce Initiative, how they got started, and how they defend religious freedom and challenge persecution and oppression (10:39). Dr. Everett relates what this mission currently looks like internationally, such as in Myanmar, Burma, and Bangladesh (20:18). They discuss the unique aspect of the Judeo-Christian ethic that allows for freedom of belief (28:10). Dr. Jim Denison considers the negatives of when the church tries to control the state (32:25). Finally, Dr. Everett ends by encouraging us to strive for virtue to make society a better place from the ground up, and how listeners can get involved in 21 Wilberforce (35:21).
P.S. Jim’s most pivotal book to date, The Coming Tsunami, is now available on Kindle, hardcover, and Audible.
Dr. Randel Everett founded 21Wilberforce in 2014 to focus attention on religious persecution abroad and the enduring importance of religious liberty in the United States.
As President, Randel leads the 21Wilberforce team, often on the front lines internationally. He spent four decades pastoring churches in Florida, Virginia, Arkansas, and Texas. He founded the John Leland Center for Theological Studies, led the Baptist General Convention of Texas, and currently serves in leadership for the Baptist World Alliance. Throughout his career, Randel has traveled to nearly 40 countries and witnessed persecution first-hand.
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
In this week’s episode, Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman respond to the audience's questions, including how to be salt and light, is baptism necessary for salvation, how to handle evolution, and how to deal with feelings of hopelessness when a family member doesn’t believe in God.
Show notes: First, Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison discuss the Benedict Option by Rod Dreher, as people are asking Jim: What do we tell our children about the issues brought up in culture (3:21)? How do we prepare for the coming cultural tsunami which already affects our lives and our family’s lives?
Dr. Denison believes in a balanced approach, saying that we must have retreats to spend time with God, to spend quality time with other believers, and make sure we “get away” from the world. However, at the same time, we are salt and light to the world, and we shouldn't hide that from people who desperately need to hear the gospel (16:04). We must engage with the culture in a biblical, loving way.
Next, they discuss a question about how to engage with non-believers. Dr. Denison gives some practical tips, and they consider the value of presence (9:23). Sometimes, we don’t have to say anything; we just need to be there for people. The Holy Spirit will give us the words to say, and he works in ways we don’t often expect. They also discuss how vocational ministry fits into this need for rhythms of rest and regeneration.
Next, they answer the question: Is baptism necessary for salvation? Dr. Denison relates a short history of the theology of baptism, why baptism is important, which option, in his view, most aligns with the Bible, and application for our listener who asked the question (21:04).
Another listener, in the context of sharing their faith, asks how we as believers should handle evolution and the intersection of faith and science (31:18). Dr. Denison believes that these issues are not essential for salvation. It shouldn’t be an issue that divides us. Dr. Denison says it shouldn’t prevent anyone from coming to faith since Christians interpret the Bible differently in this respect. Dr. Denison relates his own view about evolution. He believes in microevolution but not macroevolution, and he explains these views further.
Dr. Denison weighs in on another heavy question: How does the Bible deal with the salvation of close friends or family (44:13)? How do we, as our listener put it, sleep at night? What if one of our children or close relatives doesn’t believe in Jesus? Dr. Denison gives a hopeful message in response and discusses how we can give that weight over to Jesus, knowing that he loves them more than we ever could. He also says to never give up; it’s never too late. Continually pray for them, but know that their salvation is not ultimately your responsibility—it’s between them and God.
P.S. Jim’s most pivotal book to date, The Coming Tsunami, is now available on Kindle, hardcover, and Audible.
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Summary: Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison discuss how societies are driven by metanarratives, the Western and Eastern differences between them, religious metanarratives, Putin’s metanarrative for Russia, and how they all match up against the Bible.
Show notes: Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison begin by covering the basics of metanarratives. Every culture and country has a north on its compass, a “larger story we find ourselves in.” Dr. Denison provides the history of the Western metanarrative, that the government exists to serve the individual. The West believes, “I, the individual, am the center of my existence.”
He contrasts this view with the Eastern perspective, which holds generally that the individual is not the center. He considers Greek philosophers, Hinduism, Islam, radical Islam, Marxism, snd then the current imperialist Russian perspective held by Putin. Each of these reflects a unique metanarrative. In particular, Dr. Denison reflects on the massive clashes between Russia against the West (in the cold war and now in Ukraine) and radical Islam against the West (terrorism, 9/11, etc.).
The source of recent conflict becomes clearer when we consider Putin’s view that NATO is encroaching on their borders and the radical Islamic perspective that the West has been the aggressor against them since the Crusades. Both of these play into the divide in metanarratives that set countries against each other. In the case of Russia, Dr. Denison shares the history of Russia over the past centuries as context for Putin’s mindset. Putin’s mindset, while not Communist, is one that values the collective greatness of Russia over the individual.
Dr. Turman and Dr. Denison then turn to America to consider our country’s narratives through the centuries, the cultural shifts, and the consistent metanarrative that the individual is the highest consideration. Then they reflect on how the “American dream” holds up when compared to Scripture. The American (and Western) individualistic mindset, while not all bad, does not match with God’s ultimate metanarrative revealed in the Bible. Neither does the Eastern mindset that values the collective above all else.
This is because the collective of God’s kingdom, the church, is most important. Within this, however, each person must respond to the call as an individual before being adopted into the Father’s kingdom.
We exist to serve God’s kingdom with other believers, in a community. The Bible, then, provides its own metanarrative for us to live by. Dr. Turman and Dr. Denison close by reflecting on this one, true metanarrative for Christians to live by.
P.S. Jim’s most pivotal book to date, The Coming Tsunami, is now available on Kindle, hardcover, and Audible.
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Summary: Retired Major (US Marines) Father Barry Montgomery joins Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman to discuss the state of affairs in Ukraine, Putin’s military strategy and tactics, how Russian forces have miscalculated, President Zelensky’s leadership, and Putin’s connection to Christianity.
Shownotes: In this episode, Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison are joined by Father Barry Montgomery, Retired Major, United States Marines. His specialty in intelligence qualifies him to speak with clarity and insight on the Russian and Ukrainian conflict.
They begin by discussing the state of affairs in Ukraine, then consider Putin’s military strategy, which cities he will have to take, and what appears to be his current plan. Father Montgomery provides personal insight into the strengths and weaknesses of the Russian armed forces, pointing out that the number of Russian troops deployed against Ukraine is far too small to complete Putin’s objectives. He discusses what Russia miscalculated, his underestimation of resistance, where their strategy is effective, and potential outcomes for the future of this conflict.
They reflect on the courage of Zelensky and the “X-factor” he provides for the conflict. His bravery and leadership parallel that of Winston Churchill on several levels. His ability to rally the average Ukrainian to arms and be willing to die for their country plays a major part in this conflict.
Dr. Denison and Father Montgomery pause to reflect on the history of Russia, the nationalistic motivations of Putin, and his glory for a restored pre-soviet Russian empire. They consider his likely beliefs about the Soviet Union, how his vision for himself and Russia goes much farther back to someone like Peter the Great and the tsars rather than to Stalin or Lenin.
Then, Dr. Denison and Father Montgomery consider Putin’s spiritual motivations and his strong ties to the Russian Orthodox church. Putin’s socially conservative vision is backed by his authoritarian power, and it’s important to remember that he isn’t trying to restore the atheistic USSR. Putin is partially using spiritual justification and considers the church the glue that holds Russia together in many ways. Dr. Denison and Father Montgomery discuss the implications of this.
Father Montgomery closes by reading a prayer from the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in America.
P.S. Jim’s most pivotal book to date, The Coming Tsunami, is now available on Kindle, hardcover, and Audible.
Father Barry A. Montgomery served for twenty years in the United States Marine Corps as an infantry and intelligence officer, with six combat tours in Somalia and Iraq. He earned a Masters of Divinity degree from Azusa Pacific University and currently serves as the Rector of Christ the Redeemer Anglican Church in Dallas, Texas.
Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss the Ukraine/Russian conflict, why Putin believes the invasion is justified, whether this conflict will devolve into World War III, what the Bible says about war, and four encouraging ways to pray for Ukraine.
Show notes: First, Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman unpack the recent developments in Ukraine. They express admiration for the Ukrainian president Zelensky and the heroic way that Ukraine is holding out against Russia. Then, Dr. Denison talks about the difference between a cold war, a hot war, and the means of conflict in a cyberwar. They also discuss the international backlash against Putin’s move into Ukraine. Then, Dr. Denison relates a difficult reality: The United States is not as prepared for a cyberwar as Russia is. They discuss the risks posing U.S. citizens if that were to unfold.
They then delve into a discussion of the difference between “eastern” (namely, Russia and China) and “western” worldviews. Dr. Denison unpacks how the individualism of the west means that we prize persons above the “whole,” or the “state.” On the other hand, Putin's eastern perspective means that he is willing to sacrifice massive numbers to serve the interests of Russia. Dr. Denison shows how authoritarianism plays into this conflict and Putin’s further interests in taking Ukraine.
At this point, Dr. Denison unpacks St. Augustine’s just war theory with his famous seven justifications, such as self-defense, proportionality, justice, last resort, etc. From Putin’s perspective, from the eastern mindset that serves Russia first above all else, this war meets all the qualifications, while we in the West would say it meets absolutely none of them. This shows how complex war and international politics are. In this context, Dr. Turman and Dr. Denison unfold his likely motivations in greater detail.
They then go off track to discuss a potential parallel: how Mexico could hypothetically use similar logic to Putin, but within the Western worldview, to regain portions of Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, and even southern California. This idea of war between the US and Mexico is entirely theoretical, but Dr. Denison covers some history; how America ultimately wronged Mexico by taking land in the 1800s, similar to how Putin is currently trying to take Ukraine. They follow this parallel for some time. Finally, Dr. Denison discusses the origins of the City of God where St. Augustine outlines the just war theory.
In conclusion, Dr. Denison provides applications for Christians in America. We can rest in the Lord, knowing that he has things under control. He also answers whether any Christians should join the Ukrainian defense. Then, he gives four ways to pray for Ukraine:
And finally, Dr. Denison prays himself to close the podcast.
P.S. Jim’s most pivotal book to date, The Coming Tsunami, is now available on Kindle, hardcover, and Audible.
Updates on Ukraine - Dr. Jim Denison, Denison Forum team
“Just war and personal conflict: a Veterans Day reflection” - Dr. Jim Denison
The Next 100 Years: A Forecast for the 21st Century - George Friedman
City of God - St. Augustine
The Brookings Institute - Fiona Hill
Jim Denison, PhD, is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Summary: Judge Kenneth Starr joins Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman to discuss the Constitution, religious liberty, the Supreme Court, the separation of church and state, and how Christians can find hope for the future of religious liberty.
Show notes: Judge Kenneth Starr (former solicitor for the U.S.), Dr. Denison, and Dr. Turman discuss the state of American law and religious liberty, which is covered in fuller length in Judge Starr’s book Religious Liberty in Crisis. They consider some of the biggest questions posing America. They reflect on the Constitution, why it’s so permanent and important, the protection of religious liberty, and some relevant religious liberty cases in recent years.
Dr. Denison first discusses the Equality Act and the danger it poses to religious liberty. Judge Starr shares the same concerns but has faith that the Supreme Court will uphold the Constitution if the Equality Act were to become law. Judge Starr suggests that the Constitution will be an excellent “sea wall” to the coming cultural tsunami Dr. Denison writes about in The Coming Tsunami.
They then delve into a discussion of the church-state separation, which Judge Starr unpacks and deconstructs. Yes, the states must remain neutral in regards to religion, but that does not mean they should be hostile to it. He encourages more nuance when we discuss the so-called wall of separation. Dr. Denison describes the two extremes that evangelicals can often take: running from politics or thinking that only Christians should run the government. As faithful Christians, we should be involved in the culture and politics, but we should also keep the kingdom of God separate from “Caesar’s” kingdom.
Dr. Denison and Judge Starr then consider the purpose of the federal courts, specifically the Supreme Court’s role in our government, and how it is often misunderstood. Within this, they take a close look at the new celebrity status many Justices are acquiring. Dr. Denison delves into the new wave of celebrity culture that pervades America at large.
Finally, Judge Starr defines some confusing terms, like accommodation and stare decisis, and why they might be relevant to some cases now before the court. Judge Starr also considers the possibility of the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade, at least at the federal level. He then gives final, parting thoughts about the permanence of the Supreme Court and the political climate.
About the featured guest
Judge Kenneth Starr has argued thirty-six cases before the US Supreme Court, including when he was US Solicitor General. He served as United States circuit judge for the District of Columbia Circuit, as a counselor and chief of staff to US Attorney General William French Smith, and law clerk to chief justices. He has served as President and Chancellor of Baylor University and the dean of Pepperdine School of Law for twenty-five years. He has served as a partner at two national law firms. He continues to serve on the Board of Advocates International, the Supreme Court Historical Society, and the Christian Legal Society.
Jim Denison, PhD, is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Summary: Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss the thinking of Plato, Aristotle, Kant, and the progression of Western philosophy, which has culminated in the post-truth culture we find ourselves in today.
Show notes: Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman open by explaining Jim’s role as a “cultural apologist.” After a detour into different approaches to preaching, they state that, in a general sense, all of Western philosophy is a footnote to Plato, Aristotle, and Kant (riffing off of the quote by Alfred North Whitehead).
Plato began by claiming that the soul exists before the body and that the material world is fundamentally flawed. It is a “shadow” of the real things, which are “spiritual” or “mental,” and the purpose of physical life is to purify one’s soul. Additionally, according to Plato, if we wanted to study apples, we would think about “appleness.” We wouldn’t study it by looking at apples in the physical world. This Greek categorization of the spiritual and “everything else” is what led to the “Sunday versus Monday” Christianity, which Jim expounds upon.
Then, they delve into Aristotle, who opposed his teacher. Aristotle said that to understand things we should look at the material world. To study an apple, we need to look at apples themselves in the physical world.
They then leap centuries to consider how Plato and Aristotle respectively influenced different applications of the church. While you can loosely trace Plato’s influence to modern Protestantism, you can trace Aristotle’s influence to the Catholic church.
At this point, we can say that Immanuel Kant in the eighteenth century was trying to exercise his thinking to unite these two ways of thinking. The “empiricist” (focus on the physical) and “rationalist” (focus on the rational) were raging in debate at this time. Kant, in trying to marry these two ways, ended up saying that we cannot know the “thing in and of itself” either rationally or empirically. This kind of subjectivism swept Europe. America, however, was somewhat protected from these ideas by “commonsense realism,” which Mark and Jim discuss more.
They then speculate into the two paths Europe and America took in history, given these two opposing views. For instance, Kant’s focus on “duty for duty’s sake” became a potential grounding for the German people’s acceptance of the horrors of Nazism. Recently, this subjectivism, which has become relativism, reached America, which Jim talks about as our “post-truth” culture. At this point, they turn to more recent thinkers like Marx, Freud, and Darwin, discussing how they have continued to influence our thinking until we have become “sexual, economic animals.”
How do we not allow ourselves to be influenced by these ideas in our culture?
We must pray without ceasing, be aware of Jesus’ presence, and renew our minds by taking them captive to obey Christ. Regular Bible study is critical to making sure we submit to the ultimate truth, revealed by God. Only he can be the ultimate standard of objective truth.
P.S. Jim’s most pivotal book to date, The Coming Tsunami, is now available on Kindle, hardcover, and Audible.
Jim Denison, PhD, is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Summary: In this episode, Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison discuss God’s sovereignty, some basics in philosophy and logic, human agency, Reformed theology, and John Calvin.
Show notes: Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison start by revealing future plans for the podcast to being accepting questions from our audience and bring in more guest speakers.
They introduce the problem of evil and ask, “How can God be sovereign, loving, and allow evil?” Jim establishes that sovereignty means God is Lord and king over every area of life. God’s sovereignty shouldn’t mean that we think of ourselves as automatons or robots. Some theologians believe our free will isn’t real; it’s only an illusion. Or, on the other side, some affirm that God’s sovereignty is limited by our freedom. The middle ground is that we have free agency because God allows us to, which is the position Jim takes. Since we’re limited beings, sometimes truths appear contradictory, when in fact they’re not, and this is the case in regards to God’s sovereignty and human free will.
At this point, Mark and Jim take a turn to give a brief overview of the Reformation and what Reformed theology entails. They discuss Calvin’s systematic theology in his work titled The Institutes of Christian Religion, its brilliance, and its shortcomings.Jim explains his own view in depth regarding the acronym for Calvinist beliefs “TULIP,” describing himself as a “three-and-a-half pointer.”
While these issues are important and warrant discussion, there remains a mystery in the relationship we have with Christ and God’s nature. In the midst of evangelism and debates on Reformed theology, we must remember to be first and foremost humble.
P.S. Jim’s most pivotal book to date, The Coming Tsunami, is now available on Kindle, hardcover, and Audible.
Resources and further reading:
Jim Denison, PhD, is the CEO of Denison Ministries and the author of The Daily Article. He received his PhD in philosophy and Master’s in Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Summary: Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss biblical marriage, Jim and Janet’s forty-year marriage, the true value of authenticity, the culture’s twisting of it, and how godly marriage can be a light in our dark culture, which has lost its way in reference to sex and marriage.
Show notes: Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss marriage and the cultural breakdown around the institution of marriage. To begin, they discuss some observations about the culture made by New York Times columnist David Brooks, whose pieces on culture are insightful and clear.
They take a break from that discussion to talk about Jim and Janet’s forty-one years of marriage. Jim reflects on the beginning of their relationship, their early years, and how Janet’s partnership in ministry has impacted the kingdom.
In this, they unpack the new wave of valuing authenticity, the positives, and negatives of what this term can mean in modern culture. On the face of it, authenticity, genuineness, is a Christlike characteristic. Mark shares how authenticity continues to be one of the core values at Crosspoint Church, where he previously pastored. The focus on authenticity seems to be a reaction to the career-driven approach to life by the previous generation.
At the same time, this good value is conflated to finding that authenticity in oneself, in pride in who you are. It becomes personal, identity-driven, and about finding “your truth.” It has even become militant and adversarial. This could easily be driving a great deal of animosity over politics. They discuss how biblical authenticity and cultural authenticity differ.
In marriage, it becomes critical to get your core identity from Christ, not your spouse. We must pursue Christ first and foremost; that way we don’t become unhealthily co-dependent on our spouse. While we welcome and celebrate support, and that’s a huge part of marriage, neither spouse should need the other. Contrary to the selfish view of the culture, that relationships are contracts that we get what we need out of them, marriage should be covenantal.
The effects of this cultural shift are evident: fewer couples are marrying, and so fewer are divorcing, dating is decreasing, and pornography is on the rise. The most important place for our trust in Christ. As Jim once heard from his youth pastor, you must find “your worth not in who you are, but in whose you are.” Then, authentic community is needed, which can only be found in a local body of believers. We’re often missing that in our culture today as well.
Jim and Mark then unpack two foundational passages on marriage in Genesis 1 and Ephesians 5 and what it means for our lives and marriages. Marriage is about service, not selfishness, and this acts as a window into the church and Christ’s love. Not only does this witness to your spouse, but to your family, friends, and culture as well. Jim uses the example of Martin Luther and his wife and how their marriage exemplified Luther’s teaching that clergy can live godly lives while married.
Godly marriages will act as a light in this dark culture and a window into the revelation of the love of Christ.
Jim Denison, PhD, is the CEO of Denison Ministries and the author of The Daily Article. He received his PhD in philosophy and Master’s in Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Dr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
This episode is a recording of The Coming Tsunami live seminar, where Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison discussed the origins of Critical Race Theory and the “five lanes” of how Christians should respond. They closed by addressing questions from the audience.
First, Mark and Jim discuss the context and summary of Dr. Denison’s new book, The Coming Tsunami (available to order now). They point out the need for Christians to understand the culture and the time we live in. Jim’s designation of four earthquakes helps us understand the rising cultural backlash against Christianity.
As they narrow in their discussion to focus on Critical Race Theory (CRT), they consider the formation of Critical Theory by examining Max Horkheimer and Karl Marx. While Marx argued that oppressed and oppressor economic classes of people define society, Horkheimer expanded that vision by arguing that oppressed and oppressor distinctions exist in every area of life and in every institution. CRT comprises those ideas but is applied more narrowly to America and race.
After they establish a solid understanding of CRT, they consider the good and the bad in it. In regards to Marxism, Jim discusses his time in communist Cuba and the consequences that ideas have. Some of the principles of CRT are opposed to the Bible, and some are not.
We can consider CRT a box of ideas that we must sort through with discernment. For instance, contrary to the Bible, Marxism and CRT argue that there is no personal sin or individual responsibility. CRT is right to point out that racial inequalities still exist and are pervasive to this day. While many social issues persist in America, Christians are stepping up to improve people’s lives and fight against inequities.
They then conclude by extrapolating the five lanes of personal application of CRT according to Dr. Denison:
After this, Jim answered three questions from the live, online audience.
Instead of being warriors in the culture, we need to be missionaries, speaking the truth in love, and using our influence to spread the good news. That will lead to revival and change the tide.
P.S. Jim’s most pivotal book to date, The Coming Tsunami, is now available on Kindle, hardcover, and audible. As of writing these show notes, it has risen to #4 in Christian social issues on Amazon. Order yours today!
Summary: Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman explore how Christians have lived faithfully in their cultural moment for thousands of years, how we must break free from the Sunday/Monday heresy, the importance of a personal relationship with Christ, how Christianity is a bad religion without such a personal relationship, and how the culture has created a new religion of humanism and self-affirming authenticity.
Show notes: Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss the intended audience of Jim’s new book, The Coming Tsunami, which is for all Christians, and particularly for those in places of cultural influence. Christian movements in history start with a small number of people, “faithfully manifesting” where God put them. They discuss the third and fourth great awakenings (or the Welsh revival), which began with “regular, average” Christians.
Mark discusses how we often don’t see the results of our faithfulness in our lifetime, and we must leave the results to God’s providence. Faithfulness takes patience, and, as Jim has written, “You can’t measure the eternal significance of present faithfulness.” They delve into the Protestant Reformation, how it began, and some of the key believers in the movement.
They then address the “Sunday/Monday heresy,” which refers to the view of many Christians who live as Christians on Sunday morning but have their own lives every other day of the week. Christ calls us to give every minute of our lives over to him.
This leads them to discuss the essential part of Christianity as being in the relationship with Christ, not the religion. While religion is important, i.e., going to church, singing hymns, liturgy, etc., without the relationship, religion is an empty shell. Jim reveals a time when, as a pastor, God convicted him that while Jim loved Jesus, he wasn’t in love with Jesus.
They then delve into what has become the overarching ideology or creed of our culture: personal authenticity. They discuss the evolution of this creed over time: how Christianity was at first important and culturally encouraged, then it became a personal hobby, then irrelevant, and now it’s considered dangerous. The culture has almost fully bought into humanism.
They consider the implications of this creed, how nowadays everything is centered around feelings and our experience.
Sometimes, true repentance is harder than religion. Often, having a relationship with Christ is more difficult than following an empty creed. Many issues in our culture stem from the transference of responsibility to anything and everyone but ourselves. There’s a sense in the culture now that “I” cannot be at fault; it must be the system or other people. While there are complex issues here, the gospel ultimately relies on the submission of oneself to Christ, no matter our circumstances.
P.S. Pre-order The Coming Tsunami today and you’ll be invited to an exclusive, virtual, live Q&A with Dr. Denison discussing whether Critical Race Theory is biblical. Visit TheComingTsunami.com to pre-order and follow the directions on that page to receive your invitation to this book launch event on January 25.
Dr. Jim Denison CVO and cofounder of Denison Forum and a cultural scholar. He received his Ph.D. in philosophy and Master’s in Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss Karl Marx’s philosophy, how Christianity moves on the shoulders of regular, faithful Christians, Critical Theory and Critical Race Theory, how systemic racism still exists, and how Christians can begin to navigate the culture on the issue of justice.
In this episode, Mark and Jim begin by giving a personal biography of their lives and testimonies. In this, Jim explores how several key people who were faithful with their gifts helped bring him to trust in Jesus as his savior. As Mark quotes from his previous pastor, “Christianity goes forward on the shoulders of plain vanilla Christians.”
Jim then discusses how the term theological middleman began to define his ministry calling, with a clear, strong conviction from the Lord. A large part of Denison Ministries’ niche is equipping believers to love God with all of their minds.
We often encounter a resistance to intellectual thinking in Christianity. A common Christian sentiment in the ’60s and ’70s was: Don’t let college ruin you. Thankfully, in recent years, evangelicals have shown that we are not antagonistic to reason. John Lennox and Russell Moore are two prime examples.
Then, Mark and Jim discuss the merits and flaws in Karl Marx’s philosophy. Many of Marx’s criticisms were accurate. Seeing the world through the lens of “class” is helpful, but only to a point, and it cannot provide a solid worldview. Later, certain philosophers in the Frankfurt School developed Critical Theory out of Marxism. This plays out in our era through Critical Race Theory, for example.
The philosophy behind Critical Theory is that if you are a part of a group that has benefited from oppression, you are also culpable to the oppression. The spread of this kind of thinking is evident, even in Texas public schools. Many, like Ibram Kendi, have now said that if we maintain the status quo, we are complicit in racism. Instead, we must be antiracist.
Mark and Jim then delve into why Critical Theory doesn’t take sin nature into account. If the oppressed become powerful, they will be just as likely to oppress others, which is exactly what happened in the Soviet Union.
All of that said, Jim then argues that systemic racism continues to exist in modern-day America and gives several, well-attested facts that point to that truth. As believers, our first questions should be of self-examination: “How am I prejudiced? How can I amend where I have hurt others?” This means personally engaging with people who aren’t like us and listening to their pains.
Sin makes the world a broken place. Jim brings up how, in the past, Christians have dealt with systemic injustice and how we can champion the gospel in this lost world. William Wilberforce, a Christian activist, helped upend the English slave trade. This call to action, to stand up for the oppressed and help bring true, biblical justice to the world, is part of the Christian’s call.
P.S. Pre-order The Coming Tsunami today and you’ll be invited to an exclusive, virtual, live Q&A with Dr. Denison discussing whether Critical Race Theory is biblical. Visit TheComingTsunami.com to pre-order and follow the directions on that page to receive your invitation to this book launch event on January 25.
Resources and further reading
Dr. Jim Denison CVO and cofounder of Denison Forum and a cultural scholar. He received his Ph.D. in philosophy and Master’s in Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss the sexual revolution and its implications for today’s culture. They discuss how the church’s witness is hurt by its bad example, how biblical morality is going to be persecuted, the implications of the Equality Act, how US laws should legislate certain moral judgments and not others, and how the world’s understanding of sex ultimately leads to harm.
First, Mark and Jim show why it’s important to have historical context for cultural ideas today. Much of the LGBTQ movement in today’s world is a symptom, not the cause, of the cultural tsunami. To address the root causes, however, the church must start within our own doors and hearts. Since the church abuse scandals, comparable levels of divorce rates, and the acceptance of cohabitation, the church has lost credibility in the eyes of the culture.
In the case of the new sexual morality, biblical Christians are becoming more ostracized and considered even dangerous for our beliefs. Indeed, while all laws legislate morality in some way, we must get clear on religious freedom and what the State can legislate.
They unpack how this played out in the legalization of abortion. Jim then elaborates on how civil rights laws protecting minorities are categorically different from those protecting based on sexual orientation, both biblically and under secular arguments, and how the Equality Act poses a serious threat to biblical Christian institutions.
Finally, they discuss how Christians can respond to today’s sexual revolution following Paul’s model from Corinthians. Jim argues that we shouldn’t take the easy route, but rather we must let our light shine. We have the heroes of Hebrews 11 to inspire us.
(Correction: Cardinal Francis George first said, “I expect my successor to die in prison . . . .”) not Archbishop Collins.)
P.S. Pre-order The Coming Tsunami today and you’ll be invited to an exclusive, virtual, live Q&A with Dr. Denison discussing whether Critical Race Theory is biblical. Visit TheComingTsunami.com to pre-order and follow the directions on that page to receive your invitation to this book launch event on January 25.
Resources and further reading
Dr. Jim Denison CVO and cofounder of Denison Forum and a cultural scholar. He received his Ph.D. in philosophy and Master’s in Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss the foundation for Denison Forum by first unpacking apologetics (“to make a defense”), which has its roots in the book of Acts. Cultural apologetics refers to giving a defense of biblical truth in the context of cultural issues like same-sex marriage, abortion, or euthanasia. They discuss starting points for those conversations, which need to begin outside of the Bible and with varying assumptions, depending on the audience.
Next, they delve into the origins of Protestants’ split from Roman Catholicism and its further divisions. They recommend the new, recently published podcast called Good Faith, hosted by David French and Curtis Chang, to unpack it further. Evangelicalism is a relatively recent movement, however, beginning in the 20s and 30s, and gaining prominence after WWII. Evangelicalism, in some ways, rose in reaction against a perceived liberal drift of mainline denominations. But, from the start, with people like Billy Graham, the main point was to spread the simple gospel.
Nowadays, the word evangelical has become associated with the political right more than its core biblical beliefs, from the well-intentioned “we want a nation God can bless” acting as part of the Moral Majority, and activism, to its disparaged status in culture. Culture tends to view evangelicals as a political action movement, especially with some preachers endorsing Donald Trump.
Finally, Mark and Jim discuss the earthquakes that Jim outlines in The Coming Tsunami. Denial of biblical truth, the first earthquake, is in many ways the one which starts the fall of dominoes. Many Christians are trying to address these problems by tackling the symptoms of the cultural tsunami. That leaves us blind to the actual, invisible causes of the cultural decline we see today.
Each person deals with their own unique presuppositions, so the best way to change the tide is to influence the people where you are as best you can. In the midst of this discussion, Mark and Jim begin to unpack further cultural earthquakes.
P.S. Pre-order The Coming Tsunami today and you’ll be invited to an exclusive, virtual, live Q&A with Dr. Denison discussing whether Critical Race Theory is biblical. Visit TheComingTsunami.com to pre-order and follow the directions on that page to receive your invitation to this book launch event on January 25.
Dr. Jim Denison CVO and cofounder of Denison Forum and a cultural scholar. He received his Ph.D. in philosophy and Master’s in Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman talk about the origins of Jim’s new book, The Coming Tsunami, and God’s calling on Jim’s life to cultural apologetics.
In this first episode, they cover:
In part 1, Jim and Mark delve into Jim’s life and upbringing.
Jim’s father experienced the horrors of World War II and couldn’t reconcile them with Christianity. So, Jim grew up in a “loving, wonderful home but no spiritual life and all my father’s questions.” Eventually, after following Christ in his teens, God called him to ministry.
Fast-forward to two or three years ago. The Holy Spirit pressed on him the “urgency of the moment” in our culture, which eventually led to the writing of The Coming Tsunami. The analogy runs like this: unseen forces (earthquakes) can lead to cultural symptoms that make Christianity a danger in the eyes of the culture (the tsunami).
In part 2, Jim and Mark discuss:
The election of conservative Christians to the presidency seems to have led to passivity among many Christians; political officials cannot change the culture. The way to change culture is to practice what you preach and exercise your influence wherever you are.
In part 3, they talk about encouraging ways God is moving.
For instance, they discuss the growing unity in the church between denominations, the miraculous awakenings in Islam, and the explosive growth of Christianity in Asian countries.
Next, they cover the influx of atheist, secular thinkers into mainstream Western culture. Many are brilliant scientists but overstep into philosophy and theology, places where they make frequent errors but still hold massive influence. This and subjects like the church abuse scandals have broken the church’s image in the modern eye. Philosophy has consequences, and you can trace the ideas of today back generations to people like Kant.
Finally, Jim shares his pastoral insight into how the Lord moves.
While we may feel desperate now, God works awakenings when a culture is on the brink of despair. The Spirit has worked like that before in America, and he can do it again.
P.S. Pre-order The Coming Tsunami today and you’ll be invited to an exclusive, virtual, live Q&A with Dr. Denison discussing whether Critical Race Theory is biblical. Visit TheComingTsunami.com to pre-order and follow the directions on that page to receive your invitation to this book launch event on January 25.
Dr. Jim Denison CVO and cofounder of Denison Forum and a cultural scholar. He received his Ph.D. in philosophy and Master’s in Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.
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