Wretched Radio with Todd Friel - Fortis Institute

Latest Episodes:

Who Really Decides What Your Kids Are Taught? Mar 10, 2026

Show notes

Segment 1 • Many progressive politicians quote the Bible while promoting theology that contradicts it. • There is a growing divide between “nice” public Christianity and actual biblical faithfulness. • When we evaluate leaders by personality instead of doctrine, we get into trouble. Segment 2 • Why a parental rights bill failed in South Dakota—and what it reveals about cultural authority over children. • The increasing push for schools and state systems to guide children’s moral and sexual formation. • The unsettling question: who really decides what your kids are taught? Segment 3 • A Michigan lawmaker leaves her political party, claiming she cannot reconcile it with Scripture. • The abortion pill is quietly expanding abortion access—even in pro-life states. • Why the abortion debate may be shifting in ways many Christians haven’t noticed. Segment 4 • Radical Islamic rhetoric is openly celebrated in an American mosque. • How just war theory helps Christians evaluate modern military conflicts. • Why spiritual warfare, ideology, and global conflict may be more connected than you think. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!

How Does This “Minister” Respond When Questioned By A Congressman? Mar 09, 2026

Show notes

Segment 1 • A Methodist “minister” quotes Matthew 25 completely out of context in a government hearing, and is called on it. • Scripture is often used as a political slogan instead of being read consistently. Context matters more than ever. • If someone throws Bible verses into political debates, learn the simple way to test whether the verse actually means what they claim. Segment 2 • Congressman Michael Cloud presses her on charity vs. taxation, asking whether government redistribution is really the same thing as biblical generosity. • The discussion exposes a deeper issue: what does true, Christian charity actually look like? • Todd shows why misunderstanding biblical charity can reshape entire political and social arguments. Segment 3 • Barack Obama warns of “science denial” and division in America - but who is actually denying the science? • A striking statistic reveals the true percentage of Americans that hold to a biblical worldview. • Are Christians expending energy for the wrong kingdom altogether? Segment 4 • Todd explains that an ordinary Christian life—raising kids, loving family, serving quietly—is a powerful witness. • A deep dive into 1 Peter 3:15 reveals why people should ask about the hope inside believers. • What does true, Christlike love require believers to do? ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!

Mailbag Friday: Christ’s Return, Spiritual Warfare, & Homeless Help Mar 06, 2026

Show notes

It’s Mailbag Friday! You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers. Segment 1 • Does scripture give us any specific details about the timeline of Christ’s return? - Dylan • We rightly hear a lot about the demonic influence upon the world - but what about the angelic influence upon the world? - Kyle Segment 2 • Fasting is a topic that isn’t taught on very frequently in many churches. What decides the duration of one’s fasting? -Steven • Is it sinful if we are sad if we lose a lot of money? Why should we be sad if we know that God is in control of all things, even things like losing one’s 401(k)? -Vinnie Segment 3 • I struggle with overthinking. How should I go about overcoming this? - Anonymous • If a couple divorces due to adultery, is the offending spouse able to remarry according to Scripture? - Anonymous • A friend of mine has become attached to deliverance ministries, which are oriented towards “delivering” Christians from demonic possession/influence. I don’t think Christians can be possessed by demonic spirits. How can I help her see through this? - Anonymous Segment 4 • Does the Bible predict current events? Can you give me an example? - Douglas • I run a small ministry that clothes homeless individuals. Are ministries that help homeless people in this manner simply enabling them, or are they answering Christ’s call to feed and clothe the needy? - Devon ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!

We Both Hate Abortion—So Why Are We Fighting? Mar 05, 2026

Show notes

Segment 1 • Todd Friel steps into the heated divide between pro-lifers and abolitionists, asking why two groups who both want abortion abolished are so adversarial. • The controversy in Tennessee legislation raises a provocative question: if abortion is murder, should women who obtain abortions be prosecuted? • A deeper biblical discussion emerges about justice, culpability, and knowledge. Segment 2 • A challenging syllogism from abolitionists forces the debate: if abortion intentionally takes innocent life, must every participant face murder charges? • Todd explores difficult factors often ignored in the abolitionist vs. incrementalist debate. • The conversation pushes listeners to wrestle with difficult questions of moral clarity and justice. Segment 3 • Todd proposes a unqiue “peace plan” to unite pro-lifers and abolitionists without convictions. • Make abortion illegal first—then launch a nationwide education campaign so no one can claim ignorance. • Once everyone clearly understands abortion is taking a human life, should criminal accountability extend to every participant? Segment 4 • A rising Texas political candidate claims the Bible says nothing about abortion, while quoting Scripture to justify progressive policies. • Todd exposes the irony: the media condemns “Christian nationalism”—except when progressive politicians use the Bible. • The candidate made startling theological claims - leaving many wondering if he’s using biblical language in a contextually appropriate way. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!

Witness Wednesday: If Truth Is Personal, Why Call Anything Evil? Mar 04, 2026

Show notes

It’s Witness Wednesday! Join Todd Friel on campus at Kennesaw State University to discuss Jesus Christ, His gospel and THE truth - not my truth, or your truth, but the truth - Jesus Christ himself. Prepare to be challenged and encouraged as real, every day beliefs are put to the test of biblical truth. Segment 1 • Luke says truth is “whatever works for you.” Todd presses the logic: if truth is personal, could someone justify harming children if it benefits them? • The conversation exposes the collapse of moral relativism—without an objective authority, right and wrong become mere preferences. • Todd asks the ultimate courtroom question: If Luke stood before God today, why should he be forgiven? Segment 2 • Luke wrestles with a common college dilemma: If people grow up in different religions, how can anyone claim Christianity is the truth? • Todd argues that truth ends the search—if Jesus truly rose from the dead, competing worldviews are eliminated. • Luke admits he’s still searching, prompting Todd to explain why the gospel uniquely answers life’s biggest questions. Segment 3 • Malcolm confidently says he believes in God and purpose—but struggles to explain why someone else should believe the gospel. • Todd walks him through a simple apologetic: complex design points to a Creator and a moral lawgiver. • The conversation pivots to the core issue: if we are guilty before a holy God, how can justice be satisfied? Segment 4 • Kenya believes good people go to God by doing right and asking forgiveness—but Todd presses the problem: would a just judge simply overlook crimes? • Through careful questions, Todd helps Kenya see why Jesus’ death is necessary for God to forgive sinners without ignoring justice. • The conversation ends with the most urgent question: If someone were about to die, what must they do right now to be saved? ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!

Have You Fallen For This Sneaky Strategy Of Liberal Theologians? Mar 03, 2026

Show notes

Segment 1 • A coalition of liberal theologians claims democracy is collapsing and urges Christians to “resist”. • Todd unpacks the irony of condemning “Christian nationalism” while using faith to pressure government policy. • The emotional language sounds righteous on the surface—but once you slow it down, does it actually hold up? Segment 2 • “Every person bears God’s image”—but does that automatically determine public policy? • Todd challenges the logic of using biblical truths to justify specific political outcomes without defining terms. • A powerful persuasion tactic is exposed: overwhelm your opponent so disagreement makes you look cruel. Segment 3 • A prominent conservative Baptist leader converts to Roman Catholicism—how does someone go from “grace alone” to a works-based system? • The deep psychological pull of tradition, history, and apostolic lineage. • Why parents must ground their children in the doctrine of the true, invisible Church before someone else defines their heritage for them. Segment 4 • A growing number of Christians now trust AI for spiritual advice more than their pastors. • Todd explains why AI doesn’t give you truth—it often gives you what you want to hear. • Massive layoffs, sermon prep shortcuts, and the quiet erosion of pastoral authority—are we outsourcing discernment? ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!

The Spiritual Truth Behind Eating Disorders—And How To Find Hope Mar 02, 2026

Show notes

Segment 1 • The Bible is sufficient to build a “theology of eating” even without modern labels like anorexia. • Eating disorders are less “body problems” and more heart + identity problems. • A young woman’s, Katie’s, diary is introduced to expose what’s really driving the struggle. Segment 2 • She admits she “hated God” because she believed a false version of Him. • Todd spotlights how biblical counseling targets wrong theology before behavior change can last. • “Radical amputation” shows up as practical wisdom: removing triggers, not worshiping mirrors. Segment 3 • A “sanctification plan” includes a failure plan so setbacks don’t become spiritual collapse. • Katie’s progress includes accountability, routines, and letting others into what used to be secret. • The danger of denial: “I don’t have a problem” → no safeguards → isolation → despair. Segment 4 • A tiny booklet on “the quest for thinness” reframes eating disorders as God-excluding self-rule. • Todd challenges the secret-keeping and “control language” behind starving, binging, or purging • Practical next steps: confess honestly, learn who God is, ask for help, speak truth, prepare for failure—because you have an Advocate. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!

Mailbag Friday: Christians In Court, Church Ads, and Counseling Help Feb 27, 2026

Show notes

It’s Mailbag Friday! You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers. Segment 1 • I’ve been to several weddings where the groom and bride alone partake in communion. Is this appropriate? - Anonymous • Does the Bible speak to Christians taking non-Christians to court? - Ryan • How was EPiC, the Elvis Presley in Concert movie? - Tristan Segment 2 • Does the Bible teach that if someone does not desire to join a church, they do not belong to Christ? - Gloria • It seems that most Christians do not see the potential dangers in viewing shows like House of David or The Chosen. How can we communicate our concerns? - Cathy • Should churches advertise online? - Anonymous Segment 3 • Just how tall is Todd “Freakishly Tall” Friel really? - Jonathan • Are there any resources for spouses who want to help their husbands or wives who are struggling with addiction to porn? - Anonymous • What does it look like to counsel someone biblically who deals with anorexia? - Anonymous Segment 4 • Even though I am filled with the Spirit, I have a hard time living by the Spirit and demonstrating the fruits of the Spirit when something evil happens in front of me. How should I think about this? - Anonymous ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!

Retelling Genesis? That’s a Dangerous Game Feb 26, 2026

Show notes

Segment 1 • A new TV series promises a “fresh take” on biblical women—what happens when imagination fills in what God didn’t reveal? • Why dramatizing Sarah and Hagar’s “inner journeys” may subtly rewrite sin, surrogacy, and obedience. • The hidden danger: once fiction enters your memory, can you separate it from Scripture? Segment 2 • A coming documentary frames simple Christians as radicals. • The cultural clash over liberty, persecution, and who really gets labeled “extreme.” • Why the relationship between Christianity and government is harder to define than most admit. Segment 3 • A high-profile conversion story highlights joy and transformation—but where was sin and repentance? • How a vague gospel presentation may leave churches filled with doubting—or false converts. • The costly confusion between the gospel itself and the benefits it produces. Segment 4 • A sermon illustration goes painfully wrong—do we trust the Word, or do we need props? • When (if ever) is distancing from toxic parents biblically justified? • A chilling warning about an online exploitation network targeting children—what parents must know now. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!

Witness Wednesday: Is Jesus Really The Only Way? Feb 25, 2026

Show notes

It’s Witness Wednesday! Students at Georgia Tech have their worldviews tested as Todd Friel brings the biblical Christian faith to bear on issues like the afterlife, morality, our conscience, and our ultimate hope. Have you ever wondered how you’d approach someone on the street with the truth of the gospel? Wonder no longer - join Todd to learn how you can evangelize lovingly, truthfully, and effectively. Segment 1 • Orrin says he’s a Christian—but struggles to define his purpose in life beyond career success. • He claims he’s a “good person,” then wrestles with Scripture’s claim that no one is good. • Orrin is forced to examine whether he’s truly born again—or just culturally Christian. Segment 2 • French student rejects organized religion—but concedes design may imply a Designer. • Confronted with the moral law: Are you good by God’s standard—or just by your own? • Hears the gospel clearly contrasted with every other religion: “Do” vs. “Done.” Segment 3 • Professing Christian claims Jesus is the “tipping point”—but hesitates when truth becomes exclusive. • Todd presses to explain why Christianity alone is true—and why other faiths are wrong. • The gospel is made painstakingly clear: We go to heaven by faith—not because we’re “good.” Segment 4 • Georgia Tech student accepts design logic—but questions who designed the Designer. • Claims to be “generally good”—until conscience is examined under God’s law. • Hears a direct appeal: justice demands payment—but mercy offers substitution. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!

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