Wretched Radio with Todd Friel - Fortis Institute

Latest Episodes:

IS THE NATIONAL PRAYER BREAKFAST PROMOTING UNITY OR SPIRITUAL COMPROMISE? May 06, 2025

Show notes

Segment 1 • Paula White led the National Prayer Breakfast, blending multiple religions in the name of unity. • Her claim that "prayer is not a religious act" undermines biblical truth. • 2 John warns against unbiblical ecumenism—true unity must be grounded in sound doctrine. Segment 2 • The White House event featured an ecumenical lineup: Catholic bishops, Jewish rabbis, Muslim imams. • This wasn't interfaith dialogue—it was spiritual confusion under the banner of inclusivity. • God's love is not generic; it’s defined by truth—and truth was absent here. Segment 3 • CBS reports a dramatic decline in birthrates across America. • Couples are rejecting marriage and children due to climate fears, online influence, and cultural cynicism. • God’s design for family is being replaced by fear and self-fulfillment. Segment 4 • Gen Z is saying “please” more—why? • People aren’t just avoiding parenting; they don’t even know what it means to be one. • Fortis’ Truth Unhindered and Thrive offer answers the world isn’t giving. – Preorder the new book, Lies My Therapist Told Me, by Fortis Institute Fellow Dr. Greg Gifford now! https://www.harpercollins.com/pages/liesmytherapisttoldme – 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!

TRADING GLORY FOR A HOOK: WHAT HAPPENED TO CHRIST-EXALTING SONGS? May 05, 2025

Show notes

Segment 1 • Contemporary worship on YouTube is flooded with emotionally charged, man-centered music that feels more exhausting than edifying. • Much of today’s worship music centers on emotionalism, not exalting Christ. • When you hear biblically rich, Christ-centered lyrics like “The King in All His Beauty,” it’s clear—true worship exalts Jesus, not emotion, experience, or self. Segment 2 • Churches are increasingly turning to recycled pop songs and rebranding them as worship music, blurring the lines between sacred and secular. • The Catholic Church prepares for its next conclave this week which will select the new Pope. • The bizarre tradition of showcasing the literal hearts of former popes—raising questions about relic worship and pagan parallels. Segment 3 • “Side B Christianity,” which affirms same-sex attraction as identity but forbids action, is gaining ground in some corners of the PCA. • The PCUSA has already shifted further, redefining missions as “whatever God is doing” and eliminating its missionary department entirely. • Why our identity must be found in Christ, not our sinful proclivities. Segment 4 • Odd stories from around the world–”Florida ants are the only animals besides humans that perform surgery.” • Alpharetta Bible Church’s gospel-centered mission serves as a touchstone amid cultural confusion. • Despite rising pornography use, the DSM-5 still contains no diagnostic category for it—underscoring how secular frameworks often ignore deep spiritual issues. – Preorder the new book, Lies My Therapist Told Me, by Fortis Institute Fellow Dr. Greg Gifford now! https://www.harpercollins.com/pages/liesmytherapisttoldme – 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!

IS ONLINE GAMBLING DESTROYING YOUR LIFE? THE HIDDEN EPIDEMIC AMONG YOUNG MEN May 02, 2025

Show notes

It’s Mailbag Friday! You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers! Segment 1 • The Truth Unhindered - Help us share gospel-centered resources with the world. Completely Free! Your gift will be matched dollar for dollar. • My pastor's wife only attends church half the time due to sick kids, doesn’t seem to participate in Bible studies or life groups, and the pastor keeps his home private—should I be concerned? • When people say "give yourself grace" after I've sinned against someone, does that mean it's okay to give myself a pass for my sin? Segment 2 • How can I deal with impure thoughts or memories? • What’s behind the growing issue of young men being addicted to online gambling and sports betting? Segment 3 • I struggle with the fear of man. How can I practically grow in the fear of the Lord instead? • My church emphasizes "spending time in God's presence," but isn't God already omnipresent? • How close should Christians be with unsaved friends? Segment 4 • What are your thoughts on C.S. Lewis? • Why do I feel so lonely as a millennial Christian male? – Preorder the new book, Lies My Therapist Told Me, by Fortis Institute Fellow Dr. Greg Gifford now! https://www.harpercollins.com/pages/liesmytherapisttoldme – 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 TRUTH ABOUT WHAT MARRIAGE SHOULD BE—AND WHY HAPPINESS ISN’T ENOUGH May 01, 2025

Show notes

Segment 1 • A viral marriage rant sparks discussion on modern narcissism in relationships. • A wife feels burned out from marriage and motherhood, claiming women carry the lion's share of home responsibilities. • Despite a seemingly "amazing" husband, she struggles with feelings of being undervalued. Segment 2 • Three main issues emerge: feelings of being "undervalued," misconceptions about marriage, and unrealistic expectations. • Misunderstanding "love" as a feeling instead of a commitment can cause friction in relationships. • Brad Bigney's perspective: Marriage requires intentional work and understanding, not just passive affection. Segment 3 • The primary goal of marriage isn’t happiness, it’s holiness. • Christian marriage calls for humility, and sometimes "sorry" is enough. • Many people struggle with selfishness in marriage, and humility is the key to thriving relationships. Segment 4 • Her story reflects a modern obsession with personal happiness at the cost of marriage's true purpose. • The idol of happiness demands more than any marriage can give. • The Christian marriage isn’t about being equitable; it’s about oneness. – Preorder the new book, Lies My Therapist Told Me, by Fortis Institute Fellow Dr. Greg Gifford now! https://www.harpercollins.com/pages/liesmytherapisttoldme – 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! .

BRILLIANT MINDS. BLURRY TRUTH. WHY COLLEGE STUDENTS STILL NEED JESUS Apr 30, 2025

Show notes

It’s Witness Wednesday! Todd Friel is at Georgia Tech to talk with students about faith, morality, and the Gospel. Todd emphasizes Christian teachings, using questions to explore concepts of creation, evil, conscience, and salvation through Jesus Christ. Segment 1: • Jose, a mechanical engineering student, wonders how the universe began—leans toward random chance. • Todd argues design demands a Designer, comparing creation to Jose’s sesame chicken. • Jose admits he's agnostic but open—he wants “proof” before accepting a Creator. Segment 2: • Todd walks Jose walks through the Ten Commandments and Jose admits guilt, agreeing he'd be judged guilty. • Todd presents the gospel: Jesus took Jose’s punishment, offering forgiveness through repentance and faith. • Jose is intrigued but unsure, doubting whether humans can truly know what's true. Segment 3: • Robert identifies as Machiavellian, believes people are mostly good despite moral failures. • Todd highlights Robert's sin (e.g. 5,000 lustful thoughts), arguing goodness isn’t enough. • Robert believes Jesus died for sinners but hasn't repented—he admits it's worth pondering. Segment 4: • Student asks: “What’s the point of life?” Claims moral living is enough without religion. • Admits to sin but believes intentions and regret soften the guilt. • Todd explains the gospel and challenges him to investigate if it’s true—eternity is at stake. – Preorder the new book, Lies My Therapist Told Me, by Fortis Institute Fellow Dr. Greg Gifford now! https://www.harpercollins.com/pages/liesmytherapisttoldme – 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!

WHY THE GOSPEL MUST BE OUR HILL TO DIE ON Apr 29, 2025

Show notes

Segment 1 • The Fortis Institute must focus on the Gospel above all else—it's the foundation of everything we do. • Why did Jesus die? Jonathan Pokluda explains the Gospel's judicial nature—it's not just a story, but a legal matter. • The death of Christ is about more than sacrifice; it's about satisfying God's justice. Segment 2 • The Local Church is essential—every Christian has a role to play in serving others. • Church isn’t about what you take, but how you give and serve the body of believers. • Kevin DeYoung emphasizes that works follow faith, but don’t contribute to salvation. Segment 3 • A Ventura City Council meeting was disrupted when a woman praying was heckled. • The mayor and council members' response shows a growing hostility toward public displays of faith. • Christian leaders must be bold in calling out these attacks on religious freedom. Segment 4 • Evangelical-Catholic unity continues to raise concerns—many worry it's leading to compromise on key issues. • Texas' school choice plan has sparked debates on the use of tax dollars for public education. • The autism debate is heating up again, with RFK reigniting questions about its rise and potential causes. – Preorder the new book, Lies My Therapist Told Me, by Fortis Institute Fellow Dr. Greg Gifford now! https://www.harpercollins.com/pages/liesmytherapisttoldme – 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! .

WHY SECULAR THERAPY AND MENTAL HEALTH LABELS ARE HARMING YOUR CHILDREN Apr 28, 2025

Show notes

Segment 1: • Dr. Greg Gifford, usually calm, is fired up about the mental health complex. • His new book, Lies My Therapist Told Me, challenges common mental health diagnoses. • Secular therapy labels millions of kids, but the system is failing to understand real issues. Segment 2: • Dr. Gifford calls out the DSM5, comparing it to a deceptive, even satanic, guide. • Masking symptoms doesn’t solve the underlying problems. • Secular therapy pushes a flawed ideology that distorts true mental health issues. Segment 3: • The Pope’s death raises critical questions about his authority and the papal system. • Upcoming webinar with Tim Challies on the problem of the papacy. • The Vatican’s process of electing the new pope is deeply flawed and a sham. Segment 4: • Max Lucado gets a tattoo, sparking a conversation about culture, ministry, and personal choices. • Tattoos have become a generational trend, but why are people getting them? • A quiet revival may be happening in the UK, as church attendance rises despite cultural changes. – Preorder the new book, Lies My Therapist Told Me, by Fortis Institute Fellow Dr. Greg Gifford now! https://www.harpercollins.com/pages/liesmytherapisttoldme – 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!

“WHERE’S THE LINE?” WHAT IS THE STANDARD FOR CHRISTIAN ENTERTAINMENT? Apr 25, 2025

Show notes

It’s Mailbag Friday! You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers! Segment 1 • When it comes to Bible-based films like King of Kings, how strict should we be about accuracy—and where’s the line? Segment 2 • Is asking a bride’s father for permission a biblical concept—or just tradition? Segment 3 • Should I confront a church that’s using giveaways like trucks to draw crowds? • Is it wise or worldly for churches to sell branded merch? • I’m dating someone who may not actually be a Christian—should I stay or walk away? • Do church “type” groups divide us more than they help us unite in Christ? Segment 4 • Can a Bible study group without a pastor or elders be considered a true local church? • I shared my negative opinion about someone—was that gossip, and how do I make it right? – Preorder the new book, Lies My Therapist Told Me, by Fortis Institute Fellow Dr. Greg Gifford now! https://www.harpercollins.com/pages/liesmytherapisttoldme – 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!

IS THE PAPACY STILL LEADING MILLIONS TO HELL? WHAT EVANGELICALS AREN’T SAYING Apr 24, 2025

Show notes

Segment 1 • The death of the Pope signals the likely election of a liberal leader. • The papacy’s doctrinal errors, based on tradition and magisterium, mislead millions about salvation. • Softened evangelical perspectives, like Russell Moore's, fail to address the papacy's eternal consequences. Segment 2 • Melito of Sardis’ 2nd-century sermon contrasts with today's shallow Easter preaching. • Modern sermons are moralistic, neglecting the true gospel of Christ’s sacrifice. • A return to gospel-centered, Christ-focused preaching is essential to understand Easter’s real significance. Segment 3 • 90% of pastors affirm climate change, but many Christians are unsure about the issue. • Dr. Jason Lisle tackles climate change from a biblical and scientific perspective in a Fortis webinar. • The narrative of human-caused climate change is shaky, with natural cycles and past periods of warming showing no human influence. Segment 4 • Al Gore's climate predictions failed, and the sun’s cycles are a bigger factor in climate changes. • Water vapor and clouds, not CO2, account for 75% of the greenhouse effect. • The human contribution to CO2 is small, and the panic surrounding it is built on weak claims. – Preorder the new book, Lies My Therapist Told Me, by Fortis Institute Fellow Dr. Greg Gifford now! https://www.harpercollins.com/pages/liesmytherapisttoldme – 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!

SHE’S CATHOLIC. HE’S CHRISTIAN. WHO ACTUALLY KNEW HOW TO BE SAVED? Apr 23, 2025

Show notes

It’s Witness Wednesday! Todd Friel is back on campus to talk with students about their views on human value, morality, and faith. Segment 1: • Student starts with utilitarian ethics—humans are more valuable than dogs due to societal contribution. • Conversation shifts dramatically: “Your job on earth is to glorify God.” • Gives a clear, gospel-rich answer: “Believe on Jesus’ name—He gave me life.” Segment 2: • Julie’s theology: good people go to heaven—even if they don’t believe in hell. • Walks through the Ten Commandments but still claims to be “a good person.” • Learns the gospel: Jesus paid the fine, repentance and trust are the way to be saved. Segment 3: • Would you save a dog or a human—answers rooted in moral relativism, not absolute value. • “Are you a good person?” sparks confusion: some say yes, others define good as “when I need to be.” • Beliefs about the afterlife range from agnostic to cabalistic “spirit-unity-God.” Segment 4: • Final student values “potential” over intrinsic worth—would save schoolkids over a best friend. • In a dying man scenario, offers vague comfort: “Ask for forgiveness… from whoever that is for you.” • Todd closes with urgent exhortation: Know the gospel. Articulate the gospel. Teach the gospel. – Preorder the new book, Lies My Therapist Told Me, by Fortis Institute Fellow Dr. Greg Gifford now! https://www.harpercollins.com/pages/liesmytherapisttoldme – 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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