Wretched Radio with Todd Friel - Fortis Institute

Latest Episodes:

AI AND CHRISTIANITY: WHY THE CHURCH MUST ENGAGE NOW Jan 14, 2025

Show notes

Segment 1: • Divided by Ideology: One of their own members writes Psychology Supersedes Biology, exposing internal contradictions. • Cultural Madness: The idea that society must conform to individuals rather than the other way around is gaining traction. • Transracialism?: If gender is fluid, can race be as well? The secular worldview starts collapsing under its own logic. Segment 2: • History Matters: Michelangelo sat under Jerome Savonarola’s preaching and found comfort in the doctrine of justification. • The Reformation’s Reach: Even in 1497, the seeds of justification by faith alone were shaping history. • AI and the Church: Christians need to be part of AI development—otherwise, it will be shaped by secular worldviews. Segment 3: • The Pope’s Bold Move: Calls to eliminate national debt raise questions about economic and theological implications. • AI’s Growing Influence: AI isn’t just advancing—it’s being evangelized. Christians must be informed and engaged. • Lessons from Savonarola: Quotes from this fiery reformer still challenge the church today—are we listening? Segment 4: • Cultural Chaos: Microaggressions now include asking tall people to reach things, while Trump’s inauguration Bible sells for $70. • Sobering Reality: Abortion is the leading cause of death worldwide—what is the church doing about it? • The Gospel Must Be Clear: If we’re going to proclaim Christ, we must include the essential elements of the true gospel. ___ 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!

DO YOU ATTEND CHURCH AS A CONSUMER? HOW TO SHIFT YOUR MINDSET Jan 13, 2025

Show notes

Segment 1: • Tim Challies Hits Hard: We easily fall into the habit of critiquing sermons rather than learning from them. • What’s at Stake? Constant criticism of pastors does little to build us up spiritually. • Biblical Perspective: Matthew 20 reminds us that Scripture isn’t random—it’s teaching us to focus on Jesus, not just theological nitpicking. Segment 2: • Consumer vs. Servant: Do you approach church expecting to be fed, or expecting to serve? • A Better Way to Listen: Instead of critiquing every word of a sermon, come to church as a needy person, eager to grow. • Matthew 20’s Challenge: True greatness in the kingdom isn’t found in tearing down but in humbling yourself and serving others. Segment 3: • God’s Sovereignty in Your Church: Your pastor is the one God placed in your life for a reason—support and pray for him. • Big Names Aren’t Always Better: Older pastors often soften their theology—are we idolizing voices over biblical truth? • Where’s Your Assignment? Instead of chasing spiritual celebrity culture, invest in your local church community. Segment 4: • Different Reactions: Why do we mourn some fallen pastors while being outraged by others? • Who Are You Consuming? If a pastor simply echoes your voice, their fall will agitate you. But if they help you love Jesus more, it will grieve you. • Isaac Watts’ Warning: Even centuries ago, humanism was creeping into the church—what are we allowing to shape our theology today? ___ 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!

PARENTING WITH GRACE: HOW TO APPLY THE GOSPEL IN EVERYDAY DISCIPLINE Jan 10, 2025

Show notes

It’s Mailbag Friday! You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers! Segment 1 • How do we discipline a toddler’s heart, not just their behavior? • Astrology is making a comeback—how do I witness to those who believe in it? Segment 2 • Why do churches ignore grief and widows? Where is the support for those suffering? Segment 3 • Should men listen to a podcast hosted by a woman? • Can couples fast together, or should fasting always be private? • Was Lazarus “de-glorified” when he was brought back from the dead? • Can Christians who aren’t church members still go to heaven? Segment 4 • Should pastors help all Christians or only their church members? • Are minimum wages biblical, socialist, or both? ___ 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!

LEAKY EVANGELICALISM: WHY WE’RE LOSING YOUNG PEOPLE AND WHERE THEY ARE GOING Jan 09, 2025

Show notes

Segment 1: • Tired of Church-tainment: Many are leaving evangelical churches due to shallow entertainment and weak leadership. • Masculinity and Structure: Young men are drawn to Eastern Orthodoxy’s rigid structure and historical depth. • Podcast Influence: A significant number discover Orthodoxy through online content, seeking deeper commitment. Segment 2: • The Appeal of Formality: Eastern Orthodoxy’s formality and disciplined approach attract those disillusioned with modern churches. • The Strength Dilemma: Many leaving evangelicalism say church leaders aren’t “strong men,” but strength alone isn’t biblical leadership. • The Evangelical Response: Should evangelical churches embrace more structure while staying rooted in biblical truth? Segment 3: • Biblical Justification: Clement of Rome emphasized that God alone justifies—our works play no role. • Eastern Orthodox Shift: By the 4th century, Orthodoxy began blending justification with sanctification, moving away from the forensic (legal) view. • Why This Matters: The Bible teaches justification is external—righteousness belongs to Christ and is credited to believers. Segment 4: • Works-Based Salvation: Eastern Orthodoxy teaches salvation is progressive, leading believers toward deification. • Reformers' Stand: The Reformers refuted this, affirming that righteousness is imputed, not infused. • What Should We Do? As young men continue flocking to Orthodoxy, evangelical churches must refocus on deep discipleship, servanthood, and biblical teaching. ___ 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!

SOLOMON HAD IT ALL—SO WHY DID HE CALL LIFE MEANINGLESS? Jan 08, 2025

Show notes

It’s Witness Wednesday! Todd Friel is at Kennesaw State University where he’s talking with students about faith, evolution, and the human condition. Segment 1: • A future dentist, Nick, wrestles with the complexity of human anatomy—too intricate to be accidental? • Todd challenges the evolutionary perspective, arguing that microevolution doesn’t explain the leap to full-functioning systems—evidence of intelligent design. • Nick concedes that a creator may have "set the ingredients," but stops short of committing to full belief. Segment 2: • Todd presents the moral argument—every human has broken God's law and faces judgment. • The courtroom analogy: good deeds can’t erase guilt, but Christ’s sacrifice can fully satisfy divine justice. • Nick agrees it sounds logical but hesitates to call it absolute truth, raising the question of objectivity. Segment 3: • Sociology student Jordan acknowledges the surge in suicide rates, citing academic pressure and societal expectations. • Todd argues that postmodernism and evolutionary thinking have stripped young people of meaning, leaving them lost. • Jordan admits many in her generation feel directionless, questioning, "What’s the point of life?" Segment 4: • Todd presents the Gospel as the final answer to life's biggest questions—purpose, morality, and eternity. • Jordan, though religious, realizes she hasn’t fully considered if she truly believes in salvation through Christ. • The urgency—this isn’t just theology; it’s a decision that determines eternity. ___ 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!

FROM DEATH ROW TO LIFE: WHY JUSTICE MATTERS FOR THE IMAGE OF GOD Jan 07, 2025

Show notes

Segment 1: • Too Exclusive for Christmas? The Church of England now discourages hymns that reference Jesus as Messiah. • Specific Hymns Targeted: O Come, O Come Emmanuel and Once in Royal David’s City are considered problematic. • The Bigger Issue: If core Christian hymns aren’t inclusive enough, where does the church go next? Segment 2: • Holding Onto Tradition: The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols remains a Christmas staple for many believers. • The Mary Focus: An increasing emphasis on Mary has been happening for decades, shifting theological emphasis. • Calvin Robinson’s Shift: The well-known Anglican figure is now in the U.S.—and Catholic. Segment 3: • Why People Are Leaving: Many are abandoning seeker-sensitive churches for liturgical, tradition-heavy faiths. • A Lesson for Evangelicals: People are tired of shallow entertainment in churches and are looking for deeper theology. • Podcast Success: New Fortis Podcasts are ranking in the top 10% worldwide—proof people crave solid teaching. Segment 4: • Anglican Catholics Resemble Rome: Their statement of faith reveals significant Catholic influence. • Presidential Decision: Nearly every death row inmate’s sentence is commuted to life without parole. • Biblical Justice Matters: Murder earns the wage of death, and minimizing justice diminishes the value of human life made in God's image. ___ 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 POPE: MARXIST OR THEOLOGICAL ERROR? WHY IT MATTERS MORE THAN POLITICS Jan 06, 2025

Show notes

Segment 1: • Catholic vs. Protestant Views: Michael Knowles and Charlie Kirk discuss "spreading the love of the Eucharist," but Protestants reject its validity. • The Real Issue: The Pope isn’t just a political problem—his entire role is a theological hoax (John MacArthur). • Kirk’s Missed Opportunity: He critiques the Pope’s Marxism but avoids addressing deeper theological divides. Segment 2: • A Soft Approach: Kirk, usually outspoken, handles Catholicism gently—avoiding doctrinal confrontation. • 500 Years of Division: Protestants and Catholics share some moral values but fundamentally differ on salvation, Mary, and authority. • Historical Perspective: Looking into how Reformers saw the Pope and Catholic teachings provides necessary clarity. Segment 3: • Catholic Claims Under Fire: The idea that Peter was the first Pope doesn’t hold up biblically. • Seeking Clarity Over Unity: Doctrinal precision should take precedence over a surface-level agreement. • Wretched's Breakdown: 25 reasons why Peter was never the Pope highlight how the Catholic system isn’t what it claims to be. Segment 4: • Who Led the Early Church? Scripture shows James, not Peter, was the head of the Jerusalem church. • Canon Controversy: The Catholic Church codified additional books in response to the Reformers, but Jews never recognized them. • Peter’s Own Words: He taught on the priesthood of all believers, which contradicts the idea of a papal hierarchy. ___ 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!

GOOD WORKS VS LEGALISM: HOW TO BE FAITHFUL WITHOUT BECOMING A PHARISEE Jan 03, 2025

Show notes

It’s Mailbag Friday! You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers! Segment 1 • How can I pursue good works without falling into Pharisaical tendencies? • What’s the right way to interpret and apply the Song of Solomon as Christians? • Should we join a church we’re leaving soon just to serve and take communion? • How should Christians, especially women, approach weight loss biblically? Segment 2 • How can I strike up Gospel conversations without feeling awkward or forced? Segment 3 • Is it sinful to decline a baby shower gift if I feel it celebrates past sin? • How do I lead as a husband without making my wife feel forced to follow? • Is it better for a baby to be raised by a same-sex couple or stay in foster care? Segment 4 • Who should select church elders—members, pastors, or Scripture? • Did Muhammad and Joseph Smith encounter demons—or is it all fabricated? • Am I beyond salvation if I’m stuck in habitual sin? ___ 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 TOP 20 STORIES OF 2024: WHAT CHRISTIANS CAN’T IGNORE Jan 02, 2025

Show notes

Segment 1: • Evangelicals in Crisis: From voting dilemmas to Trump hesitancy, Christians face political challenges. • Cultural Decline: The Democratic and Republican platforms reflect a troubling departure from life values. • Global Headlines: Israel/Hamas conflict, assisted suicide expansion, and a controversial Olympics shook 2024. Segment 2: • Raising Kids in 2024: Digital parenting struggles and Satan Clubs bring new challenges for Christian families. • Church Shifts: The UMC crumbles while conservative churches thrive—Justin Welby’s resignation highlights denominational divides. • Hope Rising: Bible sales surge, conservative opportunities increase, and Jesus remains King. Segment 3: • Timely Truth: 2 Timothy 2:2 reminds us to stay grounded in biblical teaching and discipleship, no matter the chaos. • Enduring Hope: Despite cultural shifts and moral failures, God’s Word endures, and His Kingdom reigns. ___ 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!

ONE WAY OR MANY? THE UNCOMFORTABLE TRUTH ABOUT SALVATION Jan 01, 2025

Show notes

It’s Witness Wednesday! Todd Friel heads to University to talk with students about baptism, the purpose of life, and false conversion. Segment 1: • Baptism and yoga compared as sacred rites—emphasizing baptism’s central role in Christian faith. • Todd encourages stress relief through Scripture, highlighting its enduring power over fleeting trends. Segment 2: • A university student shares his mixed beliefs—Christian by upbringing, uncertain about salvation. • Todd underscores the distinction between relying on good works versus trusting in Christ alone for forgiveness. Segment 3: • Student debates the balance between altruism and personal enjoyment in life’s purpose. • Todd transitions the conversation to morality, questioning the role of accountability without belief in an afterlife. Segment 4: • Denise, a self-proclaimed Christian, is challenged on the exclusivity of salvation through Christ. • Ray underscores the importance of repentance and trust in Jesus as the only path to heaven, countering cultural relativism. ___ 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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