In this episode of Thinking Christian, James sits down with Dr. Chris Rappazzini, professor of leadership at Anderson University, author of Moving Forward After Messing Up, and founder of Faithful Steps Forward. James and Chris discuss how leadership serves as a specialized form of discipleship, the tension between cultural adaptation and biblical foundations in leadership theories, and the enduring challenge of learning from our failures.

Dr. Rappazzini shares insights from his personal journey, his work with leaders in organizational settings, and the biblical framework for moving forward after mistakes. Along the way, we explore themes of resilience, self-awareness, and the balance between mission and people-focused leadership.

Whether you're a seasoned leader, someone navigating life's challenges, or simply looking for a thoughtful conversation on integrating faith and leadership, this episode is for you.

To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or sign up for a course at usefultogod.com/learn. 

To check out Chris Rappazini's work, see the following: 

Faithful Steps Forward- https://www.faithfulstepsforward.com

Moving Forward after Messing Up- Purchase here.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer sits down with Mark Hancock, CEO of Trail Life USA, to discuss the unique challenges of raising boys in today’s culture. Mark shares how Trail Life USA is equipping the next generation of godly men through Christ-centered, boy-focused outdoor experiences.

Together, they explore topics like the importance of adversity, the transformative power of hands-on engagement, and how fathers and mentors can help boys build resilience and discover their God-given purpose. Whether you're a parent, mentor, or church leader, this conversation offers practical insights and encouragement for shaping boys into men who live for Christ.

Discover more about Trail Life USA, their mission, and how your church can get involved in this inspiring movement. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on faith, family, and the future of raising godly men!

You can access the free book Let Boys Be Boys and find out more about Trail Life USA at https://www.traillifeusa.com. 

🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com

📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing!

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation!

For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living.

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In this episode, James discusses New Years resolutions through the lens of Psalm 1. He describes the difference between approaching resolutions from the perpective of changing our behaviors or ourselves and positioning ourselves so that God can transform us. He also describes what he'll be doing over the next few episodes. 

If you are interested in supporting the Thinking Christian podcast or just getting a unique, seven lesson resource on Christian decision-making, click here. 

You can also find more resources at usefultogod.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James sits down with Carmen Joy Imes, an Old Testament scholar and author of Being God's Image: Why Creation Still Matters. They discuss the meaning and significance of the image of God to the life of the church and its members today.

To order Being God's Image: Why Creation Still Matters visit https://ivpress.com/. You can use the code IVPPOD20 for 20% off your purchase.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James sits down with co-host Nate Giarratano and special guest Ryan Ries to discuss Ryan's story. Ryan was a pro-skateboarder who gave his life to Christ and began to proclaim the gospel. 

For more about Ryan and his ministry go to https://ryan-ries.com/.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James and Nate sit down with Jamie Thomas.  Jamie shares his testimony and how he got involved in skateboarding as a teenager.  Thomas is a world renowned professional skateboarder and entrepreneur. Jamie Thomas was also in Tony hawks video games "Tony Hawk Pro Skater".  Jamie has an amazing perspective and heart for people to really know who Jesus Christ is.  

For more info check out his social media @jamiethomas 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James discusses the recent research concerning perceptions of religious influence in the United States. While the report offers many reasons to be hopeful, James encourages Christians to ensure their hope is rooted in Christ and to focus on being prepared to obey regardless of the consequences. 

For the full research report visit https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2024/03/15/8-in-10-americans-say-religion-is-losing-influence-in-public-life/

For the article James references in the episode visit https://www.christianity.com/wiki/marriage/what-does-the-bible-say-about-love-and-respect-in-marriage.html

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James and Nate sit down to talk about the origin story Grammy award winning band for King & Country.  Luke Smallbone shares some inside info on the new movie "Unsung Hero" movie coming to theaters April 26th.  

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James and Nate sit down with the two founding members of Unspoken. Chad Mattson and Jon Lowry talk about their history together, the challenges of Christian music, and the privilege of being involved in ministry. Chad also shares his testimony. 

You can find out more about Unspoken at https://www.unspokenmusic.com/.

We would also encourage you to check out the ministry Chad mentions in the episode at https://soldiersforfaith.com/.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode of Thinking Christian, James sits down with Brad Dacus, president of the Pacific Justice Institute. Brad shares his testimony and describes the landscape of legal issues facing Christians in the United States. 

You can find the resources noted on the episode at https://pacificjustice.org/resources/for-parents/.

Also, check out Brad's radio and television programs at https://mailchi.mp/pji.org/pji-tv-radio. 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, Nate and James host David Zach from Remedy Drive. They discuss the creative process and how there is no realm of the "mundane." David also discusses the bands invovlement with Exodus Road, a human trafficking ministry that helps women and men who are being exploited find freedom from that exploitation and re-enter society. 

For more on Remedy Drive and ideas on how to get involved in the fight against human trafficking see https://remedydrive.com/action.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

James sits down with Dr. Gregg Quiggle, author of the forthcoming book titled Bread and Bibles. They discuss Dwight Moody's enduring impact on the world, the characteristics that make him so compelling, and the challenging aspects of his ministry. James and Gregg also talk about the deep connection between proclaiming the gospel and performing works of care for others.

To pre-order Dr. Quiggle's book, click here.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James and Nate have a very real and transparent conversation about life and what that looks like in comparison to America and Ireland.  It is very easy to see Darren's zeal and heart for the Lord!  

For more on Darren and We Are Messengers click here.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, Dr. James Spencer considers Philippians 2. While it isn't a traditional "Christmas" text, Phillippians 2 offers some important backgrount regarding Jesus's decisions prior to the incarnation. The text offers insights into the nature of the incarnation and the characteristics Christians should adopt as they model their lives after Christ. 

If you are interested in supporting the Thinking Christian podcast or just getting a unique, seven lesson resource on Christian decision-making, click here. 

You can also find more resources at usefultogod.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

It was a pleasure to welcome Shayna Rattler from A God Shift to Thinking Christian. Shayna talks about the trajectory her ministry is taking and how every Christian needs to be listening to and following Christ. She also talks about her ministry with Christian women. 

Find out more about Shayna here.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James speaks with Dan Biddle, executive producer of The Ark and the Darkness. In addition to discussing the new film, James and Dan consider some of the evidence presented in the film and the plausibility of the biblical account of the worldwide flood.

For more on The Ark and the Darkness click here.

You can also find out more about Dan's minisry at Genesis Apologetics.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James discusses the convergence of Easter and the Transgender Day of Visibility that occured this March 31st. After clearing some ground about the Bible's teachings about our misdirected desires and actions, as well as what it means to be made in the image of God, James discusses the political messaging that can be a distraction to the Church (both on Easter and beyond). 

To read James' opinion piece published by Fox News, click here. 

For more of James' thinking on the Church and politics, purchase his new book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness at amazon.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James sits down with Chris Worthington.  He is the director of the movie "Multiplied" coming to theaters for two days only.  May 20th and 21st.  In this movie Chris sets out to document what the future of evangelism looks like.  Hear a behind the scenes look at the movie from the director! 

Purchase tickets at https://www.multipliedmovie.com/.

Follow Multiplied on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/multipliedmovie?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James offers a brief discussion of God and evil. He provides a description of evil as disorder based on Genesis 1-3, as well as considering the role of suffering in the Christian life. 

To read more on God and Evil, visit James' article on christianity.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James talks with Jeff King, president of International Christian Concern (persecution.org) and author of a new book titled The Whisper. They discuss some of the lessons Jeff has learned in working with the persecuted church over a number of years, as well as how suffering can conform Christians more closely into the image of Christ. 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James speaks with Theresa Sidebotham from Telios Law. They talk about the necessity of caring for the vulnerable in the context of the local church. Theresa shares her thoughts on how spiritual abuse develops within a given congregation and offers helpful tips and resources for those looking to develop stronger policy frameworks for thier local congregations.

You can find out more about Telios Law at https://telioslaw.com/.

Check out some of the resources mentioned in the show at https://teliosteaches.com/.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James discusses the modern state of Israel. He considers some of the challenges associated with eschatology and encourages Christians (regardless of their views of the end times) to recognize that Israel's conversion is more significant than their political formation as a state. 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James and his guest host Richard Beatty sit down with Darryl Strawberry. Darryl shares his testimony, talks about his ministry, and offers insights into the sort of legacy he wants to leave beyond baseball. 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James speaks with Jeremy Slayden about Jeremy's research on dispensationalism. Jeremy and James discuss a variety of issues related to biblical eschatology and the modern state of Israel.

You can find out more about Jeremy on Instagram.

Check out the video referenced in the podcast at rumble.com/c/JSlayUSA.

Visit Jeremy's Substack at https://jslayusa.substack.com/p/the-dubious-origins-of-americas-most

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, Dr. James Spencer discusses the virgin birth and Matthew's use of Isaiah 7:14. Beginning with an analysis of Isaiah 7:14 in its Old Testament context, Dr. Spencer moves on to consider various issues of interpretation before describing how Matthew uses Isaiah 7:14 to point to the virgin birth of Jesus Christ. 

If you are interested in supporting the Thinking Christian podcast or just getting a unique, seven lesson resource on Christian decision-making, click here. 

You can also find more resources at usefultogod.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James speaks with Laura Gallier author of the Delusion Series, a set of fictional novels highlighting the spiritual struggles that are too often lost when we consider the issues we face in today's world. James and Laura discuss Laura's story, her new book, and the other ministries with which Laura is involved. 

For more information on Laura visit www.lauragallier.com

To purchase Laura's book visit amazon.com. 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Marching forward requires an understanding of the direction that God wants us to go. In this special episode of “March or Die”, another Christian podcast on the LifeAudio podcast network, Veteran Jeremey Stalnecker will speak on the importance of spending time with God understanding his directions and how we can do that. 

If you like what you hear, subscribe to March or Die on Spotify & Apple Podcasts!

Check out the top episodes of March or Die: 

A Conversation with Nick Vujicic of Life Without Limbs:

Apple:https://apple.co/3uRCsWK  Spotify: https://sptfy.com/Qa1R

Understanding and Finding Victory in Spiritual Warfare:

Apple:https://apple.co/4383sxV Spotify: https://sptfy.com/Qa22

Developing a Growth Mindset with an Eternal View:

Apple: https://apple.co/434y4jw Spotify: https://sptfy.com/Qa24

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James and co-host Nate Giarrantano sit down with Brant Hanson to talk about Brant's life, career, and ministry. In particular, James, Nate, and Brant talk about Brant's work with Cure International, the miracle of God's healing presence today, and the power of Christian participation in the medical field. They also discuss the Followership Conference that Brant has coming up in April.

Find out more about Brant and Cure International at the following links:

Followership Conference

Cure Internation

BrantHansen.com

Order Brant's New book titled Life is Hard, God is Good, Let's Dance at amazon.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James follows up the interviews with Ayanda Khumalo and Dan Bremnes with a discussion of worship based on his new book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness. You can check out his book on amazon.com. 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode Nate Giarrantano and James Spencer sit down with Christian recording artist Dan Bremnes. We discuss Dan's winding road in the music industry and God's ongoing faithfulness. 

You can find out more about Dan at https://danbremnes.com/.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James continues his conversation Ayanda Khumalo. Ayanda recently released his album titled In Jesus. He is also getting ready to release his second children's book as a follow-up to Aya and Abba. Ayanda and James continue to discuss Ayanda's music and the reason he decided to write a children's book. 

You can find Ayanda's album on iTunes and a variety of other platforms, which can be found at theakmusic.com.

Check out Aya and Abba at amazon.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James sits down with Ayanda Khumalo who recently released his album titled In Jesus . Ayanda and James discuss Ayanda's approach to worship and the way he thinks about pulling an album together. 

You can find Ayanda's album on iTunes and a variety of other platforms, which can be found at theakmusic.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James continues his conversation with Rylee Meek of The King's Council and The King's Council Podcast. James and Rylee discuss Rylee's ministry and how the Chruch might think differently about business and money. 

You can find out more about Rylee at www.ryleemeek.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James speaks with Rylee Meek of The King's Council and The King's Council Podcast. James and Rylee discuss Rylee's background and how his faith informs his life, ministry, and understanding of business. 

You can find out more about Rylee at www.ryleemeek.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James continues his conversation with Lowell Busenitz. They discuss the ways our mindsets are influenced by the gifts God has given us and how to go about thinking well as Christians. 

You can find Soul Work by Lowell Busenitz at amazon.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James continues his discussion of Luke 1. He deals with the Magnificat and Zecheriah's Prophecy. He also discusses the importance of Christ's coming from the perspective of Old Testament anticipation.

If you are interested in supporting the Thinking Christian podcast or just getting a unique, seven lesson resource on Christian decision-making, click here. 

You can also find more resources at usefultogod.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode of Thinking Christian, James discusses entrepreneurship with Lowell Busenitz. Lowell completed his dissertation on the mindset of entrepreneurs and the mental models they use. He and James discuss the ways his findings may relate to Christian thinking. 

You can find Lowell's book titled Soul Work on amazon.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James continues his conversation with Dr. Bryan Babcock, who contributed an essay on lament in the 2023 book titled A Praying People. James and Bryan discuss the way lament can help build Christian community and the way lament transforms us personally. 

Listen to Part 1 on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or LifeAudio.com! 

Get A Praying People on amazon.com 

Purchase Trajectories: A Gospel-Centered Introduction to Old Testament Theology here.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode of Thinking Christian, James speaks with Dr. Bryan Babcock. Dr. Babcock contributed an essay on lament in the 2023 book titled A Praying People. He also co-authored Trajectories: A Gospel-Centered Introduction to Old Testament Theology with Drs. James Spencer and Russel Meek in 2018. James and Bryan discuss Bryan's work with various relief efforts and how that has shaped his understanding of lament. 

Listen to Part 2 on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or LifeAudio.com! 

Get A Praying People on amazon.com 

Purchase Trajectories: A Gospel-Centered Introduction to Old Testament Theology here.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James continues his conversation with Beth Runkle, author of Another Move God?. Beth talks about the unique needs of military families and the various ways God's people can reach out to and care for those serving in the armed forces. She also discusses her approach to discipleship through her ministry with CRU.

Pre-order Beth's book titled Another Move God?: 30 Encouragements to Embrace Your Life as a Military Wife at amazon.com

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James sits down with Beth Runkle, author of the forthcoming book Another Move God?. Beth was a military wife for many years and talks about how she learned to focus on God's mission during times of significant transmission. Her book is focused on military wives, but the lessons are broadly applicable to anyone who is undergoing change and seeking to remain faithful to the Lord.

Beth's book Another Move God?: 30 Encouragements to Embrace Your Life as a Military Wife is available for pre-order at amazon.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

How can we improve our relationships just by showing love and respect? How have changes in the culture changed the way we relate to one another? In this episode, James continues his conversation with Emerson Eggerichs, author of Love and Respect and president of Love and Respect Ministries, and Emerson offers his perspective on how showing Love and Respect can help us develop stronger relationships. 

Listen to Part 1: https://apple.co/42Uh4wA / https://sptfy.com/Q3hH 

Get Love and Respect on amazon.com

Find more from Dr. Emerson Eggerichs at www.loveandrespect.com

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James sits down with Dr. Emerson Eggerichs, author of Love and Respect and President of Love and Respect Ministries. They discuss Ephesians 5 and the dynamics of love and respect within marriages and in other relationships. 

Listen to Part 2: https://apple.co/3SOiKmp / https://sptfy.com/Q3hI 

Get Love and Respect on amazon.com

Find more from Dr. Emerson Eggerichs at www.loveandrespect.com

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James continues his conversation with Nancy Pearcey, author of The Toxic War on Masculinity. They discuss the ways remote work may be opening up opportunities for men to reestablish a bigger role in the home and a variety of other topics related to Nancy's research. 

You can purchase The Toxic War on Masculinity at amazon.com.

To learn more about Nancy Pearcey visit:  https://www.nancypearcey.com/

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James sits down wit Nancy Pearcey to discuss her new book titled The Toxic War on Masculinity. Nancy shares her research and perspective on the difficulties men are facing, as well as describing some of the odd challenges she faced while writing a book on men. 

Listen to Part 1 here.

Get Nancy Pearcey's new book at: The Toxic War on Masculinity

Learn more about Nancy Pearcey at: https://www.nancypearcey.com

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James speaks with Dr. May Young who authored a chapter in a book James co-edited titled A Praying People. Dr. Young is an expert on the topic of lament and the book of Lamentations. James and Dr. Young discuss lament more generally and how it can build community in the Church.

Get A Praying People on amazon.com 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James begins a short series that will deal with various passages related to Christmas. The announcement of John and Jesus represent the proclamation that God will be doing something new amongst his people. They demonstrate that there is no obstacle too big for God to overcome as he seeks to bring in his kingdom. 

If you are interested in supporting the Thinking Christian podcast or just getting a unique, seven lesson resource on Christian decision-making, click here. 

You can also find more resources at usefultogod.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James and Alin continue to discuss the role of the Church in the world and how individual Christians can participate in politics. 

Part 1: https://apple.co/3UEbsoa / https://sptfy.com/PYSY

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Is the church playing the wrong game? In this episode of Thinking Christian, James sits down with Alin Vrancila to discuss Religion's role in government. They discuss the challenge of maintaining a clear distinction between Church and state while continuing to engage politically. 

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

On this episode, James Spencer sits down with Dan Meers...the KC Wolf. Dan talks about his career with the Chiefs, their hopes for the Super Bowl, and, most importantly, his Christian faith. You can find out more about Dan and his story at danmeers.org. You can also purchase Dan's book Wolves Can't Fly. All proceeds from the sale of Dan's book go to charity.

Wolves Can't Fly: KC Wolf: Faith, Family and Fur

www.danmeers.org

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.