Explore every episode of the podcast The Denison Forum Podcast - Christian perspective on current events, Christian news and culture, Biblical wisdom
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| The role of politics in protecting the sanctity of life - Part 7 | 12 Sep 2024 | 01:00:12 | |
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. Topics
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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. About Dr. Ryan DenisonRyan 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. About Dr. Mark TurmanMark 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. About Denison ForumDenison 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 to be salt & light for Christ as outsiders in America - Part 6 | 05 Sep 2024 | 01:03:52 | |
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. Topics
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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. About Patrick MillerPatrick 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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| Avoiding the idol of politics with a biblical approach - Part 5 | 29 Aug 2024 | 00:59:27 | |
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. Topics
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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| Is America a Christian nation? - Part 4 | 22 Aug 2024 | 01:14:00 | |
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. Topics(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 ResourcesRelated Denison Forum podcasts:
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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. About Dr. Ryan DenisonRyan 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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| Should Christians be involved in politics? - Part 3 | 15 Aug 2024 | 00:53:19 | |
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. Topics
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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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| Understanding the role of media in politics and faith - Part 2 | 08 Aug 2024 | 01:02:12 | |
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. Topics
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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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| Navigating Christianity and politics - Part 1 | 01 Aug 2024 | 01:08:55 | |
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. Topics
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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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| Why wisdom matters with Janet Denison | 25 Jul 2024 | 00:47:39 | |
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. Topics
About Janet DenisonJanet 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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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 it mean to be friends with Jesus? | 18 Jul 2024 | 00:45:53 | |
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. Topics (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 Resources
About Jared Wilson 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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| Addressing moral failures in the church | 16 Jul 2024 | 01:00:56 | |
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. Topics(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 Resources
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 TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| Investigating Christianity: A conversation with J. Warner Wallace | 11 Jul 2024 | 01:03:15 | |
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. Topics(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 ResourcesCold-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 About J. Warner WallaceJ. 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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| Parenting with purpose: Insight and tools from Courtney DeFeo | 04 Jul 2024 | 00:48:18 | |
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. Topics(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 ResourcesA Parent’s Prayer Journal: A Life of Faith: Knowing, Loving, Following, and Sharing Jesus About Courtney DeFeoCourtney 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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| Navigating extremism: A conversation with Elizabeth Neumann | 27 Jun 2024 | 01:04:31 | |
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. Topics(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 ResourcesKingdom 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? About Elizabeth NeumannElizabeth 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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| Addressing trauma and loss: A personal conversation with Steve Carter | 25 Jun 2024 | 00:54:30 | |
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. Topics(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 ResourcesGrieve, 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 About Steve CarterSteve 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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| A biblical conversation on immigration with Dr. Ryan Denison | 19 Jun 2024 | 01:00:02 | |
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. Topics
Resources President Biden issues “Proclamation on Securing the Border” Separating children at the border: 3 options and my response 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. 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. | |||
| "The Billy Graham of Iran": The incredible journey of Dr. Hormoz Shariat | 13 Jun 2024 | 00:44:51 | |
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. Topics
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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| Ghosted: A conversation with Nancy French | 06 Jun 2024 | 00:54:51 | |
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. | |||
| The mystery of sex and marriage: A conversation with Chris Legg | 30 May 2024 | 01:01:06 | |
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. | |||
| How does a Christian transform the culture? - Part 8 | 23 May 2024 | 00:55:24 | |
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. | |||
| Why must Christians be civil in uncivil times? - Part 7 | 16 May 2024 | 01:11:59 | |
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.” Topics(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 Resources
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 TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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 God's design for sex and relationships? - Part 6 | 09 May 2024 | 01:00:59 | |
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? ” Topics(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 ResourcesIs 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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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 it mean to hunger and thirst for righteousness? - Part 5 | 02 May 2024 | 01:06:02 | |
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. | |||
| Who determines the value of life? - Part 4 | 25 Apr 2024 | 01:03:44 | |
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. | |||
| The power of Christ to change the culture - Part 3 | 18 Apr 2024 | 01:04:14 | |
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. | |||
| Live by biblical truth and authority - Part 2 | 11 Apr 2024 | 01:03:09 | |
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. | |||
| A pathway for becoming culture-changing Christians - Part 1 | 04 Apr 2024 | 01:05:02 | |
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.” Topics(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 ResourcesHow to become a culture-changing Christian About Dr. Jim DenisonJim 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 TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| If “Easter” isn’t in the Bible, why do we celebrate it? | 28 Mar 2024 | 01:08:44 | |
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. Topics(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 ResourcesWas 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 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 TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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 to be Christian in an anti-Christian culture | 21 Mar 2024 | 01:00:05 | |
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. Topics(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 ResourcesLife in the Negative World: Confronting Challenges in an Anti-Christian Culture by Aaron Renn About Aaron RennAaron 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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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 it mean to be accountable to God? | 14 Mar 2024 | 00:52:57 | |
What does it mean to be accountable to God? 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. Topics(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 ResourcesWhat does the Bible say about accountability? The line between judgment and accountability Matthew: A Guide to Genuine Discipleship About Dr. Jim DenisonJim 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 TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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 political should Christians be? Preston Sprinkle discusses his new book, “Exiles” | 07 Mar 2024 | 00:58:11 | |
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. Topics(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 ResourcesExiles: The Church in the Shadow of Empire Center for Faith, Sexuality & Gender 🎧 “Does the Bible Support Same-Sex Marriage?” A conversation with Preston Sprinkle About Dr. Preston SprinkleNew 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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| A different kind of strength: Toni Collier on women's Unshakable Moxie | 29 Feb 2024 | 00:36:28 | |
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. Topics(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 ResourcesUnshakable Moxie: Growing a Resilient Faith, A 6-Session Women's Bible Study with Video access About Toni CollierToni 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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| When politics get extreme, what should Christians do? A conversation with Tim Alberta | 22 Feb 2024 | 01:04:24 | |
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 Resources
About Tim Alberta 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. About Dr. Jim DenisonJim 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 TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| “A Great Calm,” why Christians observe Lent, and the role of women in ministry: Insights from Janet Denison | 14 Feb 2024 | 00:50:01 | |
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. Topics(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 Resources📘 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 About Janet DenisonJanet 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. About Dr. Jim DenisonJim 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 TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| Is Gen Z beyond the reach of the church? A conversation with Aaron Pierce | 08 Feb 2024 | 00:52:28 | |
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. Topics
Resources
About Aaron Pierce 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). About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| Why we observe Black History Month: Tyrone Johnson discusses biblical equality | 01 Feb 2024 | 00:57:04 | |
“Where we are now is a part of where we were then.” –Tyrone Johnson 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. Resources
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. About Dr. Jim DenisonJim 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 TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| Confronting the past: Why International Holocaust Remembrance Day matters | 26 Jan 2024 | 00:50:32 | |
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. Perspectives on remembranceThe 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. Link between the past and the presentWitnessing 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. Guilt, shame, and the power of remembranceThe 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. Personalizing the act of remembranceUnderstanding 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. ConclusionReflecting 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. ResourcesWhy 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) About Dr. Jim DenisonJim 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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| Why we must choose life | 19 Jan 2024 | 01:00:56 | |
Abortion is the moral issue of our day. 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. Topics(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 ResourcesNational 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? About Dr. Jim DenisonJim 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 TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| On the ground in Israel: An Israeli's perspective on the war | 17 Jan 2024 | 00:52:57 | |
“You need more than thousand days to hear thousand stories of what happened here in Israel.” 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. | |||
| An invitation to "The After Party": Reframing Christian engagement in politics with David French and Curtis Chang | 11 Jan 2024 | 00:52:29 | |
“We want to inject spiritual formation on politics into small groups.” 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. Topics(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 Resources🎧 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 About David French 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. About Curtis Chang 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. | |||
| History is His story: On Jesus’ greatest commandment, the January 6 riot, and the importance of history | 05 Jan 2024 | 00:47:09 | |
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. Topics(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? ResourcesFree course: The Greatest Commandment: How to Love God and Others with All Your Heart, Soul, Mind, and Strength About Dr. Jim DenisonJim 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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| Israel’s options, the pope’s blessing, and the incredible reality of the incarnation | 20 Dec 2023 | 00:59:29 | |
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. Topics(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 Resources
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 About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| Ask Jim: Jesus in hell, salvation after death, and “God made me this way” | 18 Dec 2023 | 00:52:53 | |
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. Topics(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? Resources
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 TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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 If Jesus Was Serious about Heaven? With Skye Jethani | 11 Dec 2023 | 00:56:03 | |
“Jesus is not calling people to align themselves with heaven. He calls people to align themselves to him.” 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. Topics(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? Resources
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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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 War in Israel: What You Need to Know about This Crisis of Global Significance | 30 Nov 2023 | 00:53:50 | |
“The goal is to equip Christians to pray powerfully and use their influence effectively for the cause of peace in the Middle East.” 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. Topics(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? Resources 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 About Dr. Jim DenisonJim 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 TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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 to talk to your kids about gender identity | 27 Nov 2023 | 00:56:13 | |
Dr. Mark Yarhouse offers practical tools for discussing gender identity with “compassion, civility, and conviction.” 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. Topics(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? ResourcesTalking 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 Related Denison Forum Podcast episodesTransgender 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 About Dr. Mark YarhouseDr. 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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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 essential Christian practice of creation care discipleship with Steven Bouma-Prediger | 20 Nov 2023 | 00:49:44 | |
“The Bible begins and ends with rivers and trees.” 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. Topics(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? ResourcesCreation Care Discipleship: Why Earthkeeping Is an Essential Christian Practice by Steven Bouma-Prediger, PhD Evangelical Environmental Network About Steven Bouma-Prediger, PhDSteven 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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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 college students should know about the war in Israel | 14 Nov 2023 | 00:49:01 | |
Is Israel an oppressive occupier? 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? Topics(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 ResourcesIs 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 About Dr. Jim DenisonJim 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 TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| Why is Jesus called Immanuel? Janet Denison discusses her new Advent devotional | 13 Nov 2023 | 00:42:50 | |
“They shall call his name Immanuel (which means, God with us)” —Matthew 1:23 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. Topics(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? ResourcesAbout Janet DenisonJanet 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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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 does the Bible apply to today’s politics? With Kaitlyn Schiess | 06 Nov 2023 | 00:55:54 | |
“We are a Bible-haunted nation.” 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?” Topics(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 Resources
About Kaitlyn Schiess 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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||
| Is the war in Israel a sign of the end times? | 01 Nov 2023 | 00:42:00 | |
Jesus said, “You will hear of wars and rumors of wars.” 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). Topics
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 DenisonRyan 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. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. 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 ForumDenison 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. | |||