In "7 Deadly Sins," Ryan Denison examines the seven deadly sins—pride, greed, lust, envy, gluttony, wrath, and sloth—through a biblical lens. The book explores the nature and consequences of these sins, providing insights into their impact on individuals and society. Denison offers a balanced perspective, acknowledging the human tendency toward sin while emphasizing the transformative power of God's grace. He provides practical strategies for overcoming these sins and cultivating virtuous character. The book serves as a guide for spiritual growth and self-reflection, encouraging readers to strive for a life of holiness.
In "How to Bless God by Blessing Others," Ryan Denison explores the concept of blessing as a reciprocal act of worship and service. The book examines the biblical basis for blessing, highlighting its significance in both personal and communal life. Denison provides practical examples and scriptural guidance on how to bless others in various contexts, emphasizing the transformative power of selfless giving. He connects the act of blessing to spiritual growth and a deeper relationship with God. The book encourages readers to actively seek opportunities to bless those around them, fostering a culture of generosity and mutual support.
In "What Are My Spiritual Gifts?", Ryan Denison provides a clear and concise explanation of spiritual gifts within the context of Christian faith. The book helps readers understand the different types of spiritual gifts, their purpose, and how to identify their own unique gifts. Denison emphasizes the importance of using one's gifts to serve God and others within the church community. He offers practical guidance on how to discover and develop one's spiritual gifts, encouraging readers to embrace their God-given talents. The book promotes a deeper understanding of spiritual gifts and their role in building a thriving Christian community.
In "The Path to Purpose," Ryan Denison explores the biblical concept of purpose, guiding readers toward a life of meaning and fulfillment. The book delves into the various facets of purpose, examining how it relates to faith, vocation, and relationships. Denison provides practical insights and scriptural guidance to help individuals discover and live out their God-given purpose. He emphasizes the importance of aligning one's life with God's plan, fostering a sense of belonging and contribution to the world. The book offers a comprehensive framework for understanding and embracing one's unique purpose in life.
In this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Mark Turman is joined by Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Ryan Denison for a thoughtful conversation on the history and diversity within the Christian faith. Together, they explore the key moments that shaped the church, including the Great Schism, the Protestant Reformation, and Vatican II. They also discuss the rise of non-denominational churches and what it looks like to find a faithful church home in today’s landscape.
This conversation offers both clarity and encouragement for Christians navigating differences in doctrine and tradition—and reminds us why unity in Christ still matters.
Topics
- (01:21): Personal story and introduction to denominations
- (03:43): The conclave and selection of a new pope
- (11:32): The Great Schism: East vs. West
- (20:26): The Protestant Reformation and its impact
- (26:05): Magisterial vs. Radical reformers
- (32:20): Baptism and church membership challenges
- (33:45): The impact of Vatican II
- (40:36): Modern denominational differences
- (51:25): Non-denominational churches: A new trend
- (55:17): Finding unity in diversity
- (01:04:47): Guidance for finding a new church
- (01:08:47): Conclusion
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. 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 coauthored Sacred Sexuality: Reclaiming God’s Design and Who Am I? What the Bible Says About Identity and Why it Matters and has contributed writing or research to every Denison Forum book.
About Dr. Mark Turman
Mark Turman, DMin, serves as the Executive Director of Denison Forum, where he leads with a passion for equipping believers to navigate today’s complex culture with biblical truth. He is best known as the host of The Denison Forum Podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom Chapel, the in-person congregation of Denison Ministries.
Dr. Turman is the coauthor of Sacred Sexuality: Reclaiming God’s Design and Who Am I? What the Bible Says About Identity and Why it Matters. He earned his undergraduate degree from Howard Payne University in Brownwood, Texas, and received his Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He later completed his Doctor of Ministry at George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University in Waco.
Before joining Denison Forum, Mark served as a pastor for 35 years, including 25 years as the founding pastor of Crosspoint Church in McKinney, Texas.
Mark and his high school sweetheart, Judi, married in 1986. They are proud parents of two adult children and grandparents to three grandchildren.
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 Denison Forum Podcast - Christian perspective on current events, Christian news and culture, Biblical wisdom 
