Exploring religion in a secular world

Join host Mark Turman and Dr. Ryan Denison on the Denison Forum Podcast for a compelling conversation with Ross Douthat, New York Times opinion columnist and bestselling author. In this special episode, they dive into Douthat’s latest book, Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious. Explore the dynamic relationship between faith and reason, the impact of secularization, and the crucial role of communal and institutional religious practices. Gain insight into Douthat’s personal faith journey, his critique of atheism, and his reflections on how to navigate today’s challenges to traditional Christian teachings. Whether you’re a believer, a skeptic, or somewhere in between, this episode offers thought-provoking perspectives on why religion continues to be vital in our modern world.

Topics

• (00:37): Meet Our Special Guests: Dr. Ryan Dennison and Ross Douthat
• (01:16): Discussing Ross Douthat's Latest Book, Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious
• (03:53): The Rise of Secularization and Its Impact
• (09:15): Religion vs. Spirituality: Understanding the Differences
• (16:55): The Rational Approach to Faith
• (44:40): Challenges in Modern Christianity
• (48:19): Ross Douthat's Personal Faith Journey
• (53:39): Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Resources

• Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious
• Ross on X
• Ross Douthat: New York Times
• Why Jesus? -Dr. Jim Denison

About Ross Douthat 

Ross Douthat has been a New York Times Opinion columnist since April 2009. Previously, he was a senior editor at the Atlantic. He is the author of The Deep Places; The Decadent Society; To Change the Church; Bad Religion; Privilege; and, with Reihan Salam, Grand New Party. He is the film critic for National Review. He lives with his wife and five children in New Haven, Connecticut.

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.