What Christians believe—and why it matters

On this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Mark Turman is joined by Dr. Glenn Packiam for a timely and thoughtful conversation about the enduring significance of the Nicene Creed. In a cultural moment marked by confusion and instability, they explore how this ancient declaration of faith offers clarity, grounding, and hope.

Dr. Packiam—a pastor, theologian, and author—unpacks the creed’s rich theology, the role of the Holy Spirit in our daily lives, and why the communal nature of belief matters more than ever. Their discussion also reflects on the themes of Easter, pointing us toward the resurrection of Christ and the unity of the global church.

If you’re looking for deeper understanding and encouragement in your walk with Christ, this conversation is a meaningful place to start.

Topics

• (00:41): Introducing Dr. Glenn Packiam
• (01:24): Cultural reflections and the need for clarity
• (05:45): The role of the Nicene Creed in modern faith
• (09:05): Historical context and significance of the Nicene Creed
• (20:23): The communal aspect of faith
• (25:47): Understanding the Trinity and the supremacy of the Father
• (30:10): Jesus' kingship and our allegiance
• (33:49): Declining awareness of sin
• (37:49): The nature of Jesus
• (41:29): The Holy Spirit: The giver of life
• (48:54): The church: One, holy, catholic, and apostolic
• (58:03): The resurrection and our future hope

Resources

• What's a Christian, Anyway? by Glenn Packiam
• Glenn Packiam
• The Intentional Year by Holly & Glenn Packiam
• The Resilient Pastor: Leading Your Church in a Rapidly Changing World
• Blessed Broken Given: How Your Story Becomes Sacred in the Hands of Jesus: Packiam, Glenn
• Glenn Packiam (@gpackiam) / X
• How has Denison Forum impacted your faith?
• 2025 04 Who Am I? Identity • Denison Forum
• Subscribe to The Daily Article by Dr. Jim Denison

About Dr. Glenn Packiam

Glenn Packiam, ThD is the Lead Pastor of Rockharbor Church in Costa Mesa, California. Glenn is the author of several books, including The Resilient Pastor, Blessed Broken Given, and the most recent title, co-authored with his wife, Holly, The Intentional Year. He earned a Doctorate in Theology and Ministry from Durham University, and is a Senior Fellow at Barna Group, a Visiting Fellow at St. John’s College at Durham University, and an ordained priest with the Anglican Church of North America. Glenn has written over 65 worship songs published with Integrity Music, including “Your Name", co-written with Paul Baloche. Glenn and Holly have four children and live in Orange County, California. 

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.