Epstein backlash, Christianity is growing, Chip and Joanna Gaines controversy & Scottie Scheffler's introspection | Ep. 28

On this episode of Culture Brief, we dive into the latest on the Jeffrey Epstein uproar, the White House’s mixed response and why it still matters to many Americans.

Then Micah breaks down new statistics indicating hopeful signs of revival—in the U.S. and around the world—and talks about the part we each play in this explosion of the Christian faith.

We also unpack the Christian backlash against Chip and Joanna Gaines, hit on the latest in NYC mayoral race, mark the one-year anniversary of the Trump assassination attempt, reflect on John MacArthur’s legacy, and celebrate a meaningful moment from the world’s best golfer, Scottie Scheffler, about where real purpose is found.

There’s lots happening in the world and as always, we’re grateful to walk through it with you.

Topics

• (00:54) Epstein Controversy: Unraveling the Mystery
• (05:44)  Government Transparency and Public Trust
• (17:09)  Spiritual Renewal and Revival
• (23:13)  Fresh Hunger for Jesus
• (31:02)  Chip and Joanna Gaines Controversy
• (35:33)  New York City Mayor Race
• (40:49)  Trump's Shift on Putin
• (42:02)  Scottie Scheffler's Perspective on Golf and Life

Resources

• Mailbag: culturebrief@denisonforum.org
• Culture Brief Instagram
• Sign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribe

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Metadata Shows the FBI’s ‘Raw’ Jeffrey Epstein Prison Video Was Likely Modified
• The FBI's Jeffrey Epstein Prison Video Had Nearly 3 Minutes Cut Out
• 1 big thing: MAGA's siege mentality
• Denison Forum: “The clearest trend we’ve seen pointing to spiritual renewal”
• Barna: New Research: Belief in Jesus Rises, Fueled by Younger Adults
• Pew Research Center: Christian Movements and Denominations
• Denison Forum: Chip and Joanna Gaines’ new show features a gay couple
• ‘What’s the point?’ Scottie Scheffler gets existential in fascinating presser
• X Video: Scottie Scheffler just gave one of the best (and deepest) press conference answers ever heard.

Other articles on this week’s top headlines:

• Denison Forum: Ghislaine Maxwell offers to testify before Congress about Epstein
• 3 ways Trump might try to defuse the Epstein mess
• Economy and Epstein: Gen Z MAGA wants results
• Trump Gets 'Ratioed' on Truth Social for First Time Amid Epstein Backlash
• Playbook: Trump’s Epstein headache isn’t going away
• MAGA media in revolt
• Case Closed on Epstein? Not So Fast
• NYT: How Do You Silence a Conspiracy Theory?
• 10 reasons the DOJ and FBI face backlash over Epstein files flop
• Lara Trump Interview
• Make Christianity cool again: Why Gen Z is flocking to church

About Conner Jones

Conner Jones is the Director of Performance Marketing at Denison Ministries and Co-Hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2019 with a degree in Business Management. Conner passionately follows politics, sports, pop-culture, entertainment, and current events. He enjoys fishing, movie-going, and traveling the world with his wife and son.

About Micah Tomasella

Micah Tomasella is the Senior Advancement Officer at Denison Ministries and co-hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. A graduate of Dallas Baptist University, Micah is married to Emily, and together they are the proud parents of two daughters. With an extensive background in nonprofit work, finance, and real estate, Micah also brings experience from his years in pastoral church ministry.

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.