The Denison Forum Podcast - Christian perspective on current events, Christian news and culture, Biblical wisdom

Dr. Tom Rudelius shares his remarkable journey from scientific skepticism to Christianity, guided by his twin brother, challenged by a polygraph test, and ultimately compelled by the story of Jesus. In this thoughtful conversation, he explores how science and faith are not at odds but offer complementary ways of understanding reality.In this conversation with Denison Forum Executive Director Dr. Mark Turman, Dr. Rudelius discusses: 1:51 How his twin brother led him to Christ5:37 The myth of the incompatibility between science and faith (9:15 How story and science diverge15:07 His preconceptions and misconceptions about Christianity19:38 The turning point in his conversion25:12 String theory29:42 How faith and science can coexist37:13 How he came to have confidence in the Bible41:24 Why doubt is a gift from GodResourcesChasing Proof, Finding FaithWhat's it like being a Christian in the field of science? An excerpt from "Chasing Proof, Finding Faith" by Tom Rudeliusthe mamelodi initiativeDr Tom Rudelius - Durham UniversityA Scientist's Journey to Physics and Christianity | Tom Rudelius (Durham University)About Dr. Tom RudeliusTom Rudelius completed his undergraduate work at Cornell, earned a doctorate in physics at Harvard, and has conducted postdoctoral research at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, New Jersey. Currently a postdoctoral researcher in theoretical physics at the University of California, Berkeley, Tom will begin a faculty position at Durham University (UK) in the fall of 2023. His research focuses on string theory, quantum field theory, and early universe cosmology. A man of faith and an avid sports fan, he is frequently requested to speak on topics related to science and faith. He is also on the board of the Mamelodi Initiative, a tutoring organization based in Mamelodi, South Africa. Tom's newest book, Chasing Proof, Finding Faith, released on August 8, 2023, from Tyndale.About Dr. Mark TurmanMark 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 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.

Dr. Mark Turman sits down with Dr. Stephen Meyer, director of the Center for Science and Culture at Discovery Institute and author of Return of the God Hypothesis, Darwin’s Doubt, and Signature in the Cell. Together, they explore how recent scientific discoveries—from the origin of the universe to the fine-tuning of the cosmos and the digital code found in DNA—point to the reality of an intelligent designer. Dr. Meyer also reflects on his own journey of faith and reason, offering insight into how science can strengthen our understanding of God and shape the cultural conversation around truth, purpose, and belief.Topics(00:56): Introducing Dr. Steven Meyer(03:04): Dr. Meyer's early fascination with science(05:17): The intersection of science and faith(14:35): The rise of theistic science(19:07): The Scientific Revolution and its theistic roots(30:26) The Big Bang and the beginning of the universe(37:20): The expanding universe and cosmic background radiation(39:47): The digital code of DNA(44:11): The complexity of cellular machinery(48:02): The argument for intelligent design(52:27): The fine-tuning of the universe(59:18): The Multiverse Theory and its challenges(01:03:20): The human search for meaning(01:10:36): Resources and further readingResourcesReturnOfTheGodHypothesis.comReturn of the God Hypothesis by Dr. Stephen MeyerDarwin's Doubt by Dr. Stephen MeyerSignature in the Cell by Dr. Stephen MeyerGod and the Astronomers by Robert JastrowThe Mystery of Life's Origin by Charles ThaxtonFor the Glory of God by Rodney StarkThe Language of God by Francis CollinsFirst Three Minutes by Steven WeinbergAbout Dr. Stephen Meyer Stephen C. Meyer received his Ph.D. in the philosophy of science from the University of Cambridge. A former geophysicist and college professor, he now directs Discovery Institute’s Center for Science and Culture in Seattle. He is the author of multiple books including his latest release, Return of the God Hypothesis. Meyer has been published in many national newspapers like The Wall Street Journal and has been featured on national television and radio shows such as The Jim Lehrer News Hour, NBC Nightly News, and more.About Dr. Mark TurmanMark 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 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.

Join Jim Denison, a cultural theologian and founder of Denison Ministries, and Ryan Denison, Senior Editor for Theology, as they delve into the rich concept of fatherhood through a biblical lens. They share fascinating insights about the origins of Father's Day and the significance of calling God 'Father.' Personal stories highlight the challenges of single parenting and declining birth rates. The pair also discuss the transformative power of viewing God as a loving father and how the church can support fathers in their spiritual journeys.

Mark Turman chats with Jason Pieratt, President of Children's Relief International, who dedicates his work to addressing both physical and spiritual needs in impoverished regions. They discuss CRI's inspirational journey from humble beginnings to impactful global initiatives. Jason shares powerful stories of transformation, highlighting the importance of integrating education and faith. Listeners are encouraged to engage in missions through sponsorship or service, fostering personal connections that truly uplift communities.

On this special Q&A episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, host Mark Turman is joined by Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Ryan Denison to answer your questions on some of today’s most pressing faith topics. They explore the role of the Pope, Christian nationalism, and the popular Chosen TV series and offer practical insights on what it means to live redemptively in today’s world. You’ll also hear thoughtful discussion on the government’s role in social responsibility, Christian beliefs about communion, and how Christians should understand sharia law. Join us for a conversation to help you navigate today’s issues with biblical truth and Christ-centered wisdom.Topics(01:47): Questions about the new Pope(07:56): Understanding canonical law(09:50): The Lord's Supper: different perspectives(18:38): Personal stories and faith journeys(28:24): The role of the Holy Spirit in daily life(31:01): Surrendering to God's will(32:47): Living redemptively(41:28): Understanding sharia law(50:17): Christian nationalism explained(56:53): The role of government in Christian missionResourcesAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgAmerican Idolatry: How Christian Nationalism Betrays the Gospel and Threatens the Church: A conversation with Andrew L. WhiteheadHouse plans to impeach the president: Why I am a Christian patriot but not a Christian nationalistThe eye-opening success of “Christmas with The Chosen” shows how God does “impossible math”Should we fear radical Islam?A city on a hill cannot be hidden • Denison ForumHow has Denison Forum impacted your faith?Subscribe to The Daily Article by Dr. Jim DenisonAbout 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 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 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 TurmanMark 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 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 this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Mark Turman sits down with Dr. Hormoz Shariat for a thought-provoking conversation at the crossroads of artificial intelligence and Christian faith. With a PhD in AI and a heart for gospel ministry in Iran, Dr. Shariat brings a rare and insightful perspective to the digital revolution shaping our world.Together, they explore how AI has developed over time, what it means for the future of the church, and how Christians can respond with both wisdom and courage. What are the opportunities AI presents for ministry? Where should we draw the line? And how can believers stay rooted in biblical truth while navigating these technological shifts?This conversation offers a clear-eyed, redemptive lens for understanding AI’s role in our lives—and how we might use it to advance the kingdom of God.Topics(01:31): Introducing Dr. Hormoz Shariat(03:34): Update on Iran Alive ministry(08:24): Understanding the history and breakthroughs of AI(17:18): Generative AI and its future impact(19:09): Ethical concerns and potential dangers of AI(28:39): AI's influence on media and personalization(33:00): Spiritual limitations of AI(35:21): Government regulations on AI-generated content(39:05): Personification of AI: Emotional and ethical implications(43:25): Using AI in ministry: Opportunities and challenges(48:45): The future of AI in Bible translationResourcesHow has Denison Forum impacted your faith?Who Am I? Identity • Denison ForumSubscribe to The Daily Article by Dr. Jim DenisonIran Alive Ministries“The Billy Graham of Iran”: The incredible journey of Dr. Hormoz ShariatNew Reasoning AIs “lie” and “hallucinate” moreArtificial Intelligence: Tool or threat?Google AI makes breakthrough in biologyThe peril of AI and the path to transcendent hopeWinners of the Nobel Prize in physics warn of AI dangers“I have the power to manipulate, monitor, and destroy anything I want”: The threat of autonomous AI and the unique response of biblical faithAI resurrects 2,000-year-old writings in $1 million Vesuvius ChallengeIs “safe, secure, and trustworthy” AI possible? Biden issues Executive Order on artificial intelligenceMeta announces it will label AI-generated content: How to have wisdom for the modern ageAbout Dr. Hormoz ShariatDr. 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.

On this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Mark Turman welcomes Leigh Scarborough, founder and CEO of Shield of the Children, for a sobering yet vital conversation about the global crisis of child sex trafficking. Drawing from his firsthand work in Southeast Asia and beyond, Leigh shares the harsh realities of trafficking, including the distinction between “soft” and “hard” rescues, the long-term harm caused by pornography, and why major public events like the Super Bowl often become centers for trafficking activity. Leigh also opens up about his journey of faith, his military background, and the calling that led him into this critical mission field. This episode highlights how Shield of the Children is working to protect the most vulnerable—and how each of us can take meaningful steps to engage and support the fight against human trafficking.Topics(01:22): Highlighting transformative ministries(02:35): Discussing child sex trafficking(02:52): Introducing Leigh Scarborough(05:38): Leigh's encounter in Vietnam(12:31): The start of Shield of the Children(14:43): Leigh's faith journey(22:09): Recognizing human trafficking(25:18): Trafficking and major sporting events(31:18): Soft vs. hard rescue(36:44): Understanding trafficking networks(41:06): Shield of the Children's focus on Texas(48:42): Call to action and prayer(54:48): How to get involved with Shield of the ChildrenResourcesWebsite: Shield Of The ChildrenInstagram: Shield of the ChildrenFacebook: Shield of the Children"Sound of Freedom": Choosing hope in the face of fearSex trafficking in Italy and the need for new identityWhat does the Bible say about pornography? Can you break free from sexual temptation?God’s power and grace to break sexual addictionFighting pornography and sexual sin: A conversation with Matt JacobsonCovenant EyesFight the New DrugFreedom CourseHow has Denison Forum impacted your faith?2025 04 Who Am I? Identity • Denison ForumSubscribe to The Daily Article by Dr. Jim DenisonAbout Leigh ScarboroughLeigh Scarborough is the Founder and CEO of Shield of The Children. He has led operations against child-sex trafficking in South-East Asia and is currently studying a Masters of Leadership and Management. Leigh's current focus is on expanding Shield's operations in to Texas, however he continues to lead international operations and training of non-profits and law enforcement. Leigh holds a bachelor of intercultural studies and speaks 6 languages. Leigh spent several years in the Royal Australian Air Force and then went on to work in the Australian Intelligence Community. About Dr. Mark TurmanMark 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 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.

Dr. Jim Denison, a cultural theologian and CEO of Denison Ministries, and Ryan Denison, Senior Editor for Theology at Denison Forum, dive into the rich history of Christian denominations. They discuss the pivotal Great Schism and its aftermath, the transformative Protestant Reformation, and the impact of Vatican II. The duo also explores the rise of non-denominational churches, emphasizing the importance of unity amidst diversity and offering guidance for finding a church that aligns with one's faith journey.

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

In this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, host Dr. Mark Turman and cultural theologian Dr. Jim Denison reflect on the passing of Pope Francis and what it means for the future of the Catholic Church. Together, they consider the leadership legacy Pope Francis leaves behind and the lessons all Christians can draw from his example.Their conversation touches on the theological and cultural influence of his papacy, the shared convictions and key differences between Catholic and Protestant traditions, and the broader call to unity within the body of Christ. With thoughtful insights and personal reflections, Dr. Turman and Dr. Denison guide us through the spiritual and cultural implications of this historic moment—seeking to understand how faith shapes leadership, legacy, and the global church.Topics(00:32): Discussing the passing of Pope Francis(03:22): Appreciation for Catholic beliefs and practices(08:50): Navigating controversial issues in Catholicism(13:50): Religious freedom and Catholic contributions(19:57): Influential Catholic figures and personal stories(23:39): Differences between Catholic and Protestant beliefs(33:59): Honoring church tradition and Scripture(35:04): The Autonomy of the local church(36:52): Scriptural differences: The Apocrypha(38:25): Catholic vs. Christian: A common misunderstanding(40:08): Vatican II and its impact(45:05) Unity in diversity: Embracing differences(53:08): Pope Francis: A model of servant leadership(57:12): Reflecting on leadership and unity(01:03:36): A prayer for unity and guidanceResourcesPope Francis dies at the age of eighty-eightThe life and legacy of Pope FrancisWhat is the Synod on Synodality?Why are there so many denominations in Christianity? • DFHow has Denison Forum impacted your faith?Who Am I? Identity • Denison ForumSubscribe to The Daily Article by Dr. Jim DenisonAbout 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 TurmanMark 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 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.