

Faith & Clarity - Biblical Perspectives and Biblical Wisdom on News & Cultural Issues
Denison Forum
Faith & Clarity goes beyond the headlines, helping you think biblically about the news and cultural issues shaping our world. Join Dr. Mark Turman and his guests for insightful conversations that combine intellectual depth with real-world application, equipping you to respond to current events and trends with wisdom and faith. Drawing from his nearly forty years of leading churches, Mark makes theology practical for everyday life, empowering you to engage culture with clarity, compassion, and conviction.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 2, 2022 • 52min
Our new abnormal: A conversation with Kerby Anderson
Kerby Anderson, Dr. Jim Denison, and Dr. Mark Turman discuss the state of culture post-pandemic, the economic realities, freedom of speech and religion, how to be involved in politics, and how God is redeeming the darkness overshadowing our culture. Show notes: Kerby Anderson, Dr. Jim Denison, and Dr. Mark Turman discuss several trends of decline in American culture. They begin by considering the pandemic, and the effects it has had on our culture, inflation, and sociological trends (6:55). They discuss how mRNA vaccines could revolutionize medicine, but how we can’t put our entire trust in scientists (17:23). They look into some positive news in the midst of what feels like lots of bad news, how God is redeeming technology and how we can be a light in the dark world right now (19:13). They consider the sanctions against Russia and their repercussions (24:23). Dr. Denison talks more about the “post-truth” state of our culture, and they consider why religious liberty cases are so important in the face of LGBTQ issues (31:00). They then delve into how Christians should be involved in politics, how we can do good in it, how to handle Trump, and how we shouldn’t allow our involvement with politics to interfere with the gospel (42:23). Resources and further reading: Probe ministries Point of View The Coming Tsunami - Dr. Jim Denison About the hosts Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content. Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church. About the guest Kerby Anderson is a cultural apologist and serves as host of “Point of View” (USA Radio Network) and president of Probe Ministries. He holds a master's degree from Yale and Georgetown University. He is also the author of twenty-five books.

Apr 25, 2022 • 58min
A dive into cryptocurrency with Dr. Lee Bratcher
Dr. Lee Bratcher and Dr. Mark Turman dive into the world of cryptocurrency, why Bitcoin is uncensorable, how refugees use it to flee oppression, why Bitcoin will likely rival gold, and why blockchain technology is already being used by banks and governments. Show notes: Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Lee Bratcher discuss the Institute for Global Engagement at Dallas Baptist University and the Texas Blockchain Counsel, the nonprofit run by Dr. Bratcher. They reflect on what money is, the basics of economics, and the history of Bitcoin (8:16). They discuss the power of Bitcoin to be uncensorable, how even the US government cannot track it, and how it’s already helping refugees escape from authoritarian regimes (16:41). They discuss online “wallets,” how Bitcoin gained value, where it comes from, and how it uses the internet to be decentralized (19:50). Dr. Bratcher goes in depth into why Bitcoin is so secure and why Bitcoin has a market cap of around one trillion dollars right now (28:06). They consider why so many use Bitcoin and how it can be an asset like a stock (even though they are technically not) (38:25). Interestingly enough, they consider how this blockchain technology can make banking as a whole much more efficient and how China is using it already (45:35). Finally, they discuss why religious freedom and Bitcoin are connected, and why Bitcoin is fair according to biblical standards (51:25). Resources and further reading: Thank God for Bitcoin - Jimmy Song, Gabe Higgins “Why did an online image sell for $69 million?” - Mark Legg Texas Blockchain Council Texas Blockchain Council YouTube Channel Institute for Global Engagement - Dallas Baptist University About the host Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church. About the guest Lee Bratcher serves as the Chair for the Politics, Philosophy, and Economics major at Dallas Baptist University as well as the Executive Director for the Institute for Global Engagement, a DBU affiliated think tank. He is a Captain in the US Army reserves working as an instructor for ROTC cadets at DBU and UT Dallas. Lee received a master's in International Relations from St. Mary's University and is in his sixth year as a Ph.D. candidate at UT Dallas writing a dissertation on the implications of blockchain technology on property rights and real estate. Prior to his transition to academia, Lee served in the military and as a police officer in the DFW area. Lee has been married to Becca Bratcher for 6 years and they have two daughters, Kenzie and Ivy.

Apr 18, 2022 • 52min
How to think biblically about Israel
Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison discuss how to understand modern Israel through a theological lens, the current political climate, the history of the Jewish people, how to pray for Israel, and how Christian and Jewish beliefs differ. Show notes: Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison begin by giving a brief description of Israel’s geography and its demographics as of today (5:37). Then, Dr. Denison provides a summation of the history of Israel and of the Old Testament (12:05). They discuss how going to Israel makes the Bible 3D and tangible (15:42). He then goes on to fit the story of Jesus into the context in a vivid description in the historical context and discusses why most modern Jews today reject Jesus as the “suffering servant” Messiah (21:43). Dr. Denison then explains differing views on the fulfillment of God’s purpose for Israel and Judaism, including Dispensationalism and “replacement theology.” (27:49) Dr. Denison relates his own view that, while the Jewish people are not chosen by God in fulfillment of prophecy, they have a special quality about their culture that is blessed by God. While God loves all people, Palestinians, Arabs, Muslims, and Jews, he seems to particularly bless the Jewish culture, even in the modern day (31:04). Dr. Turman presses in, asking more about how we can uniquely evangelize to Jews, recognizing that Jesus, his disciples, and the earliest churches were all Jewish (34:41). Within that, they discuss the evident spiritual warfare going on in the hearts of the Jewish people and in Israel right now, which is manifesting as violence. They discuss the current political climate of Israel and how to pray urgently for them (45:45). P.S. Jim’s most pivotal book to date, The Coming Tsunami, is now available on Kindle, hardcover, and Audible. Resources and further reading: "To Follow in His Footsteps" - Dr. Ryan Denison “Why do so many Americans condemn Israel?” - Dr. Jim Denison “I was reminded in Israel that religion doesn’t work” -Dr. Jim Denison "How to go on a trip led by Dr. Jim Denison" About the hosts Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content. Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.

Apr 11, 2022 • 43min
What does it mean to be a Christian patriot?
Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison discuss the differences between patriotism and nationalism, why Christians should be good citizens, what role nationalism plays in the war in Ukraine, and how to avoid echo chambers. Show notes: Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison discuss Jesus’ trial at the crucifixion and how politics played into the crucifixion (0:39). Dr. Denison then helps the audience understand the difference between patriotism and nationalism and why their definitions are so important (6:03). They discuss how Christians should be good citizens while still giving their ultimate allegiance to Christ and why modern expressions of nationalism over patriotism are misplaced. They then consider how nationalism might play a role in the Russian and Ukrainian war (14:07). Social media plays a massive role in the discussion about patriotism in today’s America. Dr. Denison and Dr. Turman give practical advice on how to get a wide range of sources to avoid echo chambers, reflecting on long-gone journalistic standards (20:20). They close by reflecting on taxes and the biblical idea that Christians can be good citizens and patriots without being nationalists (39:02). P.S. Jim’s most pivotal book to date, The Coming Tsunami, is now available on Kindle, hardcover, and Audible. Resources and further reading: "Should I be on social media?" - Christian Englert "Do you need a social media fast?" - Steve Yount "How to seek the truth when it comes to fake news" - Steve Yount "What does the Bible say about Easter?" - Jim Denison "It’s not all bad news" - Mark Legg "Why I am a Christian patriot but not a Christian nationalist" - Jim Denison "What is QAnon?" - Jim Denison Thomas L. Friedman with the New York Times David Brooks with the New York Times About the hosts Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content. Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.

Apr 4, 2022 • 40min
"Free to believe" is for everyone: A conversation with Randel Everett of the 21st Century Wilberforce Initiative
Dr. Randel Everett joins Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison to discuss religious freedom, the 21st Century Wilberforce Initiative, and why the state shouldn’t be run by religion. Show notes: After giving his personal story, Dr. Randel Everett discusses the surprising role of a Baptist in religious freedom in the US’s founding (7:22). He then talks about the 21st Century Wilberforce Initiative, how they got started, and how they defend religious freedom and challenge persecution and oppression (10:39). Dr. Everett relates what this mission currently looks like internationally, such as in Myanmar, Burma, and Bangladesh (20:18). They discuss the unique aspect of the Judeo-Christian ethic that allows for freedom of belief (28:10). Dr. Jim Denison considers the negatives of when the church tries to control the state (32:25). Finally, Dr. Everett ends by encouraging us to strive for virtue to make society a better place from the ground up, and how listeners can get involved in 21 Wilberforce (35:21). P.S. Jim’s most pivotal book to date, The Coming Tsunami, is now available on Kindle, hardcover, and Audible. Resources and further reading: 21 Wilberforce - defending freedom “What does the Bible say about religious liberty?” - Dr. Jim Denison “What does the Bible say about freedom?” - Dr. Jim Denison Religious Liberty in Crisis - Ken Starr Liberty for All - Andrew T. Walker About the Guest Dr. Randel Everett founded 21Wilberforce in 2014 to focus attention on religious persecution abroad and the enduring importance of religious liberty in the United States. As President, Randel leads the 21Wilberforce team, often on the front lines internationally. He spent four decades pastoring churches in Florida, Virginia, Arkansas, and Texas. He founded the John Leland Center for Theological Studies, led the Baptist General Convention of Texas, and currently serves in leadership for the Baptist World Alliance. Throughout his career, Randel has traveled to nearly 40 countries and witnessed persecution first-hand. About the hosts Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content. Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.

Mar 28, 2022 • 52min
Ask Jim: How can I share my faith in light of evolution? And other answers to tough questions
In this week’s episode, Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman respond to the audience's questions, including how to be salt and light, is baptism necessary for salvation, how to handle evolution, and how to deal with feelings of hopelessness when a family member doesn’t believe in God. Show notes: First, Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison discuss the Benedict Option by Rod Dreher, as people are asking Jim: What do we tell our children about the issues brought up in culture (3:21)? How do we prepare for the coming cultural tsunami which already affects our lives and our family’s lives? Dr. Denison believes in a balanced approach, saying that we must have retreats to spend time with God, to spend quality time with other believers, and make sure we “get away” from the world. However, at the same time, we are salt and light to the world, and we shouldn't hide that from people who desperately need to hear the gospel (16:04). We must engage with the culture in a biblical, loving way. Next, they discuss a question about how to engage with non-believers. Dr. Denison gives some practical tips, and they consider the value of presence (9:23). Sometimes, we don’t have to say anything; we just need to be there for people. The Holy Spirit will give us the words to say, and he works in ways we don’t often expect. They also discuss how vocational ministry fits into this need for rhythms of rest and regeneration. Next, they answer the question: Is baptism necessary for salvation? Dr. Denison relates a short history of the theology of baptism, why baptism is important, which option, in his view, most aligns with the Bible, and application for our listener who asked the question (21:04). Another listener, in the context of sharing their faith, asks how we as believers should handle evolution and the intersection of faith and science (31:18). Dr. Denison believes that these issues are not essential for salvation. It shouldn’t be an issue that divides us. Dr. Denison says it shouldn’t prevent anyone from coming to faith since Christians interpret the Bible differently in this respect. Dr. Denison relates his own view about evolution. He believes in microevolution but not macroevolution, and he explains these views further. Dr. Denison weighs in on another heavy question: How does the Bible deal with the salvation of close friends or family (44:13)? How do we, as our listener put it, sleep at night? What if one of our children or close relatives doesn’t believe in Jesus? Dr. Denison gives a hopeful message in response and discusses how we can give that weight over to Jesus, knowing that he loves them more than we ever could. He also says to never give up; it’s never too late. Continually pray for them, but know that their salvation is not ultimately your responsibility—it’s between them and God. P.S. Jim’s most pivotal book to date, The Coming Tsunami, is now available on Kindle, hardcover, and Audible. Resources and further reading: What should we believe about creation and evolution? - Jim Denison Does evolution prove God? - Mark Legg About the hosts Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content. Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.

Mar 21, 2022 • 50min
Metanarratives: The story we find ourselves in
Summary: Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison discuss how societies are driven by metanarratives, the Western and Eastern differences between them, religious metanarratives, Putin’s metanarrative for Russia, and how they all match up against the Bible. Show notes: Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison begin by covering the basics of metanarratives. Every culture and country has a north on its compass, a “larger story we find ourselves in.” Dr. Denison provides the history of the Western metanarrative, that the government exists to serve the individual. The West believes, “I, the individual, am the center of my existence.” He contrasts this view with the Eastern perspective, which holds generally that the individual is not the center. He considers Greek philosophers, Hinduism, Islam, radical Islam, Marxism, snd then the current imperialist Russian perspective held by Putin. Each of these reflects a unique metanarrative. In particular, Dr. Denison reflects on the massive clashes between Russia against the West (in the cold war and now in Ukraine) and radical Islam against the West (terrorism, 9/11, etc.). The source of recent conflict becomes clearer when we consider Putin’s view that NATO is encroaching on their borders and the radical Islamic perspective that the West has been the aggressor against them since the Crusades. Both of these play into the divide in metanarratives that set countries against each other. In the case of Russia, Dr. Denison shares the history of Russia over the past centuries as context for Putin’s mindset. Putin’s mindset, while not Communist, is one that values the collective greatness of Russia over the individual. Dr. Turman and Dr. Denison then turn to America to consider our country’s narratives through the centuries, the cultural shifts, and the consistent metanarrative that the individual is the highest consideration. Then they reflect on how the “American dream” holds up when compared to Scripture. The American (and Western) individualistic mindset, while not all bad, does not match with God’s ultimate metanarrative revealed in the Bible. Neither does the Eastern mindset that values the collective above all else. This is because the collective of God’s kingdom, the church, is most important. Within this, however, each person must respond to the call as an individual before being adopted into the Father’s kingdom. We exist to serve God’s kingdom with other believers, in a community. The Bible, then, provides its own metanarrative for us to live by. Dr. Turman and Dr. Denison close by reflecting on this one, true metanarrative for Christians to live by. P.S. Jim’s most pivotal book to date, The Coming Tsunami, is now available on Kindle, hardcover, and Audible. Resources and further reading: The Coming Tsunami - Jim Denison Updates on Ukraine - Denison Forum Team “The inevitability of the Russian invasion of Ukraine: How Putin’s history reveals his destiny” - Ryan Denison “Why does Russia want Ukraine? A timeline of Russian aggression against Ukraine” - Mark Legg The Next 100 Years: A Forecast for the 21st Century - George Friedman About the hosts Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content. Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.

Mar 14, 2022 • 49min
A soldier and priest’s view of Ukraine: A conversation with retired major Father Barry Montgomery
Summary: Retired Major (US Marines) Father Barry Montgomery joins Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman to discuss the state of affairs in Ukraine, Putin’s military strategy and tactics, how Russian forces have miscalculated, President Zelensky’s leadership, and Putin’s connection to Christianity. Shownotes: In this episode, Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison are joined by Father Barry Montgomery, Retired Major, United States Marines. His specialty in intelligence qualifies him to speak with clarity and insight on the Russian and Ukrainian conflict. They begin by discussing the state of affairs in Ukraine, then consider Putin’s military strategy, which cities he will have to take, and what appears to be his current plan. Father Montgomery provides personal insight into the strengths and weaknesses of the Russian armed forces, pointing out that the number of Russian troops deployed against Ukraine is far too small to complete Putin’s objectives. He discusses what Russia miscalculated, his underestimation of resistance, where their strategy is effective, and potential outcomes for the future of this conflict. They reflect on the courage of Zelensky and the “X-factor” he provides for the conflict. His bravery and leadership parallel that of Winston Churchill on several levels. His ability to rally the average Ukrainian to arms and be willing to die for their country plays a major part in this conflict. Dr. Denison and Father Montgomery pause to reflect on the history of Russia, the nationalistic motivations of Putin, and his glory for a restored pre-soviet Russian empire. They consider his likely beliefs about the Soviet Union, how his vision for himself and Russia goes much farther back to someone like Peter the Great and the tsars rather than to Stalin or Lenin. Then, Dr. Denison and Father Montgomery consider Putin’s spiritual motivations and his strong ties to the Russian Orthodox church. Putin’s socially conservative vision is backed by his authoritarian power, and it’s important to remember that he isn’t trying to restore the atheistic USSR. Putin is partially using spiritual justification and considers the church the glue that holds Russia together in many ways. Dr. Denison and Father Montgomery discuss the implications of this. Father Montgomery closes by reading a prayer from the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in America. P.S. Jim’s most pivotal book to date, The Coming Tsunami, is now available on Kindle, hardcover, and Audible. Resources and further reading: Updates on Ukraine – Dr. Jim Denison, Denison Forum team Who is Volodymyr Zelensky? How can we pray for him? – Dr. Jim Denison Why does Russia want Ukraine? A timeline of Russian aggression against Ukraine – Mark Legg About the featured guest Father Barry A. Montgomery served for twenty years in the United States Marine Corps as an infantry and intelligence officer, with six combat tours in Somalia and Iraq. He earned a Masters of Divinity degree from Azusa Pacific University and currently serves as the Rector of Christ the Redeemer Anglican Church in Dallas, Texas. About the hosts Jim Denison, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content. Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.

Mar 7, 2022 • 42min
What does the Bible say about war?
Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman discuss the Ukraine/Russian conflict, why Putin believes the invasion is justified, whether this conflict will devolve into World War III, what the Bible says about war, and four encouraging ways to pray for Ukraine. Show notes: First, Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman unpack the recent developments in Ukraine. They express admiration for the Ukrainian president Zelensky and the heroic way that Ukraine is holding out against Russia. Then, Dr. Denison talks about the difference between a cold war, a hot war, and the means of conflict in a cyberwar. They also discuss the international backlash against Putin’s move into Ukraine. Then, Dr. Denison relates a difficult reality: The United States is not as prepared for a cyberwar as Russia is. They discuss the risks posing U.S. citizens if that were to unfold. They then delve into a discussion of the difference between “eastern” (namely, Russia and China) and “western” worldviews. Dr. Denison unpacks how the individualism of the west means that we prize persons above the “whole,” or the “state.” On the other hand, Putin's eastern perspective means that he is willing to sacrifice massive numbers to serve the interests of Russia. Dr. Denison shows how authoritarianism plays into this conflict and Putin’s further interests in taking Ukraine. At this point, Dr. Denison unpacks St. Augustine’s just war theory with his famous seven justifications, such as self-defense, proportionality, justice, last resort, etc. From Putin’s perspective, from the eastern mindset that serves Russia first above all else, this war meets all the qualifications, while we in the West would say it meets absolutely none of them. This shows how complex war and international politics are. In this context, Dr. Turman and Dr. Denison unfold his likely motivations in greater detail. They then go off track to discuss a potential parallel: how Mexico could hypothetically use similar logic to Putin, but within the Western worldview, to regain portions of Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, and even southern California. This idea of war between the US and Mexico is entirely theoretical, but Dr. Denison covers some history; how America ultimately wronged Mexico by taking land in the 1800s, similar to how Putin is currently trying to take Ukraine. They follow this parallel for some time. Finally, Dr. Denison discusses the origins of the City of God where St. Augustine outlines the just war theory. In conclusion, Dr. Denison provides applications for Christians in America. We can rest in the Lord, knowing that he has things under control. He also answers whether any Christians should join the Ukrainian defense. Then, he gives four ways to pray for Ukraine: For God to be glorified and to redeem this war for his purposes For Putin’s heart to change and for him to come to repentance For miraculous deliverance for Ukraine and in defense of Ukraine For God to use our fear to turn to God, as an opportunity to turn to faith And finally, Dr. Denison prays himself to close the podcast. P.S. Jim’s most pivotal book to date, The Coming Tsunami, is now available on Kindle, hardcover, and Audible. Resources and further reading: Updates on Ukraine - Dr. Jim Denison, Denison Forum team “Just war and personal conflict: a Veterans Day reflection” - Dr. Jim Denison The Next 100 Years: A Forecast for the 21st Century - George Friedman City of God - St. Augustine The Brookings Institute - Fiona Hill About the hosts Jim Denison, PhD, is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content. Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.

Feb 28, 2022 • 50min
Religious Liberty in Crisis: A conversation with Judge Ken Starr
Summary: Judge Kenneth Starr joins Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman to discuss the Constitution, religious liberty, the Supreme Court, the separation of church and state, and how Christians can find hope for the future of religious liberty. Show notes: Judge Kenneth Starr (former solicitor for the U.S.), Dr. Denison, and Dr. Turman discuss the state of American law and religious liberty, which is covered in fuller length in Judge Starr’s book Religious Liberty in Crisis. They consider some of the biggest questions posing America. They reflect on the Constitution, why it’s so permanent and important, the protection of religious liberty, and some relevant religious liberty cases in recent years. Dr. Denison first discusses the Equality Act and the danger it poses to religious liberty. Judge Starr shares the same concerns but has faith that the Supreme Court will uphold the Constitution if the Equality Act were to become law. Judge Starr suggests that the Constitution will be an excellent “sea wall” to the coming cultural tsunami Dr. Denison writes about in The Coming Tsunami. They then delve into a discussion of the church-state separation, which Judge Starr unpacks and deconstructs. Yes, the states must remain neutral in regards to religion, but that does not mean they should be hostile to it. He encourages more nuance when we discuss the so-called wall of separation. Dr. Denison describes the two extremes that evangelicals can often take: running from politics or thinking that only Christians should run the government. As faithful Christians, we should be involved in the culture and politics, but we should also keep the kingdom of God separate from “Caesar’s” kingdom. Dr. Denison and Judge Starr then consider the purpose of the federal courts, specifically the Supreme Court’s role in our government, and how it is often misunderstood. Within this, they take a close look at the new celebrity status many Justices are acquiring. Dr. Denison delves into the new wave of celebrity culture that pervades America at large. Finally, Judge Starr defines some confusing terms, like accommodation and stare decisis, and why they might be relevant to some cases now before the court. Judge Starr also considers the possibility of the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade, at least at the federal level. He then gives final, parting thoughts about the permanence of the Supreme Court and the political climate. Resources and further reading: Religious Liberty in Crisis: Exercising Your Faith in an Age of Uncertainty - Kenneth Starr “Ken Starr’s ‘Religious Liberty in Crisis’ is an indispensable guide to defending religious freedom” - Jim Denison “Why the Equality Act is the greatest threat to religious liberty today” - Greg Baylor, Dr. Jim Denison “The Equality Act: What Christians need to know” - Dr. Jim Denison “Will the Supreme Court protect religious liberty?” - Mark Legg About the featured guest Judge Kenneth Starr has argued thirty-six cases before the US Supreme Court, including when he was US Solicitor General. He served as United States circuit judge for the District of Columbia Circuit, as a counselor and chief of staff to US Attorney General William French Smith, and law clerk to chief justices. He has served as President and Chancellor of Baylor University and the dean of Pepperdine School of Law for twenty-five years. He has served as a partner at two national law firms. He continues to serve on the Board of Advocates International, the Supreme Court Historical Society, and the Christian Legal Society. About the hosts Jim Denison, PhD, is an author, speaker, and the CEO of Denison Ministries, which is transforming 6.8 million lives through meaningful digital content. Dr. Mark Turman is the executive director of Denison Forum. He received his DMin from Truett at Baylor and previously served as lead pastor of Crosspoint Church.


