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

Celebrated cold case detective J. Warner Wallace discusses the link between true crime and Christianity, emphasizing the need for justice and mercy balance in faith. Topics include society's drama obsession, humility, trauma's impact on identity, hope in mortality, and dangers of celebrity culture.

Join Dr. Mark Turman, executive director of Denison Forum, as he speaks with Courtney DeFeo, host of the 'Pardon the Mess' podcast. They discuss the importance of integrating faith into family life and resources available through Christian Parenting such as the valuable prayer journal, 'A Life of Faith: Knowing, Loving, Following, and Sharing Jesus.' They also discuss the challenges of managing technology and social media, the apologizing to children, and the power of prayer. Through open, honest dialogue, they aim to provide practical, faith-based support for families navigating today's world.Topics(02:06): The Story of Timothy and Christian Parenting(03:31): Introducing Courtney DeFeo(04:30): Courtney's Background and Passion for Parenting(06:56): Navigating Parenting Challenges and College Choices(10:19): Courtney's Faith Journey and Ministry Work(14:58): The Impact of Working at Chick-fil-A(17:34): Pardon the Mess Podcast and Prayer Journal(22:53): The Power of Prayer in Parenting(23:49): Challenges and Realizations in Parenting(26:57): The Importance of Apologizing and Personal Growth(29:00): Journaling as a Tool for Spiritual Growth(36:06): Resources for Christian Parenting(38:24): Navigating Technology and Social Media(44:29): Final Thoughts and EncouragementResourcesEpisode Transcript (PDF)A Parent’s Prayer Journal: A Life of Faith: Knowing, Loving, Following, and Sharing JesusChristian Parenting Pardon the Mess Podcast Courtney’s WebsiteAbout Courtney DeFeoCourtney is the host of Pardon the Mess! She is the author of In This House, We Will Giggle and Treasured. She is also the creator of ABC Scripture Cards and the kindness movement, Light ‘Em Up Acts. She loves to encourage parents and women through speaking, writing, and podcasting. She also serves on the board of Lighthouse Family Retreat. Her deepest desire is to encourage others and give generously in a way that draws people to God. Her most honorable mention is her husband Ron and their two wildly fun girls (Ella, 17 and Larson, 15). Courtney is passionate about Jesus, coffee, Auburn football, Coca-Cola classic, her dog Mazie, spending time with friends and family, and finding deals at TJ Maxx.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.

In this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, host Dr. Mark Turman converses with Elizabeth Neumann, former Assistant Secretary for Counterterrorism and Threat Prevention at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Elizabeth discusses her book, 'Kingdom of Rage: The Rise of Christian Extremism and the Path Back to Peace' which highlights her professional journey and insights into radicalization post-9/11 leading up to January 6. The conversation explores the intersections of fear, anger, extremism, and the misuse of Christian principles for political aims. Elizabeth emphasizes the role of communities, especially faith communities, in addressing radicalization and fostering peace. Additionally, she shares her experiences and current work with Moonshot, a company aimed at redirecting those at risk of radicalization towards mental health support.Topics(01:07): Elizabeth's Background and Career(03:27): The Impact of 9/11 and Rise of Domestic Extremism(06:28): Understanding Radicalization and Extremism(15:44): Self-Care and Navigating a Toxic Environment(18:49): The Role of Fear and Anger in Extremism(23:42): The Scale of the Problem and Potential Solutions(29:25): Reclaiming Civility in a Post-COVID World(33:26): The Merging of Extremist Movements(35:07): The Threat of Political Violence(42:09): Radicalization and the Role of Networks(49:30): Addressing Extremism in Communities and Churches(57:19): Elizabeth's Current Work and Final ThoughtsResourcesEpisode Transcript (PDF)Kingdom of Rage: The Rise of Christian Extremism and the Path Back to PeaceRespectfully, I Disagree 🎧 When politics get extreme, what should Christians do? A conversation with Tim Alberta🎧 American Idolatry: How Christian Nationalism Betrays the Gospel and Threatens the Church: A conversation with Andrew L. Whitehead🎧 What does it mean to be a Christian patriot?What the controversial God & Country documentary gets right and wrong: Should you watch?Do Americans have to be Christians? An excerpt from “The Religion of American Greatness” by Paul D. MillerAbout Elizabeth NeumannElizabeth Neumann served as the Assistant Secretary for Counterterrorism and Threat Prevention at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Neumann is a frequent guest on national news outlets, and the Chief Strategy Officer at Moonshot. She is based in the Denver, CO area.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.

In this conversation, Dr. Mark Turman interviews Steve Carter about his new book, which explores his journey of resignation from Willow Creek Community Church in the wake of misconduct allegations against the former pastor, Bill Hybels. The book is titled 'Grieve, Breathe, Receive: Finding a Faith Strong Enough to Hold Us,' which reflects the three key words that guided Steve through his season of struggle and healing. The conversation delves into the events surrounding the resignation, the decision-making process, and the challenges of leadership in the face of institutional preservation. Steve also discusses the themes of grief, breathing, and receiving in the context of personal and ministry transitions. They explore the significance of the Easter weekend and how it aligns with the process of grieving, breathing, and receiving. They also delve into the importance of waiting and how pastors can care for themselves and their families during challenging times. Steve shares insights on the pain, privileges, and promises of ministry, emphasizing the need for both firsthand and secondhand healing.Topics(03:20): The Traumatic Events at Willow Creek(08:14): Writing the Book: Why Now?(12:59): Resignation: Staying or Leaving?(28:46): Losing Loved Ones and the Impact on Identity(30:40): The Mantra of Grieve, Breathe, Receive(36:30): The Journey from Grief to Receiving(40:34): The Difference Between Hope Preached and Hope Embodied(43:34): The Relationship to Waiting and the Definition of Grief(46:38): Honoring Feelings and Trusting God in the Waiting(49:14): Caring for Family in Ministry and the Importance of Healing(52:08): Acknowledging the Pain, Privileges, and Promises of Ministry(54:08): Steve Carter's Current Work and PodcastResourcesEpisode Transcript (PDF)Grieve, Breathe, Receive: Finding a Faith Strong Enough to Hold UsSteve Carter’s websiteA Great Calm Why the church doesn’t want to talk about traumaThe truth about triggers: What the church needs to know about traumaAbout Steve CarterSteve Carter is a pastor, speaker, author, podcast host, and the former lead teaching pastor of Willow Creek Community Church in Chicago. He hosts the Craft & Character podcast, where he helps people get better at the art and craft of communication while ensuring their character always leads the way.An avid sports fan, Steve has co-hosted with ESPN sports anchor Samantha Ponder, NFL player Sam Acho, and Trey Burton The Home Team Podcast, which unpacks the intersection between faith, culture, sports, and family.With a degree in Biblical Studies from Hope International University, Steve has a heart for the local church. He is currently a teaching pastor at Forest City Church in Elgin, IL, and often speaks for churches, conferences, events, camps, and retreats all over the country. Steve lives in Chicagoland with his wife, Sarah, and their two kids.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.

Dr. Mark Turman, Executive Director of Denison Forum, hosts Dr. Ryan Denison to discuss the challenging issues of immigration and refugees from a biblical standpoint. As a nonpartisan ministry, they seek to approach the topic holistically, emphasizing compassion, the importance of borders, and the rule of law. Touching on recent political actions, historical contexts, and biblical principles, this episode aims to equip listeners to think biblically and live out their faith in practical and impactful ways. Highlights include understanding refugee rights, the complexities of asylum policies, and actionable steps for individuals to get involved.Topics(01:03): The Complex Issue of Immigration(03:31): Historical Context and American Identity(11:57): World Refugee Day and Its Significance(29:23): Biblical Principles and Human Value(36:24): Challenges and Responsibilities of Refugees(39:58): The Role of Borders and Governance(52:06): Practical Steps and Personal Involvement(56:33): Conclusion and Call to ActionResourcesEpisode Transcript (PDF)President Biden issues “Proclamation on Securing the Border”Separating children at the border: 3 options and my responseIn “The Stranger at Our Shore,” Joshua Sherif challenges the church to embrace immigrants and refugeesAbout 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 has contributed writing or research to every Denison Forum book.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.

In this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Mark Turman speaks with Dr. Hormoz Shariat, an Iranian-born Christian with an inspiring journey. Hormoz shares his story of growing up in a devout Muslim family in Iran, his eventual questioning of Islam, and his transformation after coming to the United States to study. He details his intellectual and spiritual journey comparing the Bible and the Quran, and how simple gospel truths changed his life. Dr. Shariat also discusses his ministry, Iran Alive, which broadcasts Christian messages to millions in Iran through satellite TV and secure online platforms, leading to countless conversions. The conversation touches on the historical and current cultural landscape of Iran, its prophetic significance, and the transformative power of integrating faith and technology. Dr. Shariat emphasizes the urgency of spreading the gospel and training new believers in Iran. Topics(00:38): Introducing Hormoz Shariat: An Iranian Christian(02:45): Hormoz's Early Life in Iran(03:49): Journey to the United States and Academic Pursuits(06:51): Encounter with Christianity and Transformation(08:37): Sharing the Gospel and Ministry Beginnings(14:57): Faith and Science: Complementary Worlds(18:08): Family Reactions and Personal Testimonies(21:22): Addressing AI Concerns for Christians(24:20): Challenges and Successes in Ministry(28:01): Transition to Media Evangelism(32:21): Spiritual and Political Landscape of Iran(37:23): Call to Prayer and Support(41:02): Conclusion and How to Get InvolvedResourcesEpisode Transcript (PDF)Iran Alive MinistriesAbout 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.

In this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Mark Turman sits down with Nancy French to discuss her newly released memoir, 'Ghosted: An American Story.' Nancy, a renowned ghostwriter whose work has landed five times on the New York Times bestseller list, opens up about her personal journey including the challenges behind ghostwriting for celebrities and her decision to finally share her own story. The conversation delves into Nancy's traumatic past marked by childhood abuse, her journey in understanding her faith, and the cultural and spiritual homelessness she has felt. They also explore her family life, including her husband's transformative experience after military service and their adoption of a daughter from Ethiopia. Nancy's insights into the complexities of American politics, her change in perspective on patriotism, and the issues of sexual abuse within the church are eye-opening. This deeply engaging and inspiring discussion is a must-listen for anyone grappling with faith, trauma, and the search for identity in today's tumultuous times. Topics(01:45): Nancy's Journey to Writing Her Memoir(02:51): The Life of a Ghostwriter(06:59): Nancy's Early Life and Challenges(10:06): Overcoming Trauma and Family Influence(13:22): Nancy's Faith Journey and Struggles with the Church(16:39): Addressing Abuse and Accountability in the Church(27:32): The Stigma Around the Term 'Victim'(30:18): Challenges in Addressing Sexual Abuse in the Church(32:44): The Southern Baptist Convention's Stance(35:42): The Impact of War on Family and Faith(37:27): Political Engagement and Personal Growth(39:38): Reflections on Partisan Rhetoric(44:24): Adoption and Divine Providence(47:17): The Concept of Being 'Holy Ghosted'ResourcesEpisode Transcript (PDF)Ghosted: An American StoryNancy French’s WebsiteBook Review: In "Ghosted," Nancy French shares her unique and compelling life storyAbout Nancy FrenchNancy French is a five-time New York Times bestselling author. As a ghostwriter, she has written for a variety of people, from Sarah Palin to Kim Kardashian. As an investigative journalist, she uncovered sexual and spiritual abuse in America’s largest Christian camp. She lives in Franklin, Tennessee with her husband, journalist David French, and family. 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.

Join Dr. Mark Turman, executive director of Denison Forum, for an insightful conversation with Pastor Chris Legg as they discuss biblical and psychological insights on sex and marriage. In this episode, they explore concepts from Chris's new book, co-authored with his son, Mark, titled 'Sex and Marriage: Unlocking and Restoring the Power of Sex Through Biblical and Psychological Insight.' Learn about the sacred nature of sex in marriage, the pitfalls of transactional relationships, and how a healthy, godly perspective can transform marriages. Perfect for couples at any stage, from premarital to the many-year mark, this conversation aims to equip you to think biblically, live beautifully, and serve redemptively. Topics(02:10): Diving Deep into 'Sex and Marriage': A Clarity Conversation(05:44): Exploring the Sacred Mystery of Marriage and Sexuality(18:36): Reclaiming the Garden: The Sacredness of Sex in Marriage(23:45): Paul's Teaching to the Corinthian Church: A Sacred Mystery Unveiled(30:45): Unpacking Sexual Intimacy and Identity(33:53): The Impact of Stress and Energy on Marital Intimacy(35:53): The Power of Language in Understanding Each Other(37:05): Marriage, Sexuality, and Identity in Biblical Context(40:48): Unveiling the True Essence of Marriage and Sexuality(49:51): Navigating Identity and Sexuality: A Deeper Dive(56:43): Concluding Thoughts on Identity, Freedom, and GraceResourcesEpisode Transcript (PDF)Sex and Marriage: Unlocking and Restoring the Power of Sex Through Biblical and Psychological Insight South Spring Baptist ChurchAlethia Family Counseling CenterChris Legg’s WebsiteSacred Sexuality: Reclaiming God’s DesignDenison Forum’s Resources on SexualityAbout Rev. Chris Legg, LPC-S Pastor Chris Legg, LPC, and his wife Ginger have been living out the parable of God’s love for His people since 1993 and have been blessed with five great kids. He is the Lead Pastor at South Spring Baptist Church in Tyler, TX and is also the founding owner and clinical director of Alethia Family Counseling Center, which offers counseling, speaking and business consulting. 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.

Dr. Denison explores cultural engagement for Christians, emphasizing the Holy Spirit's role. Topics include leveraging spiritual gifts, the power of the Holy Spirit, and being transformational in a complex world. The conversation stresses being a 'cultural missionary' over a 'cultural warrior' for kingdom impact.

In this seventh episode of our special eight-episode series called “Being Christian in today’s culture,” Dr. Denison discusses the significance of political civility. He answers questions such as: Are we living in “unprecedented” times? Why are so many Christians now energized by politics? How can Christians deepen their reliance on the Holy Spirit? He emphasizes the binary choice between exhibiting the fruit of the Spirit or the flesh, urging Christians to act as cultural missionaries through biblically rooted political engagement and daily reliance on the Holy Spirit.For more, read this episode’s accompanying article, “The lost art of civility.”Topics(03:14): Diving Deep into Political Civility and Biblical Flourishing(07:23): Unpacking the Unprecedented: Navigating Today's Political Landscape(12:03): The Power of Participation: Engaging in Democracy with Hope(15:45): Navigating Politics with Faith Over Fear(32:27): The Role of Christians in Promoting Biblical Civility(35:31): The Importance of Preserving Christian Witness in Politics(39:26): The Role of Civility in Political Engagement(43:11): Challenging the 'End Justifies the Means' Mentality in Politics(52:11): The Dangers of Celebrity in Politics and Leadership(01:02:25): Embracing the Holy Spirit in Political CivilityResourcesEpisode Transcript (PDF)The lost art of civilityRespectfully, I DisagreeA pathway for becoming culture-changing Christians - Part 1Live by biblical truth and authority- Part 2The power of Christ to change the culture - Part 3Who determines the value of life? - Part 4What does it mean to hunger and thirst for righteousness? - Part 5What is God’s design for sex and relationships? - Part 6About 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 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.