Faith & Clarity with Dr. Mark Turman

In this sixth episode of the special eight-episode series called ‘Politics discerned differently,’ Dr. Mark Turman discusses the importance of being salt and light for Christ in uncivil times and navigating the political season. He is joined by Carmen LaBerge and Patrick Miller, who share their insights on echo chambers, media consumption, and the role of Christians as cultural missionaries. They emphasize the need to engage in diverse conversations, listen to different perspectives, and represent Christ in every interaction. They also challenge the idea of winning in the culture and highlight the importance of suffering and serving as missionaries in a broken world. In this conversation, Patrick and Carmen discuss the tension and frustration that some Christians in America feel about their role in society. They explore the idea of Christians as outsiders and the historical context of America as a new Jerusalem. They emphasize the need for a complex understanding of American history and the importance of recognizing that Christians have been outsiders at various points in history. They also discuss the concepts of majority rule and minority rights, and how Christians should navigate being in the majority or minority position. The conversation then shifts to the topic of extremism and the vulnerability of Christians to becoming radicalized. They encourage Christians to be curious, open-minded, and willing to admit when they don't know or have changed their minds. They also remind Christians to focus on the kingdom of God and to engage in local communities to make a real difference.Topics(04:20): Understanding Echo Chambers(07:05): Breaking Out of Echo Chambers(11:28): Engaging with Different Viewpoints(14:38): Navigating Media Bias(21:44): Being Cultural Missionaries(25:11): Redefining Winning in the Culture(27:06): Embracing Suffering and Serving(31:22): The tension between insiders and outsiders in America(34:51): Navigating majority rule and minority rights as Christians(45:25): The temptation of extremism and the importance of truth(53:22): Admitting uncertainty and embracing growth(59:00): Focusing on local communities and the kingdom of GodResourcesEpisode Transcript (PDF)Related Denison Forum podcasts: An invitation to “The After Party”: Reframing Christian engagement in politics with David French and Curtis ChangShould Christians pursue power? A conversation with David FrenchWhy must Christians be civil in uncivil times?Losing Our Religion: A conversation with Russell MooreTruth over tribe: A conversation with Patrick MillerRelated Denison Forum articles and resources: Respectfully, I Disagree by Dr. Jim Denison - AudiobookDo you need a social media fast? Experts share healthy media diet tipsElection 2024: Discern politics differentlyHow should Christians vote?The Coming TsunamiThe lost art of civility • Denison ForumHow can Christians respond redemptively to election turmoil?Other trusted resources: Divided We Fall: America's Secession Threat and How to Restore Our NationLosing Our Religion: An Altar Call for Evangelical America: Moore, RussellThe After Party: Toward Better Christian Politics - Redeeming BabelTruth Over Tribe: Pledging Allegiance to the Lamb, Not the Donkey or the ElephantSpeak the Truth: How to Bring God Back into Every ConversationJoyful Outsiders: Six Ways to Live Like Jesus in a Disorienting CultureTruth Over TribeCarmen LaBerge’s WebsiteMornings with Carmen LaBergeYour Party Will Not Win This Election - Christianity TodayKingdom of Rage by Elizabeth NeumannThe Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory: American Evangelicals in an Age of ExtremismAbout Carmen LaBergeCarmen LaBerge is a Christian author, speaker and radio host equipping Christians to get off the sidelines and into the cultural conversations of the day. Her weekday show is Mornings with Carmen on the Faith Radio Network and Carmen engages with audiences via CarmenLaBerge.com. With clever candor, Carmen is a distinctively Christian voice in today's cultural conversations and she has influence with a wide variety of audiences. As both a theologian and everyday communicator, Carmen takes large complex subjects and helps readers and listeners develop the mind of Christ on the matters of the day. She addresses everything from foreign affairs to affairs of the heart, politics to parenting, reconnecting the eternal with the everyday. She holds a B.S. in Business from the University of Florida and an M.Div. from Princeton Theological Seminary. She resides on a farm west of Nashville with her husband, Jim, where they raise kids, cows, and chickens and cultivate fruit trees, laughter and a very good life.About Patrick Miller Patrick Miller is a pastor and cultural commentator who writes about politics, culture, and technology, contributing articles to Christianity Today, Newsweek, The Gospel Coalition, and other publications. His podcast, Truth Over Tribe, is one of Apple's top news commentary podcasts, featuring interviews with leading Christian thinkers, writers, and scholars. He's the co-author of Truth Over Tribe: Pledging Allegiance to the Lamb, Not the Donkey or the Elephant and Joyful Outsiders: Six Ways to Live Like Jesus in a Disorienting Culture. Patrick received a Master of Divinity from Covenant Theological Seminary and pastors a politically diverse church, The Crossing. He and his wife, Emily, have two children.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 fifth episode of the special eight-episode series called ‘Politics discerned differently,’ Dr. Mark Turman is joined by Micah Tomasella to discuss the complex relationship between faith and politics, particularly in the context of families, churches, and society at large. They explore how political issues have become increasingly divisive within families and church communities, especially over the past decade. The conversation touches on historical and cultural factors that have contributed to the rise of Christian nationalism and the blending of faith with politics. They emphasize the importance of keeping politics in its proper place, not allowing it to overshadow one's faith or become an idol. The discussion also covers the role of the church in guiding believers through political engagement, encouraging them to prioritize their faith and witness for Christ over political affiliations.Topics(02:57): Personal Experiences with Politics(07:52): The Rise of Identity Politics(12:24): Historical and Cultural Factors(20:11): The Impact of Social Media(25:09): Patriotism vs. Nationalism(30:25): Historical Parallels: Founding Fathers and Modern Politics(32:46): The Nature of American Politics: Tension and Unity(36:20): Faith and Politics: Finding Balance(40:03): Political Idolatry: A Call for Reflection(50:28): The Role of the Church in Political Discourse(55:00): Final Thoughts and EncouragementResourcesEpisode Transcript (PDF)Related Denison Forum podcasts: American Idolatry: How Christian Nationalism Betrays the Gospel and Threatens the Church: A conversation with Andrew L. WhiteheadThe Coming Tsunami a year later: Dr. Jim Denison on politics as religion, AI ethics, and peaceful cultural engagementWhen politics get extreme, what should Christians do? A conversation with Tim AlbertaWhy must Christians be civil in uncivil times?What does it mean to be a Christian patriot?How to be a good citizen of heaven and America: A conversation with Jim DenisonNavigating extremism: A conversation with Elizabeth NeumannRelated Denison Forum articles and resources:Respectfully, I Disagree by Dr. Jim Denison - Audiobook - Audible.comElection 2024: Discern politics differentlyThe Coming TsunamiWhat the controversial “God & Country” documentary gets right and wrong: Should you watch?The lost art of civility • Denison ForumA majority of Americans aren't proud to be American: Why the difference between pride and patriotism mattersWhat does the Bible say about politics? • Denison ForumHow should Christians vote?November is nigh: 6 significant midterm issues for concerned Christian votersOther trusted resources: Exiles: The Church in the Shadow of EmpireThe Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory: American Evangelicals in an Age of ExtremismThe After Party: Toward Better Christian Politics - Redeeming BabelBallot and the Bible: How Scripture Has Been Used and Abused in American Politics and Where We Go from HereLosing Our Religion: An Altar Call for Evangelical America: Moore, RussellTruth Over Tribe: Pledging Allegiance to the Lamb, Not the Donkey or the ElephantYour Party Will Not Win This Election | Christianity TodayAbout Micah TomasellaMicah Tomasella is the Advancement Officer at Denison Ministries. A graduate of Dallas Baptist University, Micah is married to Emily, and together they are proud parents of two young daughters, Olivia and Joanna. With an extensive background in nonprofit work, finance, and real estate, Micah also brings experience from his years in pastoral church ministry.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 fourth episode of the special eight-episode series called ‘Politics discerned differently,’ Dr. Mark Turman, Dr. Jim Denison, and Dr. Ryan Denison explore the intersection of faith and politics as America approaches the presidential election. They discuss the concept of America as a Christian nation, the role of biblical perspectives in civic life, and the implications of Christian nationalism. The conversation extends to historical and theological insights from the American and French revolutions and emphasizes humility, prayer, and living according to biblical teachings to navigate the political landscape. Topics(03:25): Foundational Questions on God's Perspective(06:06): The Role of Prophecy in Modern Times(10:49): Replacement Theology and Its Implications(14:50): American Pride and Patriotism(18:15): Defining a Christian Nation(27:10): Challenges of Legislating Morality(36:31): America as a City on a Hill: Historical Context and Implications(45:27): Christian Nationalism: Definitions and Debates(52:19): Theological Foundations: Human Nature and Democracy(56:51): Comparing the American and French Revolutions(01:05:41): Practical Advice for Christians in PoliticsResourcesEpisode Transcript (PDF)Related Denison Forum podcasts:How God sees America in 2022Can America be moral without God?How political should Christians be? Preston Sprinkle discusses his new book, “Exiles”When politics get extreme, what should Christians do? A conversation with Tim AlbertaHow does the Bible apply to today’s politics? With Kaitlyn SchiessRelated Denison Forum articles and resources: Respectfully, I Disagree by Dr. Jim Denison - Audiobook How Does God See America?Do Americans have to be Christians? An excerpt from "The Religion of American Greatness" by Paul D. MillerElection 2024: Discern politics differentlyThe Coming TsunamiWill democracy in America survive?A majority of Americans aren't proud to be American: Why the difference between pride and patriotism mattersPolitics Simplified - Christian ParentingPeace in Politics- First15Other trusted resources: Exiles: The Church in the Shadow of EmpireThe Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory: American Evangelicals in an Age of ExtremismBallot and the Bible: How Scripture Has Been Used and Abused in American Politics and Where We Go from HereLosing Our Religion: An Altar Call for Evangelical America: Moore, RussellYour Party Will Not Win This Election | Christianity TodayThe After Party: Toward Better Christian Politics - Redeeming BabelMy Faith VotesAbout 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 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 third episode of the special eight-episode series called 'Politics discerned differently,' Dr. Mark Turman and Kaitlyn Schiess explore the intersection of faith and politics. Kaitlyn, an author and doctoral student in political theology, shares her insights on how Christians can live biblically, engage in political discussions redemptively, and navigate the complexities of elections. They discuss the role of political theology and the impact of extreme rhetoric and offer practical ways to integrate faith into political life. Discover the deeper meaning of Christian engagement in the public sphere and learn how to maintain a balanced and thoughtful approach to politics.Topics(01:53): Kaitlyn's Background and Passion for Theology(03:03): The Role of Political Theology in Christian Life(05:52): Defining Political Theology(09:28): Kaitlyn's Journey into Political Theology(12:57): The Intersection of Faith and Politics(17:33): The Impact of Extreme Political Rhetoric(23:27): The Psychological Effects of Political Fear(26:38): Living Faithfully Through Elections(30:33): Spiritual Formation and Political Engagement(34:56): Humility and Making Faithful Judgments(40:34): Praying for Leaders and Political Idolatry(47:30): Hope and Unity in the ChurchResourcesEpisode Transcript (PDF)Related Denison Forum podcasts: Losing Our Religion: A conversation with Russell MooreHow does the Bible apply to today’s politics? With Kaitlyn SchiessHow political should Christians be? Preston Sprinkle discusses his new book, “Exiles”Should Christians pursue power? A conversation with David FrenchHow to vote for imperfect political parties: A conversation with Jason YatesNavigating extremism: A conversation with Elizabeth NeumannRelated Denison Forum articles & resources:What does the Bible say about politics? • Denison ForumElection 2024: Discern politics differentlyRespectfully, I Disagree by Dr. Jim Denison - Audiobook - Audible.comHouse plans to impeach the president: Why I am a Christian patriot but not a Christian nationalistHow should Christians vote?Are Christians required to vote?The Bible and the Civil Rights Movement: An excerpt from “The Ballot and the Bible” by Kaitlyn SchiessOther trusted resources: Exiles: The Church in the Shadow of Empire (Church in the Shadow of Empire, 2)The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory: American Evangelicals in an Age of Extremism: Alberta, TimLosing Our Religion: An Altar Call for Evangelical America: Moore, RussellTruth Over Tribe: Pledging Allegiance to the Lamb, Not the Donkey or the ElephantBallot and the Bible: How Scripture Has Been Used and Abused in American Politics and Where We Go from HereKaitlyn SchiessAbout Kaitlyn SchiessKaitlyn Schiess is an author, speaker, and perpetual theology student. She is the author of The Ballot and the Bible: How Scripture has been Used and Abused in American Politics and Where We Go from Here (Brazos, 2023) and The Liturgy of Politics: Spiritual Formation for the Sake of Our Neighbor (IVP, 2020). Her writing has appeared at Christianity Today, The New York Times, Christ and Pop Culture, RELEVANT, and Sojourner. She has a Masters in systematic theology from Dallas Theological Seminary and is currently a doctoral student in political theology at Duke Divinity School. She lives in Durham, North Carolina.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.

Conner Jones, Director of Performance Marketing at Denison Ministries, dives into the intricate relationship between media, politics, and faith. He discusses the urgent need for truth in today's political landscape and how social media and AI shape our understanding of reality. The episode highlights independent journalism's rise and the challenges of misinformation and disinformation. Jones emphasizes the critical role of a free press in democracy and offers insights into navigating the complexities of modern media while upholding Christian values.

Dr. Turman, a theologian passionate about the intersection of faith and governance, joins Dr. Denison, who provides insights on political discourse from a biblical lens. They delve into how Christians can engage in politics while upholding their faith. Key discussions include the historical nuances of democracy, the moral foundations of American principles, and practical strategies for balancing spiritual growth with political involvement. The conversation encourages listeners to reflect on their role in today's polarized political landscape.

Welcome back to the Denison Forum podcast! This episode features Dr. Mark Turman, executive director of Denison Forum, in conversation with Janet Denison about her ministry and her evening devotional book, Wisdom Matters. They discuss the importance of biblical wisdom, the differences between knowledge and wisdom, and how wisdom can help us navigate life's challenges. Janet shares personal stories and insights from her journey of faith, including early experiences in ministry and how desperation led her to a deeper understanding of scripture. They highlight the role of the Holy Spirit in ministry and the tendency to misuse Bible knowledge. Janet emphasizes the need to lean on God's understanding and not our own, especially in difficult times. They also explain how the devotional book is structured to provide daily wisdom and how it can be accessed both as a hardcover and through the Foundations with Janet app, where users can hear Janet read each devotional. Discover practical ways to end your day with God's wisdom and explore the powerful impact it can have on your life.Topics(00:46): Introducing Janet Denison and Foundations Ministry(02:01): The Importance of Wisdom(05:01): Biblical Foundation of Wisdom(14:33): Personal Stories and Experiences(20:43): The Role of the Holy Spirit in Ministry(30:29): Challenges and Hardships in Ministry(36:33): Wisdom Matters: An Evening Devotional(44:16): Conclusion and ResourcesResourcesEpisode Transcript (PDF)📘Wisdom Matters: An Evening DevotionalFoundations with Janet Denison websiteFoundations Bible Studies📘 A Great Calm: Finding God’s Peace When You Need It Most About Janet DenisonJanet Denison has been writing and teaching Bible study for almost forty years and speaks with a voice that has experienced the truth of God’s word. She often says the reason she gets out of bed each day is to help others understand and apply the truth of God’s word to their daily lives. Teaching the Bible is her great privilege, and her goal is to help people live a life that God is able to bless. She is the primary author of the Bible studies at Foundations with Janet.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 enlightening podcast episode, Jared Wilson joins Dr. Mark Turman on the Denison Forum podcast to discuss his latest book Friendship with the Friend of Sinners: The Remarkable Possibility of Closeness with Christ. Jared shares his personal faith journey, his roles in ministry, and the inspiration behind his new book. The conversation explores themes of loneliness, the true meaning of a relationship with Christ, and the importance of community and church in one's spiritual life. Jared also examines the tangible friendship believers can have with Jesus, emphasizing the significance of both personal and communal aspects of faith.Topics(00:25): Jared Wilson's Backstory(03:23): Journey to Midwestern Seminary(04:18): Current Roles and Responsibilities(06:24): Discussing the Book: Friendship with the Friend of Sinners(09:58): The Concept of Friendship with God(12:24): The Role of Religion and Relationship(17:16): The Reality of Jesus as a Person(28:04): The Importance of the Local Church(38:43): Conclusion and Final ThoughtsResourcesEpisode Transcript (PDF)For The Church podcast Jared Wilson’s websiteFriendship with the Friend of Sinners: The Remarkable Possibility of Closeness with ChristAbout Jared WilsonJared is assistant professor of pastoral ministry and author in residence at Midwestern Seminary and director of the Pastoral Training Center at Liberty Baptist Church, all in Kansas City, Missouri. He is the author of numerous books, including The Imperfect Disciple, Love Me Anyway, The Prodigal Church, and The Gospel According to Satan. He is the host of the For The Church podcast and co-host of Christianity Today's The Art of Pastoring podcast. Jared also blogs regularly at the For The Church website, and he speaks at numerous churches and conferences around the world.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, Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison address the complex and sensitive issue of moral failures among church leaders. They examine the implications of such failures, differentiate between moral and legal mistakes, and discuss the appropriate processes for handling these situations. The conversation covers potential disqualification from ministry, biblical examples, and measures for restoration. Additionally, they discuss recent news about the Ten Commandments being posted in schools, considering both historical and religious implications.Topics(01:39): Understanding Moral Failures in Church Leadership(06:56): Distinguishing Moral Failures from Capacity Issues(10:22): Exploring the Concept of Disqualification in Ministry(19:30): Navigating the Restoration Process(25:54): The Devil's Strategy and the Importance of Confession(30:56): Failures Among Religious Leaders(32:27): The Impact of Pornography on Ministry(34:32): Unique Temptations for Spiritual Leaders(38:05): Handling Moral Failures in the Church(43:22): The Debate Over Displaying the Ten Commandments(46:13): Historical vs. Religious Expression(54:11): Balancing Church and StateResourcesEpisode Transcript (PDF)Can pastors be restored after moral failure? Robert Morris, Tony Evans, and the path to spiritual victoryAbout 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.

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.