The Russell Moore Show

Voices unite to read the captivating Christmas story in Luke 2. The journey of Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem highlights the humble beginnings of Jesus. Reflections on the incarnation explore the deep mystery of God becoming man. The announcement of great joy by angels fills shepherds with awe. Musical interludes enhance the celebratory feel, while the arrival of the Magi underscores the universal invitation to worship the newborn king. This meditative reading captures the essence of joy, hope, and the significance of the Christmas narrative.

Steve Cuss, host of the Being Human podcast, shares his insights on unique Australian Christmas traditions, including the whimsical 'Wombat Divine' and the quirky song 'Six White Boomers.' Clarissa Moll joins in, reflecting on the emotional complexity of the season as they discuss when to start playing Christmas music. The trio dives into personal nativity characters, joyful childhood memories, and the importance of supporting loved ones through grief during the holidays. Humor and poignant reflections make their holiday talk both heartfelt and entertaining.

David Platt, pastor and author known for his work at McLean Bible Church, joins Russell Moore to discuss his new book, All You Want for Christmas. They dive into how Christianity uniquely presents God coming to serve humanity, contrasting it with other religions. Platt shares poignant stories, like a Muslim Uber driver's conversion, and the significance of dreams in faith. He explores grief during the holidays, the importance of repentance, and his family's Christmas traditions, emphasizing generosity and the true meaning of the season.

Join Russell and Leslie as they revisit insightful moments from 2025. Discover David Brooks’s thoughts on moral courage and belonging. Joni Eareckson Tada redefines prayer amidst healing struggles. Explore the complexities of AI with Paul Kingsnorth and the impact of pornography on intimacy with Christine Emba. Jonathan Haidt emphasizes the need for community to combat loneliness. Dive into poetic reflections with David Whyte and revel in Beth Moore's musings on Ecclesiastes. It's a rich discussion of faith, hope, and human connection!

Andrew Peterson, a celebrated songwriter and author known for his Christmas tour and album Behold the Lamb of God, shares insights on his 26-year journey with the project. He discusses the origins of the album, the emotional depth of minor-key songs, and the joyous chaos of touring. Their conversation highlights themes of longing and the surprising nature of the gospel. Andrew also reveals candid backstage traditions, explores the adaptation of his Wingfeather Saga into animation, and amusingly critiques beloved Christmas carols.

A listener wonders about choosing songs for corporate worship. Russell highlights the importance of Scripture-consistent truths in worship music. He contrasts the perspectives of worshipers and worship leaders, stressing discernment. Trust in songs is key, but questioning untrue lyrics is essential. He advises balancing new and traditional music, matching songs to service elements. Russell warns against the allure of popular radio songs and discusses the appropriateness of secular music in worship. Lastly, he reflects on the risks of special performances versus genuine worship.

N.T. Wright, a distinguished New Testament scholar and former Bishop of Durham, dives into a listener's question about the parable of the talents in Luke 19. He emphasizes that parables serve as illustrations rather than direct ethical rules. Wright discusses the nobleman's role as a representation of God's judgment rather than an economic lesson. He also clarifies that gaining ‘more’ relates to receptiveness to God’s kingdom, urging believers to actively utilize their gifts for service.

N. T. Wright, a renowned New Testament scholar and retired Anglican bishop, explores the richness of Ephesians in this engaging discussion. He argues that predestination is about vocation rather than fate, calling the church to live for God's glory now. Wright suggests that Ephesians could have significantly influenced the Reformation had it received more focus. He also tackles issues of unity, mutual submission, and the importance of reading the text with care, emphasizing that the church is meant to showcase God's manifold wisdom in a divided world.

Russell takes a listener's question about how a non-believer can meaningfully engage in a book group with Christians. Watch the video of this episode on YouTube here. Submit your own question for the show! Email questions@russellmoore.com — and remember: attach a voice memo! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joni Eareckson Tada is a quadriplegic, author, and advocate for people with disabilities. In this insightful discussion, she shares how a diving accident transformed her life, revealing strength in suffering. Joni tackles the loneliness of disability, the struggle against well-meaning but harmful healing promises, and why limitations can foster liberation. Her practical advice on supporting those in pain is candid and refreshing, emphasizing understanding over platitudes. Joni's journey illustrates the beauty of faith in the face of despair.