Mortification of Spin

Critical theory and its expression in fields like critical race theory, critical pedagogy, and queer theory are having a profound impact on our culture. Carl and Todd sit down with Neil Shenvi and Pat Sawyer, authors of Critical Dilemma: The Rise of Critical Theories and Social Justice Ideology, to discuss how contemporary critical theory’s ideas about race, class, gender, identity, and justice have dramatically shaped how people think, act, and view one another—in Christian and secular spheres alike. As a robust meta-narrative worldview, critical social theory and its expansive expressions are categorically against biblical Christianity. – Pat Sawyer While Neil and Pat acknowledge that critical theory can provide some legitimate insights into issues impacting our culture today and urge Christians to condemn racism and seek justice, racial healing, and unity, they argue that the false assumptions at the heart of critical theory pose a serious threat to both the church and society at large.  Congratulations to Archibald D. from Monroe, NC, Wes W. from Glen Ellyn, IL, and Kristen S. from Cedar Falls, IA who were selected to receive a copy of Critical Dilemma, thanks to the generosity of Harvest House Publishers!   Show Notes: Natasha Crane’s article, “Here Comes the He Gets Us Campaign Again: Why Its Portrayal of Jesus is Still a Problem: https://natashacrain.com/here-comes-the-he-gets-us-campaign-again-why-its-portrayal-of-jesus-is-still-a-problem/ Stand to Reason with Greg Koukl: https://www.str.org/ God in the Dock by C.S. Lewis: https://a.co/d/hNVsBWw

Back in 2013, Carl and Todd launched Mortification of Spin with their first episode, "Rock Star Pastors in Las Vegas," sharing a microphone in a small underground bunker. All these years later, they no longer share a mic, but they're still going strong, celebrating their 500th first-run episode. Joining them for this momentous occasion are their good friends, Kevin DeYoung and Matt Eusey. After reminiscing about the early days, the conversation turns toward the importance of meaningful friendships. The guys consider the benefits of friendship and the current challenges we face as these most vital relationships have undergone a dramatic transformation.  It really is important to have friends. It's not a sufficient condition for being faithful in ministry, but I do think it is a necessary condition, and it's really important to have people to know who you really are and [to] joke with, but also be challenged by, and know that they are looking over your shoulder in a good way. – Kevin DeYoung For best results, enjoy this special episode as a video podcast on YouTube. In honor of the 500th episode, we selected three listeners to receive a box of Mortification of Spin swag. Congratulations to Chris T. from Dallas, TX, Sumit B. from Sammanish, WA, and Greg P. from Greenville, SC!   Show Notes: Listen to "Rock Star Pastors in Las Vegas” : https://mortificationofspin.podbean.com/e/rock-star-pastors-in-las-vegas/ Mortification of Spin on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLq5LVxh1Goi5_ZbzUqOaDNjSw1hicGfMF Mortification of Spin swag: https://reformedresources.org/mortification-of-spin/

Mark Jones, author of The Pilgrim's Regress, talks about confronting backsliding believers post-Covid, a topic rarely discussed in Reformed churches. He emphasizes the need to address this issue with wisdom from theologians past and present. Mark also shares insights on writing challenges and the importance of safeguarding against apostasy in Christian life.

Discussing the true nature of faith deconstruction, the guests break down this sweeping movement in churches. They explore the roots of deconstruction, its impact, and offer insights on how to respond biblically. The conversation dives into the influence of social media, the importance of addressing both intellectual and moral challenges, and the need for grounding beliefs in Scripture to combat subjectivity in modern Christianity.

Join Carl and Todd as they discuss C.S. Lewis' 'The Abolition of Man' and its relevance today, exploring universal values, human nature, and societal challenges. They touch on the impact of eliminating individuals with disabilities, echoing Lewis' insights on intrinsic worth. Get insights on the collapse of human nature in modern society and the importance of objective moral foundations.

Tom Rudelius had science and an Ivy League pedigree—why did he need God? Immersed in his physics studies at Cornell, he never thought much about God until his brother, a new convert to Christianity, challenged him to explore faith. Tom joins Carl and Todd to discuss his new book, Chasing Proof, Finding Faith, where he traces his journey to unexpected faith, through subsequent doubt and anxiety. “I think that what God really wants from us is that we would give him our allegiance, even in the midst of our doubts. And I think that’s the sort of faith that God really calls us to – the sort of faith that says, ‘God, I will take your side, even amidst the doubts. I will choose to give you my life and to follow you, even if I’m questioning.’”  Though he never found absolute proof of God or Christianity, he ultimately concluded that the existing evidence for both is compelling and compatible with science. Tune in to this fascinating conversation, and find out why Carl compared him to Martin Luther! Thank you to Tyndale Press for providing a few giveaway copies of Chasing Proof, Finding Faith for our listeners. Congratulations to our winners: Joseph S. from West Chester, PA, Barbara S. from Lancaster, PA, and Michael C. from Evansville, IN!   Show Notes: Tom recommends this book for those who are interested in investigating Christianity: Letters from a Skeptic: A Son Wrestles with His Father's Questions about Christianity  

Special guest Lauren McAfee, co-editor of 'Created in the Image of God', discusses the importance of recognizing human dignity and the societal implications of being made in the image of God. The conversation covers pressing cultural issues, equal dignity for all individuals, and the responsibility to uphold human worth in various aspects of life.

Ryan Anderson and Alexandra DeSanctis discuss how abortion has harmed society and healthcare, post the overturn of Roe v. Wade. They highlight the emotional struggles of couples facing difficult pregnancies and emphasize the importance of well-informed choices. The conversation also touches on the impact of abortion on culture and the challenges faced by the pro-life movement.

Returning to the podcast today is Jonathan Landry Cruse to discuss his new book, The Character of Christ, with Todd and his plaid waistcoat-wearing partner, Carl. In this practical and applicable book, Jonathan examines the godly attributes of the fruit of the Spirit in the Lord’s example, showing us that we can bear true fruit for God only by our union with the life-giving Vine. Be sure to tune in, and as a bonus, you’ll also get a mini-class on Scottish tartans! Thanks to our friends at Banner of Truth for providing three giveaway copies of The Character of Christ for our listeners, and congratulations to the winners: Christa V. from Appleton, WI, Lori E. from Kenna, WV, and Stephen S. from Springfield, VA!

Joseph Minich discusses his book 'Bulwarks of Unbelief' and argues that the rise in atheism is due to a felt absence of God. Topics covered include Charles Taylor's exploration of belief in God, the impact of technology on identity, and the concept of a 'God instinct' and human agency.