Today's Conversation

What does it really mean to flourish — not just as individuals, but as communities, cultures and societies? In this episode of Today's Conversation, Byron Johnson, distinguished professor of social sciences at Baylor University and co–director of the Global Flourishing Study, expands our vision of human flourishing to a global scale.Byron Johnson joins NAE President Walter Kim to unpack surprising and hopeful findings emergingfrom the Global Flourishing Study, a groundbreaking international research project he leads in collaboration with Harvard University and others. Together, they explore how flourishing is being measured across the world and why it matters now more than ever — for people of faith, for the Church and for the future of society. In their conversation, they explore: What makes the Global Flourishing Study a truly unprecedented effort;  Why flourishing is about more than just health and wealth — it's also about purpose, relationships and faith; How the Church plays a vital role in shaping holistic well-being; and How the Bible offers a compelling vision of what it means to thrive. ResourcesFull conversation with Byron Johnson on YouTube  For further study, see Ezekiel 47, John 7 and Revelation 22 Global Flourishing Study “More God, Less Crime: Why Faith Matters and How it Could Matter More,” by Byron Johnson “The Faith Factor and Social Welfare: Evidence, Practice, Policy,” by Byron Johnson (coming in December 2025) Moving Society From “Me” to “We,” NAE podcast with Robert Putnam and Shaylyn Romney Garrett  “Faith That Flourishes,” by Walter Kim in Evangelicals magazine 

Rest can feel like an undeserved “luxury” for many of us — but what if it's actually a gift from God to help us resist the “pharaohs” of our age that plague us with constant striving and endless productivity? Sheila Wise Rowe, a counselor, spiritual director and author of “Healing Leadership Trauma,” joins this episode of Today's Conversation podcast to explore the transformational power of rest — and why God's rhythms for our lives are so different from the world's relentless demands. While our culture tends to measure value by output, the gospel offers a rich vision of rest as a practice that nurtures emotional, spiritual and communal flourishing. In this conversation, NAE President Walter Kim and Sheila Wise Rowe discuss: Why rest is central to the gospel; How to recognize signs of emotional and spiritual overdrive; Rhythms of rest woven throughout Scripture; andHow God's design for rest frees us.Subscribe today wherever you listen to podcasts.Find the show Notes: http://www.nae.org/wiserowepodcastWatch the full Interview on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Je-hAOSKoWI

What if the gospel is more vast, beautiful and multidimensional than we could ever imagine? Renowned New Testament scholar Dr. Craig Keener joins Today's Conversation podcast to deepen our understanding of what Jesus meant by the “good news,” how the early Christians received it, and how it transformed not just individual lives — but entire communities. While the gospel is often framed primarily in terms of the forgiveness of sins — a foundational and essential truth — it doesn't stop there. In this theological rich conversation, NAE President Walter Kim and Dr. Craig Keener explore the far-reaching implications of the gospel, including:*Why the gospel is not just about personal salvation, but also about community renewal;*How followers of Jesus are invited to participate in God's redemptive work in the world; *A call for today's Church to reflect more fully the vision and mission of Jesus; and *How a deeper understanding of the gospel inspires us to live with greater purpose and hope.Today's Conversation is a podcast of the National Association of Evangelicals. Listen on your favorite podcast app.Show notes here: http://nae.org/keenerpodcastThis episode was sponsored by World Vision: http://WorldVision.org/nextgen25#Gospel #GoodNews #CraigKeener #Theology #NewTestament #Evangelicals #NAE 

Recent changes in government funding for international aid, coupled with public criticism of some faith-based organizations, have raised important questions. What responsibility does the government have in saving lives, especially those of non-citizens? Is it acceptable for Christian groups to receive government funding to further the public good?Michael Cerna, CEO of Accord Network, joins Today's Conversation podcast, hosted by NAE President Walter Kim, to delve into these issues and more. In this episode, they also discuss:How the foreign aid freeze impacts Christian nonprofits that do not receive federal funding;What responsibilities governments have in caring for vulnerable people and enacting justice;Examples of faith and government collaboration in the Bible; andHow Jesus' perseverance in the face of adversity inspires hope.Show Notes: https://www.nae.org/michael-cerna-faith-and-hope-amidst-crisis/

Have you ever found yourself stuck in a conflict that seems impossible to resolve? What if there was a way to break these cycles of intense conflict? Amanda Ripley joins Today's Conversation to explore why some conflicts spiral out of control — and how we can shift the outcome.As our country grapples with such high levels of conflict, NAE President Walter Kim and Amanda Ripley, author of “High Conflict” and co-founder of Good Conflict, dive into how conflicts escalate, the psychology behind heated disagreements, and practical steps to transform high conflict into good conflict.You'll also hear them discuss:The factors that fuel high conflict in relationships and society;Actionable steps to take in high-conflict moments, such as on an airplane or polling station;Biblical examples of navigating high-conflict situations; andHow to enter into productive conflict through vulnerability and humility.Find the Show Notes Here: https://www.nae.org/aripleypodcast/ ‎

It's one thing to negotiate differences when you share a common moral framework. But how do you move forward with people who hold a completely different vision of the good life? John Inazu joins Today's Conversation to discuss building bridges in a democracy, the role of the people of God in a pluralistic society, and the importance of empathy and forgiveness.In this episode, NAE President Walter Kim and John Inazu, a constitutional lawyer and professor of law and religion at Washington University, offer insights into building meaningful connections with others in pursuit of the common good, including:How to model engagement rooted in hope;The translation work needed to find common ground;How the theological understanding of forgiveness shapes our interactions; andWhy it requires faith to both engage and to disengage.Show notes: https://www.nae.org/jinazupodcast

Much has been said about our increasingly polarized society. It seems we are becoming more entrenched in particular ideologies and less capable of understanding others. But are we as polarized as we think we are?Tim Dixon, co-founder of More in Common, joins Today's Conversation to discuss what we do have in common, and how we can find more in common with others.In this conversation, NAE President Walter Kim and Tim Dixon discuss findings from More in Common's report, "Promising Revelations: Undoing the False Impressions of America's Faithful." The research sheds light on common misperceptions about communities of faith in America, including evangelicals.You'll also hear them discuss:*Where these misperceptions come from and what's at stake if they continue to be believed;*What can be done to build bridges and find unity;*How small moments of connection can shift perspectives; and*Why this work is especially worthwhile for followers of Jesus.Show notes: NAE.org/dixonpodcast#difficultconversations #polarization #moreincommon #peacemakers

Our context — whether political, cultural or social — often determines the lens by which we read Scripture, for better or for worse. Engaging with the global church expands our context and encourages us to ask fresh questions of the gospel and of Scripture. Riad Kassis joins Today's Conversation from Beirut, Lebanon, bringing deep convictions of fidelity to Scripture and its application to lived experience.Riad Kassis, international director of Langham Partnership, shares how living in the Middle East has shaped his faith and reflects on his experience at the most recent Lausanne Gathering in Seoul, South Korea.You'll also hear NAE President Walter Kim and Riad discuss:Why theological resources for and by Majority World pastors is vital for the Church;What biblical truths about persecution can reshape our minds and hearts;Why justice is a matter of great importance to Christians in conflict areas; andHow we can stand with our brothers and sisters in Christ around the world.Show Notes : https://www.nae.org/kassispodcast/ 

What is the future of artificial intelligence, and how should Christians interact with it? Listen in to hear Andy Crouch, author and partner for theology and culture at Praxis, discuss AI's potential to be a profound and fruitful extension of human image-bearing, as well as its potential to be destructive to human flourishing. In Today's Conversation podcast, host NAE President Walter Kim and Andy discuss:Different theories predicting how AI — including AGI and ASI — will develop in society;Why we need a better theological framework — particularly around demonology — for the future of AI;How AI could be redemptive for our physical health, relationships and more; andWhy the practice of Sabbath will mark people who flourish in this technological shift.Go To Show Notes: NAE.org/crouchpodcast

In a world where news is constantly streamed, the sheer amount of information can leave many of us feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to filter what is true.  Bonnie Kristian, journalist and author of “The Knowledge Crisis” joins NAE President Walter Kim to discuss how this issue is leaking into churches and becoming a discipleship issue. Listen in to hear them discuss a way forward. In this episode of Today's Conversation, journalist Bonnie Kristian and NAE President Walter Kim explore practical ways to engage with the surplus of information coming our way, and how to stay on guard in our discipleship to Jesus in the digital age. You'll also hear Walter and Bonnie discuss: The issue of “expertise” in the post-pandemic era; Why having a depth of knowledge on a few topics vs. broad knowledge on all current issues may be more helpful; The growing mindset of “conspiracism” and how to speak to it, or sometimes how to refrain from speaking to it; and Other practical tips for staying grounded in truth.Click here for show notes: NAE.org/kristianpodcast

The country is divided across class, racial, gender and political lines, and churches are not immune to this. Sometimes they even exemplify this division. How can pastors preach to a divided audience, and how can congregants remain active participants despite challenging differences?Dr. Matthew Kim, of Truett Seminary and co-author of “Preaching to a Divided Nation,” offers a way forward in this episode of Today's Conversation.

In the midst of deep political and cultural polarization, there remains an underutilized space: the middle. Shirley Mullen argues that this “middle” is not “bland averaging, moral cowardice or lazy indifference.” Instead the courageous middle is a daring way to live and work together for a more hopeful future.Shirley Mullen, president emerita of Houghton University, joins NAE President Walter Kim for Today's Conversation podcast, and casts a vision for how each of us can claim the courageous middle in this election season and beyond.You'll also hear Shirley and Walter discuss:How active listening and bridge-building is central to the middle space;Why being in the middle is labor intensive, but offers real possibilities for lasting change;How institutions and individuals have navigated this space and seen fruit of their labors; andWhere those who feel disillusioned by polarization can find encouragement.For a complete list of show notes: NAE.org/mullenpodcast/

The foundation of thriving communities is strong families. That idea resonates with many of us, but the data also demonstrates it. Join Dr. Brad Wilcox and NAE President Walter Kim as they confront common yet false narratives about marriage in society today.This conversation covers why marriage not only benefits those who have committed to forging strong marriages but also society as a whole. You'll also hear Brad and Walter discuss:The anti-family messaging that afflicts our culture today;Why segments of society that forgo marriage face higher risk of deaths of despair;Research-based encouragement for young people, in particular, to get married; andFactors that go into forging a healthy and long-lasting marriage.Show notes can be found here: NAE.org/wilcoxpodcast/

Join us for a special episode of Today's Conversation podcast with Bryan Stevenson and Bishop Derek Grier. Hosted by NAE President Walter Kim, the leaders discuss the promise of greatness that's available to a society unburdened by hate, violence and discrimination.They talk about why we must reckon with the past in order to experience racial healing and reconciliation, and why the aspiration for a society that's rooted in love, peace and joy is essential to the work of racial justice.You'll also hear about a recent trip, hosted by National Unity Weekend and the National Association of Evangelicals, with 100 Christian leaders to the Legacy Museum in Montgomery, Alabama. Bryan shares his vision for the museum as a place of truth-telling where narratives are recovered and where people can grapple with dreadful elements of America's history and at the same time be inspired by the perseverance of those who suffered.They also discuss:How fear and power are barriers to racial reconciliation;Why there can be no reconciliation without reckoning;How the conviction in our hearts motivates change; andHow we can be liberated through repentance and experience redemption.Go to NAE.org/stevenson-grier-podcast for show notes.

What does it look like when the Church follows God into unknown territory? Hear Noemi Chavez, a pastor and the co-founder of Brave Global, share what happened when her church committed to serving and empowering at-risk girls, particularly in foster care and on probation.Hosted by NAE President Walter Kim, this conversation discusses leading and inspiring social change (despite feelings of inadequacy) and developing the next generation of leaders.You'll also hear Noemi share:-Why bravery is essential for healing and for meaningful witness;-How a faithful Christian presence opens doors for gospel transformation;-What it looks like to release control and empower young leaders; and-Why we must have a heart posture focused more on walking with Jesus than on outcomes.Get show notes here: NAE.org/chavezpodcast/

What role do emotions have in our discipleship to Jesus? Dr. Anita Phillips, trauma therapist, minister and life coach, uses Jesus' parable of the sower in Matthew 13 to show how emotions are the soil in the ground which allows the word of God, or the seed, to take root in our lives and transform us.This conversation, hosted by NAE President Walter Kim, discusses the importance of emotional health and how our emotions are not something we should fear, but instead something we should embrace.You'll also hear Dr. Anita discuss: How embracing our emotions is integral to our spiritual growth;Recent discoveries in neurobiology that echo what we know in Scripture;How Christians can lead in spaces of emotional well-being; andThe impact her book, “The Garden Within” has had in both faith-based and secular spheres.View show notes here: NAE.org/phillipspodcast

In John 10, Jesus explains that he has come to offer abundant life. Roland Warren, president and CEO of Care Net, joins Today's Conversation podcast to share how Jesus' vision for abundance impacts and transforms pro-life ministry. He also argues that Christian discipleship is at the center of this issue.Hosted by NAE President Walter Kim, this conversation provides insight into what pro-life ministry looks like in a post-Roe context, how the sanctity of marriage and family upholds God's vision for those inside and outside the womb, and what we can do to support family structures.You'll also hear: +What critiques of the pro-life movement need to be addressed;+How the story of Jesus' birth reflects God's design for family;+What initiatives support strong family structures; and+How holistic discipleship empowers people to think differently about abortion.View show notes here: NAE.org/rolandpodcast

What is Christian nationalism? And, how is it different than patriotism? Join Walter Kim and Dr. Paul Miller as they discuss the roots of Christian nationalism in America and what it looks like for evangelicals to be politically engaged in a Christ-honoring way.In Today's Conversation podcast, NAE President Walter Kim and Dr. Paul Miller, Georgetown University professor and former veteran and White House staffer, discuss how evangelicals can be principled when it comes to politics by working for the common good of all people.You'll also hear Paul and Walter discuss: The virtue of patriotism and how it's tied to gratitude;The difference between Christian principles and Christian power;The elements of a healthy Christian political witness; andA word of hope and concern for the 2024 election.View show notes here: NAE.org/millerpodcast/

In Today's Conversation hosted by NAE President Walter Kim, Ed Stetzer and Walter discuss: How moments of cultural upheaval have also been times of spiritual revival; Why the workplace is key to God's global mission today; What posture Christians in the West should have when engaging Christians around the world; and How American evangelicals can connect with the 2024 Lausanne gathering in Seoul.

In Today's Conversation hosted by NAE President Walter Kim, Lanre describes how the life and ministry of Christ offers a foundation for humanitarian work and helps sustain energy and vision in the most difficult places.Walter and Lanre also discuss:What considerations aid organizations make when going into conflict zones;How humanitarian groups practically collaborate in moments of crisis;What particular challenges arise when providing aid in places with political strife; andHow Christians can be praying for people affected by crises around the world.

In Today's Conversation hosted by NAE President Walter Kim, Ryan Burge, assistant professor of political science at Eastern Illinois University, shares his research on the rise and fall of institutions in America. Together they also explore what leaders can do to usher in institutional renewal, particularly through faithful Christian presence and serving the least of these.Walter & Ryan also discuss:When institutional mistrust and cynicism began to take root;How humility, transparency and communication combat cynical attitudes;What guidance the Bible offers in this moment; andHow churches and other institutions can labor toward renewal.

In this episode of Today's Conversation, D.A. Horton, theologian, professor, pastor, author and hip hop artist, discusses the topics of culture making and ethnic conciliation — the idea that Jesus' finished work has not only reconciled us to God but also from all ethnicities into one family.Host Walter Kim, NAE President, and Damon also discuss: Balancing individual rights and a collectivist perspective as the Church;Embodying ethnic conciliation through rhythms of evangelicalism and discipleship;How to affirm truths found in culture without compromising the message of Christ; andHow local churches take, reflect and examine their own culture. 

How do people change? And, why is change so elusive? These were the questions that compelled Ted Harro to consider the work of Renovaré, a Christian nonprofit that helps people become more like Jesus.After a 30 year career in business consulting, Ted now leads Renovaré as its president. In Today's Conversation, he talks with Walter Kim, NAE president, about spiritual formation and how to be people who are truly transformed by God. They discuss what it means to develop the mindset of Christ.Ted also shares:How to cultivate an authentic approach to spiritual disciplines without falling into legalism;Why creating more space for “depth” in churches is an antidote to society's frenetic pace;What role community plays in spiritual disciplines and formation; andWhat lessons he's learning through life and leadership.

Deconstruction is not simply a buzzword, but a reality that many Christians — especially young people and people of color — experience. Some deconstruct due to the dissonance they see between faith and how faith is lived out. For others, it is misunderstandings of theology or poor public witness. In Today's Conversation, Lisa Fields, founder of Jude 3 Project, shares how her own faith was challenged and how she is committed to helping Christians — particularly in the Black community — know what they believe and why.

In Today's Conversation, Felicia Wu Song, a cultural sociologist of media and digital technologies, talks with NAE President Walter Kim to answer this question and discuss technological impacts on the human experience.They also review:The potential of technology to isolate us from genuine human connection;How digital connectivity is not just a challenge for younger generations;How our digital habits are discipling us away from the kingdom of God; andThe importance of setting boundaries when it comes to technology.

In Today's Conversation with NAE President Walter Kim, Heather Rice-Minus, incoming president and CEO of Prison Fellowship, shares stories of transformed lives inside and outside prison walls, and discusses the importance of efforts to redeem broken systems.In this episode, you'll discover:The inspiring origins of Prison Fellowship, founded by Chuck Colson back in 1976.The pressing challenges faced by the criminal justice system in our present day.The profound ways in which God can utilize institutions to bring about renewal and restoration.Heather's unwavering hope for those whose lives have been impacted by incarceration.Tune in as we engage in a captivating conversation that sheds light on the power of redemption and the pursuit of justice. Don't miss this insightful and thought-provoking episode

Welcome to a very special episode of Today's Conversation. In collaboration with The Mission Matters podcast, we bring you an engaging discussion featuring esteemed guest Michael Oh, the global executive director and CEO of the Lausanne Movement. Joining him as co-hosts are NAE President Walter Kim, Ted Esler, president of MissioNexus, and Matthew Ellison, president of sixteen:fifteen.In this episode, our distinguished guests delve into the dynamic work of God across the globe, with a particular focus on the transformative power of the global missions movement. Prepare to be captivated as they explore:The distinction between global missions and the globalization of missions, unraveling the nuances of their impact.The profound interplay between the demonstration and proclamation of the gospel, revealing the intricate relationship between both aspects.A captivating preview of the highly anticipated Lausanne Congress in Seoul, showcasing its unique and groundbreaking elements.An inspiring conversation about the hopes and aspirations they hold for the global Church in the upcoming decade.Don't miss this extraordinary episode as we bring you a truly enriching conversation that illuminates the remarkable ways God is at work in our world.

We were made to flourish and to help others flourish. In Today's Conversation podcast, Dr. Curt Thompson, psychiatrist and author, talks about interpersonal neurobiology — how we were created as embodied and relational beings — and what implications it has for how we experience the gospel.NAE President Walter Kim and Curt Thompson go back to the very beginning and discuss how we see this embodied and relational reality, as well as the effects of trauma and shame, in the first four chapters of Genesis. They also explore:How Western thinking has influenced our understanding of spirituality;Why being receptive to love is more difficult than loving others;How we can create spaces for others to experience beauty and goodness; andWhat practices or outlooks can help us care for our soul.

How do you grow a church? Sheep make sheep, says Pastor James Meeks. A life in Christ is transformational at its core, and a transformed life can't help but be a shining light so that others can see their good deeds and glorify the Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16).In Today's Conversation podcast with NAE President Walter Kim, Pastor Meeks describes how that truth played out in Salem Baptist Church of Chicago's exponential growth. He reflects on his decades of pastoral ministry proclaiming and demonstrating the good news, including very creative community initiatives.They also discuss:How the Word of God is foundational to transformed lives;How every Christian can be equipped for ministry outside the church's four walls;What it looks like to pass the torch to the next generation of leaders; andHow to deal with the burdens of ministry.

Join us for this enlightening conversation as we unlock the transformative potential of the gospel's social dimensions. NAE President Walter Kim and Pastor Derwin Gray guide us through an engaging exploration of faith, justice, and the path to a more inclusive and reconciled future. Don't miss this episode of Today's Conversation, available now on your favorite podcast platform.

In this episode, NAE President Walter Kim engages in a compelling discussion with Mark Elliott, founder of the East-West Church and Ministry Report. Together, they shed light on the impact of the Russian invasion on religion and the state of churches and ministries in the region. Gain valuable insights as we explore:The current landscape for evangelicals in both Ukraine and Russia, unveiling the challenges and opportunities they face.The pivotal role religion played during the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, offering a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics at play.The most pressing needs confronting churches in Ukraine, highlighting the areas requiring immediate attention and support.A glimpse into the responses of churches in neighboring countries like Poland and beyond, revealing the collective efforts to aid and assist in this critical situation.

In this episode, NAE President Walter Kim engages in a compelling discussion with Mark Elliott, founder of the East-West Church and Ministry Report. Together, they shed light on the impact of the Russian invasion on religion and the state of churches and ministries in the region. Gain valuable insights as we explore:The current landscape for evangelicals in both Ukraine and Russia, unveiling the challenges and opportunities they face.The pivotal role religion played during the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, offering a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics at play.The most pressing needs confronting churches in Ukraine, highlighting the areas requiring immediate attention and support.A glimpse into the responses of churches in neighboring countries like Poland and beyond, revealing the collective efforts to aid and assist in this critical situation.

Mariah Humphries | Native Christianity

Embracing Faith and Identity: A Conversation with Mariah Humphries on Today's Conversation PodcastDive into a captivating dialogue on the intersection of faith and Native American identity in this episode of Today's Conversation. Join us as Mariah Humphries, a proud citizen of the Mvskoke Nation, shares her personal journey of faith and the harmonious integration of her Christianity with her Native American heritage. Prepare to have your assumptions challenged as we explore the vibrant world of Native Christianity.In this enlightening conversation with NAE President Walter Kim, you'll gain profound insights into:The evolving narratives surrounding Native Americans and the shifting perceptions of their relationship with Christianity.The pivotal role of acknowledging the past, fostering trust, and opening doors for the gospel to flourish in Native communities.Effective language and approaches that facilitate the communication of the good news to indigenous people.The unique perspective of Native Americans on their responsibility to steward and care for creation.

Gus Reyes | The Heartbeat of the Hispanic Community

Understanding and Engaging the Hispanic Community: A Conversation with Dr. Gus Reyes on Today's Conversation PodcastUncover the vibrant tapestry of the U.S. Hispanic community and gain valuable insights into effective ministry and outreach in this insightful episode of Today's Conversation. With Hispanics comprising nearly 20 percent of the U.S. population, their influence on our nation's growth and the revitalization of churches cannot be understated. Join us as Dr. Gus Reyes, director of Hispanic partnerships for Dallas Baptist University, offers his profound pastoral perspective on this vital community.In this engaging conversation, NAE President Walter Kim and Dr. Reyes navigate the diversity and complexities within the U.S. Hispanic community, uncovering the dynamics that shape different generations and their implications for ministry. Delve into essential topics such as:The multifaceted nature of the U.S. Hispanic community, revealing its rich diversity and cultural nuances.The significance of family and education within Hispanic communities, illuminating the values that inform their lives.The aspirations and desires of Latino young people in seeking a faith community that resonates with their unique needs.The profound impact of our broken immigration system on Latino families and the urgent need for reform.

Julius Kim | The Gospel & Cultural Captivity

Reaching and Discipling the Next Generation: A Conversation with Julius Kim on Today's Conversation PodcastNavigate the complexities of our modern culture and the digital age as we explore how the Church can effectively reach and disciple the next generation for Christ. Join us on Today's Conversation podcast as Julius Kim, president of The Gospel Coalition, shares invaluable insights into evangelism and the proclamation of the gospel in today's dynamic cultural landscape. In this engaging episode, NAE President Walter Kim and Julius delve into essential topics that shape our approach to sharing the good news. In Today's Conversation podcast, NAE President Walter Kim and Julius discuss:How the post-modern approach of “no objective truth” has impacted evangelism;Why people may need to deconstruct other worldviews before constructing a biblical worldview;How immigrant brothers and sisters help shift our understanding of Christianity; andWhat resources the American Church needs to address today's complexities.

Nona Jones | Intentional Leadership for Kingdom Impact

Nona Jones | Intentional Leadership for Kingdom Impact

Glenn Packiam | Addressing Pastor Burnout