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We're tempted to take the doctrine of the Trinity for granted. But there is scarcely any belief unaffected when we get the Trinity wrong. So argue Don Carson, John Piper, and Tim Keller in this classic discussion recorded at a meeting of The Gospel Coalition's Council. Pull the thread of the Trinity and the universe unravels. Without the Trinity, grace and glory disappear. So does church unity. And we lose a powerful opportunity to share with unbelievers how the Trinity distinguishes the gospel as the source of love for the world. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Canadian wildfire smoke is blanketing Chicago and stretching all the way to New York, and Brian From turns the haze into a parable: the decisions we make set off domino effects that ripple far beyond us, affecting people we love and people we'll never meet. Then a personal update — his son's summer baseball team won their league championship in what turned out to be the last game before he heads to college, and his daughter returns tomorrow from five weeks of intensive Arabic study in Washington DC before a nine-month Fulbright scholarship in the fall. Life is moving. Last night's ESPYs honored a Michigan missionary who pitched in Major League Baseball — a story about what happens when fame and faith intersect in unexpected ways. A meditation on contentment drawn from Philippians 4 and a Gospel Coalition piece on the abundant life. And a closing sermon preview from Brian's role as campus pastor at Compass Church's Hinsdale location, centered on one of the most obscure and haunting figures in the New Testament: Demas. He's mentioned twice as part of Paul's team — and then disappears, described in 2 Timothy 4 as having "loved the present world" and deserted Paul entirely. Brian's challenge: the goal of the Christian life is not to start well. It's to finish well. Don't be Demas.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today, we are pleased to share an audio essay written and read by Megan Hill entitled "10 Things You Should Know about Corporate Prayer." Megan Hill serves as the managing editor for The Gospel Coalition. She is also the author of several books, including 'Praying Together: The Priority and Privilege of Prayer in Our Homes, Communities, and Churches' from Crossway. Read the essay here. Complete this survey for a free audiobook by Kevin DeYoung! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave us a review, which helps us spread the word about the show!
Senator Lindsey Graham died over the weekend from what appears to be a tear in his aorta — and Brian From opens not with politics but with perspective. Graham was on the phone with President Trump Saturday night, had just returned from NATO and a meeting with Zelensky, and was at the very center of world events right up until his final moments. Brian uses that as a launching point into the book of Ecclesiastes: meaningless, meaningless, all of it meaningless. Not as a cynical verdict on life, but as a wake-up call to invest in what actually lasts. Then a surprising and personal segment — Brian shares that he's been serving as campus pastor of the Hinsdale location of Compass Church for the past nine months, working through a series on scripture memory and the importance of the local church. A Gospel Coalition piece on Nashville as one of America's hardest mission fields not because of hostility but because of comfort and consumer Christianity. A call to make evangelism a natural part of everyday life rather than a program. And a closing piece from Relevant Magazine that lands like a gut punch for anyone in a waiting season: what if you're missing your life while you're waiting for it? Life doesn't begin when you get married, land the dream job, or reach the next milestone. As Elizabeth Elliot said, the secret is Christ in me — not me in a different set of circumstances.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this interview, Spencer Dalke talks with senior editor Brett McCracken of The Gospel Coalition about what sleep reveals about God, humanity, and the gospel. Brett McCracken explores why God intentionally designed humans to spend a third of their lives sleeping, arguing that our need for rest highlights our limits and invites us to trust in God's sovereignty. The conversation moves beyond practical advice to a deeper theological reflection, showing how sleep functions as a daily act of surrender, a reminder of our mortality, and even a rehearsal of death and resurrection. Brett McCracken also discusses the connection between sleep and discipleship—how rest helps us love others well, steward our bodies, and resist a culture of constant productivity. From the science of sleep to the spiritual significance of dreams, the episode offers a rich vision of rest as both a gift of grace and a pathway to worship, encouraging listeners to embrace their need for rest as part of God's good design. “The Keeper of your life doesn't sleep, so you can rest easy in the sovereignty of God.” “[Life] doesn't hinge on me always being productive. God is the one who ultimately accomplishes his mission, and it doesn't depend on me, so I can sleep.” Featured work: The Wisdom of Sleep: How Rest Reveals God's Truth and Revives Weary Souls Connect with Brett McCracken at BrettMcCracken.com and TheGospelCoalition.org. For more faith-filled, Gospel-centered content, download the Pilgrim Radio app today on Google Play and Apple, or stream at PilgrimRadio.com.
Today, on Karl and Crew, we wrapped up our weekly theme, "Living Free," focusing on being living dangerously Free. Dr. Sam Storms joined us to explore how the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live boldly for Christ. Looking at Acts 4, we discussed what it means to be filled with the Spirit, trust God’s sovereignty, and find the courage to proclaim the gospel faithfully. Dr. Storms is the founder and president of Enjoying God Ministries and serves on the Council of the Gospel Coalition. The Director of the Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Daniel Darling, also joined us to discuss Christian patriotism, civic responsibility, and how believers can love their country without turning politics or national identity into an idol.He wrote, “In Defense of Christian Patriotism.” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Gospel Message - Karl [ 00:49 ]Dr. Sam Storms [ 26:46 ]Daniel Darling [ 41:19 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today, on Karl and Crew, we wrapped up our weekly theme, "Living Free," focusing on being living dangerously Free. Dr. Sam Storms joined us to explore how the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live boldly for Christ. Looking at Acts 4, we discussed what it means to be filled with the Spirit, trust God’s sovereignty, and find the courage to proclaim the gospel faithfully. Dr. Storms is the founder and president of Enjoying God Ministries and serves on the Council of the Gospel Coalition. The Director of the Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Daniel Darling, also joined us to discuss Christian patriotism, civic responsibility, and how believers can love their country without turning politics or national identity into an idol.He wrote, “In Defense of Christian Patriotism.” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Gospel Message - Karl [ 00:49 ]Dr. Sam Storms [ 26:46 ]Daniel Darling [ 41:19 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today, on Karl and Crew, we wrapped up our weekly theme, "Living Free," focusing on being living dangerously Free. Dr. Sam Storms joined us to explore how the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live boldly for Christ. Looking at Acts 4, we discussed what it means to be filled with the Spirit, trust God’s sovereignty, and find the courage to proclaim the gospel faithfully. Dr. Storms is the founder and president of Enjoying God Ministries and serves on the Council of the Gospel Coalition. The Director of the Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Daniel Darling, also joined us to discuss Christian patriotism, civic responsibility, and how believers can love their country without turning politics or national identity into an idol.He wrote, “In Defense of Christian Patriotism.” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Gospel Message - Karl [ 00:49 ]Dr. Sam Storms [ 26:46 ]Daniel Darling [ 41:19 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today, on Karl and Crew, we wrapped up our weekly theme, "Living Free," focusing on being living dangerously Free. Dr. Sam Storms joined us to explore how the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live boldly for Christ. Looking at Acts 4, we discussed what it means to be filled with the Spirit, trust God’s sovereignty, and find the courage to proclaim the gospel faithfully. Dr. Storms is the founder and president of Enjoying God Ministries and serves on the Council of the Gospel Coalition. The Director of the Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Daniel Darling, also joined us to discuss Christian patriotism, civic responsibility, and how believers can love their country without turning politics or national identity into an idol.He wrote, “In Defense of Christian Patriotism.” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Gospel Message - Karl [ 00:49 ]Dr. Sam Storms [ 26:46 ]Daniel Darling [ 41:19 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today, on Karl and Crew, we wrapped up our weekly theme, "Living Free," focusing on being living dangerously Free. Dr. Sam Storms joined us to explore how the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live boldly for Christ. Looking at Acts 4, we discussed what it means to be filled with the Spirit, trust God’s sovereignty, and find the courage to proclaim the gospel faithfully. Dr. Storms is the founder and president of Enjoying God Ministries and serves on the Council of the Gospel Coalition. The Director of the Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Daniel Darling, also joined us to discuss Christian patriotism, civic responsibility, and how believers can love their country without turning politics or national identity into an idol.He wrote, “In Defense of Christian Patriotism.” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Gospel Message - Karl [ 00:49 ]Dr. Sam Storms [ 26:46 ]Daniel Darling [ 41:19 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today, on Karl and Crew, we wrapped up our weekly theme, "Living Free," focusing on being living dangerously Free. Dr. Sam Storms joined us to explore how the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live boldly for Christ. Looking at Acts 4, we discussed what it means to be filled with the Spirit, trust God’s sovereignty, and find the courage to proclaim the gospel faithfully. Dr. Storms is the founder and president of Enjoying God Ministries and serves on the Council of the Gospel Coalition. The Director of the Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Daniel Darling, also joined us to discuss Christian patriotism, civic responsibility, and how believers can love their country without turning politics or national identity into an idol.He wrote, “In Defense of Christian Patriotism.” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Gospel Message - Karl [ 00:49 ]Dr. Sam Storms [ 26:46 ]Daniel Darling [ 41:19 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today, on Karl and Crew, we wrapped up our weekly theme, "Living Free," focusing on being living dangerously Free. Dr. Sam Storms joined us to explore how the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live boldly for Christ. Looking at Acts 4, we discussed what it means to be filled with the Spirit, trust God’s sovereignty, and find the courage to proclaim the gospel faithfully. Dr. Storms is the founder and president of Enjoying God Ministries and serves on the Council of the Gospel Coalition. The Director of the Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Daniel Darling, also joined us to discuss Christian patriotism, civic responsibility, and how believers can love their country without turning politics or national identity into an idol.He wrote, “In Defense of Christian Patriotism.” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Gospel Message - Karl [ 00:49 ]Dr. Sam Storms [ 26:46 ]Daniel Darling [ 41:19 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The US goes down four to one to Belgium, ending another World Cup run in the round of sixteen — the same place they've been stuck for five straight tournaments. Brian From turns the disappointment into a question about barriers: do you accept them, or do you keep pushing? A disturbing story out of Maine where a Senate candidate facing serious assault allegations is being debated not on the grounds of character but on electability — and Brian names the problem plainly: character must matter, regardless of which party's candidate it is. A rich meditation on Luke 5 and the four friends who tore a hole in a roof to lower their paralyzed friend right in front of Jesus — and what it means to have people in your life who will carry your mat when you can't get there yourself. Brian Johnson, the world's most famous biohacker spending a million dollars a year trying to live forever, has been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease — a reminder that no amount of money or discipline outsmarts mortality. A four-year-old girl caught on tape naming her future husband at a pretend wedding, and it turned out to be her real one 25 years later. Unexpected car and sump pump bills arrive simultaneously, and Brian gets honest about anxiety and finances. And C.S. Lewis via Jen Oshman at the Gospel Coalition: aim at happiness and you'll miss it; aim at heaven and you'll get earth thrown in.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Back from a wet Fourth of July weekend — Brian From opens by reflecting on what unexpected circumstances (a flooded basement, a broken sump pump, a car with no airflow) reveal about how poorly we handle the loss of control, and where our theology has to meet us in those moments. Then a genuinely surprising Gospel Coalition piece arguing that Nashville — the buckle of the Bible Belt — may actually be a harder mission field than secular London: not because of hostility, but because of comfort. When the question isn't whether God exists but what the church will do for you, and when churches line up like thirty-one flavors on a single street, something gets lost. Two uplifting weekend stories: a Phoenix police officer who rented a movie theater for a hundred middle schoolers and asked only that they pay it forward someday, and John Krasinski's moving account of how his mother's three-year deadline — and last-minute extension — put him on the path to booking The Office. A challenging Tim Challies piece on why small sins may actually reveal our rebellious hearts more clearly than big ones. Brian preaches on the story of John Mark — the disciple who deserted Paul, was written off, and ended up being called "useful" decades later — as a picture of how God redeems failures. Science inches closer to a cancer "kill switch." Americans of all ages are spending measurably less time socializing. And a closing meditation on rest — why God himself rested not from weariness but to set a pattern, and why Christians who feel guilty resting may be missing one of God's best gifts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Southern Baptist Convention just passed a constitutional amendment restricting women in ministry — and the implications reach far beyond the SBC. In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer and co-host Ashish Varma sit down with Dr. Beth Allison Barr, historian, Baylor professor, and author of The Making of Biblical Womanhoodand Becoming the Pastor's Wife, to break down what happened, why it matters, and where evangelical Christianity may be heading. Beth traces the amendment's path from 2022 to its overwhelming passage in 2025, explains why Al Mohler's role was decisive, and unpacks the striking inconsistency at the heart of the SBC's position: the same ecclesiology used to avoid accountability for sexual abuse was set aside the moment women's roles came to a vote. We also go deeper into the historical forces behind this moment, from the fundamentalist-modernist controversy to decades of seminary curriculum that have shaped an entire generation of Christians who have never encountered a different reading of scripture. If you've wondered how complementarianism moves toward biblical patriarchy, Beth explains exactly how that progression works and why it isn't accidental. The conversation also takes up the coordination problem: the SBC has Desiring God, the Gospel Coalition, and institutional momentum built over decades. Those committed to keeping these conversations open and honest largely do not. That gap matters, and we name it directly. Topics covered: SBC constitutional amendment, women in ministry, complementarianism vs. egalitarianism, Al Mohler, biblical womanhood, evangelical polarization, church history, Beth Allison Barr Check out Beth's Substack at bethallisonbarr.substack.com, and her books: The Making of Biblical Womanhood and Becoming the Pastor's Wife. Get early access and a bonus with a Patreon membership. Subscribe to our YouTube channel To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com.
Today, we are pleased to share an audio essay written and read by Brett McCracken entitled "7 Good Reasons to Leave a Church." Brett McCracken is a senior editor for The Gospel Coalition and the author of 'Uncomfortable: The Awkward and Essential Challenge of Christian Community' from Crossway. Read the essay here. Complete this survey for a free audiobook by Kevin DeYoung! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave us a review, which helps us spread the word about the show!
In this episode, Emily Jensen shares about how we can worship God with our words, our works, and our whys. Emily Jensen is a podcaster and the cofounder and served as content director for Risen Motherhood. She is also the author of 'Worship', which is part of Crossway's Disciplines of Devotional series published in partnership with The Gospel Coalition. ❖ Listen to “Singing Is for Everyone and Every Day" with Kristyn Getty: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave us a review, which helps us spread the word about the show.
Christians love their neighbors as themselves. One way is by valuing the vulnerable, which means Christians value life from womb to tomb. Join us as we consider the first of 5 defining characteristics of the early church that made them distinct and definable.The sermon today is titled "Valuing The Vulnerable." This sermon is the first installment in our sub-series "How Will They Know Us" and the ninth in our larger series "First Things First." The Scripture reading is from John 13:35 (ESV). Originally preached at the West Side Church of Christ (Searcy, AR) on June 28, 2026. All lessons fit under 6 broad categories: Begin, Instill, Discover, Grow, Learn, and Serve. This sermon is filed under LEARN: Introduction to Theology.Click here if you would like to watch the sermon or read a transcript.Podcast Notes (resources used or referenced):Michael Gorman, "Ahead to our Past: Abortion and Christian Texts," in On Moral Medicine.Tim Keller, "5 Features That Made The Early Church Unique," Gospel Coalition.Richard Hays, The Moral Vision of the New Testament.Larry Hurtado, "Why On Earth Did Anyone Become A Christian In The First Three Centuries?" Marquette Lecture in Theology, 2016.Brad East, "Why Christians Oppose Euthanasia," Christianity Today.Stanley Hauerwas, "Try Some Courage," The Table Podcast.Louise Perry, "We Are Repaganizing," First Things.I'd love to connect with you!Watch sermons and find transcripts at nathanguy.com.Follow along each Sunday through YouTube livestream and find a study guide on the sermon notes page.Follow me @nathanpguy (facebook/instagram/twitter)Subscribe to my email newsletter on substack.
We're continuing our summer series with a recap of the week's top headlines and relevant conversation from The Bulletin archive. The Supreme Court is releasing a number of decisions prior to their summer break. One decision that is forthcoming is President Trump's executive order restricting birthright citizenship. We re-air a conversation between Russell Moore, Clarissa Moll, and executive director for the Catholic Legal Immigration Network to discuss birthright citizenship from a Catholic and Protestant perspective. Then, in a rare show of agreement, Congress passes a bill with broad bipartisan support to encourage housing construction and affordability. David Bahnsen and Mike Cosper speak about why housing is so expensive. Lastly, it's summer camp season! Megan Fowler, Russell Moore, and Clarissa Moll discuss the pros and the woes of summer camp. GO DEEPER WITH THE BULLETIN: Join the conversation at our Substack. Find us on YouTube. Rate and review the show in your podcast app of choice. ABOUT THE GUESTS: Anna Gallagher is the executive director of the Catholic Legal Immigration Network, where she leads nationwide efforts to provide expert legal training and advocacy support to migrants and refugees. David Bahnsen is the managing partner and chief investment officer of The Bahnsen Group, a wealth management firm based in Newport Beach, California. Bahnsen has been named as one of Forbes' Top 250 Advisors, Financial Times' Top 300 Advisors in America, and Barron's America's Top 1200 Advisors. The communication in this episode is provided for informational purposes only and expresses views of David Bahnsen, an investment adviser. This does not constitute investment advice. Megan Fowler is a religion reporter at Christianity Today. She is also an associate editor at byFaith magazine, and her writing has appeared in The Gospel Coalition and Common Good. ABOUT THE BULLETIN: The Bulletin is a twice-weekly news analysis podcast from Christianity Today, with editor-at-large Russell Moore. Each episode offers commentary on current events and headlining news with a roundtable of premier guests, and shares a Christian perspective on issues that are shaping our world The Bulletin listeners get 25% off CT. Go to https://orderct.com/THEBULLETIN to learn more. “The Bulletin” is a production of Christianity Today Host: Alexa Copeland Associate Producer: Alexa Copeland Editing and Mix: Kevin Morris Graphic Design: Rick Szuecs Music: Dan Phelps Executive Producer: Erik Petrik Senior Producer: Matt Stevens Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
As America's 250th birthday approaches, Brian From tackles a genuinely tricky question for pastors: how patriotic should a Sunday worship service actually be? Drawing on Russell Moore's guidance, Brian makes the case for a middle path — genuine thanksgiving for the blessings of being American, without confusing love of country with love of God or turning the worship service into a flag-waving rally. From there, a thoughtful look at the devastating earthquakes in Venezuela, with fears of up to 100,000 casualties, and what it means to live with urgency in a world where life can change in an instant. A reflection on essentials versus non-essentials in the faith — and the danger of turning secondary theological debates into faith-dividing issues. A candid, vulnerable moment where Brian admits his own struggle with envy and jealousy watching other people's vacations on social media, and why thankfulness is the real antidote. A Gospel Coalition piece reframing Christian identity around belonging rather than imitation — you're not just trying to be like Jesus, you belong to him. And a closing word from David Jeremiah on conquering worry by verbalizing it, remembering God's care, and bringing it to him in prayer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
"Judge not, lest ye be judged" might be the most misapplied verse in scripture. Brian From walks through Rachel Gilson's piece at the Gospel Coalition unpacking what Jesus actually meant in Matthew 7 — it's not a prohibition on moral discernment, but a call to humble self-examination before correcting others, with love as the motive, not arrogance. Then a sobering reflection on the consequences of sin, prompted by reports that a sports journalist lost an $800,000 job after an affair with a married NFL coach came to light — a reminder that sin entangles even when it's never publicly exposed. Four years after the Dobbs decision overturned Roe v. Wade, Brian clarifies a common misunderstanding: abortion wasn't eliminated, it was returned to the states, and the pro-life cause remains fundamentally grassroots. A genuinely helpful piece from Relevant Magazine on feeling spiritually stuck even when you're doing everything "right" — and why dryness isn't a sign of failure but often where real growth quietly happens. A new study links anxiety and depression in young people to difficulty recalling positive memories, with real implications for parents about prioritizing shared experiences. And a closing reflection from Randy Alcorn on choosing daily to trust God's sovereignty — even when life is genuinely hard.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two Father's Day moments from the US Open stick with Brian From — a 17-year-old amateur inviting his dad to caddy the final hole, and Wyndham Clark's father surprising him with a red-eye flight after the win. From there, a beautiful walk through John 21 and the restoration of Peter: how Jesus doesn't just forgive Peter's three denials but fully reinstates him with the same calling, three times — and how the church Peter goes on to lead in Acts doesn't happen without that moment on the beach. A genuinely practical conversation about raising resilient kids in an age of helicopter and snowplow parenting, built around the idea that struggle, not comfort, is what makes children strong — and a hopeful Gospel Coalition report showing that parents, not churches or youth groups, remain the single biggest predictor of whether kids keep the faith into adulthood. Reflections on reading through 2 Samuel and the life of David, and why the Bible's major figures almost never had it easy — a corrective to the idea that faithfulness should produce ease. Trust in the federal government hits an all-time low, and Brian asks the uncomfortable parallel question about trust in pastors and the church. Plus the true story behind the movie The Roof Man, and a closing devotion on doing everything — work, parenting, service — as unto the Lord.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The top ten grossing movies of 2025 include four sequels, two reboots, and two live-action remakes. The only film with a genuinely original premise is Sinners. Brian From turns that observation into a deeper question: why is an entire generation — raised online, drowning in new content — desperately reaching backward toward Polaroid cameras, record players, VHS tapes, and music from eras they never lived? Kyle Burks at the Gospel Coalition says Gen Z is drunk on nostalgia, and Brian argues it's not just Gen Z. That longing for something simpler, something that lasts, something you can hold onto — it's not ultimately a longing for the past. It's a longing for the eternal. Then: celebrating as a spiritual discipline — why moving on too quickly to the next thing robs us of joy, and what Brian learned hosting his son's graduation party. The Knicks win their first championship in 53 years. A pastor's thread of ordinary life-change stories from his congregation that reads like a modern Acts 8. GLP-1 drugs and Christians — less a right-or-wrong question and more an identity question. And a top-ten list of 2000s worship songs that will immediately transport you back to every lock-in you ever attended.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Steven Spielberg has made five movies about aliens, and his newest — Disclosure Day — might be his most theologically provocative yet. Adam Holtz from Plugged In joins Brian From to break down a film where Emily Blunt plays a TV reporter chosen by extraterrestrials as their mouthpiece, a government whistleblower is on the run, and two nuns grapple with what alien contact would mean for their faith. Spielberg has been openly asking the question: if it were proven that aliens exist and the government has known, what would that do to your belief system? Adam also flags an interesting Gospel Coalition piece arguing the whole film tracks the Exodus narrative — Moses, Aaron, Pharaoh, parting of the Red Sea — which makes sense given Spielberg's Jewish faith. Then a quick look at Among Us, the popular video game now turned into an animated murder mystery on Paramount Plus starring Elijah Wood. Full reviews at pluggedin.com. Also: Adam and Brian discover they've officially become their parents, and somehow their small group conversations are now mostly about what hurts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this main stage message from the 2025 Rooted Conference, Liz Edrington walks through Acts 10:10–20, 27–28, and 34–36 to show how God works to deepen unity among His people. She highlights how we often prefer what is familiar, while Christ is leading us toward His Kingdom. Through this passage, Liz reveals a pattern of how God deepens our relationship with Him in order to unify us with others, calling the Church to embrace His redemptive vision. Liz Edrington serves as the Associate Director of Care for McLean Presbyterian Church. She received her M.A. in Counseling from Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, Florida, and she's taught as an adjunct professor in the psychology department at Covenant College. She is an emeritus member of the Rooted steering committee, and she's the author of Anxiety: Finding the Better Story (P&R Publishing, 2023), which won The Gospel Coalition 2023 Book Award for Bible Study & Devotional Literature. Pickled things delight her, as does her snuggle beast, Bella the Dog. Unity and the Gospel: Two Safeguards to Teach Our Students by Taylor Mendoza Mediating in a Divided World and a Divided Home by Clark Fobes Luke & Acts: A ROOTED YEARLONG CURRICULUM Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates Register for Rooted 2026 Conference in Nashville Hosted by: Danny Kwon, author of Teenagers and Mental Health; Becca Heck, M. Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary; Isaiah Marshall, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development; and Josh Hussung, M. Div. in Pastor Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.
On this episode of Raising Fatherless Kids, Lori welcomes Mark Vroegop, president of The Gospel Coalition and author of Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy, and Waiting Isn't a Waste. Together, they have a meaningful conversation about grief, suffering, and the biblical practice of lament.After walking through the heartbreaking loss of a stillborn daughter, Mark began to study what Scripture teaches about crying out to God in pain while continuing to trust Him. In this episode, he explains what lament is, why it matters for grieving mothers and fatherless children, and how the Psalms give us language for sorrow, questions, and hope.If you are navigating grief, unanswered questions, or helping your children process loss, this conversation will remind you that God welcomes your tears, hears your prayers, and can be trusted even in the middle of deep pain.Key TakeawaysUnderstanding Lament: A prayer in pain that leads to trustTeaching children to bring their grief to GodTrusting God when life does not make senseFinding hope in the middle of sorrowResources MentionedDark Clouds, Deep Mercy by Mark VroegopDark Clouds, Deep Mercy Devotional Journal by Mark VroegopWaiting Isn't a Waste by Mark VroegopThe Moon Is Always Round by Jonathan GibsonScripture Referenced:Psalm 13, Psalm 55, Psalm 77, Lamentations chapter 3ConnectTo connect with Perspective Ministries and learn more about resources for widows, single mothers, and fatherless children, visit Perspective Ministries.
In this special episode of the Rooted Parent podcast, Anna sports down with mother of two Sharonda Cooper to discuss her new devotional study, Wisdom for Parenting. The wisdom principles they discuss are applicable to parents at every stage of the parenting journey. Sharonda Cooper serves as a content coordinator of women's initiatives at the Gospel Coalition. She holds two engineering degrees from MIT and is pursuing an MDiv in apologetics and philosophy from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. An author and contributor to several books, Sharonda and her family live in Texas. Rooted Recommends: Wisdom For Parenting Be Thou My Vision: God's Wisdom, Presence, and Provision in Parenting by Christina Fox Parenting Out of the Wisdom of Scripture Parenting on the Precipice by Phil Cotnoir Wisdom for Parenting by Sharonda Cooper Follow us @therootedministry! Subscribe to the Rooted Parent Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Hosted by Anna Meade Harris, author of God's Grace for Every Family: Biblical Encouragement for Single-Parent Families and the Churches That Seek to Love Them Well, and Cameron Cole, author of Heavenward: How Eternity Can Change Your Life on Earth and Therefore I Have Hope: 12 Truths That Comfort, Sustain, and Redeem in Tragedy.
In this episode, we're tackling a trend you've probably seen online but might not have a name for: the "Edgelord". We dive into a recent article from Joe Carter at The Gospel Coalition (link below) that explores how some Christian influencers are trading truth for provocative reactions and social media clout. Why are so many young men drawn to this style of leadership, and how is it secretly shaping our faith? We break down what an Edgelord actually is and discuss why being aware of these online influences is so important for our spiritual formation today. https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/edgelords-inherit-earth/Connect With Usprovidenceomaha.org | Instagram | FacebookEmail Usformation@providenceomaha.org
In this episode, Winfree Brisley talks about the armor of God and why it is so important that we find our strength in the Lord. Winfree Brisley serves as an editor for the Gospel Coalition. She is also the editor of 'Strong in the Lord: A 30-Day Devotional on the Armor of God' from Crossway. ❖ Listen to “How the Psalms Act as a Model for Prayer, Lament, and Praise" with Winfree Brisley and Sharonda Cooper: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave us a review, which helps us spread the word about the show.
If you want to pass on your love for the Bible to the next generation but you don’t know how, don’t miss Chris Fabry Live. Melissa is vice president of Discipleship Programming at The Gospel Coalition. Michael is professor of New Testament and early Christianity at Reformed Theological Seminary. Together, the Krugers will help take the mystery out of family devotions. Featured resource:The Good News Family Devotional by Michael and Melissa Kruger May thank you gift:Powerful Self-Talk from the Psalms by Jon Gauger Chris Fabry Live is listener-supported. To support the program, click here.Become a Back Fence Partner: https://moodyradio.org/donateto/chrisfabrylive/partnersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jen Pollock Michel is the award-winning author of six books: A Rule for the Rest of US, Teach Us to Want (Christianity Today's Book of the Year), Keeping Place, Surprised by Paradox (Christianity Today's Book of the Year Award of Merit—Beautiful Orthodoxy), A Habit Called Faith, and In Good Time (Canada's Word Guild Book of the Year Award). Jen is a sought-after contributor to publications like Christianity Today, The Christian Century, The Gospel Coalition, Mockingbird, and The Dispatch, among others. She is also a first-year mentor in Whitworth University's MFA in Creative Writing program, and she travels to speak at churches, conferences, and retreats. Over the past several years, she has been teaching rule-of-life workshops to hundreds of people across various life stages. The mother of five children, she is married to Ryan, and they live in Cincinatti, Ohio. → Click here to preorder A Rule For the Rest of Us, which will be published in September.
It's Monday, May 11th, A.D. 2026. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Adam McManus Nigeria's $10 million genocide cover-up A disturbing new report from International Christian Concern highlights how Nigeria's government is weaponizing misinformation to hide a decades-long campaign of violence against Christians. Written by ICC Fellow Justin Joseph, “Nigeria's $10 Million Genocide Cover-Up” reveals how power, politics, and propaganda are fueling a human catastrophe. Since 2009, at least 190,150 Nigerians — 128,750 of whom were Christians — have been murdered in ethno-religious killings, with the slaughter escalating in 2026. Yet, instead of addressing the crisis, officials are spinning a dangerous narrative. During meetings with other heads of state, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu claims the terrorism plaguing his nation stems solely from climate change and regional instability. Researchers have repeatedly debunked this reasoning, pointing to the targeting of Christian communities. Tinubu's administration has launched a $10 million lobbying front to silence human rights accountability in the U.S. and whitewash the genocide of Nigerian Christians. Prosperity gospel champion Joni Lamb died Joni Lamb, a Prosperity Gospel enthusiast and co-founder of the Daystar Television Network, died on May 7th at the age of 65, reports Christian Daily. Lamb had been privately battling serious health issues before suffering a recent back injury that significantly worsened her condition in recent days. Founded in 1993 alongside her late husband, Marcus Lamb, Daystar Television grew from a small Christian television station into one of the world's largest Christian broadcasting networks, with 100 stations worldwide, employing 300 staff, and bringing in $100 million annually. On December 1, 2010, Marcus Lamb confessed on Daystar Television to having had an affair which Joni initially described, reported ABC News. JONI LAMB: “Several years ago, Marcus and I went through a challenge in our marriage. I discovered that he was having an emotional relationship, if you will, with someone. It had turned into an improper relationship.” MARCUS LAMB: “I take 100% responsibility. Joni has no blame. The other person doesn't have any blame. It's all --- I don't even blame the devil. It's all on me. ”I'm so sorry. I've asked God to forgive me. Years ago, I asked my precious Joni. And when with this first came out, I said to her, I said, ‘Honey, I only want us to stay together if we really love one another, not for the ministry's sake, not even for our kids' sake. Ladies and gentlemen, I love this woman.” The reason they announced this affair is because they were being threatened with blackmail. JONI LAMB: “There actually are three people who were not involved in what we're talking about today or affected by our marital challenge. They're now saying, that unless Daystar pays them $7.5 million, that they're going to take our story, that we just shared with you, to the media.” MARCUS LAMB: “You see these three people, that Joni shared with you, they're trying to take our pain and turn it to their gain. Ladies and gentlemen, we're not going to take God's money and pay to keep from being, uh, humiliated, I guess, or exposed or exploited, whatever you want to call it.” Subsequently, Marcus died at the age of 64 on November 30, 2021 after contracting COVID-19. According to MinistryWatch, in 2020, the ministry used a $3.9 million Paycheck Protection Program loan, offered to pay the salaries of employees, to buy a private airplane, which the family used for vacations, reported Inside Edition. That loan was reportedly paid back after Inside Edition began asking questions about it. Over the years, Joni Lamb became one of the most recognizable faces in Christian media. Unfortunately, Daystar frequently featured prosperity-oriented themes such as: financial blessing tied to faith and giving, “seed faith” donations, and testimonies of material and personal success through faith. Joni and her late husband Marcus Lamb regularly hosted ministers connected to the Prosperity Gospel movement, including: Creflo Dollar Jesse Duplantis Paula White and Benny Hinn James 3:1 says, “My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment.” And, in another controversy involving Daystar Television, Joni's son, Jonathan, claimed that his mother covered up the sexual abuse of his 5-year-old daughter by a relative, according to the Roys Report. While Jonathan had been Daystar Television's vice president, he was demoted to a manager position for refusing to sign a non-disclosure agreement. On May 8th, The Economic Times reported that Joni's daughter-in-law, Suzy, who is married to Jonathan, stated online, “We weren't informed of anything,” claiming relatives knew Joni Lamb was dying the night before her death but “didn't call Jonathan to come say goodbye.” Joni Lamb is survived by her second husband, Doug Weiss, and her three children — Jonathan, Rachel, and Rebecca. Pastor Sam Allberry resigns after “inappropriate” relationship with man And finally, a Tennessee pastor and advocate for Christians who suffer from so-called “same-sex attraction” has stepped down after revealing an “inappropriate” relationship with a man some years ago, reports Beliefnet.com. Pastor Sam Allberry, author of Is God Anti-Gay?, stepped down from his position as an associate pastor at Immanuel Church Nashville, a nondenominational, independent congregation after what the church called “a serious breach of trust.” In a statement put out by the church elders, it stated Allberry had informed the church in 2024 of an “inappropriate relationship” with a man in 2022. The statement noted that the relationship had concluded prior to Allberry being called to his position in the church in 2023. At the time, the church stated it conducted a “thorough investigation” of the relationship and concluded that it was not “disqualifying” for the position. In a February 15, 2017 statement, Sam Allberry said this. ALLBERRY: “Sam Allberry, Oxford. I am same-sex attracted and have been my entire life. By that I mean that I have sexual, romantic and deep emotional attractions to people of the same sex. “I choose to describe myself this way because sexuality is not a matter of identity for me, and that has become good news. My primary sense of worth and fulfillment as a human being is not contingent on being romantically or sexually fulfilled, and this is liberating. “The most fully human and complete person who ever lived was Jesus Christ. He never married, He was never in a romantic relationship, and never had sex. If we say these things are intrinsic to human fulfillment, we are calling our Savior, subhuman.” When news broke last week about Sam Allberry's inappropriate relationship with a man, The Gospel Coalition, a group of pastors and churches that “put the Gospel of Jesus Christ at the center of all activities,” immediately announced that it would be removing all of Sam Allberry's content from its website and channels. By contrast, Living Out, the organization co-founded by Allberry to encourage Christians to “live out their sexuality and identity in ways that enable all to flourish in Christ-like faithfulness,” took a different position. In an online statement, they confirmed that Allberry's “many past contributions to this site retain their value, and they will not be taken down”, adding that the organization “exists because of people like Sam, for people like Sam.” Four Christian leaders most closely associated with Sam Alberry include Ray Ortlund, Russell Moore, Preston Sprinkle, and the late Ravi Zacharias. Romans 1:24, 26-28 says, “Therefore, God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. … “Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural sexual relations for unnatural ones. In the same way, the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed shameful acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their error. “Furthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, so God gave them over to a depraved mind, so that they do what ought not to be done.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Monday, May 11th, in the year of our Lord 2026. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Plus, you can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.
Brian From is fresh off a monumental weekend — his oldest daughter Madeline's college graduation at Hope College in Holland, Michigan — and the joy of that milestone runs through this whole hour. But the reflections go deeper than cap and gown. The chaplain's baccalaureate message on 2 Corinthians 2 leaves Brian with a simple, searching question: when people are in your presence, do they get a whiff of Christ? Then, a throwaway line from Nike's new CEO — "we struggle when we forget who we are serving" — turns into a pointed word for the church and for anyone whose life has quietly drifted toward self. Plus: a Wall Street Journal piece on the rise of the "beta mom" and why the pendulum may have swung too far, new survey data suggesting peak life satisfaction hits at age 52 (good news for Brian at 49), a Gospel Coalition piece on the most alarming political divide in Gen Z — and it's not Democrat vs. Republican — and a closing devotion from Charles Stanley on what it actually means to be aware of God's presence in your daily life, not just on Sundays.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Sharonda Cooper offers encouragement and tips for those struggling to evangelize. Sharonda Cooper serves as content coordinator of women's initiatives for the Gospel Coalition. She is the author of 'Evangelism' from Crossway. ❖ Listen to “The Universal Struggle with Self-Control" with Sharonda Cooper: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave us a review, which helps us spread the word about the show.
The Desecration of Man: How the Rejection of God Degrades Our Humanity… GUEST Dr Carl R Trueman … professor of biblical and religious studies at Grove City College and a fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center … His most recent book is “Crisis of Confidence: Reclaiming the Historic Faith in a Culture Consumed with Individualism and Identity” GUEST Amy Julia Becker … helps people reimagine the good life through her writing and speaking on disability, faith, and culture at amyjuliabecker.com …author of “To Be Made Well,” “White Picket Fences,” “Small Talk,” and “A Good and Perfect Gift” … guest opinion writer for national publications and hosts the Reimagining the Good Life podcast. Welcome Back, Church Plantings… GUEST Sarah Eekhoff Zylstra … senior writer and faith-&-work editor for The Gospel Coalition … also coauthor of “Gospelbound: Living with Resolute Hope in an Anxious Age” and editor of “Social Sanity in an Insta World” Edith Stein — A Sure Way: Following Truth in a World on Fire (new book) … GUEST Carolyn Beard.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this main stage message from the 2025 Rooted Conference, Cameron Cole walks through Acts 2:1–24, highlighting three essential ingredients of lasting change revealed at Pentecost: the Holy Spirit in us, the Word of God within the story of God, and the gospel proclaimed in personal terms. His central message is both humbling and hopeful: people can't change themselves—but God can change people. This session calls leaders to depend not on strategies, but on the Spirit's power to transform hearts. Cameron Cole is the founding chairman of Rooted Ministry, and Director of Adult and Nextgen Discipleship at St. Peter's Anglican Church in Birmingham, AL. In addition to serving the local church for nearly twenty years in youth and family ministry, he is the co-editor of Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry: A Practical Guide (Crossway, 2016). Cameron is the author of Therefore I Have Hope: 12 Truths that Comfort, Sustain, and Redeem in Tragedy (Crossway, 2018), which won World Magazine's 2018 Book of the Year (Accessible Theology) and was runner up for The Gospel Coalition's Book of the Year (First-Time Author). He is also the co-editor of The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School (New Growth Press) and the author of Heavenward: How Eternity Can Change Your Life on Earth (Crossway, 2024). Cameron holds an undergraduate degree and an M.A. in Education from Wake Forest, as well as an M.Div from Reformed Theological Seminary. Cameron is married to Lauren and together they have four children, one of whom lives in heaven. Rooted Resources: Youth Ministry in the Power of the Spirit by Seth Stewart Three Reasons to Teach Acts in Your Youth Group by Tucker Fleming Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates Register for Rooted 2026 Conference in Nashville Hosted by: Danny Kwon, author of Teenagers and Mental Health; Becca Heck, M. Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary; Isaiah Marshall, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development; and Josh Hussung, M. Div. in Pastor Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.
We're living in a fractured world, pulled in a thousand directions, unsure what it actually means to live a good life. In this episode, I talk with Alan Noble about virtue, telos, and how prudence, justice, courage, temperance, faith, hope, and love reorient us toward a life that is whole, grounded, and shaped by the way of Jesus. We explore decision-making, suffering, agency, and hope - and what it looks like to actually embody these virtues in everyday life.Dr. O. Alan Noble is Associate Professor of English at Oklahoma Baptist University, a fellow at the Keller Center for Cultural Apologetics, and author of four books, including: To Live Well: Practical Wisdom for Moving Through Chaotic Times, On Getting Out of Bed: The Burden and Gift of Living, and You Are Not Your Own: Belonging to God in an Inhuman World. Dr. Noble has published articles at The Atlantic, The Gospel Coalition, First Things, and Christianity Today. He lives in Oklahoma City with his wife and three children.Alan's Book:To Live WellAlan's Recommendation:The Quest for CommunityConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@shiftingculturepodcast.comGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below NEW PODCAST: American Evangelicals - A History PodcastA thoughtful, deep dive into one of the most talked-about movements in American history.Support the show
Welcome back to A History of Christian Theology! In this episode, Chad sits down with Dr. Kelly M. Kapic, Professor of Theological Studies at Covenant College, to discuss his award-winning book Christian Life, published by Zondervan Academic as part of the New Studies in Dogmatics series.What does it actually mean to live as a Christian? Although the phrase "Christian life" is used constantly in churches and classrooms, its theological foundation often goes unexamined. Dr. Kapic argues that the Christian life is, first and foremost, a response to the love of the triune God — flowing from God toward us and drawing us back into communion with him. Central to his account is the incarnate Son, who loved the Father for us, weaving our fragmented prayers and imperfect devotion into his own perfect faithfulness.Chad and Dr. Kapic explore the theological foundations of Christian living, the role of the church and corporate worship in shaping the believer, and what it means to be united to Christ by the Spirit. It's a rich, accessible conversation at the intersection of systematic theology and everyday faith.Dr. Kapic holds a PhD in Systematic and Historical Theology from King's College, University of London, and has authored or edited over fifteen books. Christian Life received the 2025 Award of Distinction from The Gospel Coalition and an Honorable Mention from the Southwestern Journal of Theology.
What happens when the place meant to nurture our faith becomes a source of pain?In this episode of the Live Like It's True Podcast, Megan Hill and I talk candidly about church hurt—where it comes from, the wounds judgment can leave behind, and the vital role of grace within the body of Christ. Together, we point to Jesus, who endured suffering without bitterness, and remember that healing is meant to happen in community. With practical wisdom and gospel hope, this conversation calls us to humility, extend mercy, and move toward restored relationships.Check out Megan's book on my recommendation list HERE.Megan HillMegan Hill is an editor for The Gospel Coalition and the author of several books, including: Sighing on Sunday: 40 Meditations for When Church Hurts. Megan's writing has also appeared in The Washington Post, Christianity Today, Tabletalk, Focus on the Family, Desiring God, and Reformation 21.A pastor's wife and pastor's daughter, she lives in Massachusetts with her husband and four children. Connect with Megan:InstagramFacebookWebsite --Live Like It's True is part of the Round the Table network: Where Truth and Life Meet. Serving the church through honest storytelling and biblical reflection. -- Learn more at ShannonPopkin.com.
Did you know the Bible has thousands of hidden threads woven through it that most Christians have never been shown? There are approximately 350 direct Old Testament quotations in the New Testament, but over 3,000 allusions - indirect references scholars have documented that never made it into study Bibles.Dr. Benjamin Gladd, executive director of the Carson Center for Theological Renewal at The Gospel Coalition joins the show to talk about Connecting Scripture, a unique, first-of-its-kind study Bible he co-authored with G.K. Beale, that makes exploring these threads possible for the everyday Christian.This isn't just a study Bible upgrade. It's a whole new way of reading. Ben explains the difference between a direct quotation - those flashing red lights moments like "that it might be fulfilled" - and an allusion, which functions more like an Easter egg hidden in the text. Think of John 1:1 ("In the beginning was the Word") deliberately echoing Genesis 1:1.We also get into some of the harder questions. What do you do when the New Testament seems to use the Old Testament in ways that invert or even contradict the original meaning? And how did the Apostles read the Scriptures? Did the Old Testament authors actually know what they were writing?This episode is the kind of biblical theology content that feeds your soul and sharpens your mind. Don't miss it.0:00 – Introduction0:43 – Dr. Benjamin Gladd1:47 – Connecting Scripture Study Bible4:11 – Quotations vs. Allusions11:08 – Identifying Intentional Allusions22:07 – Irony in OT Use26:16 – Typology Explained33:06 – Apostolic Hermeneutics47:48 – Authorial Intent Mystery1:04:13 – Scripture Authority Debate1:05:41 – Closing ThoughtsABOUT THE GUEST:
In this main stage message from the 2025 Rooted Conference, Jim Davis walks through Acts 1:6–11, highlighting the Church's clear and compelling mission. Drawing key observations from the text, he equips and encourages leaders to depend on the Spirit and faithfully join God in the work he is doing in the lives of students. Jim Davis is the Teaching Pastor at Orlando Grace Church (Acts 29) and a Council member of The Gospel Coalition. He holds an M.Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary and is the co-host of the As in Heaven podcast. Jim is also the co-author, with Michael Graham, of The Great Dechurching: Who's Leaving, Why Are They Going, and What Will It Take to Bring Them Back? He and his wife, Angela, speak for FamilyLife's Weekend to Remember marriage getaways and are parents to four children. As In Heaven Podcast by Jim Davis and Michael Aitcheson The Great Dechurching: Who's Leaving, Why Are They Going, and What Will It Take to Bring Them Back? by Jim Davis and Michael Graham Rooted Resources:Teenagers Need the Church (Series) The Sunday Standoff: Discipling Teenagers Who Are Resisting Church by Katie Polski @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates Register for Rooted 2026 Conference in Nashville Hosted by: Danny Kwon, author of Teenagers and Mental Health; Becca Heck, M. Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary; Isaiah Marshall, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development; and Josh Hussung, M. Div. in Pastor Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Michael Graham of The Keller Center for Cultural Apologetics and The Gospel Coalition talks about a new group study curriculum called "Making Sense of Us" that helps us explore some of the underlying cultural narratives in the world around us that influence our thinking and those around us. But these narratives are imcomplete and can lead us away from a more robust understanding of life in Christ. Katherine Anne Thierfelder of The Pour Over talks about the ways we get our news, how it can effect us in ways that increases our fear and anger. We should stay informed! But we also need to stay rooted in Christ and the hope of the Gospel. The Reconnect with Carmen and all Faith Radio are made possible by your support. Give now: Click here
Christina Hello, everyone, I'm Christina Darnell, the managing editor of MinistryWatch. Welcome to the MinistryWatch podcast. In today's extra episode, I talk with Warren Smith about some news items that are slightly (even significantly) outside of our normal charity and philanthropy “beat.” So, Warren, what's up first? Warren Military chaplains will no longer indicate their rank on their uniforms, according to a new order from Secretary of Defense Pete Hegspeth. People I've talked with tell me they generally think that's a good thing. Enlisted personnel might be intimidated to talk with chaplains about deeply personal issues if they know that chaplain is a senior officer. Progressive groups opposing the move include Americans United for Separation of Church and State and the Military Religious Freedom Foundation. Christina Up next, a new study by Pew found that nearly 98 percent of U.S. adults live within range of at least one religious radio station. Warren And that about 25 percent of all AM/FM stations are dedicated to religious programming. The U.S. has about 4,000 religious stations and about half of American adults spend at least some time each week listening to religious audio content, including radio, podcasts, and streaming, and – this is one of the most interesting findings – about 39 percent of listeners are non-Christians. Christina I guess it's a good thing that non-Christians are listening to Christian programming. Warren It is good, but there is also another side to that coin. A lot of Christian radio stations have started programing for that non-Christian audience. You'll hear branding like “Safe for the Entire Family” rather than distinctly Christian branding and programming. Some people think this trend has watered down Christian radio. Christian writer David Murrow says “Safe for the Entire Family” has made Christian radio boring and risk-free. He advocates for edgier music on music stations, and more teaching and talk. Christina While we're on the subject of media, a new movie out now is getting a lot of buzz from Christian commentators – and it's not a Christian movie. Warren I haven't seen the new Ryan Gosling movie Project Hail Mary, but people I respect are giving it great reviews. Aaron Renn says, “In an era of male loneliness and confusing messages about manhood, Project Hail Mary models problem-solving, purpose, and fatherly strength without apology.” Brett McCracken, writing for The Gospel Coalition, says it offers the “good, clean fun moviegoers have missed.” McCracken concludes, “Project Hail Mary doesn't preach the gospel. But it makes virtue look good. It makes selflessness, sacrifice, and duty attractive. If the movie is a huge hit—and I expect it will be—perhaps Hollywood will take the hint. We're not in postmodernism anymore. Goodness, truth, and beauty are attributes we want in art again. Really, they're what we've always wanted.” Christina Is the movie a hit? Warren It is. The movie opened at number 1 in the U.S. and held that position through its second week. So far, worldwide box office is around $300 million. That's a huge hit by any reasonable standard. Christina Warren, you read an article this week that caught your attention. Warren I commend to you an article by my friends John Stonestreet and Tim Padgett of The Colson Center. I'll link to it in the show notes. They share the hard truth that neither political party has a right to the pro-life label these days. Of the Democrats they say, abortion is not merely a plank in the progressive party's platform. It is the chief commitment of the worldview that dominates America. It is, for many, a sacrament to recognize, enshrine, and honor autonomy. Abortion is not merely a legal right of a decadent society. It is a rite of worship, specifically a way to worship the idols of self, state, and sex.” Christina But they don't let the Republicans off the hook, either. Warren They write, “The GOP was once a prolife party, but now openly endorses chemical abortion and unregulated IVF, the two most common ways to kill preborn children in America.” They conclude, “There is no such thing as a Christian not called, to some degree, to oppose abortion and defend preborn lives. We need not attend every march or express every outrage. We must, however, protect every vulnerable life, support every vulnerable mother and father, and advance the Christian understanding of human dignity every chance we are given.” Christina Our final story today is about the ministry rating systems. An organization called Charity Watch wrote an article that found fault with Charity Navigator's rating system. Warren Charity Watch found fault with the 4-Star rating that Charity Navigator gave to OUR Rescue, formerly Operation Underground Railroad. I won't get into the weeds of their analysis here except to say that Charity Watch is right. OUR Rescue should not have a 4-Star rating. Christina That's why MinistryWatch gives OUR Rescue a 1-Star rating, our lowest score for financial efficiency. Warren That's right. I've written about the pros and cons of rating systems, and explained why – despite the cons – we think rating ministries is important. But how you do it matters. I'll have a link to an article explaining our rating system in today's show notes. Christina Any final notes before we go? Warren I have some travel coming up in the next couple of months, and I would love to see you. I will be in Los Angeles in April. I'll be speaking at the annual convention of the Evangelical Press Association in Nashville in June. I'll also be in Dallas and Knoxville in May. I will be speaking at Summit Ministries in Manitou Springs in June, so I'll be doing reader lunches in Denver and Colorado Springs during that trip. Let me know if you would like to join us. My email is wsmith@ministrywatch.com. Christina The producer for today's program is Jeff McIntosh. I'm Christina Darnell, along with Warren Smith. You've been listening to the MinistryWatch podcast. Until next time, may God bless you.
John and Maria discuss three lawsuits in the news; the guilty verdict for a Finnish lawmaker over an "insult"; Moody student teachers can stay in Chicago classrooms as part of their training. And a Jury finds Meta harms children. Also, how should Christians view the deaths of Kermit Gosnell and Paul Ehrlich. Recommendations Trevin Wax X post Gospel Coalition article Lead Like Jael by Emma Waters Segment 1 – News Headlines ADF article on Paivi Rasanen X post on Rasanen Moody student teachers article Jury finds social media platforms harmful in pair of lawsuits LA Times articles on social media lawsuit Segment 2 – Deaths of Gosnell and Ehrlich Kermit Gosnell Paul Ehrlich Segment 3 – Christian Worldview and Morality Pew Study Trevin Wax X post Gospel Coalition article
Today, on Karl and Crew, we continued our weekly theme, “End Times Week and AI,” with Dr. Sam Storms and Jason Thacker. Dr. Sam Storms joined us to discuss whether events in the Middle East are a reflection of prophecy and how believers should respond to the end times with self-control, unity, and a focus on the gospel. Dr. Storms is the founder and president of Enjoying God Ministries and serves on the Council of The Gospel Coalition and as Executive Director of the Convergence Church Network. He also served as Visiting Associate Professor of Theology at Wheaton College in Wheaton, Illinois, and is a past president of the Evangelical Theological Society. Jason Thacker also joined us to discuss how believers should think about AI through a biblical lens. Jason serves as Assistant Professor of Philosophy and Ethics at Boyce College and Southern Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. He is the author of several books, including “Following Jesus in the Digital Age” and “The Age of AI: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Humanity.” He was also the project leader and lead drafter of “Artificial Intelligence: An Evangelical Statement of Principles.” He is also a Director of the research institute at The Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission. We then turned to the phone lines to hear from our listeners. We asked the question, “What topic have you most benefited from hearing about on Moody Radio?” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Jason Thacker’s Interview [ 00:53 ]Callers Question [ 16:15 ]Dr. Sam Storm’s Interview [ 23:37 ]Karl and Crew airs live weekday mornings from 5-9 a.m. Central Time. Click this link for ways to listen in your area! https://www.moodyradio.org/ways-to-listenDonate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Join us for a conversation with Sarah Zylstra, senior writer and faith-and-work editor for The Gospel Coalition and former writer for Christianity Today.
We may think that since the election of President Trump, we are living in a post-woke world. But this is a mistake. Wokeness remains the prevailing worldview in secular culture. So how can Christians thoughtfully engage with the ongoing challenges of wokeness⎯ in the church and everyday life? How do we accurately define wokeness, and why does it remain influential? And how can believers respond with clarity, courage, and compassion? It's vital for us to be equipped with practical steps for conversations, parenting, workplace pressures, and loving our neighbors well. We must stand firm in the truth. Our guest today is Dr. Neil Shenvi, co-author of the book Post-Woke: Asserting a Biblical View of Race, Gender & Sexuality, which we will be discussing in today's conversation. Neil has an A.B. in chemistry from Princeton and a PhD in theoretical chemistry from the University of California, Berkeley. He worked as a research scientist at Yale University and Duke University and has published over thirty peer-reviewed scientific papers. In addition, his writings on critical theory have been published by the Journal of Christian Legal Thought, the Gospel Coalition, Ratio Christi, & the Liberty University Law Review, among others. Let's dive in!
In this episode, Courtney Reissig encourages Christians that it is okay to admit that prayer is hard and offers practical steps to improve their prayer lives. Courtney Reissig is a writer and teacher living in Little Rock, Arkansas. She has written for numerous Christian publications, including the Gospel Coalition and Christianity Today. She is also the author of 'Prayer' from Crossway. ❖ Listen to “How the Psalms Act as a Model for Prayer, Lament, and Praise" with Winfree Brisley and Sharonda Cooper: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave us a review, which helps us spread the word about the show.
In this episode, Brad Wetherell reminds believers that their union with Christ brings hope to every area of their lives. Brad Wetherell is the senior pastor of the Orchard, a multisite church in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. Brad also serves on the steering committee of the Gospel Coalition's Chicago regional chapter, which gathers pastors for encouragement, fellowship, and prayer. He is also the author of 'Saved to Sin No More: How Union with Christ Empowers a Life of Holiness' from Crossway. ❖ Listen to “Why Christianity Is Not Just about Being a Follower of Jesus" with Sam Allberry: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave us a review, which helps us spread the word about the show.
Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley are joined by Courtney Reissig to discuss how to trust the church again after hurt.Questions Covered in This Episode:What was your goal in writing this book?What is your book about?How have you seen the Gospel of John help people process not abandoning the faith after hurt?What encouragement can you offer to people who are unsure whether they can trust the church?Are there people in your ministry coming from church hurt?Where did you experience restoration from looking at Jesus in your own journey?Guest Bio:Courtney Reissig is a writer and bible teacher living in Little Rock, Arkansas. She is the proud mom of four sons, happy wife to Daniel, and author of The Accidental Feminist, Glory in the Ordinary, Teach Me to Feel and Someone to Believe In. Her writing has appeared in the Washington Post, The Gospel Coalition, and Christianity Today (among other publications). When she is not writing or wrangling kids, she enjoys running and a relaxing Friday night. Her family belongs to Immanuel Baptist Church. You can follow her on Twitter or Instagram (@courtneyreissig).Resources Mentioned in this Episode:John 20:3, Hebrews 13:8, John 15, Psalm 1, John 9, Ezekiel 34:2”Someone to Believe In” by Courtney Reissig Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.