All Episodes

May 28, 2026

Does being a "Biblical Man" mean fitting into a specific cultural mold? 🗺️🤨 In this installment of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer and Dr. Ashish Varma tackle the "methodological problem" that often distorts our view of masculinity. They argue that we’ve spent too much time trying to define "manhood" through cultural reactions and not enough time following Jesus as disciples. In this episode, we discuss: The "Lying Map": How we allow cultural abbreviations to simplify our understanding of masculinity to the point of falsification. The Trap of Reaction: Why reacting to a "crisis in masculinity" leads us to create an uber-masculine, machismo caricature of Jesus. Discipleship as First Order: Shifting the focus from "masculinity" to the authority of Christ as the primary driver of our identity (Matthew 28:18-20). Individual Maleness: Celebrating the diversity of the body of Christ—where the "strategic guy" and the "sensitive guy" are equally valuable. Patterns over Principles: Moving away from "timeless" abstractions and toward biblical patterns of relating to God and others. It’s time to stop letting the culture draw your map. Join us as we explore what it means to be a male disciple of Jesus Christ—on His terms, not ours. ⚓✨ 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. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian, so you never miss an insightful conversation!  #ThinkingChristian #BiblicalManhood #Discipleship #ChristianMasculinity #FaithAndCulture #Theology #RedrawingTheMap Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 25, 2026

If we throw away the old, distorted maps of manhood, what do we use to navigate instead? 🗺️📍 In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer and Dr. Ashish Varma move into the constructive phase of their series. They explore how to redraw the "map" of male discipleship by centering it on the authority of Christ rather than cultural reactions. In this episode, we discuss: The Problem with Over-Correction: Why reacting to a "crisis in masculinity" often leads to a distorted, machismo-focused view of Jesus. Discipleship as the First Order: Re-centering the conversation on Matthew 28 and learning to live under Christ's authority. Individual Maleness: How being a "strategic guy" or a "hug guy" fits perfectly within a faithful Christian community. Patterns over Principles: Shifting from "timeless" (and often useless) abstractions to biblical patterns of relating to God. Avoiding Theological Violence: The danger of demanding men live into a mold that the text of Scripture never actually mandates. Stop trying to look like a cultural prototype and start looking like a disciple. Join us for a conversation about the freedom found in following Jesus on His own terms. ⚓✨ 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. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian, so you never miss an insightful conversation! #ThinkingChristian #Discipleship #BiblicalManhood #ChristianLiving #RedrawingTheMap #FaithAndCulture #Masculinity Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 21, 2026

What happens when the "old maps" of masculinity fail us? 🗺️📉 In this follow-up episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer and Dr. Ashish Varma move from critique to construction. If the cultural and traditional "maps" of biblical manhood are distorted, how do we redraw them without falling back into the same traps? They explore how to approach male discipleship when the old frameworks have failed, focusing on the character of Christ rather than cultural caricatures. In this episode, we discuss: The Failure of Frameworks: Identifying why old "maps" of manhood often lead to a machismo-centered view of Jesus. Discipleship as the Primary Lens: Why becoming a man is secondary to the primary call of learning to live under the authority of Christ. Counter-Cultural Humanity: Following Jesus on His own terms rather than reshaping Him to fit our cultural needs. The "Strategic" vs. The "Sensitive": Embracing the individual ways men embody their maleness within the body of Christ. Moving Toward Patterns: Utilizing biblical patterns of relating to God to navigate the modern world. It’s time to stop trying to fit into a mold and start following a Person. Let's redraw the map together. ⚓✨ 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. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian, so you never miss an insightful conversation! #ThinkingChristian #BiblicalManhood #Discipleship #RedrawingTheMap #ChristianManhood #FaithAndCulture #TheologyPodcast Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 18, 2026

Is the current conversation around "Biblical Manhood" giving us a clear path, or just a distorted map? 🗺️🤔 In the season premiere of our new series on Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer and Dr. Ashish Varma dive deep into the "methodological problem" at the heart of the modern masculinity debate. Drawing inspiration from the classic book How to Lie with Maps, they explore how abbreviations and cultural shortcuts can lead us away from reality and toward a "machismo" caricature of Jesus. In this episode, we discuss: The Mapping Problem: How every "abbreviation" of reality opens the door for unintentional (or intentional) deception. First Order vs. Second Order Reality: Why we often mistake cultural "buckets" for the actual truth of personhood. The Discipleship Anchor: Shifting the focus from "masculinity" as a separate authority to living under the authority of Christ (Matthew 28:18-20). Patterns over Principles: Why we should look for recurring biblical patterns of relating to God rather than seeking "timeless" (and often useless) abstractions. Embodying Maleness: How individual differences—from the "strategic guy" to the "hug guy"—all fit within the diverse body of Christ. Stop trying to fit into a mold that wasn't made for you. Join us as we begin the work of redrawing the map for male discipleship. ⚓✨ 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. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian, so you never miss an insightful conversation!  #ThinkingChristian #BiblicalManhood #Discipleship #ChristianLiving #Masculinity #Theology #FaithInContext #PodcastRecommendations Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 14, 2026

How did we get here? From the Enlightenment to the rise of Postmodernism, the landscape of what we believe about God has shifted beneath our feet. In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer sits down with renowned theologian Dr. Roger E. Olson (Emeritus Professor at Baylor University) to map out the fascinating—and often turbulent—history of modern theology. They explore the tension between tradition and the "modern mind," discussing how giants like Schleiermacher, Barth, and Bonhoeffer navigated a world that was rapidly deconstructing old certainties. Whether you're a theology nerd or just trying to understand the intellectual roots of your own faith, this conversation provides a vital compass for the journey. In this episode, we discuss: The "Modern" Dilemma: What happens when theology tries to accommodate the demands of the Enlightenment? Reconstruction to Deconstruction: Understanding the shift from building grand systems of thought to the skepticism of the 21st century. The Giants of the Faith: Why figures like Karl Barth and Dietrich Bonhoeffer still matter for your walk with Christ today. The Evangelical Response: How believers can engage with modern ideas without losing the core of the Gospel. Finding Your Place: How understanding the history of ideas helps you situate your own beliefs in a chaotic world. Join us for a deep dive into the ideas that shaped the modern church and discover how to think Christianly in an era of reconstruction and deconstruction. 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. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian, so you never miss an insightful conversation! #ThinkingChristian #Theology #ModernTheology #ChurchHistory #ChristianScholarship #FaithAndReason #RogerOlson #IntellectualFaith Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 11, 2026

In a world that demands instant results, we’ve found a thousand new ways to numb the pain of existence. Join Dr. James Spencer and Dr. Ben Mathew for the final installment of our series as they tackle the normalization of "quick-fix" drugs—from anabolic steroids and TRT in the fitness world to the rise of GLP-1s like Ozempic. We explore the dangerous trade-offs of modern biohacking and why the Christian life calls us to lean into the "friction" of reality rather than anesthetizing ourselves against it. If you've ever felt the pressure to "optimize" your body at the expense of your soul, this conversation is for you. In this episode, we discuss: The Normalization of Performance Enhancers: Why younger generations are turning to steroids and TRT for social media clout. The "Numbing" Culture: How we use substances to avoid the "existential sniffles" and the discomfort of growth. The GLP-1 Wave: Examining the psychological and spiritual implications of the newest drug trends. Sanctification vs. Optimization: Why the Christian walk requires "grit" and "friction" that a pill or injection can’t provide. Working Toward Your Own Dismissal: A challenge to leaders and counselors to build structures that help people find freedom, not just temporary relief. Don’t miss this deep dive into how we can bear faithful witness in a culture that wants to edit out every struggle. 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. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian, so you never miss an insightful conversation! #ThinkingChristian #Biohacking #ChristianLiving #FaithAndFitness #MentalHealth #OvercomingAddiction #Grit #SpiritualGrowth Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 7, 2026

Are we asking therapy to do something it was never designed to do? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer and Dr. Ben Mathew take a provocative look at the "Counseling Industry" and its role in a collapsed culture. While therapy is a vital tool for clinical challenges, Dr. Mathew shares the growing trend of counselors feeling like "paid friends" for people who are simply missing the basic structures of a healthy life. We dive into why the clinical office is a great place to meet a need, but a terrible place to sustain a soul. In this episode, we discuss: The "Paid Friend" Phenomenon: Why many people are seeking professional therapy for problems that used to be solved by a neighbor or a church small group. Clinical vs. Ontological Needs: Distinguishing between psychological disorders and the deeper "existential sniffles" caused by isolation. The Limits of the Couch: Why a one-hour weekly session cannot provide the resources to sustain a person’s entire sense of meaning. A Collapsed Culture: How the breakdown of local communities has forced the mental health industry to become a "catch-all" for human loneliness. Returning to the Body: Why the church must step up to provide the "house" of support so that therapy can return to its intended clinical focus. If you’ve ever wondered why therapy feels like a temporary fix or why our culture is more "counseled" yet more anxious than ever, this conversation is a must-listen. 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. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian, so you never miss an insightful conversation! #ThinkingChristian #MentalHealth #Therapy #ChristianCommunity #Counseling #FaithAndCulture #Loneliness #TheChurch Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 4, 2026

Loneliness isn't just a "feeling"—it’s a structural crisis. In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer and Dr. Ben Mathew take a hard look at the "Epidemic of Loneliness" and why our modern way of life is practically designed to keep us isolated. Building on the "Embodied Leg" of our mental health stool, we explore how the transition from a "physical" world to a "convenience" world has stripped away the natural friction that used to bring us together. It’s time to move past the "on-demand" lifestyle and rediscover why being a member of the Body of Christ requires more than just a Wi-Fi connection. In this episode, we discuss: The Surgeon General’s Warning: Why loneliness is now considered a greater public health threat than many physiological diseases. The "Convenience" Trap: How Amazon, Netflix, and DoorDash have unintentionally removed the "small talk" and community interactions that ground our sanity. Structural Loneliness: Understanding that we haven’t just become lonely; we’ve built a society that makes it the default setting. The Church as a "Third Space": Why the local church is the essential alternative to the isolation of the home and the transactional nature of the workplace. Ancient Truths for Modern Deficiencies: Moving beyond the "search for relief" and leaning into the grit of real-world relationships. If you’ve ever felt "lonely in a crowded room" or wondered why life feels increasingly disconnected, this conversation offers a roadmap back to the communal life we were created for. 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. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian, so you never miss an insightful conversation! #ThinkingChristian #LonelinessEpidemic #CommunityOverConvenience #MentalHealth #ChristianLiving #TheLocalChurch #AuthenticConnection #FaithAndScience Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 30, 2026

In an era of digital convenience and "on-demand" spirituality, have we lost something vital by staying home? Join Dr. James Spencer and Dr. Ben Mathew as they explore the "Embodied Leg" of the mental health stool. This episode dives into the "Deaths of Despair" phenomenon and how the simple act of being physically present in a local church community serves as a powerful buffer against anxiety and isolation. We’re moving beyond abstract beliefs and looking at the tangible, physical habits that ground us when the world feels overwhelming. In this episode, we discuss: The "Blue Laws" Connection: How the loss of a shared day of rest contributed to a rise in "deaths of despair." Digital vs. Embodied Faith: Why watching a sermon at 1.5x speed can't replace the "friction" and beauty of being with real people. The Power of Ritual: How the physical acts of communion, singing, and gathering provide "symbolic handles" to navigate life’s challenges. The Church as a Physical Manifestation: Why the local church is the essential "body" we need to inhabit for true human flourishing. Building Grit through Presence: Why showing up when you don't feel like it is exactly what builds spiritual and emotional resilience. Whether you're struggling with a sense of isolation or looking for a deeper way to engage with your faith, this conversation reminds us that we were made to be present. 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. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian, so you never miss an insightful conversation! #ThinkingChristian #EmbodiedFaith #ChurchMatters #MentalHealth #Community #ChristianPodcast #HumanFlourishing #FaithAndWellness Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 29, 2026

Hundreds of churches once bombed and burned to the ground are not only standing again but thriving in Sudan and South Sudan. Hear stories of pastors who experienced intense persecution and how their faith sustained them. Resources: Learn more about the Church Reconstruction Program in South Sudan https://www.samaritanspurse.org/construction/celebrating-over-500-new-churches-in-south-sudan/ To hear more about Ryan’s time in Sudan listen to Serving in Uncertainty: The War in Sudan https://ontheground.samaritanspurse.org/podcast/serving-in-uncertainty-the-war-in-sudan Listen to “Plane Hijacked in Africa: The Pilot’s Story Part 1 and 2” to hear the inspirational story of one of our ministry pilots who chose to fully entrust his life to Jesus even while his plane was being hijacked. SamaritansPurse.org/Listen Show Notes: This week, Kristy reflects on more than 20 years of church growth in Sudan and South Sudan following a two decades long period of civil war. Starting in the 1980s, as the government attempted to eliminate Christianity, Sudanese soldiers would come into villages, burning churches and arresting and torturing pastors. Even in the face of intense persecution these pastors maintained their faith in God. Rev. James Lagos Alexander, an archbishop in Sudan, was just a young pastor when the war broke out. He soon found himself in jail—not for a crime but for preaching the Gospel. His church was later bulldozed on Christmas Eve. Even as he was crying out to the Lord, Samaritan’s Purse was preparing to start a program that would eventually rebuild more than 500 destroyed churches and train new pastors for each one that was martyred during the war. “There's many ways for us to give up, but we say we will not give up. If we die, we die, but we must preach the Gospel in season and out of season.” – Rev. James Lagos Alexander Though they had been jailed, beaten, and persecuted for their faith they were joyful and relentless in sharing the Gospel. Kristy shared a verse from Colossians on suffering for Christ’s sake. “Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am supplementing what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions in behalf of His body, which is the church.” - Colossians 1:24 (NASB) Ryan Boyette, who worked with Samaritan’s Purse in Sudan during the Church Reconstruction Program, was inspired by the immense faith he saw on display as he heard the stories of what these people had endured. “They had been beaten down over generations and decades of war and targeted attacks, but the construction of these churches has allowed that hope to remain. It’s a symbol that Christ is there and He loves this church and He loves these people.” – Ryan Boyette Today, more than 20 years after the Church Reconstruction Program began, these churches are not only standing, but thriving! Many have expanded into other villages and use their buildings throughout the week for schools, adult education programs, orphanages, and shelters for people displaced by conflict. “Instead of worshiping under the trees, now we have a place. We felt like the wall of Jerusalem has been rebuilt. We felt that God has come back home. We felt that our identity has been restored. What the enemy has taken from us, now God has brought it back again.” – Rev. James Lagos Alexander Their testimonies are an incredible reminder that out of hardship can come amazing growth. Kristy encourages listeners that God's plans can be so different than our own, but we have to trust that His ways are higher than ours, and He works all things together for the good of those who love Him. If you’d like to keep up to date with more stories from On the Ground, please visit SamaritansPurse.org.       Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 27, 2026

In a culture obsessed with "happiness hacks" and immediate emotional relief, what if our sadness isn't a glitch, but a proper response to reality? In this follow-up episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer and Dr. Ben Mathew (Professor of Counselor Education at CIU) tackle the heart of the existential crisis. They move beyond the "social leg" of mental health to explore the "existential leg"—the shared process of meaning-making in a world that often feels like running into the wind. In this episode, we discuss: The Rationality of Sadness: Why feeling existential dread and deep frustration is a "proper response" to the systems and brokenness around us. The "Neurosurgeon" vs. the "Glass of Water": Identifying why we often rush to clinical experts when what we truly lack is a durable community "house" of support. Lament as Language: Following the example of Christ on the cross and the Psalmists to give a voice to our heartache without being "chastised" or "condemned." Anchoring Against Despair: How the local church acts as a "buttress of truth," helping us find a non-anxious presence even when our bank accounts are zero or life feels overwhelming. Shared Meaning: Why meaning is best solidified not in isolation, but within the "community of saints." Stop trying to shortcut the healing and join us for a conversation about sitting in the tension, voicing the lament, and finding the grace to keep running. 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. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian, so you never miss an insightful conversation! #ThinkingChristian #FaithAndMentalHealth #BiblicalLament #ExistentialDread #ChristianCommunity #MentalHealthMatters #GraceInTheStorm Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 23, 2026

Have you ever been in the middle of a busy, successful season only to be hit by a sudden, creeping feeling that none of it matters? You aren’t alone. In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer and Dr. Ben Mathew (Professor of Counselor Education at CIU) dive deep into the "existential leg" of the mental health stool. Dr. Mathew joins us from the middle of a literal storm to discuss the figurative storms of the soul—those moments when we feel like we are "running into the wind" without a sense of purpose. We explore why "existential dread" is often a rational response to a broken world and how the local church should serve as the primary "house" of support before we ever reach for clinical intervention. In this episode, we discuss: The "Running into the Wind" Analogy: Understanding the baseline anxiety that seeps into our work and daily lives. Angry at Existence: How to navigate feelings of bitterness toward God or life itself. The Power of Lament: Why we need to stop "shortcutting" to the fix and start making space for groaning and frustration. The Church as Triage: Why general community support is the "glass of water" we often need before calling a "neurosurgeon." Shared Meaning: How the "pillar and buttress of truth" helps us avoid despair. If you’ve been feeling the weight of the world or questioning your impact, tune in for a conversation that re-centers our story within the greater narrative of God's work. 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. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian, so you never miss an insightful conversation!  #ThinkingChristian #MentalHealth #FaithAndReason #ExistentialCrisis #ChristianPodcast #BiblicalWorldview #Lament #CommunitySupport Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 20, 2026

Are we living in a "Truman Show" world? 🎬 In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer and Dr. Ben Mathew (Professor of Counselor Education) dive into the "Social Leg" of their three-legged stool model for mental health. Together, they explore how our modern, technology-driven society has distorted our sense of community and identity. They discuss the "Causal Link" between the rise of smartphones and the most anxious generation in history, citing the research of Jonathan Haidt. In this episode, you’ll discover: The "Buddy" vs. The "Challenger": Why social media algorithms give us the "buddies" we want but rob us of the "critics" we need to grow. Value Collapse: How we’ve replaced real human connection with simplified metrics like likes, followers, and shares. The "Truman Show" Reality: Why flourishing requires more than just a job and a neighborly "hello"—it requires deep, embodied presence. The Church as a Solution: Why shifting from a "consumer" mindset to a "communal" identity in the Body of Christ is essential for restoring dignity and hope. Stop viewing the church as a voluntary Sunday activity and start seeing it as the essential constraint where your best life is lived. 🛡️🤝 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. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian, so you never miss an insightful conversation! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 16, 2026

Is mental health just "all in your head," or is there something deeper happening within our physical design? In the premiere of this series, Dr. James Spencer sits down with Dr. Ben Mathew, Professor of Counselor Education, to introduce a revolutionary way of looking at well-being: The Three-Legged Stool of Mental Health. We’re moving past the "quick-fix" culture to explore how our bodies, our stories, and our faith are inextricably linked. If you've ever felt like your spiritual life and your physical struggles were at odds, this episode provides the roadmap to wholeness you’ve been looking for. In this episode, we tackle: The Three-Legged Stool 🪑: An introduction to the Embodied, Social, and Existential legs that support human flourishing. The "Embodied" Leg 🧠: Why we cannot ignore the biological reality of our brains and bodies when discussing faith and psyche. A "High View" of Scripture & Science 📖: How to honor the authority of the Bible while embracing the insights of neurobiology and psychology. The Problem with "Just Pray More" 🚫: Why reducing mental health to a purely spiritual "check-list" can actually hinder true healing. Created for Flourishing ✨: Understanding mental health not just as the absence of illness, but as moving toward the "abundant life" God intended.     Stop viewing your mental health through a single lens. Start understanding how God designed the whole person to function, heal, and thrive. Listen now to start building a sturdier foundation for your mental well-being! 🎧🙌 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. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian, so you never miss an insightful conversation! #MentalHealth #ChristianLife #EmbodiedFaith #PsychologyAndFaith #HumanFlourishing #ThinkingChristian #Neurobiology #HolisticHealing #FaithJourney Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 13, 2026

Are we living in a "paid friend" culture? 🛋️ As mental health awareness skyrockets, the Church is at a crossroads. We’re seeing more counseling centers, more pastoral care roles, and more conversations about anxiety than ever before—but are we missing the spiritual heart of the matter? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer and Ashish Varma are joined by Dr. Michael Milco, a seasoned counselor and former professor at Moody Bible Institute. Together, they pull back the curtain on the "convergence" of psychology and theology. ⛪✨ In this episode, we explore: The "Paid Friend" Phenomenon: Why are people turning to therapists for things that used to be handled by community and friendship? 🤝 The Complexity of the Soul: Moving beyond "just pray about it" while avoiding the trap of over-secularizing our struggles. The Power of Presence: Lessons from the global church (including a powerful story from Angola 🇦🇴) on what true, "intertwined" community looks like. Eclectic Faith: How the Church can be a place where the "unique" and "eclectic" find belonging without being compartmentalized. 🧩 If you’ve struggled to bridge the gap between your mental health journey and your walk with Christ, this conversation offers a refreshing, holistic perspective on what it means to be human and holy. Guest Bio: Dr. Michael Milco is a former professor of counseling at Moody Bible Institute and a current practitioner in private practice. He specializes in the intersection of religion and psychotherapy, helping believers navigate mental health through a biblical lens. 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. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian, so you never miss an insightful conversation! #ChristianPodcast #MentalHealthMatters #FaithAndWellness #SoulCare #ThinkingChristian #ChristianCounseling #HolisticFaith Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 10, 2026

When faith leaders gathered at the White House for an Easter luncheon, the prayers offered weren't just politically awkward — they were theologically problematic. In this episode, Dr. James Spencer and Dr. Ashish Varma move past the headlines to examine the deeper issues: What happens when national identity absorbs Christian identity? What does the Bible actually say about kings, suffering, and God's purposes for nations? And what does faithful Christian engagement with political power look like? Drawing on the Sermon on the Mount, the book of Esther, 1 Samuel, and the theology of Paul, Spencer and Varma assess the remarks of Paula White Cane, Franklin Graham, and Robert Jeffress — and explain why the problems run deeper than bad word choices. They also highlight what faithful public prayer can look like, pointing to Bishop Barron's remarks as a constructive contrast. If you've been unsettled by the merger of Christian language and political power, this episode gives you the theological framework to understand why — and what to do with it. Read James's Article on christianity.com (available 4/14). Purchase Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on Amazon.com See Ashish's Articles on providence at the Barth Center. Get early access and a bonus with a Patreon membership. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian, so you never miss an insightful conversation! #ThinkingChristian #Theology #ModernTheology #ChurchHistory #ChristianScholarship #FaithAndReason #RogerOlson #IntellectualFaith Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 9, 2026

Is the way we view church leadership actually doing more harm than good? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer sits down with Dr. Christa L. McKirland—Dean of Faculty at Carey Baptist College and author of A Theology of Authority—to dismantle the "CEO model" of ministry and rediscover a biblical, communal framework for the Body of Christ. Why This Episode is a Must-Listen: Beyond "Because I Said So": Discover why imperative authority—the power to command and compel consequences—is actually the lowest form of motivation and often misplaced in the church. The Four Faces of Authority: Dr. McKirland breaks down the essential differences between Executive (positional) and Non-Executive (knowledge and character-based) authority. Ending Pastoral Burnout: Learn how a "passive body" that expects to be spoon-fed creates a two-tiered hierarchy that exhausts leaders and robs congregants of their spiritual dignity. Equipping the Saints: Explore the concept of "Equipping Performative Authority," where the leader's primary role is to empower the community for ministry, not do the ministry for them. Navigating "Hard" Texts: A deep dive into the context of 1 Timothy 2 and why we often read universal prescriptions into specific historical prohibitions. Key Takeaways for Your Walk: * 🛡️ Language of Resistance: How to use "Epistemic Authority" (knowledge) to fact-check teaching and protect your community from misinformation. 🤝 The Sibling Paradigm: Why shifting from "Father" or "CEO" titles to "Brother and Sister" creates a culture of mutual submission and Christ-centered honor. 📖 Christocracy over Democracy: Moving past majority rule to a space where the community listens for the Spirit's voice together. About Our Guest: Dr. Christa L. McKirland is the Dean of Faculty and Lecturer in Systematic Theology at Carey Baptist College in New Zealand. She specializes in analytic and exegetical theology, bringing a "fine-tooth comb" approach to the concepts that shape our faith. Check out her book: A Theology of Authority: Rethinking Leadership in the Church (Baker Academic). 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. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian, so you never miss an insightful conversation!  #ChurchLeadership #Theology #ChristianPodcast #Discipleship #SpiritualAuthority #EquippingTheSaints #BiblicalEquality #ThinkingChristian 🌟📖⛪ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 6, 2026

How can local churches maintain a historic Christian sexual ethic while still being a place where anyone can belong, ask tough questions, and encounter Jesus? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer welcomes back Pieter Valk, a licensed clinical counselor and the director of Equip. Together, they tackle the practical, often messy realities that local churches face today when navigating LGBTQ+ topics. Rather than sticking our heads in the sand, Pieter advocates for a framework built on clarity, consistency, and active discipleship. They dive deep into the distinction between representational leadership roles and low-barrier opportunities for community service, exploring how churches can offer authentic belonging without compromising their theological convictions. Pieter also shares a vital reminder: the most critical LGBTQ+ ministry a church can do is care for the youth already sitting in their pews. Whether you are a pastor, a church elder, or a believer looking to love your neighbors winsomely, this conversation offers a refreshing, grounded blueprint for building a healthy, thriving church community. 🔍 In this episode, you’ll discover: The Power of Clarity: Why outlining expectations for mutual accountability prevents a "bait-and-switch" experience for visitors. Serving vs. Representing: How to distinguish between general service and roles that represent the church's leadership and vision. The "Belong, Believe, Become" Paradigm: A helpful framework for answering cultural critics while remaining faithful to the scriptures. Pew-Side Ministry: Why proactive, compassionate discipleship for youth in the church is the most important step leaders can take 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. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian, so you never miss an insightful conversation! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 2, 2026

“Have a safe summer!” “Travel safe!” “Stay safe!” 🛡️ In today’s world, safety isn’t just a wish—it’s a multi-billion dollar industry and a modern obsession. But as Christians, are we sacrificing our mission at the altar of security? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer sits down with Dr. Jeremy Lundgren, author of The Pursuit of Safety: A Theology of Danger, Risk, and Security. Together, they dismantle the cultural "tokens of safety" and explore how our reliance on technology and insurance might actually be distancing us from a life of faith. 🕊️ Inside this episode, we tackle: The Safety Paradox: Why does more technology (like Life360 📱) often lead to more anxiety rather than peace? The Theology of Danger: Is being "vulnerable" actually a biblical requirement for Christian community? 🤝 Managing vs. Avoiding Risk: How to navigate a "woundable" world without retreating into a bubble. The Ultimate Risk: Why the biggest danger isn't physical harm, but "succeeding" in a world while being disloyal to Christ. ⚠️ If you’ve ever felt the tension between wanting to protect your family and wanting to live boldly for the Kingdom, this conversation is for you. It’s time to move beyond the fear of death and rediscover what it means to be truly secure in God. Guest Bio: Dr. Jeremy Lundgren is the President of Nicolet Bible Institute and an instructor at Wheaton College. His latest book, The Pursuit of Safety, challenges believers to rethink their relationship with risk and security. Resources Mentioned: 📘 The Pursuit of Safety: A Theology of Danger, Risk, and Security by Jeremy Lundgren (IVP Academic) 🎟️ Discount Code: You can purchase The Pursuit of Safety at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount). 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. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian, so you never miss an insightful conversation! #ChristianPodcast #Theology #FaithOverFear #KingdomMindset #ThinkingChristian #RiskAndFaith #SafetyCulture Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 30, 2026

What happens when a life shaped by violence, poverty, and abandonment meets consistent love, purpose, and the message of the Gospel? In this powerful episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer sits down with Greg Harris, Executive Director of Counteract International, to explore the realities facing incarcerated youth in Central America—and the transformative work being done to restore their lives. Drawing from his book Counteract: Walking Alongside Incarcerated Youth in Central America from Prison to Purpose, Greg shares firsthand stories of young men and women caught in cycles of crime, broken homes, and gang culture—and how mentorship, faith-based education, and intentional relationships are helping them rewrite their futures. Together, they unpack: The harsh realities of juvenile detention in Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala The “battle within” every young person must face when choosing their path Why relationship—not just programs—is the key to lasting transformation The critical role of faith in restoring identity, dignity, and purpose The high cost of inaction—and why this mission matters now more than ever This conversation is both sobering and deeply hopeful, challenging listeners to reconsider how we see justice, redemption, and our responsibility to the most vulnerable. 👉 If you’ve ever wondered whether real change is possible in the hardest places—this episode will show you that it is. 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. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian, so you never miss an insightful conversation! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 26, 2026

What should Christians do with the hardest laws in the Bible—texts about slavery, sexual violence, capital punishment, and social inequality? Should they be explained away… or even crossed out? In this episode of the Thinking Christian Podcast, Dr. James Spencer is joined by Dr. Gary Edward Schnittjer, Distinguished Professor of Old Testament at Cairn University, to discuss Schnicker’s recent article in the Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society examining a provocative proposal by biblical scholar James W. Watts: that “immoral” commands in Scripture—especially in the Torah—should be struck through or repealed. Watts argues that certain biblical laws are morally indefensible by modern standards and that retaining them enables abuse, violence, and injustice. Schnicker agrees that these texts deeply trouble modern readers—but strongly disagrees with the solution. In this wide-ranging and careful conversation, James and Gary explore why removing or canceling difficult passages creates dangerous “collateral damage”, both theologically and pastorally. At the heart of the discussion is a crucial claim: many of the biblical laws that offend modern sensibilities are not endorsements of evil, but divine constraints on evil—laws designed to protect the most vulnerable people in the ancient world: slaves, women, the poor, and victims of violence. When these laws are removed or ignored, the Bible is reshaped into something that actually empowers the strong and exposes the weak. Gary explains how Old Testament law often functions not to establish an ideal society, but to curtail injustice in deeply broken social realities. Drawing on ancient Near Eastern context, Jesus’ own teaching on the law, and long-neglected biblical scholarship, he argues that God meets people where they are—without endorsing the world as it is. The conversation also addresses: Why bad interpretation is not the same as biblical meaning How “reception history” can be misused as a moral veto on Scripture Why Christians are often embarrassed by parts of the Old Testament The danger of modern “neo-Marcionism” and un-hitching the Old Testament Why apologetics answers often fall flat for younger Christians How ignoring these texts creates faith crises rather than resolving them James and Gary reflect candidly on the church’s failure to teach these passages well—and how that failure has contributed to widespread biblical confusion, especially in a digital age where moral objections to Scripture circulate constantly but context rarely follows. Rather than advocating pulpit shock tactics, Schnicker calls pastors, teachers, and church leaders to patient, informed engagement—to stop brushing difficult texts under the carpet and instead learn how they reveal God’s concern for justice, restraint of violence, and care for the vulnerable. Resources mentioned: Gary Edward Schnittjer,JETS article (available free at com) com(Gary’s Substack) If you’ve ever struggled with parts of the Old Testament—or wondered why Christians seem embarrassed by their own Scriptures—this episode offers a careful, honest, and deeply pastoral way forward that refuses to cancel the Bible while taking moral questions seriously. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God:www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! Topics include: “Immoral” commands in the Torah—what’s really going on? Law as restraint, not endorsement Slavery, sexual violence, and justice in the ancient world Why cutting Scripture creates moral blind spots The limits of modern moral frameworks Teaching difficult texts without fear or defensiveness Rebuilding trust in the Bible for the next generation This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 23, 2026

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer is joined by Dr. Jillian Ross, professor of biblical studies at Liberty University, to discuss her article in JETS titled “Let Mercy Triumph Over Judgment: A Theology of Law in Judges.” Together, they explore why the book of Judges is so ethically and theologically unsettling—and how the Torah itself provides the interpretive framework that makes sense of it. Many Christians read Judges and walk away confused: Why are leaders celebrated who seem morally compromised? Why does the narrator often remain silent when horrifying actions occur? Why does a story like Jephthah’s vow feel so wrong, and yet go uncondemned in the immediate narrative? Dr. Ross argues that Judges depicts a decline of spiritual and moral formation among Israel’s leaders and people. What remains consistent is not Israel’s faithfulness, but God’s merciful character. As the book progresses, leaders become increasingly untethered from the Word of God, and their actions grow more lawless—especially in the way they treat human life and human dignity. A key theme of the conversation is that biblical law contains internal moral priorities: some violations are not simply “mistakes,” but abominations, particularly when human dignity is destroyed. Judges highlights what happens when leaders treat sacred vows, warfare, and worship as tools for self-interest rather than acts of obedience shaped by mercy. James and Dr. Ross walk through major figures—Gideon, Jephthah, and Samson—to show how self-interest replaces communal responsibility and why even divine empowerment does not equal divine endorsement. They also discuss why Judges must be read with the Torah in hand: often the text expects the reader to recognize what is wrong without explicitly saying it. The episode closes with practical guidance for reading Judges faithfully, including Dr. Ross’s memorable framework: warfare, worship, women, and waning leadership—a set of themes that help modern readers track the book’s downward spiral and theological purpose. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God:www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 19, 2026

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer is joined by Rev. Dr. Andrew Hale, pastor, author, and host of CBF Conversations and Clergy Confessions, to discuss his new book Mending the Fracturing Church: How to Navigate Conflict and Build Trust for Thriving Communities. Drawing on decades of ministry experience—and insights from cognitive psychology, social psychology, trauma studies, and theology—Andrew argues that church conflict today cannot be understood merely as a theological or political problem. Instead, it reflects deeper issues of discipleship, anxiety, embodied trauma, media fragmentation, and generational formation. James and Andrew explore why church conflict feels uniquely intense in this moment, even though the church has alwaysbeen marked by disagreement. They examine how political polarization, algorithm-driven media, generational divides, and unaddressed physiological stress shape congregational life—often overwhelming the formative power of Scripture and worship. A central claim of the conversation is that discipleship has failed to keep pace with formation pressures. Congregants spend far more time immersed in outrage-driven media ecosystems than in practices that shape Christlike humility, patience, and love of neighbor. The result is a church increasingly reactive, defensive, and fragile. The episode also wrestles with difficult but necessary questions: Is church fracture rooted less in ideology and more in unresolved trauma? How do time, patience, and humility function in genuine spiritual formation? What happens when faithfulness is reduced to being “right” rather than honoring one another? How do different generations carry distinct “prototypes” of Jesus shaped by their historical circumstances? Rather than offering quick fixes, Andrew calls churches back to slow, relational work: intergenerational presence, shared meals, play, embodied practices, and renewed attention to the whole person—mind, body, and soul. Drawing from Acts 2, the Gospels, and family systems theory, he argues that healing church communities begins not with better programming, but with learning to be with one another again. This episode is a candid, hopeful, and theologically grounded conversation for anyone who loves the church and wants to see it become healthier, more faithful, and more resilient in a fractured age. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God:www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! You can get a copy of Andrew's book at www.amazon.com This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 16, 2026

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer is joined by John Stonestreet, president of the Colson Center, to discuss the Truth Rising Project—a collaboration between the Colson Center and Focus on the Family. John explains how Truth Rising emerged from a growing realization: many of the cultural “hypotheticals” Christians debated decades ago have become lived realities. The project frames our moment as what Oz Guinness calls a civilizational moment—a tipping point where cultures become “clipped off” from the roots that once animated them, often leading to decline, upheaval, or (rarely) renewal. A key theme in the conversation is the difference between faithfulness and effectiveness. James presses the question: What happens when faithfulness doesn’t seem to “work”? John responds by grounding Christian hope not in saving Western civilization, but in the resurrection of Jesus Christ—and echoes Chuck Colson’s memorable line: “Despair is a sin.” Not because outcomes are guaranteed to improve, but because Christ is risen and his kingdom is the true story of the world. The discussion then turns to cultural destabilization, dehumanization, and what it looks like to live “against the grain of reality.” John and James reflect on the way ideas produce real-world consequences—how societies can treat moral realities like “speed limits” (negotiable) when they function more like “gravity” (inescapable). Finally, John highlights stories featured in Truth Rising—especially Jack Phillips and Chloe Cole—as examples of courage and costly faithfulness in public life. The episode closes with a practical invitation: Truth Rising is free, designed to equip Christians and churches to live with hope, clarity, and conviction in this moment. Key topics bullets Why Colson Center + Focus on the Family launched Truth Rising Oz Guinness and the idea of a “civilizational moment” Faithfulness vs. effectiveness—and why hope is rooted in resurrection “Despair is a sin” (Chuck Colson) and the logic of Christian hope Dehumanization, identity confusion, and cultural decline Truth vs. “renegotiated reality”: gravity vs. speed limits Jack Phillips, Chloe Cole, and the cost of courageous obedience How to access the free documentary and 8-part study You can find out more about the Truth Rising project at https://www.truthrising.com. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God:www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 9, 2026

What if the most spiritually formative season of the Christian year isn’t Advent or Lent—but the long stretch of ordinary time in between? In this episode of the Thinking Christian Podcast, Dr. James Spencer is joined by Dr. Amy Peeler, Kenneth T. Wessner Chair of Biblical Studies at Wheaton College, to discuss her book Ordinary Time: The Season of Growth, part of the Fullness of Time series from IVP. Together, they explore how the church’s longest season—often overlooked or misunderstood—shapes Christian maturity, patience, and attentiveness to God’s work in everyday life. Amy shares her own journey from a free-church background into the Anglican tradition, where the church calendarprovides a shared rhythm for worship, discipleship, and formation. Ordinary time, she explains, is neither feast nor fast. Marked by the color green, it reflects growth—slow, patient, often unseen—rather than dramatic spiritual highs. This season mirrors how most of life is actually lived: meals, conversations, work, rest, and faithful obedience in the ordinary. James and Amy discuss how modern Christians—both liturgical and non-liturgical—often struggle with cadence, reflection, and rest. Without intentional rhythms, churches can become overly programmatic, while individuals drift into distraction, passivity, or burnout. Ordinary time offers a corrective: a space to reflect on God’s work, attend carefully to Scripture, and allow spiritual growth to “catch up” after seasons of intense focus. The conversation also explores how ordinary time functions formatively: As a season of growth rather than spectacle As an extended invitation to rest and receptivity, not spiritual laziness As a reminder that God is present in the mundane—not just in mountaintop moments Amy draws on biblical texts (especially Genesis 18) to show how God often appears not in dramatic events, but in ordinary hospitality, conversation, and faithfulness. She also reflects on Trinity Sunday, explaining how ordinary time helps Christians attend more deeply to Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—not as abstract doctrine, but as lived worship shaped by prayer, posture, and participation. Throughout the episode, James and Amy examine how formation happens over time, why Christians need both structure and reflection, and how ordinary time can function almost like an extended Sabbath—a season where believers learn to cease striving and trust God’s work in them. You can get Ordinary Time at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount)  Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! Topics include: What “ordinary time” is—and why it matters The church calendar and Christian formation Growth, patience, and rest in discipleship Green as the color of spiritual formation Ordinary practices as places of divine presence Genesis 18 and encountering God in the everyday Trinity Sunday and worshiping the triune God Liturgical vs. free-church approaches to time and rhythm Why reflection is essential in a distracted age This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 5, 2026

The abortion conversation in the church is often framed as a political battle—pro-life versus pro-choice, red versus blue. But what if that framing itself is the problem? In this episode of the Thinking Christian Podcast, Dr. James Spencertalks with Angela Weszely, author of Becoming Pro-Grace: Expanding the Abortion Conversation Beyond Life Versus Choice and founder of the Pro-Grace movement, about why Christians need a distinctly theological framework for engaging abortion—one rooted in Jesus rather than political parties. Angela shares her personal journey into abortion ministry, beginning with work at a Christian pregnancy center in downtown Chicago. What she encountered there unsettled her: well-intentioned Christians operating with a deeply legalistic mindset, prioritizing agendas over people and persuasion over presence. That experience led her into a years-long theological reexamination of how grace, dignity, and the gospel should shape Christian engagement with one of the most emotionally charged issues of our time. At the heart of the Pro-Grace framework are two core theological commitments. First, equal value and equal dignity—the Imago Dei applies fully to both the woman and the child, rejecting the false binary that pits them against each other. Second, grace as the path of transformation—real change does not come through coercion, shame, or law alone, but through the radical grace of Jesus that heals hearts and restores relationships. James and Angela explore how political language and party loyalty often distort Christian witness, training believers to see one another as enemies rather than brothers and sisters in Christ. They discuss why laws, while important, are limited tools that can manage brokenness but cannot heal it—and why the church has too often abdicated its responsibility by outsourcing moral formation to government. The conversation also dives into the lived experience of unintended pregnancy. Drawing on years of qualitative research, Angela highlights three dominant emotional realities women face: panic, isolation, and shame. These realities are rarely acknowledged in political debates, yet they shape nearly every decision made in crisis. James reflects on his own family’s experience with a difficult prenatal diagnosis, underscoring how support, community, and compassion dramatically alter the moral landscape. Rather than offering a simplistic solution, Pro-Grace calls the church to something deeper: humility, listening, and imagination. What would it look like for Christians to lead with their kingdom identity, allowing political engagement to be shaped—rather than defined—by allegiance to Christ? What if churches became the safest places for women, men, and families navigating pregnancy, loss, and fear? This episode challenges listeners to rethink not only what they believe about abortion, but how they engage the conversation—inviting Christians into a posture that looks more like Jesus and less like partisan combat. Topics include: Why political frameworks distort Christian witness on abortion The Pro-Grace theological model explained Equal dignity of women and children (Imago Dei) Grace versus legalism in Christian ethics Emotional realities of unintended pregnancy The limits of law and the responsibility of the church Why Christians must lead with kingdom identity, not party loyalty How churches can become truly welcoming communities You can get Becoming Pro-Grace: Expanding the Abortion Conversation Beyond Life Versus Choice at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount)  Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 2, 2026

Was America founded as a “new Israel”? And if so, what happens when biblical conquest narratives are used to justify colonization, displacement, and violence? In this episode of the Thinking Christian Podcast, Dr. James Spencer speaks with Dr. Daniel Hawk, professor of Old Testament and Hebrew at Ashland Theological Seminary and author of Undoing Manifest Destiny: Settler America, Christian Colonists, and the Pursuit of Justice, about how Christian theology became entangled with the American settler story—and why that story now needs to be reexamined. Drawing on decades of Old Testament scholarship, especially his work on the Book of Joshua, Daniel Hawk explains how biblical narratives meant to form Israel’s identity were gradually transformed into templates for empire in the American imagination. Early Christian colonists interpreted their arrival in the New World through conquest theology—believing God had given them the land and authorized the dispossession of Indigenous peoples. Over time, this reading hardened into a powerful civil religion, blending Christian language with national mythology. James and Daniel explore how Manifest Destiny functioned as a theological story—one that framed American expansion as divinely sanctioned while masking injustice behind a “myth of innocence.” They discuss how the Exodus and conquest narratives were selectively used to legitimize political freedom and territorial expansion, while conveniently excluding Scripture’s deep moral critique of power, violence, and covenant unfaithfulness. The conversation also addresses the enduring effects of settler colonialism—not merely as a historical event, but as a set of social, economic, and cultural structures that continue shaping American life. Daniel argues that unresolved colonial sin damages everyone: Indigenous communities who bear the weight of dispossession and trauma, and white Christians whose imaginations have been warped by unexamined dominance and control. Rather than assigning blame, Hawk calls Christians to a posture of discipleship, humility, and repentance. Undoing the settler narrative begins with learning local histories, listening to Indigenous voices, and allowing uncomfortable truths to challenge long-held assumptions. Healing, he suggests, requires telling the whole story—without mythologizing the past or silencing pain. James and Daniel also reflect on the role of globalization, modern capitalism, and environmental exploitation as ongoing echoes of colonial logic, as well as Daniel’s work with the First Nations Version Bible translation project—an effort to hear Scripture through Indigenous linguistic and cultural frameworks. This episode invites Christians to ask hard questions: How should Scripture shape our understanding of land, power, and justice? What does repentance look like at a communal level? And how might the church become an agent of reconciliation rather than a guardian of national mythology? Topics include: The Book of Joshua and Christian identity Manifest Destiny as civil religion How biblical narratives were misused to justify colonization Settler colonialism vs. other forms of empire The “myth of innocence” in American history Structural sin and enduring injustice Listening to Indigenous voices and histories Discipleship, repentance, and reconciliation Christianity beyond nationalism You can get Undoing Manifest Destiny: Settler America, Christian Colonists, and the Pursuit of Justice at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount)  Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 26, 2026

Can Christians pursue success in business without sidelining their faith—or turning God into just another “box” in life? In this episode of the Thinking Christian Podcast, Dr. James Spencer sits down with Andrea Anderson, Christian business coach and author of Bread Like Rain, to talk about surrendered strategy, discipleship, and what it really means to follow Christ in entrepreneurial work. Andrea shares her journey from cultural Christianity to atheism and agnosticism—and eventually to a living faith shaped by loss, prayer, and God’s persistent pursuit. Her move into life coaching and consulting didn’t come from a desire to optimize productivity alone, but from a deeper question: How do I help people experience lasting, eternal transformation rather than temporary fixes? Drawing from her work with Christian business owners, Andrea explains why many leaders experience recurring chaos despite good intentions: self-reliance and control quietly replace trust in God. The solution isn’t better tactics at ground level, but a top-down reordering—learning to ask what the Lord is saying and aligning vision, strategy, and identity accordingly. When leaders build from misalignment, results never last. When they build from surrender, fruit endures. James and Andrea explore how discipleship must shape leadership, why faith cannot be compartmentalized into “God,” “work,” and “family” boxes, and how obedience opens our eyes to what God is already doing. They also discuss the dangers of redefining success apart from God’s purposes—where profitability, health, relationships, and obedience must be held together rather than traded off against one another. The conversation touches on prayer, listening for God’s voice, and why many Christians struggle to slow down spiritually: not because they don’t know prayer matters, but because they doubt they can actually hear God. Andrea introduces the idea of a “faith optimization gap”—the distance between what we know and what we truly believe—and how that gap quietly shapes decisions, priorities, and burnout. Finally, Andrea offers a candid reflection on the modern church: discipleship requires more than encouragement and affirmation. True love includes correction, accountability, and refining relationships shaped by Christ—not cultural comfort. Topics include: From organizing spaces to organizing lives under Christ Why self-reliance creates recurring chaos in leadership Faith, profitability, and God’s definition of success Compartmentalization vs. surrendered discipleship Prayer as communion, not a spiritual checklist Hearing God’s voice in daily decisions Church discipline, accountability, and real community Bread Like Rain and Andrea’s upcoming book, Rock Solid Business You can find out more about Andrea at https://andrealeighco.com. Here book Bread Like Rain is available here.  Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 23, 2026

What do you do when faith feels dry, confusing, or emotionally barren—when God seems absent, or even uncomfortably near? In this episode of the Thinking Christian Podcast, Dr. James Spencer talks with Dr. Noelle Forlini-Byrte, author of God in the Desert: A Spiritual Theology of Wilderness in the Old Testament and part-time lecturer at Samford University, about the wilderness as a spiritual landscape for real Christians living real lives. Noelle shares how this book was “twenty years in the making,” beginning with her first spiritual formation class and early encounters with the mystics—especially St. John of the Cross and the theme of God’s “dark night” and felt absence. Those questions followed her into doctoral work in the Old Testament, where narratives like Jacob wrestling at the Jabbok, the exile, and Israel’s wilderness wanderings became a rich theological map for suffering, disorientation, and divine encounter. James and Noelle explore why the church often defaults to two unhealthy extremes: shallow, pithy “application” divorced from biblical context—or scholarship so clinical that it leaves the soul malnourished. Noelle argues that liturgy and scholarship must belong together: rigorous exegesis should not be an escape from spiritual formation, and devotional practices should not ignore the actual meaning of the text. The goal is not information alone, but a scripture-shaped life where God excavates the soul. Along the way, they discuss difficult Old Testament passages without smoothing out their discomfort—especially the wilderness as a place of testing (Deuteronomy 8) and purgation (Hosea 2). Noelle draws on the Christian mystical tradition to describe purgation as the stripping away of “self-made props,” the idolatries and illusions that quietly sustain us until wilderness exposes what we truly trust. One of the most resonant themes is acedia—the “noonday demon” from the desert tradition: spiritual weariness, malaise, and the temptation to give up when faith becomes costly and daily life grinds us down. James connects acedia to midlife, family pressures, and the subtle exhaustion that comes not from one tragedy, but from “death by a thousand cuts.” Noelle suggests that the very presence of these questions can be a sign of a deeper, weathered faith—because wilderness presupposes we are actually walking with God. The conversation closes with a challenge for the church today: humility, honest questions, and a willingness to let Scripture form us rather than simply confirm us. Faithful discipleship requires more than confidence—it requires wakefulness and the courage to bring our real lives before God. You can get God in the Desert: A Spiritual Theology of Wilderness in the Old Testament at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount)  Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! Topics include: Why wilderness is a central biblical image for spiritual formation God’s felt absence vs. God’s “hyper-presence” The danger of devotionals without exegesis—and scholarship without soul Hagar, exile, and uncomfortable honesty in biblical narratives Deuteronomy 8 and forgetting God in prosperity Hosea 2 and purgation: God stripping away false securities Acedia and spiritual weariness in midlife and modern discipleship Humility, honest prayer, and faith that can handle “why” questions This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 19, 2026

What if a major driver of today’s mental health crisis isn’t simply “more disorders,” but more people who feel unseen, unheard, and alone? In this episode of the Thinking Christian Podcast, Dr. James Spencer talks with Dr. Jackie E. Perry—Clinical Supervisor, Professor of Counselor Education at Columbia International University, and President of the Soulwell Center—about loneliness, the loss of emotional connection, and why the church must recover the skill of attuned listening. Jackie explains how the Soulwell Center began: while teaching counselor “helping skills,” she realized many of those relational tools could be taught in a lay-friendly way to parents, pastors, and everyday Christians. The result is a training approach that combines practical listening techniques with the neuroscience of relationships—equipping people to hold a safe space where others can feel truly “seen and known.” James and Jackie discuss a trend Jackie has observed across decades in the mental health field: in the last 10–15 years, more clients have been coming not primarily with severe pathology, but because they don’t have anyone who listens. Therapy becomes a paid place of connection—something that should not be rare in Christian community. The conversation explores how technology can create distance (including the rise of AI-mediated communication), why many people lack a “mental model” for deep listening, and how shame and perceived “threat” can make relational closeness feel unsafe. Jackie introduces the concept of “eyes of delight”—the nonverbal experience of being attended to with warmth—and explains why nonverbal presence often does more than words. They also connect listening to the broader formation of disciples: without embodied, relational connection, people drift into isolation, cope through substitutes, and struggle to develop distress tolerance—the ability to endure discomfort and stay engaged through conflict, hardship, and the messiness of real relationships. The result is not only loneliness, but fragility and retreat from vocation, mission, and spiritual maturity. In the end, Jackie offers a simple but demanding vision: the church must become a community that can listen across difference and reflect the “eyes of Christ.” That kind of faithful presence is not optional—it is essential for discipleship, mental health, and a credible Christian witness today. Topics include: Soulwell Center’s mission and the “listening course” Loneliness, mental health, and why therapy becomes a substitute for community “Eyes of delight” and the neuroscience of connection Shame, vulnerability, and why being known can feel threatening Nonverbal communication and why presence matters Distress tolerance, overprotection, and the formation of resilient adults What the church must recover to make faithful disciples You can purchase Heart Cries of Every Teen here.  For more information onf the Soulwell Center visit www.thesoulwellcenter.com. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 17, 2026

In this final episode of our German Reformation series, Dr. James Spencer and Dr. Greg Quiggle step back from the 16th century to ask a pressing modern question: what does it actually mean to be Protestant today—and what have we gained (and lost) since the Reformation? Greg frames Protestantism with a memorable realism: it isn’t perfect—it’s the “least problematic” of the major options(Roman Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy, and Protestantism). From there, the conversation explores Protestantism’s strengths—Scripture in the common language, broad engagement with the Bible, the dignity and responsibility of ordinary believers, and the freedom to test tradition against God’s Word—while also naming the hazards that come with that freedom. James and Greg dig into one of the central tensions of modern Protestant life: authority without a pope must still include accountability. The Reformation wasn’t a call for every individual to interpret Scripture with equal authority; it assumed a teaching office and depended on catechesis to form faithful readers. But in today’s digital ecosystem—where influence is often determined by charisma, algorithms, and audience-size—Protestantism can drift into fragmentation, echo chambers, and “pastor-as-pope” dynamics inside independent churches. This episode also turns practical and pastoral: how should Christians live faithfully amid online outrage cycles, misinformation, and slander—especially when “everyone is a publisher”? Greg and James connect these issues to biblical ethics (truth-telling, false witness) and to the urgent need to rebuild theological formation in the local church. In this conversation, you’ll hear about: Why Protestantism is a “best worst” option—and why that matters The strengths of Protestant diversity (and why it’s also dangerous) Why the teaching office matters—and what happens when it collapses How the loss of catechism has weakened Protestant interpretation The modern digital “echo chamber” problem and credibility collapse Why truth, slander, and false witness apply directly to social media Practical next steps: near-term wisdom + long-term formation Quotelos Travel offers small, expert-led “Tours for Ten” that provide an intimate and unforgettable way to explore church history and culture with guides who truly know the locations. Learn more at quotelostravelservice.com, and check out their upcoming trips to Germany, England, and Switzerland. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God:www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 16, 2026

In this episode of our German Reformation series, Dr. James Spencer and Dr. Greg Quiggle pivot to one of the defining features of Protestant tradition: the Reformation Solas—and why they still matter for Christians today. Rather than beginning with a list of “five solas,” Greg frames the Reformation around three theological questions that generated the solas: What is the Church? (ecclesiology) How am I saved / how do I stand before God? (soteriology) Who or what has ultimate authority to define belief and practice? (authority) From there, Greg explains the contrast between 16th-century Roman Catholic and 16th-century Protestant answers—especially the difference between church-as-organization (a hierarchical structure) and church-as-organism (the priesthood of all believers). That “priesthood” isn’t only about rights; it also includes responsibility—the idea that ministry is not a spectator sport, and that clergy exist chiefly to equip the saints through the Office of the Word. The conversation then traces how the solas flow from these questions: Sola Scriptura (Scripture alone as final authority) Sola Fide (justification by faith alone) Solus Christus (Christ alone) and how these reshape Protestant ideas of salvation, grace, and the church’s mediating role. James also presses into a key modern confusion: “Bible alone” does not mean “my interpretation alone.” Both hosts argue that the Reformation assumed a teaching office, catechesis, and doctrinal boundaries—something many modern churches have lost. They connect this to contemporary debates about faith as mere intellectual assent versus faith as a way of lifemarked by trust, repentance, and fidelity. This episode includes discussion of: The three Reformation questions behind the solas Church as organism vs. church as organization Priesthood of all believers: rights and responsibilities The “Office of the Word” and why it still matters Catholic sacramental mediation vs. Protestant justification by faith Why authority (Sola Scriptura) is the “non-negotiable” dividing line Faith as lived trust and repentance—beyond a one-time decision Why modern American Protestant individualism isn’t the same as Reformation Protestantism Quotelos Travel offers small, expert-led “Tours for Ten” that provide an intimate and unforgettable way to explore church history and culture with guides who truly know the locations. Learn more at quotelostravelservice.com, and check out their upcoming trips to Germany, England, and Switzerland. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God:www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 13, 2026

In this episode of our German Reformation series, Dr. James Spencer and Dr. Greg Quiggle begin exploring what happens after the attempt to reform the Catholic Church breaks down and the division becomes permanent: What does Protestantism look like under Luther once it’s no longer simply a reform movement? The conversation opens with a key structural issue: the evolving relationship between church and state in early Protestant contexts. Greg explains that most Protestants still lived inside the world of Christendom—where church and state were distinct but not separate—operating like two authorities under one religious framework. That arrangement also clarifies a disturbing feature of the era: the execution of “heretics.” In the 16th century, the church might declare a person heretical, but it was the state that carried the sword—treating heresy as an act of political-religious destabilization and responding as “self-defense.” From there, James and Greg move into the heart of the episode: the post-Reformation negotiation of identity. With the old Catholic structure breaking apart, Protestants faced a massive question: What do we keep from 1,500 years of Christian practice—and what must go? Greg frames the spectrum of Protestant responses: Luther’s approach: keep as much as possible, removing only what clearly violates Scripture Anabaptist/Radical approaches: jettison the entire Constantinian project, rejecting the church-state synthesis and attempting to rebuild from the New Testament alone This clash didn’t remain theoretical. Greg explains how competing Protestant visions collided—sometimes violently—highlighting cases like Zurich where Anabaptists were condemned and executed under the authority of the city council after theological disputes (including disputes over baptism). The episode also touches on radical apocalyptic movements in Germany (including Münster and Thomas Müntzer), showing how social upheaval, plague trauma, and end-times expectations created fertile ground for charismatic extremism—and why Luther feared the Reformation could spiral beyond control. James connects these dynamics to modern organizational realities: how policy tools (like catechesis) can become “passive instruments” when accountability structures fail, and why early Protestant instability wasn’t simply “denomination vs. denomination,” but often included fringe movements driven by chaos, charisma, and apocalyptic certainty. The episode closes by returning to a critical constraint often overlooked today: mass illiteracy. “Bible alone” emerges in a world where most people cannot read, intensifying the importance—and vulnerability—of teaching authority, civic enforcement, and communal formation Quotelos Travel offers small, expert-led “Tours for Ten” that provide an intimate and unforgettable way to explore church history and culture with guides who truly know the locations. Learn more at quotelostravelservice.com, and check out their upcoming trips to Germany, England, and Switzerland. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God:www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 12, 2026

In this episode of our German Reformation series, Dr. James Spencer and Dr. Greg Quiggle linger in Wittenbergbefore the Diet of Worms and Wartburg Castle to unpack the moment everyone knows—but few understand: Luther’s 95 Theses. Greg begins with the real backstory: indulgence-selling tied to the fundraising machine behind the rebuilding of St. Peter’s Basilica and a chain of financial incentives involving an ambitious archbishop, borrowed money, and a gifted salesman—Johann Tetzel—whose catchy jingle promised liberation from purgatory at the drop of a coin. When Luther’s parishioners return with indulgences in hand, Luther doesn’t set out to start a revolution. He does what academics do: he drafts 95 points for debate and posts them publicly—more like a community bulletin board than a Hollywood act of defiance. But the moment doesn’t stay local. Two forces amplify it: A new technology: the printing press A predictable catalyst: students who love promoting their professor What was intended as a small-town disputation spreads rapidly, lands on the pope’s desk in Rome, and triggers a reaction Luther never expected—one that escalates through excommunication threats, imperial hearings, and eventually Luther’s dramatic stand before the emperor. James and Greg then trace the chain reaction: 1519 (Leipzig Debate): authority begins shifting toward Scripture over popes/councils 1520 (papal bull): Luther publicly rejects Rome’s demand to recant 1521 (Diet of Worms): Luther expects debate; Rome demands recantation Luther requests 24 hours, returns, and refuses to recant unless convinced by Scripture and plain reason Luther leaves under “safe conduct,” is “kidnapped” by agents of Frederick the Wise, and hidden at Wartburg Castle as “Knight George” In hiding, Luther produces a major turning point: his rapid German New Testament translation From there, the conversation turns to a crucial clarification often missed today: Luther did not teach modern “private interpretation” as individual autonomy. He wanted Scripture accessible, yes—but not atomized. That’s why catechesisand the teaching office matter: a catechism functions as a faithful constraint that helps the church read Scripture with shared boundaries rather than endless fragmentation. The episode closes by reframing the word Reformation itself: Luther never intended to create a new church. He aimed to reform the existing one—and the birth of Lutheran Protestant identity becomes, in many ways, an unintended necessity once Rome refuses the correction. Quotelos Travel offers small, expert-led “Tours for Ten” that provide an intimate and unforgettable way to explore church history and culture with guides who truly know the locations. Learn more at quotelostravelservice.com, and check out their upcoming trips to Germany, England, and Switzerland. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God:www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 11, 2026

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer and Dr. Greg Quiggle pick up the story after Luther’s intensifying crisis of conscience. If the monastery wasn’t bringing peace—what could? Luther’s mentor, Johann von Staupitz, attempts an intervention, first by sending Luther to Rome, hoping the pilgrimage and the center of the Church might relieve the pressure. Instead, Rome does the opposite. Luther returns disillusioned by the moral and spiritual decay he sees—corruption, scandal, and a religious economy saturated with spiritual “transactions.” Rather than loosening Luther’s burden, Rome deepens the problem. The turning point comes through Luther’s move to Wittenberg, where rigorous study of Scripture in the original languages (and in the intellectual wake of the Renaissance and renewed interest in Greek texts) forces Luther to confront a question that had been crushing him: How can an unrighteous sinner stand before a righteous God? Greg explains how Luther’s breakthrough forms as he wrestles with texts like Psalm 31 and then Romans 1—and begins to grasp righteousness not as something he can achieve, but something God can give. Luther’s language for this is striking: “alien righteousness”—a righteousness that belongs to God, received by faith, and credited to the believer. The episode also highlights a key detail that becomes explosive: Luther starts noticing where the Church’s claims don’t match the text itself—especially when he reads Scripture in Greek. The famous early example is the shift from “do penance” to “repent” (metanoia)—a translation issue with massive theological consequences. This segment ends by setting up what comes next: the 95 Theses, the Diet of Worms, and why Luther’s translation work (and his commitment to Scripture as final authority) becomes the fuse that ignites the Reformation. Quotelos Travel offers small, expert-led “Tours for Ten” that provide an intimate and unforgettable way to explore church history and culture with guides who truly know the locations. Learn more at quotelostravelservice.com, and check out their upcoming trips to Germany, England, and Switzerland. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God:www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 10, 2026

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer is joined by Dr. Greg Quiggle to continue the German Reformation series—this time focusing on Martin Luther’s years in Erfurt and the startling turn that led him into the Augustinian monastery. Luther wasn’t headed toward ministry. He was a brilliant student on track for law, positioned to become his father’s “golden ticket” in a world with no social safety net. But beneath the surface, Luther’s life was haunted by a question that medieval Europe could not escape: What happens when I die—and how can I stand before a holy God? Greg places Luther’s fear and guilt inside the lived world of late medieval Germany—where death was constant, God was often imagined as perpetually angry, and the Church shaped the calendar, the culture, and the imagination of everyday life. The episode then centers on the famous storm moment: Luther, terrified by lightning, cries out to St. Anne and makes a vow—“Help me, and I will become a monk.” Unlike so many foxhole vows, Luther follows through. From there, James and Greg explore what life in Erfurt’s Augustinian monastery likely entailed: regulated prayer, ascetic discipline, study, and the grinding pressures that could intensify Luther’s already sensitive conscience. The discussion highlights the deep irony of Luther’s early story: the monastery was supposed to bring peace—but for Luther, the spiritual “solutions” only made the struggle worse. The episode ends by setting up the next move in the narrative: the relationship between Augustinian theology, Luther’s extreme ascetic practices, and the transition toward Wittenberg under the guidance of his mentor/confessor, Johann von Staupitz—where the next stage of Luther’s transformation begins. Quotelos Travel offers small, expert-led “Tours for Ten” that provide an intimate and unforgettable way to explore church history and culture with guides who truly know the locations. Learn more at quotelostravelservice.com, and check out their upcoming trips to Germany, England, and Switzerland. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God:www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 9, 2026

In this first episode of a new Thinking Christian series on the German Reformation, Dr. James Spencer is joined by Dr. Greg Quiggle—a historian, former Moody Bible Institute professor, and leader of Tours for Ten—to set the stage for the world that produced Martin Luther and the Lutheran Reformation. Before you can understand Luther, you have to understand the world Luther lived in: a late-medieval Germany marked by constant death, recurring plague, widespread poverty, church corruption, and spiritual fear. Greg helps listeners reconstruct the medieval imagination—where God was often perceived as perpetually angry, life expectancy was low, child mortality was staggering, and the question “How can I stand before a holy God?” was not theoretical but urgent. Greg also clarifies an often-missed point: there wasn’t one Reformation, but multiple Reformations—Germany (Luther), Switzerland (Zwingli and Calvin), England (Henry VIII), and the Radical movements—each emerging from distinct contexts and theological pressures. This series focuses specifically on the German stream and its implications for Protestantism today. In this conversation, you’ll hear about: The split between Eastern (Orthodox) and Western (Latin/Catholic) Christianity (1054) Why “Reformation” is really Reformations (Germany, Switzerland, England, Radicals) The medieval experience of death: plague, famine, and childhood mortality How the church often failed to provide spiritual comfort or clarity Why fear of judgment and purgatory shaped daily religious behavior The role of literacy, sermons, Latin worship, and “sheep without a shepherd” The core question driving Luther: certainty before God through Christ This episode lays the foundation for the rest of the series, where James and Greg will move from context into Luther’s theology, the 95 Theses, indulgences, justification by faith, and the long-term effects of the German Reformation on modern Protestant life. Related: Want to experience Reformation history on location? Greg leads small-group “Tours for Ten” through Germany (and beyond). Links are in the show notes. Quotelos Travel offers small, expert-led “Tours for Ten” that provide an intimate and unforgettable way to explore church history and culture with guides who truly know the locations. Learn more at quotelostravelservice.com, and check out their upcoming trips to Germany, England, and Switzerland. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God:www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 5, 2026

What does it look like for Christians to pursue multicultural unity without flattening real differences—or turning ethnicity into an ultimate identity? In this episode of the Thinking Christian Podcast, Dr. James Spencer is joined by recurring guest Ben Mathew (Professor of Counselor Education at Columbia International University) to discuss multiculturalism in the church through both a clinical lens and a biblical theology lens. Ben begins with his own story: growing up in Canada as part of an Indian immigrant family, encountering racial hostility, and watching his parents respond with persistent faith and love. That lived experience shaped his lifelong interest in identity, race, and how Christians should engage “the other.” From there, Ben and James explore how ethnicity relates to a person’s overall identity—especially for Christians who want a Christian-first posture without denying the embodied realities of culture and race. Ben describes two common errors: colorblindness (ignoring ethnicity as part of a person’s story) and “color essentialism” (making ethnicity the dominant identity). The challenge is not an either/or choice, but learning to live in the tension where unity in Christ is central while diversity remains real and meaningful. The conversation also turns to Scripture: Ephesians’ vision of Jew and Gentile becoming “one new man,” Acts as a casebook for early church multicultural tensions, and Revelation’s picture of worship around the throne from every tribe, tongue, and nation. They discuss why this unity isn’t a side issue—Paul frames it as part of the gospel’s public confrontation of powers and principalities. James and Ben also touch on contemporary frameworks such as Critical Race Theory, noting the difference between observations that may describe real dynamics and prescriptions that can become spiritually or socially destructive. Throughout, they return to a distinctly Christian claim: the church is called to embody a unity the world cannot produce, and that unity becomes a living witness to Christ’s authority. Finally, Ben offers a practical starting point: cultivate curiosity about other people’s stories. That posture of “cultural humility” can soften tribal instincts, expand empathy, and help churches pursue unity for the glory of God. Topics include: Ethnicity and Christian identity Colorblindness vs. “color essentialism” Biblical theology of multicultural worship (Acts, Ephesians, Revelation) Lament, anger, and healing in the face of racial evil Systemic sin and how Christians should think about systems CRT: insights, limits, and why the gospel must remain central Concrete first steps for churches toward multicultural faithfulness Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 2, 2026

Pastors are carrying more emotional and spiritual weight than most congregations realize—and many churches still treat counseling and discipleship as if they’re separate worlds. In this episode of the Thinking Christian Podcast, Dr. James Spencer is joined by Dr. Steve Stuhlreyer (Professor of Counselor Education at Columbia International University, former lead pastor) to talk about what it looks like when the church becomes a place of healing, relational care, and wise referral. Steve explains why the line between discipleship and counseling is often a false dichotomy. While some cases require trained clinical care (and sometimes medical collaboration), most people seeking help are what Steve calls the “worried well”—believers navigating grief, stress, anxiety, loneliness, transitions, and everyday burdens that can’t be carried alone. In those cases, what’s often missing isn’t a diagnosis—it’s relationship: a trusted person who can listen, walk with them, and help them grow in Christ. James and Steve also discuss the unique pressures pastors face: living in a fishbowl, constant availability, criticism, and the real loneliness that comes with leadership. Steve shares why many pastors won’t disclose struggles to denominational systems or even church members, and how chronic pressure can contribute to burnout, depression, anxiety, and in some situations, even trauma-like symptoms. The result is not just personal pain—it can limit a pastor’s ability to lead with spiritual health and long-term resilience. Finally, the conversation turns practical: What can churches do? Steve offers concrete advice for building a healthier ecosystem where lay care, discipleship, and counseling support work together—freeing trained counselors to focus on complex cases while the church becomes a genuine “hospital” for everyday burdens. They also touch on men’s ministry and why Christian manhood must be formed by Christlike strength, humility, and grace, not cultural machismo. Topics include: The overlap between counseling and discipleship Who truly needs clinical counseling—and who needs relational support Why pastors are often lonely (and afraid to be honest) How trauma and burnout can develop in ministry Practical ways elders and church leaders can care for pastors Men’s discipleship that builds strength without bravado Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

January 29, 2026

Why do so many Christians feel like they’re “bad at prayer”? In this episode of the Thinking Christian Podcast, Dr. James Spencer sits down with Addison Bevere (President of Messenger International) to talk about prayer as presence, not performance—and why shame and distraction keep God’s people from the intimacy they were made for. Addison shares the origin story behind RediscoverPrayer.com and a pivotal conversation with his dad that reshaped his view of prayer: “I pray for about 15 minutes… and then I just listen.” That moment helped expose a common misconception—many people assume prayer is a spiritual performance, a transaction, or a checklist. But Scripture invites something deeper: constant prayer as constant receptivity, lived from a place of rest and God-consciousness rather than self-consciousness. James and Addison discuss how modern life trains our attention toward anxiety and control, and how rebuilding a prayerful “cadence” can reorient our entire day. Addison explains why attention is a real sacrifice, why the first hour of the morning can have a disproportionate impact, and how prayer energizes every other spiritual discipline instead of merely being one more item on the list. They also explore: Why “pray without ceasing” isn’t a burden, but an invitation to ongoing intimacy The difference between formulas and frameworks for prayer How the enemy uses shame to turn prayer into a place of disqualification How prayer changes us—even when we’re messy, distracted, or unsure what to say Why the church needs to recover the sacredness of God’s presence in community to make disciples today Addison’s newest resource, Words with God Prayer Journal, is designed as a practical framework to help people reflect, recenter, rest, receive, ask, and respond—building a life of prayer that carries into every moment. Resources mentioned: Purchase Words with God Prayer Journal here. RediscoverPrayer.com MessengerX.com (Messenger International’s discipleship app) Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

January 26, 2026

Is discipleship mainly about trying harder—or is it something God does in us? In this short, focused segment on the Thinking Christian Podcast, Roger Ross explains why the Holy Spirit is the prime mover in the entire work of Christian discipleship. If spiritual growth becomes merely human effort, Roger argues, we’ve missed the point of how God actually transforms people. Using growth as a concrete example, Roger describes how the Holy Spirit opens our minds and hearts to what God wants to teach us—often through ordinary means like books, worship, relationships, and even painful experiences. God can use any moment as a formative “teaching point,” and mature disciples learn to recognize when something they’re hearing or experiencing is a clear prompt: “That was for me. I need to pay attention.” This episode will encourage you to rethink spiritual formation—not as self-powered improvement, but as Spirit-led transformation that can happen through every circumstance of life. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why the Holy Spirit—not discipline alone—is the engine of discipleship How God uses ordinary and difficult experiences to produce spiritual growth What it means to be spiritually attentive to God’s “this is for you” moments How to avoid turning discipleship into self-help Christianity You can purchase Kinda Christian: From Curious to Serious about Jesus here. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

January 22, 2026

What happens when God confronts the “two lives” we’re living—and calls us out of the background and into honest testimony? In this episode of the Thinking Christian Podcast, Dr. James Spencer is joined by Nick Sash (a longtime friend and the host of the Foundational Fathers Podcast) to talk about Nick’s new book, Unmuted: From Silence to Testimony, and the story behind it. Nick shares how years of hiding, silence, and “keep your emotions in check” masculinity gave way to a defining moment: God’s ultimatum to stop living divided and start living surrendered. Nick explains why so many Christians feel safest staying unseen and unheard—and why that “quiet” approach eventually harms us and the people we love. Together, James and Nick explore what it means to live an ordinary faith—not sugarcoated, not performative, not built on hype—just daily obedience rooted in God’s Word. They also discuss the importance of preparation and humility, the role of Scripture in discipleship, and how the church can form believers who don’t just hear the Word—but actually do it. In this episode, we cover: Nick’s testimony: from divided living to surrendered discipleship Why many men learn silence—and how God reshapes that story The message of Unmuted: moving from hiding to honest witness “Ordinary faith” vs. relevance-driven Christianity Why Scripture must shape the church more than trends or “bells and whistles” The Foundational Fathers Podcast vision (including taking the show on the road) What it looks like to share your story faithfully—one conversation at a time Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

January 19, 2026

How do Christian parents raise kids with wisdom in a culture shaped by pornography, confusion about gender, and broken ideas about relationships—without living in “hair-on-fire” panic? In this episode of the Thinking Christian Podcast, James Spencer sits down with Lori Krieg, co-author (with Matt Krieg) of Raising Wise Kids in a Sexually Broken World (IVP) and Director of Parent Programs & Discipleship at the Center for Faith, Sexuality and Gender. Lori explains why so many Christian families become reactionary—only talking about sexuality when a crisis hits—and what it looks like to build a foundation from ages 0–12. You’ll hear practical, parent-tested guidance on shaping kids to see people as image-bearers rather than consumers, navigating technology and porn culture, and teaching body safety in age-appropriate ways. The conversation also explores the often-missed biblical connection between marriage and singleness, and why the church must recover a bigger vision of the Christian life: mission before marriage. In this episode, we cover: Why parents don’t have to wait until the teen years to talk about sexuality How technology fragments relationships—and what it’s doing to kids’ formation A Christian framework for porn prevention: moving from “rules” to mindset What “sexual brokenness” includes (more than the headlines) Teaching kids body safety and boundaries without shame or fear Why discipleship—not stereotypes—should shape how we think about gender Helping kids see their purpose as advancing God’s kingdom, not “marry and settle down” You can purchase Raising Wise Kids in a Sexually Broken World at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount)  Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 25, 2025

Before angels sing over Bethlehem in Luke 2, two other voices break into song—Mary and Zechariah. In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer continues the “Thinking Christian about Christmas” series by walking through Luke 1:39–79, where Mary visits Elizabeth, John the Baptist leaps in the womb, and two rich, Scripture-saturated songs frame what God is doing in the birth of Christ. James explores how the Magnificat and Zechariah’s prophecy function as “nexus passages,” pulling together themes from across the Old Testament—God’s mercy to those who fear Him, His concern for the humble and marginalized, the reversal of the proud and powerful, and the fulfillment of His covenant promises to Abraham and Israel. He shows how John’s role as forerunner and Jesus’ role as saving light are already anticipated before Jesus is even born, and why Luke wants us to see Christmas as a moment of both fulfillment and ongoing expectation. If you’ve ever rushed past Luke 1 to “get to the Christmas story,” this episode will slow you down, help you hear the songs before the manger, and deepen your grasp of what—and whom—we’re really celebrating at Christmas. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 22, 2025

What kind of hope can actually sustain racial justice work over decades—not just months? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer is joined by anthropologist and author Dr. Christine Jeske to talk about her new book, Racial Justice for the Long Haul: How White Christian Advocates Persevere and Why. Christine explains how anthropological research actually works—long interviews, deep listening, and time spent in “ordinary” spaces—and how she used it to study white Christians commended by leaders of color as faithful, long-term advocates. From there, the conversation dives into: Delusional vs. resilient hope – why optimism that avoids suffering inevitably collapses, and how Christians can cultivate a cruciform hope forged in hardship. Incremental change without complacency – how to celebrate small wins without pretending the deeper injustices are solved. Privilege as undeserved gifts – not just a slogan, but a way of naming what we’ve received and how grace calls us to respond, not just feel guilty. Habitus and formation – how our environments, narratives, and “moving walkways” of culture quietly shape us toward either withdrawal or engagement. Perseverance in practice – from Sisyphus and his “muscles” to Beverly Daniel Tatum’s moving walkway, to concrete next steps for listeners who feel overwhelmed and don’t know where to begin. If you’re a Christian who feels the weight of racial injustice but wrestles with burnout, defensiveness, or simply not knowing what to do next, this conversation offers a theologically rich, practical vision for persevering in hope—without denial, without despair, and with your eyes fixed on Christ. You can purchase Racial Justice for the Long Haul at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount)  You can also read more from Christine Jeske at christinejeske.com. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 18, 2025

As technology offers us endless ways to be “present” without actually being there, what does it mean for Christians to imitate the incarnation of Christ? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer explores the often-overlooked ethical and theological dimensions of the incarnation—not just that “the Word became flesh,” but how Jesus chose to be with us and for us. Using The Matrix as a modern parable, James contrasts Christ’s self-giving descent with Cypher’s decision to abandon reality and his friends for the comfort of illusion—what James calls “dis-incarnation.” From there, he turns to Philippians 2 to show how Jesus refused to use equality with God for His own advantage, instead embodying a way of life marked by presence, sacrifice, and service. James then examines how dominant ideas like liberalism and transhumanism can subtly train us to embody the world in self-determined, self-serving ways, even when they seem to promise freedom or enhancement. He argues that true Christian embodiment isn’t about maximizing personal options or overcoming our biology through technology, but about conforming our lives to the incarnate Christ—using our gifts, bodies, and opportunities not for our own advantage, but for the good of others. This episode will help you rethink Christmas, technology, and your everyday presence in light of the One who became flesh for us. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 15, 2025

Every two years, Ligonier Ministries and Lifeway Research release The State of Theology—a massive survey that reveals what Americans (including evangelicals) actually believe about God, the Bible, Jesus, and culture. The 2025 report is out, and some of the numbers are… surprising. In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer is joined by longtime friend and theologian Dr. Ashish Varmafor a wide-ranging conversation about what the data shows—and what it doesn’t show—about the theological landscape among evangelicals today. Rather than panicking over headline-grabbing statistics, James and Ashish analyze the deeper trends beneath the numbers. Together they explore: Why young evangelicals differ sharply from older generations on questions like the Bible’s literal truth and whether science conflicts with Scripture. Why nearly all evangelicals still say the Bible is their highest authority, even when their answers elsewhere seem to contradict that claim. How access to information, cultural context, and community shape belief—for better or worse. The surprising power of church attendance and affiliation in reinforcing core doctrines (and where that influence seems to break down). Why political theology may be quietly distorting how Christians answer moral questions—especially younger believers. Which troubling survey results actually matter—and which ones may simply reflect fuzzy categories or ambiguous wording. How churches should respond: not with panic or doctrinal hammering, but with thoughtful discipleship, richer community life, and deeper formation. James and Ashish also dive into the complexities of interpreting theological surveys at all—how beliefs are shaped by cultural habitus, how people understand (or misunderstand) terms like myth, literal, or love, and why surveys often reveal more about our formation than our formal theology. If you’re curious about what evangelicals really believe—and what the church can do about it—this episode offers a hopeful, nuanced, and deeply thoughtful guide through the data. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 11, 2025

In a season filled with noise, outrage, and “cancel culture,” is there still room for real joy? In this Christmas episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer invites you to slow down, listen, and remember. He begins with a personal memory of reading the Christmas story in church as a teenager, then simply does the same for you—reading Luke 2 so you can hear the story of Jesus’s birth without distraction. After the reading, James reflects on Mary, the shepherds, and the wonder of that first Christmas night, drawing out how God’s timing, kindness, and presence bring deep reassurance in uncertain times. Joined by co-host Richard Beaty, the conversation widens to consider Advent, joy in a culture obsessed with negativity, and why imitating Christ—not chasing trends or grievances—is the path to lasting joy. Together they explore: how to find joy in the “mundane” moments of everyday life, why our highs and lows feel so extreme at the holidays, how our desires are shaped by what (and whom) we imitate, and why moving from Christmas into the book of Acts helps us live as witnesses in this in-between age. If you’re weary, restless, or just need to hear the Christmas story read over you and be reminded that joy still has the last word, this episode is for you. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 11, 2025

James welcomes Dylan (founder of Varsity Skateboarding & leader of Skate Church KC) and co-host Nate to unpack how skateparks have become mission fields. They cover why skating is exploding post-Olympics, what makes a skatepark a “safe space,” and a practical model—teach, equip, empower—that moves kids from pizza and push-offs to Scripture, mentorship, and local church life. Expect candid stories (Dylan’s own faith journey from party life to pastoring), Gen Z/Gen A trends (digital overload, the surprising return to paper Bibles), and how a growing Skate Church Network is multiplying city to city. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 9, 2025

At Christmas, Christians often quote Isaiah 7:14—“the virgin will conceive and give birth to a son”—but few pause to ask what that verse meant for King Ahaz before it pointed to Christ. In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer walks through the political and spiritual crisis facing Judah, the rising Assyrian threat, and Ahaz’s refusal to ask God for a sign. James unpacks why God answered with something that seemed wildly inadequate in the face of war: a child. He explores how this sign functioned as both judgment and hope, how the language of “young woman” and “virgin” works in Hebrew and Greek, and why Matthew is not ripping Isaiah 7:14 out of context when he applies it to Jesus. Along the way, you’ll see how prophetic patterns ripple across Scripture, how our expectations of power clash with God’s humble ways, and how the virgin birth reveals a Savior who comes not with military might, but with a presence that judges and delivers. Perfect for thoughtful Christians wanting to go deeper this Christmas. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 8, 2025

In this episode of Thinking Christian, I sit down with Dr. Tanita Maddox—National Director of Generational Impact for Young Life and author of What Gen Z Really Wants to Know About God. Drawing from years of research and on-the-ground ministry, Tanita helps untangle the unique worldview of Gen Z and why many of our “classic” Christian explanations fall flat with today’s young people. We explore how Gen Z understands concepts like truth, goodness, safety, and identity, and why shared vocabulary often hides radically different assumptions. Tanita explains how Gen Z’s hyper-personalized world shapes their beliefs, why many of their deepest questions begin with, “Is God good?”, and how shifting cultural definitions of safety and justice impact their view of the gospel. Together, we talk through: Why Gen Z sees truth as potentially harmful rather than stabilizing How to share the gospel with a generation that starts their theology with experience Why Gen Z is deeply communal—often more than previous generations How to reframe sin, freedom, and human dignity in ways that make sense to them Why listening—real, patient, non-defensive listening—is the most powerful apologetic tool we have Practical steps for parents, pastors, and mentors who want to meaningfully engage the next generation If you have Gen Z kids, work with youth, teach in a church, or simply want to understand the cultural moment shaping the next generation, this conversation offers insight, clarity, and a hopeful path forward. You can purchase What Gen Z Really Wants to Know About God at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount)  Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 4, 2025

In this episode of the Thinking Christian podcast, Dr. James Spencer is joined by Dr. Daniel (Danny) Zacharias and Dr. Christopher Hoklotubbe, co-authors of Reading the Bible on Turtle Island: An Invitation to North American Indigenous Interpretation. Together they explore how Indigenous perspectives can help Christians read Scripture more faithfully on this land we often call North America—but which many Indigenous peoples know as “Turtle Island.” Danny and Chris explain the story of Turtle Island and why naming the land this way matters for Christian theology, discipleship, and biblical interpretation. They introduce “Turtle Island hermeneutics,” a way of reading the Bible that takes land, place, people, and history seriously—built on asset-based theology and the conviction that God was already present and active among Indigenous peoples long before European missionaries arrived. The conversation dives into: What “Turtle Island hermeneutics” is and how the medicine wheel shapes their approach Why it’s theologically flawed to act as if God was absent from North America before colonization How Indigenous creation stories and traditions can sit alongside Scripture without replacing it Reading Naboth’s vineyard as a lens on land theft, treaties, and the Doctrine of Discovery Parallels between the Trail of Tears, Babylonian exile, and Psalm 137 Babylon and boarding schools: how forced assimilation tried to erase Indigenous identity and memory How songs, stories, and ceremony preserve hope, faith, and cultural resilience Why discipleship must focus not only on doctrine, but on practices, place, and how we actually live This episode is for pastors, Bible teachers, seminary students, and everyday Christians who want to understand Indigenous theology, Native North American perspectives, and contextual Bible interpretation without abandoning a high view of Scripture. Reading the Bible on Turtle Island is published by IVP; check the show notes for a discount link and more information about NAITS, Acadia Divinity College, and the work Danny and Chris are doing to serve the church on Turtle Island. You can purchase Reading the Bible on Turtle Island at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount)  Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 1, 2025

In this episode of the Thinking Christian podcast, Dr. James Spencer welcomes back Sathiya Sam—CEO and founder of Deep Clean Coaching—to talk about pornography addiction, sexual integrity, and the power of Christian community in lasting recovery. Sathiya shares his own story of breaking free from pornography after years of struggle as a pastor’s kid, ministry leader, and researcher—and how that journey led to the creation of Deep Clean, a ministry now helping thousands of men pursue freedom and wholeness. Sathiya introduces Deep Clean’s newest resource: the Deep Clean Inner Circle, a structured, community-centered program designed to help men overcome pornography through biblically grounded principles, expert coaching, and a safe, supportive network. In this candid and practical conversation, James and Sathiya explore: Why porn is uniquely addictive: the “3 A’s” — affordable, accessible, anonymous How early exposure, social dynamics, and tech use fuel addiction Why freedom is possible—and why streak counting doesn’t work The Deep Clean system: self-awareness, heart healing, and identity transformation How tracking trends (not just streaks) helps build real, lasting change The powerful role of community, accountability, and coaching Real stories of men finding hope, rebuilding marriages, and restoring integrity What relapse can reveal, and how to “leverage” it rather than spiral in shame Why pornography addiction is deeply tied to distorted identity—and how Scripture reframes it How biblical wisdom and Christian discipleship principles can help people break any destructive pattern Whether you're a pastor, parent, college student, or simply someone wanting to understand addiction from a Christian perspective, this episode offers clear insight and genuine hope. Learn more about Deep Clean Coaching, the Inner Circle program, and Sathiya’s podcast The Man Within at https://www.sathiyasam.com/ or https://deepcleancoaching.com/.  Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

November 24, 2025

In this episode of the Thinking Christian podcast, Dr. James Spencer talks with J.R. Briggs—founder of Kairos Partnerships and author of The Art of Asking Better Questions: Pursuing Stronger Relationships, Healthier Leadership, and Deeper Faith. Together they explore why the questions we ask of God, ourselves, and others shape the quality of our lives, leadership, and discipleship. J.R. shares how his own experience of isolation in ministry led him to ask three haunting questions—“Who pastors the pastor? Who shepherds the shepherd? Who leads the leader?”—and how those questions birthed Kairos Partnerships to serve overwhelmed and lonely Christian leaders. He and James unpack: Why leaders should be “chief question askers,” not just answer-givers How good questions build trust, connection, and healthier teams The difference between questions for information and questions for connection How Jesus used over 300 questions in the Gospels—and what that means for our discipleship Four essentials of asking great questions: curiosity, wisdom, humility, and courage Practical ways to stay curious in tense or antagonistic conversations Why the Book of Daniel and practice-oriented discipleship are crucial for the church today If you’re a pastor, ministry leader, or follower of Jesus who wants stronger relationships, healthier leadership, and deeper faith, this conversation will help you learn the art of asking better questions. You can purchase The Art of Asking Better Questions at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount)  Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

November 18, 2025

In this episode of Thinking Christian, I sit down with Pieter Valk—founder and director of Equip and a founding brother of an ecumenical monastery in Nashville—to talk about what it really means to follow Jesus as single men and women in the church. Pieter shares how his ministry equips churches and parents to care well for people who experience same-sex attraction or gender incongruence while embracing a historic Christian sexual ethic. We explore the biblical vision for vocational singleness versus the default of “common singleness,” how marriage and singleness can actually reinforce one another, and why the church often feels ill-equipped to walk with LGBT+ Christians. Pieter also explains mixed-orientation marriage, challenges reductions of marriage to a “sexual outlet,” and helps reframe both marriage and singleness as vocations ordered toward spiritual fruitfulness. We close by reflecting on the political battles around sexuality and gender, how those debates have often distorted Christian witness, and what it might look like for the church to lead with discipleship, clarity, and hope instead of just echoing partisan talking points. If you’re a pastor, parent, or disciple trying to think more faithfully about sexuality, singleness, and manhood, this conversation will give you categories, language, and practical direction to move forward. Find out more about Pieter and his ministry at https://www.pieterlvalk.com. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

November 13, 2025

James sits down with Denise Lester, founder of Rended Heart (Kansas City, MO), to explore what sexual exploitation looks like today—and how her ministry stands in the 30-day gap between crisis and long-term recovery. Denise shares her journey from NYC to KC, early work with Exodus Cry, street and club outreach, and why most trafficking now hides offline and online. They discuss highways I-35/I-70, drug dependency, the legal hurdles of proving force, fraud, or coercion, how porn and grooming shape demand, and the slow, relational work of trust, detox, documents, and dignity. A powerful story of a child’s rescue and adoption shows hope in action—and Denise offers concrete ways listeners can help. To learn more about Rended Heart visit www.rendedheart.org. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Quotable “I’m not here to rescue you—I’m here to support you if you’re ready to walk out.” “You can leave anytime; we won’t hold you—but count the cost of what you’re surrendering.” Chapter Markers 00:28 — Denise’s journey & launch of Rended Heart 03:35 — Street/club outreach & the shift online 05:28 — The 30-day gap and why exits stall 07:53 — Hospitals, law enforcement, interstate cases, immigration 11:42 — A child rescued: court orders, sheriff retrieval, adoption 15:30 — KC’s geography (I-35/I-70), drugs, grooming, and porn’s role 20:08 — Legal hurdles: proving force/fraud/coercion for adults 23:06 — Trust, phones, and the hard work of starting over 37:20 — Volunteers, housing, and how you can help Links Rended Heart: rendedheart.org Contact: 816-343-4558 Note: If you suspect exploitation, contact local law enforcement or the U.S. National Human Trafficking Hotline (888-373-7888) or text “HELP” to 233733. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 20, 2025

In this episode of Thinking Christian, James Spencer talks with David Green, CEO of Hobby Lobby, and Bill High, CEO of Legacy Stone, about their new book Legacy Life: Leading Your Family to Make a Difference for Eternity. Together they explore what it really means to live a legacy life—one rooted not in wealth or success, but in faithfulness, purpose, and generational discipleship. Reframing legacy as something you set in motion, not just leave behind Rethinking retirement as a season of renewed ministry Building family mission, vision, and values to strengthen future generations Embracing brokenness and redemption as part of every family story Why intentionality is essential to sustaining a godly legacy If you care about family, faith, and finishing well, this conversation will inspire you to lead your loved ones toward eternal impact—not just earthly success. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 16, 2025

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer engages with Dr. Carmen Imes about her book 'Becoming God's Family: Why the Church Still Matters.' They explore the themes of identity, vocation, and belonging within the context of the church, discussing the significance of ecclesia and its roots in the Old Testament. The conversation emphasizes the continuity of God's people from the Old Testament to the New Testament, the importance of community in faith, and the call for believers to actively participate in the church despite its imperfections. Dr. Imes invites listeners to recognize their role in the church and the blessings that come from being part of a community of faith. Read more from Carmen Joy Imes on Substack or view her YouTube channel.  Buy the book: Becoming God's Family: Why the Church Still Matters at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount) 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Series of Books 02:54 Exploring the Theme of Identity, Vocation, and Belonging 06:05 Understanding Ecclesia and the Church's Roots 08:55 Continuity of God's People: Old Testament to New Testament 12:02 The Family Language in the New Testament 15:10 The Multicultural Family of God 17:57 The Exodus: From Serving Pharaoh to Serving God 24:19 The Call to Faithfulness Over Success 30:10 Incorporating the Outsider: A Familial Metaphor 33:27 The Church's Role in Community and Conflict 39:11 Sacrifice and Service in the Church 41:55 An Invitation to Engage with the Church Keywords church, community, belonging, identity, vocation, ecclesia, Old Testament, New Testament, God's family, faith Takeaways The church is a community that reflects God's character. Belonging to the church requires active participation and commitment. The theme of identity, vocation, and belonging is central to understanding faith. Ecclesia has roots in the Old Testament, emphasizing community gathering. The church is not just a place for individual growth but a family. God's people have always included a diverse, multicultural community. The New Testament emphasizes unity among believers despite differences. Faithfulness is more important than success in the Christian life. Church hurt should not deter us from engaging with the community. The church is called to reflect God's love and grace to the world. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 13, 2025

Dr. James Spencer sits down with Beth Felker Jones (Professor of Theology, Northern Seminary) to talk about her new IVP book Why I Am Protestant. Beth lays out how Protestant distinctives—especially Scripture as the norming norm—fit within a broader, lowercase-c catholic Christian unity rooted in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. They dig into the ecumenical creeds, the messiness of the church, recovering historic practices (like corporate confession), how to live with rival interpretations without losing charity, Augustine’s influence on grace and the church, and practical ways congregations can re-center on the Word. Beth’s closing charge: don’t be embarrassed by evangelism—claim the work of making disciples. Read more from Beth Felker Jones at: https://bethfelkerjones.substack.com/ Buy the book: Why I am Protestant at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount) 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 9, 2025

Dr. James Spencer welcomes Gregory R. Lanier (RTS Orlando, NT) and William A. Ross (RTS Charlotte, OT), co-editors of The Authority of the Septuagint: Biblical, Historical & Theological Approaches (IVP Academic). What is the Septuagint (LXX)? Why is it a library of Greek translations rather than one book? How did NT authors access Scripture—and why do their citations sometimes match Greek more than Hebrew? We unpack a three-fold framework for authority (normative Hebrew text, derived authority of translations, interpretive value of the LXX), the translation spectrum within the LXX, patristic and Reformation debates, Dead Sea Scrolls, and why Hebrews relies so much on the LXX. Plus: practical study tips and which English LXX to use. Book link and IVP 20% discount code in the show notes. Buy the book: The Authority of the Septuagint at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount) 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 7, 2025

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer engages with Dr. Greg Quiggle and Dr. Jerry Root to discuss an upcoming study tour focused on the English Reformation and the works of C.S. Lewis. The conversation delves into the complexities of the English Reformation, exploring its political and theological dimensions, and how these historical events resonate with contemporary issues. The discussion also highlights C.S. Lewis's contributions to Christian thought and the importance of dialogue in understanding faith. The episode concludes with a reflection on the distinction between reality and truth, emphasizing the need for accurate thinking in a world filled with diverse perspectives. Find out more about the tour with Drs. Root and Quiggle here.  Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! Takeaways: The English Reformation was influenced by both political and theological factors. Henry VIII's marital decisions significantly impacted the formation of the Church of England. C.S. Lewis aimed to present a Christianity centered in Christ, transcending denominational boundaries. Dialogue and engagement are crucial for understanding differing theological perspectives. The concept of Christendom made it difficult to accept multiple theological views within a single political unit. Lewis's work emphasizes the importance of truth and reality in understanding faith. The Enlightenment shifted the church's political power, leading to a more moral and spiritual role. Wesley's social activism changed the perception of Christianity in the British Isles. The distinction between reality and truth is essential for robust thinking and dialogue. Understanding the historical context of the Reformation helps illuminate contemporary faith discussions. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 6, 2025

Dr. James Spencer welcomes Georgette Beck—author of Junk to Jewels: A Journey from Brokenness and Despair to Beauty and Delight and founder of the Bella Healing Hearts Foundation. Georgette shares her path from low self-worth, early marriage, and divorce to God’s steady restoration as a single mom and, later, in a blended family. We talk generational patterns (genograms), lament that turns to praise, the “limbo” years, and how community, counseling, Scripture, and small groups became lifelines. Georgette explains why her nonprofit focuses on single parents, practical aid, and scholarships, and why her call to the church is simple: connect, open your home, and show up for the one.  Fiind out more about Georgette and her ministry at https://www.georgettebeck.com. Purchase her book at www.amazon.com. 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 3, 2025

James talks with Debbie D’Souza (co-writer/co-director) about the new film The Dragon’s Prophecy—why the project accelerated after Oct 7th, how Revelation 12’s “dragon” frames Israel’s story, what recent archaeology (City of David’s Pilgrimage Road, Pool of Siloam, Tel Dan, etc.) says about the Bible’s historicity, and why the filmmakers went on location near Gaza and at the Nova site.  To get tickets to The Dragon's Prophecy, visit: www.thedragonsprophecyfilm.com. You can also find information about the upcoming opportunities to stream the movie at home on the site.  Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation!   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 2, 2025

Dr. James Spencer sits down with Dr. Peter Y. Hong—federal prison chaplain and author of The Reconciliation of Humanity in Christ—to explore how a prison chapel became his living parable for our “shrinking” world. Peter describes ministry in a pluralistic, constrained space where Christians, Muslims, Jews, Hindus, Native American practitioners, and others share one room—and why respect, service, and patience often open gospel doors better than aggressive tactics. From the fall of the Berlin Wall to today’s digital interconnection, he distinguishes false globalization (forced unity without Christ) from true globalization (Eph 1:10—all things united in Christ). We talk nationalism, fundamentalism, and why the church should expect collaboration + conflict, yet persist with mercy, empathy, and hopeful witness.  Buy the book: The Reconciliation of Humanity in Christ at amazon.com  🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

September 29, 2025

Dr. James Spencer talks with Jonathan P. Walton—author of Beauty and Resistance and 12 Lies That Hold America Captive—about moving beyond “thinking Christian” to living as a Christian. Jonathan shares how grief, burnout, and hard family seasons pushed him from activism-on-adrenaline to formation and faithfulness: Sabbath as the minimum, annual “Dope Day” planning with his wife, building guardrails for generosity and time, embracing insignificance over platform, and choosing obedience even when it means visible losses. We unpack a practical pathway from pity → sympathy → empathy → compassion → incarnation, learning to mourn with others (and even empathize with “enemies”), plus simple, local practices that build communal good. A grounded, hopeful invitation to become the kind of person who can do the kinds of things Jesus commands. Buy the book: Beauty and Resistance at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount) 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

September 25, 2025

Dr. James Spencer talks with Peter Greer—CEO/President of HOPE International and author of How Leaders Lose Their Way (and How to Make Sure It Doesn’t Happen to You)—about why organizations drift when leaders first drift personally, and how to course-correct. Peter unpacks the danger of identity in achievement, the difference between mission vs. methods, and why the stat that only 1 in 3 leaders finish well should sober us. We get practical: constellation mentoring (real accountability that sticks), building structures that make good choices easy, adopting intentional downward mobility (foot-washing leadership), writing/reading your own eulogy, and slowing the “need for speed” so you can actually see warning lights. A hopeful, concrete path to long-term faithfulness—at home and at work. Buy the book: How Leaders Lose Their Way at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount) 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

September 22, 2025

Dr. James Spencer welcomes Dr. Mikel Del Rosario—theology professor at Moody Bible Institute, host of The Apologetics Guy podcast, and author of Did Jesus Really Say He Was God?—to explore Jesus’ divine self-understanding through both words and deeds. Rather than looking only for the exact phrase “I am God,” Mikel shows how Jesus acted and spoke as God in ways his opponents clearly grasped. We walk through Mark 2 (forgiving sins) and Mark 14 (Son of Man at God’s right hand; Daniel 7 + Psalm 110) to see why the charge of blasphemy makes historical sense—and how the resurrection vindicates those claims. We also hit multiple attestation, implicit vs. explicit claims, and why this matters for preaching, discipleship, and everyday conversations about Jesus. Explore the book: Did Jesus Really Say He Was God? at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount) Find ouf more about Dr. Rosario at www.theapologeticsguy.com. 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

September 18, 2025

Dr. James Spencer welcomes Eun Strawser—author of You Were Never Meant to Lead Alone and co-vocational lead pastor of Ma Ke Ali o—to rethink church leadership through the lens of Ephesians 4–5. Instead of celebrity or solitary leaders, Nkei makes the case for polycentric/shared leadership that distributes authority, equips the saints, and embodies mutual submission. We unpack how different kinds of authority (positional, spiritual, relational) operate in churches, and why power must be examined (not ignored). We also touch on co-vocational models, local-context leadership (Hawai‘i), accountability frameworks, and why the true metric of health is a discipled people who imitate Jesus for the good of their neighbors. Buy the book: You Were Never Meant to Lead Alone at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount) 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

September 12, 2025

James and Nate unpack a recent Gallup poll on Americans’ views of capitalism—down from 60% (2021) to 54% (2025)favorable—and why that headline can mislead. Beneath it: strong support for free enterprise and small business, persistent dislike of big business, and sharp differences across age, gender, and party. Rather than picking teams (“capitalism vs. socialism”), they ask the more Christian question: where are we placing our hope? Drawing on 1 Samuel, the exile, and Daniel, they argue systems are provisional, reform is often wise, but obedience to Christ is the constant—“fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” The church’s political and economic posture should flow downstream from discipleship, not the other way around. Subscribe to our YouTube channel 🔗 Download a free resource "Making Everyday Decisions So That God Gets the Glory" from Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

September 11, 2025

Dr. James Spencer welcomes Ryan Skoog—author of Lead with Prayer and president of Venture—for a wide-ranging conversation on prayer, discipleship, and the explosive growth of the global church. Ryan shares powerful stories from persecuted and unreached regions where God’s kingdom is breaking out through church-planting movements, miraculous healings, and courageous local believers. Together, James and Ryan explore why persecution forges unity, how oral cultures disciple through obedience and memorization, and what Western Christians can learn from the prayer lives of global leaders. Ryan also unpacks insights from interviewing over 100 leaders worldwide, showing how prayer is not an afterthought but the engine of fruitful leadership. Learn how friendship with Jesus, crafting a day with God, and investing in prayer can transform your life and ministry. For Lead with Prayer resources visit https://www.leadwithprayer.com.  Purchase Lead with Prayer on amazon.com. Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel! 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

September 8, 2025

Dr. James Spencer sits down with Will Acuff—author of No Elevator to Everest: Shift from Survive to Thrive through Spirit-Led Self-Awareness and cofounder of Corner to Corner (Nashville)—to explore how Christians can move from frantic survival to joyful, Spirit-led living. We talk practical rhythms (breathwork, journaling, contemplative prayer), why emotions are God-given “sensors,” and Will’s delete / delegate / do differently framework for designing your day. Will shares how Corner to Corner helps neighbors in historically low-income communities start and grow businesses because ownership ends poverty—with real stories of everyday entrepreneurs changing their families’ futures. We also press into discipleship that unites knowledge of God and knowledge of self, so our lives tune to the Spirit—and become life-giving to others. To find out more about Corner to Corner visit: https://cornertocorner.org/team/will-acuff/ To purchase No Elevator to Everest, visit amazon.com. Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel! 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

September 4, 2025

In this episode of the Thinking Christian Podcast, Dr. James Spencer is joined by Nate Giarratano reflect on recent political commentary surrounding the Israel–Gaza conflict. Instead of offering hot takes on a complex war, they examine how soundbites and slogans from public figures—like those from Marjorie Taylor Greene and Randy Fine—can distort, oversimplify, or inflame rather than inform. The conversation emphasizes why Christians must resist being swept along by unsupported claims and polarized rhetoric. With humility, James and Nate point to a posture rooted in justice, compassion, and truth-seeking, reminding listeners that every conflict involves people made in the image of God. This episode challenges believers to ask deeper questions: How do we discern what’s right when information is incomplete? How can we lament both the tragedy of war and the misuse of words that fail to honor the gravity of human suffering? Join us for a calm, theological exploration of why careful thinking and Christ-centered discernment matter more than ever in an age of political performance and digital noise. Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel! 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

August 11, 2025

In a culture obsessed with self-optimization and curated spirituality, Joshua S. Porter offers a counterintuitive call: come and die. In this episode, James Spencer sits down with the punk-rocker-turned-pastor to discuss Porter’s new book, How to Die: Chaos, Morality, and the Scandal of Christian Discipleship. Together, they unpack what it means to reject a domesticated God, embrace an untamable Savior, and walk a path shaped not by personal branding but by the cross. Drawing from Flannery O’Connor, Bonhoeffer, monastic writings, and gritty pastoral experience, this conversation invites listeners into a disruptive, deeply human, and refreshingly orthodox vision of Christian faithfulness. Whether you’re deconstructing, reconstructing, or just trying to figure out what dying to self actually looks like, this is a must-listen. To purchase How to Die visit amazon.com. Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel! 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

August 7, 2025

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer hosts Jeremy Stalnecker of the March or Die podcast. They discuss Jeremy's ministry to veterans, the challenges facing those coming back from combat, and leadership.  To find out more about Jeremy, visit www.jeremystalnecker.com Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel! 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living.     Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

August 5, 2025

What makes temptation so compelling? In this episode of Thinking Christian's Prepped Series, Dr. James Spencer takes us deep into one of Scripture's most foundational passages—the fall narrative in Genesis 3:1-7. Far from a simple story of disobedience, James reveals the sophisticated dynamics at play: the serpent's calculated ambiguity, the woman's thoughtful but tragic reasoning, and the recurring biblical pattern of "seeing good and taking." Exploring the Hebrew nuances often lost in translation, he shows how the serpent systematically undermines God's sovereignty, wisdom, and benevolence—turning paradise into perceived prison. But James doesn't stop with ancient history. He challenges listeners to recognize these same patterns of doubt and self-determination in their own lives, while pointing to Christ as the one who reverses the tragic cycle of seeing, declaring, and taking through trusting, obeying, and giving. Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel! 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

August 4, 2025

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer and Nate dive into the recent Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) vote addressing Christian nationalism. They explore what makes Christian nationalism problematic from a biblical perspective, distinguishing it from both healthy political engagement and American civil religion. With examples ranging from Ten Commandments in classrooms to Doug Wilson’s patriotic theology, they challenge lazy uses of the term "Christian" and advocate for theological precision. The conversation closes with reflections on how believers can engage faithfully in politics without confusing the kingdom of God with the kingdoms of this world. Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel! 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 29, 2025

What does it truly mean to be a "helper"? In this episode of Thinking Christian's Prepped Series, Dr. James Spencer challenges common misconceptions surrounding the Hebrew word ezer, often translated as "helper" in Genesis 2:18. Moving beyond traditional hierarchical interpretations, James explores how ezer is used throughout the Old Testament, revealing its profound connection to strength, support, and indispensable aid—qualities that describe God Himself. He delves into various scholarly views, ultimately presenting a compelling case for ezer as a co-equal, mutual partner in God's mission. This episode will reshape your understanding of the male-female relationship, highlight the dignity and responsibility inherent in the ezer role, and point to the hope of restoration in Christ, even in the face of post-fall brokenness. Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel! 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 22, 2025

What does it actually mean to be made in the image of God? In this episode of Thinking Christian's Prepped Series, Dr. James Spencer dives deep into one of the Bible’s most profound claims about humanity. Exploring five major views—the substantive, functional, relational, filial, and Christological—James traces how each contributes to our understanding of human worth, purpose, and calling. But he doesn’t stop with theology. He challenges how modern culture often weaponizes the “image of God” language, embracing its benefits while ignoring its demands. This episode offers a robust, multi-faceted take on the Imago Dei—and it will reshape how you think about human dignity, personal responsibility, and discipleship in a world eager to affirm identity without submitting to the One who defines it. Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel! 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 22, 2025

What if the tabernacle, the Garden of Eden, and the Great Commission are all telling the same story? In this episode of Thinking Christian's Prepped Series, Dr. James Spencer uncovers the theological thread that weaves from Genesis to Revelation—a sacred space built not of bricks and curtains, but of God’s presence dwelling among His people. Moving through Eden, the Israelite temple system, Jesus’ incarnation, and into the Church, this episode explores how the beatific vision—the promise of seeing God face to face—isn't just the end goal of redemption, but the story being told all along. Discover how sacred space reshapes your view of discipleship, worship, and the mission of the Church. And yes, we even find echoes of the Great Commission in the decree of a Persian king. Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel! 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 17, 2025

In today’s episode of Thinking Christian, host Dr. James Spencer welcomes sports ministry veterans Ed Uszynski and Brian Smith to discuss their new book, Away Game: A Christian Parent's Guide to Navigating Youth Sports. As youth sports evolve into a high-stakes, billion-dollar industry, Christian parents are faced with a unique challenge: how do we stay engaged in sports culture without compromising our spiritual priorities? From weekend tournaments to college recruitment pressure, Ed and Brian explore how youth sports are shaping not just our kids’ schedules — but their souls. Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel! 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 15, 2025

In this premiere episode of Thinking Christian's Prepped Series, Dr. James Spencer takes us to the beginning—not just of the Bible, but of everything. But instead of debating science or timelines, he asks three essential questions: Who is God? Who are we? And what kind of life flows from that relationship? Drawing out the deep theological significance of Genesis 1:1–2:3, James explores God's sovereign, wise, and benevolent nature, the purpose of human life, and how creation’s rhythm calls us to live in sync with God’s Word. If you’re tired of shallow takes and craving something rich, this 20-minute dive into Scripture will challenge your assumptions and offer a fresh lens through which to understand your place in God's story. Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel! 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 14, 2025

What happens when a culture unplugs from the constraints that once helped us listen well? In this episode of Thinking Christian, James Spencer and Nate reflect on the slow disappearance of AM radio from new vehicles—a shift that signals more than just a tech upgrade. Together, they explore what we lose when we trade shared, time-bound listening experiences for algorithm-driven curation, and how the changing media landscape impacts the way we disciple, learn, and encounter God. From microfiche and cassette tapes to podcasts and AI-powered seminaries, this conversation spans the nostalgic and the now. With wit, clarity, and spiritual insight, James and Nate ask: Can digital platforms ever replicate the coordinated, regional, and Spirit-disruptive role of radio? And what does this all mean for the local church, the future of Christian education, and the daily habits of believers navigating a sea of unlimited choice? If you’ve ever wondered how mediums shape messages—and how those messages shape you—this episode will give you more than static. 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 10, 2025

Can we read the Bible without reducing it to a rulebook, a road map, or a political weapon? In this episode of Thinking Christian, James Spencer sits down with pastor and author Zach Lambert to explore his new book Better Ways to Read the Bible. Together, they unpack four common but harmful lenses—literalism, apocalypticism, moralism, and hierarchy—and replace them with a healthier, Christ-centered, Spirit-guided approach grounded in humility, flourishing, and fruitfulness. This wide-ranging, incisive conversation covers everything from the misuse of Revelation and American foreign policy to the liberation theology debate, Rachel Held Evans, Jordan Peterson, and the way Jesus reframes the Old Testament. With warmth, nuance, and pastoral insight, James and Zach wrestle with how to let Scripture breathe—and how to read it not for confirmation, but for transformation. Purchase Better Ways to Read the Bible here. 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 7, 2025

What does dim sum have to do with discipleship? In this deeply personal and thought-provoking episode, James Spencer talks with author and spiritual formation leader Jenn Suen Chen about her book Dim Sum and Faith: How Our Stories Form Our Souls. From round tables with lazy Susans to the spiritual weight of saying goodbye, Jenn shares how her Chinese American heritage, years of overseas ministry, and story-shaped spirituality reveal a theology of presence, hospitality, and healing. Together, they explore what it means to be formed not only in solitude with God but around the messy, beautiful table of community. They also discuss the power of naming, the nuances of “undoing” vs. deconstruction, and how paying attention to our past helps us love more freely and faithfully in the present. If you're looking for a conversation that combines theology, culture, story work, and soul care, this one's for you. Explore the book: Dim Sum and Faith at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount) 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 3, 2025

Can we still spot the truth in a world that specializes in counterfeits? In this episode of Thinking Christian, James Spencer and Nate unpack the unsettling implications of the internet’s influence on our minds, our trust, and our discipleship. Sparked by a recent conversation between Jordan Peterson and Sam Harris, this discussion explores digital phoniness, the collapse of institutional gatekeepers, and what it means to be spiritually discerning in an era of deepfakes, dopamine loops, and constant distraction. From TikTok’s "time to take a break" alerts to the moral hazards of algorithmic influence, James and Nate reflect on personal habits, cultural decay, and the need for sufficient constraints—not to restrict, but to preserve wisdom, sanity, and faithfulness. They also draw provocative comparisons between digital chaos and the clarity of Christian doctrine, challenging listeners to anchor themselves in truth that isn’t memeable. 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

June 30, 2025

In this thought-provoking episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer welcomes Alex Kocman—missions leader and co-host of the Missions Podcast—for a wide-ranging conversation on immigration, national identity, and how Christians should engage politically without losing sight of Christ’s lordship. Together, they explore Augustine’s ordo amoris (order of loves), the biblical significance of borders and sovereignty, and the tension between compassion for the nations and faithfulness to one's own. Can Christians love both neighbor and nation rightly? Should the Church be silent on political issues—or speak with prophetic clarity? And what does the Great Commission demand of us in an age of global mobility and moral confusion? This episode doesn’t offer sound bites—it offers rooted reflection. Listen to the Missions Podcast here. Find out more about Alex at alexkocman.com 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

June 26, 2025

What if the sacred-secular divide is more imagined than real? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer sits down with sociologist Elaine Howard Ecklund (Rice University) and business professor Denise Daniels (Wheaton College) to unpack insights from their groundbreaking book Working for Better: A New Approach to Faith at Work. Drawing on the largest-ever study on faith in the U.S. workplace, they explore why so few Christians view their work as a calling, how churches may be failing to equip their congregants, and what systemic structures shape (or stifle) a sense of spiritual vocation. From strip clubs to CEO suites, gig workers to mission-minded healthcare, this is a conversation that will challenge you to see your work—and the work of others—through a new theological lens. Explore the book: Working for Better at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount) 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

June 23, 2025

What if our dating struggles, friendship breakdowns, and even church conflicts trace back not to technique—but to theology? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer sits down with Erin Moniz—Anglican deacon, Baylor chaplain, and author of Knowing and Being Known—to rethink Christian relationships from the ground up. They tackle purity culture’s lingering effects, the idolization of marriage, the crisis of friendship in the local church, and how consumerism has crept into everything from dating to discipleship. At the heart of the conversation is a bold, refreshing claim: intimacy isn’t a bonus feature of the Christian life. It’s central to knowing God. Explore the book: Knowing and Being Known at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount) 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

June 19, 2025

What if the crushing weight of modern life isn't a bug in the system but a feature of a false belief? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer is joined by Dr. Alan Noble to explore his compelling book, You Are Not Your Own. Together, they unpack why our culture's demand to “define yourself” leads to despair, and how belonging to Christ—not ourselves—is the good news we’ve been trained to forget. Drawing from the Heidelberg Catechism, zoocosis, and Sylvia Plath, this conversation dives deep into anthropology, social pressure, identity, and the role of the Church in resisting cultural formation. A quietly radical episode that reminds us that true freedom isn’t found in self-expression, but in surrender. Explore the book: You Are Not Your Own at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount) 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

June 16, 2025

What do a detective novelist, a WWII radio drama, and a blockbuster film have in common? According to Dr. Crystal Downing — everything. In this episode of Thinking Christian, I’m joined by Dr. Crystal Downing, former co-director of the Marion E. Wade Center and author of The Wages of Cinema, to explore what it means to see Christianly. Drawing on the often-overlooked theology of Dorothy L. Sayers, we challenge the idea that film is just a vehicle for a message. Instead, we unpack how film — like the Incarnation — is about form, flesh, and the fullness of expression. We talk about why reducing movies to “good messages” is a kind of cinematic Docetism, how Sayers’ Trinitarian model of creativity reframes Christian art, and why Christians should stop watching movies passively and start engaging them as embodied works of meaning. Expect commentary on Birdman, Bridge on the River Kwai, The Matrix, and yes… even Dodgeball. This conversation is a deep dive into media, theology, and why Christians need to become more attentive critics — not just consumers — of the stories that shape us. 🎬 Explore the book: The Wages of Cinema at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount) 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

June 12, 2025

Is artificial intelligence just a tool — or are we slowly making it a partner in how we think, relate, and even worship? In this episode of Thinking Christian, I sit down with Dr. Paul Hoffman — pastor, theologian, and co-author of AI Shepherds and Electric Sheep — to talk about what it means to be human in an age of accelerating technology. We explore the Imago Dei through the lens of AI, the theology of embodiment, and the very real dangers of offloading our spiritual and intellectual efforts to machines. We also talk about how hearth habits, practical theology, and the intentional formation of Christian communities can help counteract the disintegration of relational and spiritual life in the digital age. This is not a dystopian tech rant or a techno-optimist’s dream. It’s a pastoral, theological, and deeply human conversation about what we’re becoming — and how we might recover a more grounded, God-centered way of living. Links: AI Shepherds and Electric Sheep book Follow Dr. Hoffman: @pastorhoffman77 (X), @pastorhoffman (Instagram/Facebook) 👀 Subscribe, review, and share this one — it’s a conversation for anyone wondering how to follow Christ in the age of ChatGPT. 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

June 9, 2025

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer sits down with Nate Giarratano to unpack the rapid advance of artificial intelligence, a controversial 10-year moratorium on state regulation, and what it means for Christians navigating a tech-saturated world. From government policy and adolescent mental health to AI-generated “biblical” influencers and enhanced Olympic hopefuls, they explore what’s at stake when human identity, discernment, and spiritual formation intersect with emerging technology. Can Christians embrace innovation without outsourcing their souls? Should we fear the end—or just be faithful in the middle of it? Tune in for a nuanced, grounded, and theologically rich conversation that pulls no punches and offers a steady compass in a disoriented world. For some of the stories and other materials referenced in the podcast, see below: Federal and State Disagreements on Policy (click here) APA Health Advisory (click here) Honest AI (click here)  🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

June 5, 2025

What does it look like to lead not just with strategy, but with soul? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer speaks with Laura Richter, executive advisor to various healthcare systems, about the quiet revolution happening in Catholic healthcare—mission integration. From executive formation rooted in Catholic social teaching to navigating ethical quandaries with theologians on call, this conversation explores how identity, tradition, and spiritual formation shape some of the largest healthcare systems in the U.S. It's a masterclass in aligning vocation with organization, purpose with practice. Protestant listeners may come away inspired—and maybe a little envious. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

June 2, 2025

What if the next revival didn’t start in a church... but in a prison? In this episode of Thinking Christian, I sit down with Romney Ruder, President of Lifeline Global Ministries, to explore how God is transforming lives behind bars. From the darkest corners of Angola State Prison to vibrant spiritual communities formed behind cell walls, this conversation uncovers the raw power of the gospel among incarcerated men and women. We talk about how Lifeline’s programs — Malachi Dads and Hannah’s Gift — are breaking the cycle of generational incarceration, what real discipleship looks like under extreme conditions, and how the local church can move beyond hesitation to become a bridge between prison and family restoration. Romney also shares jaw-dropping stories of courage, healing, and faith — including an impromptu prison choir that might just be the spark of the next spiritual awakening in America. 👊 Prepare to be convicted, inspired, and maybe even undone. Explore more or get involved at: lifelineglobal.org Support the show, share with a friend, and leave a review if this episode challenges your perspective. 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 29, 2025

Join Dr. James Spencer on the Thinking Christian Podcast with Dr. Ben Matthew, professor of clinical counseling, as they explore the complex topic of Christians and anxiety. This insightful discussion delves into biblical perspectives on worry and fear, distinguishes between normal concern and problematic anxiety, and offers practical guidance for believers. Learn how anxiety can be understood from both theological and psychological viewpoints, how to identify when it becomes overwhelming (severity, consistency, time), and how to reorient your attention to God amidst anxious thoughts. This episode provides valuable insights for anyone seeking to navigate anxiety with faith and find God's peace in challenging times. 🔗 For information about the upcoming German Reformation Tour visit thomastours.com.  🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 26, 2025

Join Dr. James Spencer on the Thinking Christian Podcast with special guest Reverend Kyle Norman, author of Alive, Loved and Free: Finding Jesus When Faith Is Hard. In this heartfelt episode, Rev. Norman shares his personal journey through his wife's cancer diagnosis and how it reshaped his understanding of faith, prayer, and discouragement. Discover the importance of lament in the Christian life, how to pray when you don't have the words, and how moments of deep struggle can become profound encounters with Jesus. This conversation offers solace and guidance for Christians navigating difficult seasons, emphasizing that wrestling with God is a vital part of a genuine faith. 🔗 For information about the upcoming German Reformation Tour visit thomastours.com.  🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📖 Purchase Alive, Loved and Free at amazon.com Connect with Kyle at the following: https://revkylenorman.ca/  Facebook  Instagram 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 22, 2025

Join Dr. James Spencer on the Thinking Christian Podcast with Dr. Shane J. Wood, author of Thinning the Veil: Encountering Jesus Christ in the Book of Revelation. Dive into a unique perspective on Revelation that moves beyond end-times predictions to focus on a transformative encounter with Christ. Explore themes of John's loneliness on Patmos, the nature of persecution as pressure to conform, and how the revelation of Jesus Christ calls believers to live faithfully in the present. This episode offers fresh insights for Christians seeking to understand Revelation not just as a roadmap of the future, but as a call to a deeper, Christ-centered life today. 🔗 For information about the upcoming German Reformation Tour visit thomastours.com.  🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📖 Purchase Thinning the Veil at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount) 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 19, 2025

Why do so many ministry leaders fall—and how should the church respond when they do? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer and co-host Nate Giarratano tackle the complex terrain of restoring leaders who’ve failed morally. Using the recent controversy involving Josh Buice as a springboard, they explore biblical standards for leadership, the quiet erosion of integrity in the digital age, and the pressure cooker of platform-driven ministry. From elder qualifications in 1 Timothy 3 to the seductive lure of public influence, this conversation exposes how leadership loneliness, accountability gaps, and misplaced priorities contribute to moral collapse. And most importantly, it asks: What does real restoration look like—and who gets to decide when someone is ready? If you're a pastor, church leader, or thoughtful Christian seeking discernment in a noisy, performative world, this episode will help you think clearly, biblically, and with grace. 🔗 For information about the upcoming German Reformation Tour visit thomastours.com.  🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 15, 2025

Join Dr. James Spencer on the Thinking Christian Podcast as he sits down with Dr. Stanley K. Ridgely, author of "DEI Exposed," for a critical examination of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Discover why Dr. Ridgely calls DEI the "biggest con of the 21st century," how it's impacting university campuses, and its ideological roots that categorize individuals into oppressors and victims. This episode delves into the Christian response to such cultural narratives, questioning underlying assumptions and seeking truth beyond prevailing ideologies. Explore themes of social justice, meritocracy, and the importance of critical thinking for Christians navigating today's complex world. 🔗 For information about the upcoming German Reformation Tour visit thomastours.com.  🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📖 Purchase DEI Exposed at amazon.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 5, 2025

In this episode of the Thinking Christian Podcast, Dr. James Spencer and Nate Giarratano explore the critical difference between false prophets and false teachers in Scripture. Learn practical biblical discernment tools to evaluate theological claims, understand how to distinguish between doctrinal mistakes and deliberate false teaching, and discover why aligning with God's Word as your ultimate standard is essential for spiritual growth. This theologically rich discussion examines how Christians can maintain doctrinal integrity while navigating complex cultural messages that challenge biblical truth. Perfect for believers seeking to develop stronger discernment skills and church leaders wanting to protect their congregations from misleading teachings. Visit usefultogod.com for additional resources on living faithfully in today's world. 🔗 For information about the upcoming German Reformation Tour visit thomastours.com.  🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 1, 2025

This episode features Mike Weaver of Big Daddy Weave, who shares his remarkable 25-year journey in Christian music ministry. Mike reveals how God has consistently shown up in both celebratory milestones and devastating personal seasons, demonstrating that authentic ministry flows from personal encounter rather than performance. Through powerful testimonies of lives transformed by music—including a neighbor's journey to faith through a single song—listeners will discover how God uses melody to break down barriers and open hearts to His message.Whether you're questioning your purpose, facing doubt, or simply seeking deeper theological understanding, this podcast offers calm, thoughtful conversations that highlight God's active work in our world while equipping believers to live faithfully in today's complex cultural landscape. 🔗 For information about the upcoming German Reformation Tour visit thomastours.com.  🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com Find out more about Big Daddy Weave's tour dates and releases at www.bigdaddyweave.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 28, 2025

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer welcomes Bible teacher, author, and podcaster Lisa Harper for a rich, heartfelt conversation about her new book A Jesus-Shaped Life. Together, they explore how diving into theology isn’t about elitism or intellect—it’s about intimacy. Lisa shares stories that are as moving as they are humorous (yes, snot and sanctification are both on the table), revealing how theological reflection is meant to be lived out in community, kindness, and Christlikeness. From Leviticus to the Trinity, from doctrinal missteps to the presence of God, this episode reminds us that theology done well brings us closer to Jesus and shapes us to reflect His radical love in the world. Whether you're a seminary student or someone whose eyes glaze over at the word "pericope," this episode will meet you where you are—and invite you deeper. 🔗 For information about the upcoming German Reformation Tour visit thomastours.com.  🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📖 Purchase A Jesus-Shaped Life at amazon.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 25, 2025

In this special announcement, Dr. James Spencer shares details about the upcoming German Reformation Tour, running from October 30 to November 9, 2025. Explore the theological and political heritage of Germany with stops in Wittenberg, Munich, Nuremberg, and beyond. From the legacy of Martin Luther to the resistance of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, this unique tour blends biblical insight, historical depth, and cultural discovery. James will be joined by Reformation expert Dr. Greg Quiggle and political theology scholar Dr. Michael McDuffee—two former Moody Bible Institute professors with extensive experience in Germany and a deep love for its history. 🚨 Booking deadline is May 31, 2025. 📍 Visit thomastours.com for more info and to reserve your spot. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 24, 2025

In this episode, James Spencer and Nate Girarratano kick off a series on biblical manhood by asking a foundational question: What does it really mean to be a man under the authority of Christ? Too often, discipleship is confused with mentorship or reduced to checklists and programs. James and Nate reframe discipleship as the life-long process of learning to live in full submission to Jesus—and they challenge modern ideas of masculinity that rely more on cultural stereotypes than biblical wisdom. From the Great Commission to the Marks of Paul, from the creeds of the early church to the pressures of 21st-century manhood, this episode digs deep into how men—and all Christians—can learn to embody Christ, not a caricature. 🔗 For information about the upcoming German Reformation Tour visit thomastours.com.  🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 🔗 Read "What Are the Characteristics of a Christian Man?" at usefultogod.com/read 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 22, 2025

In this episode of Thinking Christian, I’m joined by Dr. Greg Quiggle for a deep dive into one of the most important yet often overlooked documents of the 20th century—the Barmen Declaration. Against the backdrop of Germany’s post-World War I collapse, the rise of Hitler, and the church’s alarming compromise with Nazi ideology, we explore how a handful of theologians like Karl Barth and Dietrich Bonhoeffer fought to preserve the true identity of the church. Together, we unpack how civil religion, political loyalty, and theological drift threatened the witness of German Christians—and what Barmen still has to teach us today as Christians navigating nationalism, politics, and cultural pressure. We don’t shy away from controversy. Drawing connections between the German church’s failures and modern American challenges, we wrestle with uncomfortable questions about allegiance, national identity, and the dangers of putting our faith in human institutions. If you’ve ever wondered how the church can stand faithfully in turbulent times—or how subtle compromises can erode Christian witness—this is a conversation you don’t want to miss. 🔗 For information about the upcoming German Reformation Tour visit thomastours.com.  🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 21, 2025

Historian and author Beth Allison Barr joins Thinking Christian to discuss her latest book, Becoming the Pastor’s Wife: How Marriage Replaced Ordination as a Woman’s Path to Ministry. We explore the medieval redefinitions of masculinity that reshaped church leadership, the rise of clerical celibacy, and how the Protestant Reformation unwittingly birthed a new ecclesial role: the pastor’s wife. Along the way, we talk ordination, authority, embodiment, cultural expectations, and the invisible burdens placed on ministry families. Whether you're a pastor, a pastor's spouse, or just trying to make sense of biblical manhood and womanhood in the 21st century, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. 🔗 For information about the upcoming German Reformation Tour visit thomastours.com.  🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 🔗 Pick up Dr. Barr's Books: Becoming the Pastor's Wife: How Marriage Replaced Ordination as a Woman's Path to Ministry The Making of Biblical Womanhood: How the Subjugation of Women Became Gospel Truth 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 17, 2025

In this episode of Thinking Christian, James Spencer is joined by David and Brandon Lindell—pastors at James River Church and authors of Lionhearted: A Man’s Guide to Life. Together, they tackle the complexities of Christian manhood in a culture saturated with extremes. From the misconception of masculinity as mere dominance or passivity, to the heart-level transformation Scripture calls men into, this conversation pulls no punches. The Lindells explain why spiritual leadership starts not with control but with character—and why community, reflection, and a rightly ordered heart matter more than habits alone. We explore themes like ambition, vulnerability, male friendship, and the subtle dangers of reactionary identity-building. Whether you're a husband, father, single man, or simply someone grappling with cultural models of manhood, this is a conversation worth leaning into. 🔗 For information about the upcoming German Reformation Tour visit thomastours.com.  🔗 Learn more about Lionhearted and the Stronger Men’s Conference in the show notes. 📖 Get the Book: Lionhearted: A Man's Guide to Living Focused, Fulfilled and Fearless 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 15, 2025

Was the Reformation a spark for spiritual renewal—or the start of theological chaos? In this episode of Thinking Christian, I’m joined by Dr. Greg Quiggle to explore the sites and significance of the German Reformation in anticipation of our upcoming tour through Germany. But more than that, we dig into the unintended consequences of Martin Luther’s stand—especially his push for lay engagement with Scripture and the rise of the priesthood of all believers. Together, we trace how the Reformation reshaped the role of the church, the home, and the public square. From Wittenberg’s backwater transformation into a theological epicenter, to the complexities of canon law, catechesis, and the teaching office, we ask what’s been gained—and lost—in the modern church. We also explore the shadow side of religious freedom: when everyone gets to interpret Scripture for themselves, does anyone know what it really means? If you’re ready for a spirited tour through church history, political theology, and bratwurst-fueled ecclesiology, this episode is for you. 🔗 For information about the upcoming German Reformation Tour visit thomastours.com.  🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 14, 2025

In this special announcement, Dr. James Spencer shares details about the upcoming German Reformation Tour, running from October 30 to November 9, 2025. Explore the theological and political heritage of Germany with stops in Wittenberg, Munich, Nuremberg, and beyond. From the legacy of Martin Luther to the resistance of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, this unique tour blends biblical insight, historical depth, and cultural discovery. James will be joined by Reformation expert Dr. Greg Quiggle and political theology scholar Dr. Michael McDuffee—two former Moody Bible Institute professors with extensive experience in Germany and a deep love for its history. 🚨 Booking deadline is May 31, 2025. 📍 Visit thomastours.com for more info and to reserve your spot. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 14, 2025

What does it take to bring faith-based comedy to life while navigating the ever-changing entertainment industry? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer sits down with entertainer and comedian Danny Adams to discuss his journey from gospel music to Hollywood, football stunts, and his latest role in Iggy and Mr. Kirk, a new family-friendly show from Brave Books. Danny shares insights on the power of laughter, the importance of authentic storytelling, and how Christian values can shape entertainment. Whether you’re a fan of comedy, looking for wholesome content for your family, or just curious about the intersection of faith and media, this episode is packed with engaging insights and plenty of fun! 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Visit braveplus.com to watch the first few episodes for free, and subscribe to BRAVE Plus to access all of Season 1! To connect with Danny, learn more about his comedy, live events, and upcoming projects. 🔗 IAmDannyAdams.com; INSTAGRAM: @iamdannyadams Watch Iggy & Mr. Kirk – Where listeners can watch episodes of Iggy & Mr. Kirk. 🔗 BraveTV Brave Books – The publisher behind Iggy & Mr. Kirk and other faith-based children’s books. 🔗 BraveBooks.us Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 10, 2025

Many assume the New Testament canon was the product of centuries of debate and formalization, but what if the need for new scripture was as natural to early Christians as the New Covenant itself? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer is joined by Dr. Levi Baker, Assistant Professor of New Testament at William Tennant Seminary, to explore the formation of the New Testament canon. Together, they challenge the popular scholarly narrative that suggests the canon was a late development, instead uncovering the deep historical and theological connections between covenant and scripture.How did early Christians understand the role of new writings in light of the Old Testament? Why do we assume the canon wasn’t in place long before the fourth century councils? And what can the Dead Sea Scrolls tell us about the natural emergence of new sacred texts within a covenant community?Join us for a deep dive into a topic that not only impacts biblical scholarship but also how we understand the reliability and divine orchestration of scripture itself. 🔗 For information about the upcoming German Reformation Tour visit thomastours.com.  🔗 Find out more about Levi Baker here. 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing!If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 7, 2025

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer sits down with Keeney Dickenson, senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Crockett, Texas, and author of Spurgeon: The Prayer-Powered Pulpit of the Prince of Preachers. They discuss the role of prayer in sermon preparation, Charles Spurgeon’s deep dependence on the Holy Spirit, and how modern pastors can cultivate a preaching ministry that overflows from their personal walk with Christ. Keeney also shares insights from his Prayeradigm Ministries and explains how Spurgeon’s relentless focus on Christ shaped his pulpit ministry. Whether you're a preacher, a teacher, or someone seeking a deeper spiritual life, this episode will challenge and encourage you to abide in Christ in all things. 🔗 For information about the upcoming German Reformation Tour visit thomastours.com.  📖 Get the Book: Spurgeon: The Prayer-Powered Pulpit of the Prince of Preachers on Amazon 🔗 Learn More: Prayeradigm Ministries 🎧 More Faith-Based Podcasts: Life Audio Network 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 3, 2025

What made C.S. Lewis such a compelling thinker and writer? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer is joined by Dr. Jeffrey Barbeau, professor of theology at Wheaton College and author of The Last Romantic: C.S. Lewis, English Literature, and Modern Theology. Together, they explore Lewis’s unique ability to blend reason, imagination, and theology—making faith more accessible in a world increasingly skeptical of God. 📖 Topics covered: The influence of Romanticism on Lewis’s storytelling The tension between natural reason and special revelation in Christian thought How Lewis’s legacy continues to speak to today's generation 🎙 Listen now to uncover how C.S. Lewis used story and reason to engage the modern world—and what we can learn from him today. 🔗 For information about the upcoming German Reformation Tour visit thomastours.com.  🔗 Visit UsefulToGod.com for more biblical resources, courses, and guides on deepening your faith. Order The Last Romantic: C. S. Lewis, English Literature, and Modern Theology from ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount) 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 31, 2025

Are you feeling stuck in patterns of hurt, shame, or relational brokenness? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer is joined by Justin and Trish Davis, authors of One Choice Away from Change and founders of RefineUs Ministries. Together, they explore how small, intentional choices can lead to lasting transformation in our faith, relationships, and personal growth. Key topics include: ✅ Understanding the "messy middle" and why we stay stuck ✅ How hidden wounds and past messages shape our identity ✅ The power of honesty, forgiveness, and daily surrender ✅ Breaking unhealthy cycles and creating new patterns of faith ✅ Why transformation isn't just behavior modification Through personal stories, biblical wisdom, and practical steps, Justin and Trish offer hope for anyone looking to break free from past struggles and walk in the freedom God intends. 🔗 For information about the upcoming German Reformation Tour visit thomastours.com.  🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 🔗 Learn more about Refine Us Ministries: www.refineus.org You can get One Choice Away from Change on amazon.com. 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 28, 2025

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer is joined by Angie Velasquez Thornton to discuss the challenges of handling criticism, fostering accountability, and maintaining unity in Christian public ministry. As an experienced writer, podcaster, and ministry leader, Angie shares her insights on navigating online discourse, the importance of local church accountability, and how Christians can engage in constructive dialogue without compromising truth. Key topics include: ✅ Balancing boldness and humility in theological discussions ✅ Avoiding the "I follow Apollos" mentality in the digital age ✅ Practical ways to handle criticism and avoid bitterness ✅ Why the local church should be central to accountability ✅ Encouraging Christian unity without sacrificing biblical convictions If you're involved in blogging, podcasting, teaching, or simply engaging in online faith discussions, this episode offers wisdom on how to communicate truth while building up the body of Christ. 🔗 For information about the upcoming German Reformation Tour visit thomastours.com.  🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com To hear more from Angie Velasquez Thorton and to get some of the resources discussed on today's show, see: James's Blog Posts on Leadership: No Flinching: How To Develop a Crucial Leadership Skill Sorry, I Wasn't Listening...And I'm Not Going To Rule of Life Intensive: https://www.jenpollockmichel.com/rule-of-life-intensive My Column at TGC Canada: https://ca.thegospelcoalition.org/columns/femmes-scriptura/ https://ambassadorofreconciliation.blogspot.com/2023/11/why-and-how-women-should-teach-write.html 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 27, 2025

In this special announcement, Dr. James Spencer shares details about the upcoming German Reformation Tour, running from October 30 to November 9, 2025. Explore the theological and political heritage of Germany with stops in Wittenberg, Munich, Nuremberg, and beyond. From the legacy of Martin Luther to the resistance of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, this unique tour blends biblical insight, historical depth, and cultural discovery. James will be joined by Reformation expert Dr. Greg Quiggle and political theology scholar Dr. Michael McDuffee—two former Moody Bible Institute professors with extensive experience in Germany and a deep love for its history. 🚨 Booking deadline is May 31, 2025. 📍 Visit thomastours.com for more info and to reserve your spot. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 24, 2025

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer sits down with authors Linson Daniel, Jon Hietbrink, and Eric Rafferty to discuss their new book, Reviving Mission: Awakening to the Everyday Movement of God. Together, they explore how mission and revival are inseparable, why cynicism hinders spiritual growth, and how to recognize and join God’s work in the ordinary moments of life. Drawing from biblical wisdom, personal stories, and practical insights, this conversation will challenge you to rethink what it means to be a disciple on mission. 🔹 Key Topics Covered: ✔️ How encountering God daily reshapes our mission ✔️ Overcoming cynicism and rediscovering wonder ✔️ The role of spiritual habits in preparing for revival ✔️ Why mission isn’t just for the “called” but for every believer 📖 Get Reviving Mission with 20% off! (20% off with code for IVP- use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount) 👉 IVP Press 🎧 Tune in now and learn how to live with expectancy, curiosity, and a renewed passion for God's work! 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. #ThinkingChristian #RevivingMission #ChristianPodcast #Discipleship #SpiritualGrowth Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 20, 2025

How should Christians think about race and justice five years after George Floyd? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer welcomes back Ed Uszynski, author of Untangling Critical Race Theory, to explore the nuanced realities of race, politics, and faith. They discuss the pendulum swings of political ideologies, the role of the church in fostering biblical justice, and how Christians can engage these conversations with wisdom and discernment. Plus, Ed previews his talk at the Exiles in Babylon conference and reflects on his 30+ years with Athletes in Action. 🔹 How can Christians avoid being swept into political rhetoric? 🔹 What does true justice look like from a biblical perspective? 🔹 Why should we transcend the culture’s binaries on race and inclusion? This is a must-listen for those wanting to think biblically and critically about the complex issues of race and justice in today's world. 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. 1️⃣ Ed Uszynski’s Book – Untangling Critical Race Theory 📖 Buy the book here 2️⃣ Exiles in Babylon Conference – Theology in the Raw 🎙️ Learn more about the conference     Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 17, 2025

Deconstruction is often misunderstood—some see it as a step toward renewal, while others fear it as a path to apostasy. But what if we’re missing the deeper reality? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer talks with Ian Harber, author of Walking Through Deconstruction: How to Be a Companion in a Crisis of Faith. Together, they explore the personal and cultural forces shaping deconstruction, why many in the church respond with fear or animosity, and how we can engage with those questioning their faith with patience, wisdom, and truth. Ian shares his own journey of deconstruction and reconstruction, highlighting the existential nature of faith crises and why intellectual arguments alone aren’t enough. Join us for a deep and thoughtful conversation on how the church can walk with those wrestling with doubt, engage the deeper assumptions behind deconstruction, and foster a faith that is both intellectually rigorous and spiritually resilient. 🔗 Check out Ian Harber’s book: Walking Through Deconstruction at IVP (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount) 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 14, 2025

In this episode of Thinking Christian, James Spencer and Nate Giarratano take a deep dive into the complexities of meritocracy, systemic sin, and hiring practices. Using personal stories and broader cultural conversations—sparked by a recent presidential speech—they examine whether hiring is ever truly based on merit alone. They explore how networks, relationships, and institutional structures shape hiring decisions, sometimes in ways we fail to recognize. Does meritocracy really exist? How should Christians think about hiring in ministry and beyond? And how does our dependence on God shape the way we navigate these realities? Join the conversation as James and Nate unpack these issues and challenge common assumptions about qualifications, fairness, and faith-led decision-making. Listen to James's conversation with Kaitlyn Beatty on The Evangelical Bro Code here. You can access James' article on the way the "bro code" impacts men here.  🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 13, 2025

Can Christians faithfully engage in politics without compromising their convictions? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer is joined by Dr. Jesse Covington, Dr. Brian T. McGraw, and Dr. Micah Watson, co-authors of Hopeful Realism: Evangelical Natural Law and Democratic Politics. Together, they explore how natural law provides a foundation for engaging in the public square while maintaining theological integrity. 📖 Topics Covered: What is natural law, and why should evangelicals care? How does natural law shape Christian engagement in politics? The dangers of both political withdrawal and theocratic overreach How to share governance in a pluralistic society while upholding biblical truth The role of prudence in navigating difficult political issues, such as abortion policy 🎙 Listen now to learn how natural law can help Christians be faithful participants in politics without losing sight of the gospel. 📚 Get the book with an exclusive 20% discount at IVP! Visit ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount). 🔗 Explore more biblical resources at UsefulToGod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 11, 2025

In this episode of Thinking Christian, James and Nate explore the razor-thin line Christian journalism walks between accountability and bearing false witness. Prompted by a controversy at the NRB convention, they discuss the tension between exposing sin and rushing to judgment, the biblical framework for justice and accountability, and the consequences of premature or biased reporting. How should Christians navigate the flood of information in a digital age? What does real accountability look like—for both accused and accuser? Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on truth, responsibility, and the impact of Christian media on the witness of the Church. For more thoughts on the verses and ideas discussed in this episode, see James's article titled "Beyond the Scandal: Rethinking Christian Journalism in an Age of Speed and Spectacle" at usefultogod.com/read. 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 10, 2025

he church is at a crossroads. With rising disaffiliation and declining trust, how can we re-engage the next generation? How do we stop the drift and disciple effectively in today's world? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer welcomes Raymond Chang, Executive Director of 10x10 Collaboration at Fuller Seminary and co-author of Future Focused Church. They explore: 📌 Key Topics: ✅ The "10x10" Initiative: Engaging 10 million young people in faith over 10 years ✅ Why are so many young adults leaving the church? (And how do we respond?) ✅ How relational discipleship can transform church engagement ✅ The biggest leadership & trust challenges churches face today ✅ How to build a "Transformation Team" to drive church renewal ✅ Why churches need a change map: Here, There, Who, & How ✅ Practical steps for reshaping church culture & mission 🎧 This episode is essential listening for pastors, ministry leaders, and anyone passionate about the future of the church. 🔗 Resources & Links: 📖 Get the Book: Future Focused Church  🌍 Learn More About 10x10: www.tenx10.org 📚 More from Fuller Youth Institute: Fuller Youth Institute 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 6, 2025

Is your work-life balance out of sync? Do you struggle with burnout, workaholism, or feeling like your job defines you? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer sits down with Ariana Malloy, communication professor at Biola University and author of Healthy Calling: From Toxic Burnout to Sustainable Work, to unpack the dangers of job idolatry, the power of Sabbath, and how humility helps us maintain a sustainable calling. Key Topics Covered: ✅ How to recognize when your calling is becoming an idol ✅ The difference between a job, a career, and a calling—and why calling leads to the most burnout ✅ How Christian organizations unintentionally pressure employees into overwork ✅ Practical Sabbath rhythms to break the cycle of exhaustion ✅ The three aspects of humility that protect against burnout ✅ Why accountability should go beyond moral failure to include work-life balance 🎙 Ariana also shares her personal journey with workaholism and burnout—plus practical strategies for staying on the right side of healthy calling. 🔗 Resources Mentioned: 📖 Get Ariana Malloy’s Book – Healthy Calling (20% off with code for IVP- use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount) 👉 IVP Press 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 3, 2025

As AI and digital technology become more embedded in our daily lives, what does it really mean to be human? Are we losing our sense of identity, community, and embodied faith? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer sits down with Dr. Shane Wood, New Testament professor at Ozark Christian College, to explore how technology is shaping our understanding of humanity, relationships, and discipleship—and what Scripture has to say about it. 📌 Key Discussion Points: ✅ How has AI changed the way we relate to each other and to God? ✅ Are we outsourcing our spiritual formation and decision-making to technology? ✅ Why efficiency isn't always a virtue—and how technology can distort human flourishing ✅ Does technology weaken our sense of community, or can it strengthen it? ✅ What role does effort, embodiment, and limitation play in being truly human? ✅ The hidden dangers of transactional relationships & the “algorithmic” mindset ✅ The theological significance of boundaries, dependence on God, and true discipleship 🎧 Join us as we reflect on how Christians can engage with technology wisely—without losing our humanity. 🔗 Resources & Links: 🌍 Explore Shane Wood’s Work – ShaneJWood.com 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 24, 2025

Will artificial intelligence shape the future of Christian discipleship, ministry, and outreach? Chase Capo, leader in AI relationship development for Glue, joins Dr. James Spencer on Thinking Christian to explore how faith-based AI is offering a powerful alternative to mainstream models like ChatGPT. 📌 Key Discussion Topics: ✅ What makes Christian AI different from secular AI? ✅ How AI can help churches disciple more effectively ✅ The danger of AI “built on sand” & why faith-based AI needs strong foundations ✅ How AI models like Glue’s Kingdom-Aligned LLM are trained to uphold biblical truth ✅ The role of AI in filtering information overload & helping Christians focus ✅ How AI is already being used by churches, radio stations, and ministries to reach more people ✅ The future of personalized AI for discipleship, evangelism, and ministry strategy 🎧 If you've ever wondered how AI can serve the church rather than undermine it, this episode is for you. 🔗 Resources & Links:🤖 Learn More About Glue AI & Faith Assistant – FaithAssistant.com 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 20, 2025

s technology shaping us more than we realize? Are we losing our ability to rest, reflect, and be present? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer sits down with Dr. Felicia Wu Song, sociologist and author of Restless Devices: Recovering Personhood, Presence, and Place in the Digital Age (InterVarsity Press). They explore how digital technology influences our sense of self, why constant connectivity isn’t neutral, and how Christians can resist being shaped by algorithms instead of by God. 📌 Key Discussion Topics: ✅ The hidden ways digital media rewires our attention and habits ✅ Marshall McLuhan & Neil Postman—what they got right about the power of media ✅ Why modern tech trains us to consume, not reflect ✅ The rise of digital exhaustion—why even Gen Z is feeling the burnout ✅ Recovering personhood & presence—practical ways to reclaim attention and space ✅ How Christians can build “analog” rhythms that resist digital overreach 🎧 Listen in for a timely conversation on how we can become more thoughtful, present, and grounded in a world designed to keep us distracted. 🔗 Resources & Links: 📖 Restless Devices – Buy at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount)  🌐 Dr. Felicia Wu Song’s Website – feliciawusong.com 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 17, 2025

Technology is shaping our world at an unprecedented rate—but how should Christians respond? Are we thoughtfully engaging with the digital world, or are we being shaped by it in ways we don’t even realize? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer sits down with Dr. Derek Schuurman, Professor of Computer Science at Calvin University and author of Shaping a Digital World: Faith, Culture, and Computer Technology. Together, they explore how theology, technology, and Christian discipleship intersect in our increasingly digital lives. 📌 Key Discussion Points: ✅ How does the biblical narrative shape our approach to technology? ✅ Are we using technology wisely, or is it using us? ✅ Theological insights from Genesis, the Tower of Babel, and eschatology ✅ Are AI, social media, and digital tools eroding true human connection? ✅ How Christians can practice discernment in an efficiency-driven world ✅ Why technology is not neutral—and how we can shape it responsibly ✅ McLuhan’s Four Laws of Media & how they help us evaluate new tech ✅ Practical ways to maintain human flourishing in a digital-first culture 🎧 This episode is a must-listen for anyone wrestling with how to live faithfully in an age of rapid technological change. 🔗 Resources & Links: 📖 Get Derek Schuurman’s Book: Shaping a Digital World at IVP (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount) 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 13, 2025

William Wilberforce wasn’t just a politician—he was a man of deep faith who leveraged his influence to fight for abolition, social reform, and gospel-driven cultural transformation. In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer is joined by Michael Morgan, president of William Tennant Seminary, to explore the life and legacy of Wilberforce. How did Wilberforce’s evangelical convictions shape his mission? What role did his friendships and the Clapham Sectplay in his work? And what can the modern church learn from his radical collaboration and holistic approach to faith in action? Join us for a thoughtful discussion on Wilberforce’s impact, the intersection of faith and social change, and the importance of authentic Christian friendships in discipleship and cultural engagement. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. For more on Michael Morgan and William Tennent, visit https://www.williamtennent.org/. 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 6, 2025

In this episode of Thinking Christian, James sits down with Dr. Chris Rappazzini, professor of leadership at Anderson University, author of Moving Forward After Messing Up, and founder of Faithful Steps Forward. James and Chris discuss how leadership serves as a specialized form of discipleship, the tension between cultural adaptation and biblical foundations in leadership theories, and the enduring challenge of learning from our failures. Dr. Rappazzini shares insights from his personal journey, his work with leaders in organizational settings, and the biblical framework for moving forward after mistakes. Along the way, we explore themes of resilience, self-awareness, and the balance between mission and people-focused leadership. Whether you're a seasoned leader, someone navigating life's challenges, or simply looking for a thoughtful conversation on integrating faith and leadership, this episode is for you. To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or sign up for a course at usefultogod.com/learn.  To check out Chris Rappazini's work, see the following:  Faithful Steps Forward- https://www.faithfulstepsforward.com Moving Forward after Messing Up- Purchase here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 3, 2025

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer sits down with Mark Hancock, CEO of Trail Life USA, to discuss the unique challenges of raising boys in today’s culture. Mark shares how Trail Life USA is equipping the next generation of godly men through Christ-centered, boy-focused outdoor experiences. Together, they explore topics like the importance of adversity, the transformative power of hands-on engagement, and how fathers and mentors can help boys build resilience and discover their God-given purpose. Whether you're a parent, mentor, or church leader, this conversation offers practical insights and encouragement for shaping boys into men who live for Christ. Discover more about Trail Life USA, their mission, and how your church can get involved in this inspiring movement. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on faith, family, and the future of raising godly men! You can access the free book Let Boys Be Boys and find out more about Trail Life USA at https://www.traillifeusa.com.  🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

January 30, 2025

In this episode, James and Nate welcom Sean McNamara, Chief Sports Officer for FCA. They discuss the ministry of FCA and the expanding arena of sports ministry. Sean talks about the changes he is seeing in the mission field, as well as offering insight into the ongoing importance of Christian coaches and players in taking Christ to the world.  If you are interested in supporting the Thinking Christian podcast or just getting a unique, seven lesson resource on Christian decision-making, click here.  You can also find more resources at usefultogod.com. You can find out more about FCA at fca.org. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

January 27, 2025

What does Job teach us about suffering, trauma, and faith? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer welcomes Dr. Michelle Keener, Associate Research Fellow at the Kirby Laing Center for Public Theology and Director of Discipleship at her church in Las Vegas. Dr. Keener is the author of Comfort in the Ashes: Explorations in the Book of Job to Support Trauma Survivors, and together, they dive deep into: 📌 Key Topics: ✅ Why Job’s story is one of the most misunderstood books in the Bible ✅ How trauma studies help us understand Job’s suffering ✅ What Job’s friends got wrong—and how we often do the same ✅ Why God’s response to Job is NOT what we expect ✅ How churches can better support trauma survivors ✅ Discipleship beyond conversion: What we’re missing ✅ Balancing personal faith with Christian community 🎧 If you’ve ever wrestled with suffering, questioned God’s justice, or wondered how to support those in pain, this episode is for you. 🔗 Resources & Links: 📖 Get the Book: Comfort in the Ashes –ivpress.com (use IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount).  🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

January 23, 2025

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer welcomes back Dr. May Young, Associate Professor and Department Chair of Biblical Studies at Taylor University, to discuss her newly published book, Walking with God Through the Valley: Rediscovering the Purpose of Biblical Lament. Together, they explore the ancient Near Eastern context of lament, its unique role in Scripture, and its relevance for modern Christians. Discover how biblical lament contrasts with the practices of Israel’s neighbors, emphasizing a direct and intimate relationship with God. Learn why lament is essential for cultivating hope and resilience and how neglecting it can subtly erode our faith. Dr. Young also shares practical insights on engaging with lament personally and communally, and how this spiritual practice can deepen our intimacy with God—even in life’s mundane and difficult moments. Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation about rediscovering lament as a vital part of the Christian life. Plus, find out how to get 20% off Dr. Young’s book through InterVarsity Press using the exclusive discount code below.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can purchase Dr. Young's book at ivpress.com (use IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount). Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

January 20, 2025

In this episode, James welome Joe Beckler, Vice President of Development, Marketing, and Communications for Christian Business Men's Connection (CBMC). James and Joe discuss the unique work that Chrisitan executives and business men do, as well as the ongoing need for discipleship. They also consider the nature and process of discipleship as they think about how the body of Christ can be a light for the gospel in a fallen world.  If you are interested in supporting the Thinking Christian podcast or just getting a unique, seven lesson resource on Christian decision-making, click here.  You can also find more resources at usefultogod.com. You can find out more about CBMC at cbmc.com. They have a free discipleship resource available here.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

January 16, 2025

In this episode of Thinking Christian, James and Nate reflect on their deep dive into the intersection of faith and politics throughout 2024 as we look ahead to the presidential inauguration. They explore how Christians can engage in politics while brining politcs under the authority of Christ. From insights on civil religion and Christian nationalism to the problem of making baseless theological assertions this conversation offers a biblical perspective on navigating politics in a broken world. Tune in to discover why discipleship, not division, should guide our response to political challenges. Links to past episodes on politics and faith and articles from James are included below. Articles: "We're On a Mission from God" (read here) "Is America a Christian Nation?" (read here) On boundaries and distinctions see "How Does Genesis 6 Explain the Mysterious Sons of God" (read here) Episodes: "Examining Christian Nationalism" (listen here) "Co-Opting Christ" (listen here) "How Christians Should Think about America: A Conversation with Peter Miller" (listen here) 🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com 📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation! For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

January 13, 2025

In this episode, James welcomes Brandon Robbins. Brandon is a pastor and YouTube content creator. James and Brandon discuss his forthcoming book titled The Forgotten Teachings of Jesus, the TV series The Chosen, and the way he thinks about pastoral ministry. Brandon offers encouragement for those who might be "on the fence" about The Chosen noting that he is seeing the show uncover a hunger for deeper biblical study.  If you are interested in supporting the Thinking Christian podcast or just getting a unique, seven lesson resource on Christian decision-making, click here.  You can also find more resources at usefultogod.com. To connect with Brandon visit https://www.brandonrobbinsministry.com. To pre-order his book, visit https://www.brandonrobbinsministry.com/book. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 30, 2024

Show Description: In this episode of Thinking Christian, we explore the deeper purpose behind New Year's resolutions from a Christian perspective. Should Christians make resolutions? How can we align our goals with biblical wisdom and cultivate lasting transformation in the new year? Join host Dr. James Spencer as we dive into scripture, unpack common cultural views on resolutions, and discover how to set intentions that honor God. Tune in for a thoughtful and faith-driven approach to the New Year. 👉 Listen to more episodes: [Your Show Link] 📖 Subscribe for biblical insights on living out your faith daily. 🔗 [Link to your website or social media for further engagement] Keywords/SEO Focus: New Year's resolutions, Christian perspective on resolutions, biblical New Year goals, Christian living, faith-based self-improvement, Biblical wisdom for 2025, Christian mindset for the New Year. This description uses relevant keywords for both Christian-focused and resolution-based searches, while also offering clarity on what the episode will provide. It encourages engagement with clear calls to action (like subscribing or checking out more content). Let me know if you need any adjustments or additional details! If you are interested in supporting the Thinking Christian podcast or just getting a unique, seven lesson resource on Christian decision-making, click here.  You can also find more resources at usefultogod.com. You can also find James' article on New Year's resolutions on his author page at christianity.com. If you are interested in hearing more about the beatific vision, check out this episode of Thinking Christian.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 24, 2024

This episode is a replay from last year's conversation between James and Richard Beatty about New Year's Resolutions. They discuss how to think about New Year's resolutions from a practical, goal-oriented perspective, as well as how to approach successes and failures. This episode is aimed at offering tips about pursuing behavior change and habit formation.  If you are interested in supporting the Thinking Christian podcast or just getting a unique, seven lesson resource on Christian decision-making, click here.  You can also find more resources at usefultogod.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 19, 2024

In this episode, James discusses New Years resolutions through the lens of Psalm 1. He describes the difference between approaching resolutions from the perpective of changing our behaviors or ourselves and positioning ourselves so that God can transform us. He also describes what he'll be doing over the next few episodes.  If you are interested in supporting the Thinking Christian podcast or just getting a unique, seven lesson resource on Christian decision-making, click here.  You can also find more resources at usefultogod.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 12, 2024

In this episode, Dr. James Spencer considers Philippians 2. While it isn't a traditional "Christmas" text, Phillippians 2 offers some important backgrount regarding Jesus's decisions prior to the incarnation. The text offers insights into the nature of the incarnation and the characteristics Christians should adopt as they model their lives after Christ.  If you are interested in supporting the Thinking Christian podcast or just getting a unique, seven lesson resource on Christian decision-making, click here.  You can also find more resources at usefultogod.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 10, 2024

In this episode, Dr. James Spencer discusses the virgin birth and Matthew's use of Isaiah 7:14. Beginning with an analysis of Isaiah 7:14 in its Old Testament context, Dr. Spencer moves on to consider various issues of interpretation before describing how Matthew uses Isaiah 7:14 to point to the virgin birth of Jesus Christ.  If you are interested in supporting the Thinking Christian podcast or just getting a unique, seven lesson resource on Christian decision-making, click here.  You can also find more resources at usefultogod.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 5, 2024

In this episode, James continues his discussion of Luke 1. He deals with the Magnificat and Zecheriah's Prophecy. He also discusses the importance of Christ's coming from the perspective of Old Testament anticipation. If you are interested in supporting the Thinking Christian podcast or just getting a unique, seven lesson resource on Christian decision-making, click here.  You can also find more resources at usefultogod.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 3, 2024

In this episode, James begins a short series that will deal with various passages related to Christmas. The announcement of John and Jesus represent the proclamation that God will be doing something new amongst his people. They demonstrate that there is no obstacle too big for God to overcome as he seeks to bring in his kingdom.  If you are interested in supporting the Thinking Christian podcast or just getting a unique, seven lesson resource on Christian decision-making, click here.  You can also find more resources at usefultogod.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

November 28, 2024

In this episode, James and Nate welcome T. J. Jackson, Director of Community Engagement for Life 88.5. They discuss the various ways Life 88.5 works with communities within their listening area to provide food, build relationships, and advance the mission of Life 88.5.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can finid out more about Life 88.5 and T. J. Jackson at https://www.life885.com/programs/t-j-jackson/.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

November 26, 2024

In this episode, James and Nate talk about the need for civility after the election. They consider the various ways Christians can show love for neighbors despite the political polarization in the United States today.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can also gain additional perspective on the intersection between politics and Christianity via James' author page at chrisitanity.com. The following links are to some of the specific articles found there: Is the United States Really Blessed by God? Three Ways Christianity Cuts through Political Noise with Clear Hope What Role Should Law Play in Chrisitan Political Participation? Is Christian Political Participation a Sacred Duty or a Civil Right? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

November 21, 2024

In this episode, James sits down with Dan Jacobsen, grandson of Warren W. Wiersbe. Dan is a pastor and author of a new book titled Becoming New: 100-Days of Transformation through God's Word. Dan talks about the book's origins in some unfinished papers from his grandfather, as well as the similarities and differences between pastoral ministry today and when his grandfather was pastoring.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can find Dan's book at amazon.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

November 19, 2024

In this episode, James sits down with Terry Wildman. Terry is the lead translator of the First Nations Version: An Indigenous Translation of the New Testament. Terry and James discuss the current state of minsitry to Native Americans and the process involved in creating the First Nations Version. Terry also shares some passages from the text and describes the approach to the translation and its ongoing impact beyond the Native American population. To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can purchase First Nation Version at ivpress.com (use IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount). You can also find Terry's other book Birth of the Chosen One, which offers an indigenous translation of the Christmas story along with Native American artwork. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

November 14, 2024

In this episode, James welcomes Dr. Kevin Chen, author of Wonders of Your Law. James and Kevin discuss Kevin's idea of "nexus passages" and their value in understanding the Old Testament, tracing themes, and pulling together a cohesive Old Testament narrative.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can purchase Kevin's book at ivpress.com (use IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount). Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

November 12, 2024

In this episode, James hosts Samuel Parkison author of To Gaze Upon God. They discuss the beatific vision, eschatology, and Christians conceptions of the afterlife.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can purchase Samuel's book at ivpress.com (use IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount). Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

November 7, 2024

In this episode, James and Nate host Tony Cardello. Previously featured on  "I Am Second," Tony shares his testimony. He describes his life prior to coming to Christ and the way Christ healed his marriage, family, and life.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

November 6, 2024

In this episode, James offers a biblical perspective on regime changes based on the transition from judges to monarchy in ancient Israel as portrayed in 1 Samuel. He considers the consistent call to love God and neighbor and to fear the Lord and keep his commandments. He encourages Christians to focus on living faithfully and with understanding whether their candidate won or lost.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can also gain additional perspective on the intersection between politics and Christianity via James' author page at chrisitanity.com. The following links are to some of the specific articles found there: Is the United States Really Blessed by God? Three Ways Christianity Cuts through Political Noise with Clear Hope What Role Should Law Play in Chrisitan Political Participation? Is Christian Political Participation a Sacred Duty or a Civil Right? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

November 5, 2024

In this episode, James wecomes Dan Cameron. Dan is the editor of Theology, Religion, and 'The Office': Beauty in Ordinary Things that will be available later this year. They discuss James's contribution to the volume, as well as several of the other included essays. Dan and James also consider how Christians might engage with popular culture. To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. The book is available for pre-order here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 31, 2024

In this episode, James wecomes Vince Miller. Vince is an author and speaker focused on helping men live faithfully. Vince and James discuss Vince's new book (Essential Elements: Forging Godly Men) the difference between walking by the flesh and walking by the Spirit and the importance of understanding that we are God's adoptive children.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can find more of Vince's resources at beresolute.org or vincemiller.com. Be Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 29, 2024

In this episode, James welcomes Justin Kendrick author of How to Quiet a Hurricane. James and Justin discuss the pitfalls and promise of helping God's people establish a firm foundation in their faith. They talk about the role of trials in the development of Christian character and the necessity of discipleship. To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can purchase Justin's book at amazon.com. Find out more about him and his ministry at justinkendrick.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 24, 2024

In this episode, James speaks with Zach Clinton author of Even If: Developing the Faith, Mindset, Strength and Endurance of Those Who Are Built Different. James and Zach discuss the "even if" life, as well as diving into discussion of anxiety, election-related stress, and the importance of attention and focus in the Christian life.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can find Zach's book and check out his Built Different podcast at https://zachclinton.com/. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 22, 2024

In this episode, James wecomes Denise Grace Gitsham. James and Denise discuss the way Chrisitan participation in politics differs from participation in politics more generally.  Denise is an on-air political commentator and strategist, attorney, speaker, and author of Politics for People Who Hate Politics: How to Engage without Losing Your Friends or Selling Your Soul. Denise has worked at the highest levels of the federal government, from the White House, to the US Department of Justice, to the US Senate, and now runs her own public affairs firm. Denise is passionate about healing a divided nation through restoring civility and respect in political discourse—without compromising truth. In addition to regular cable news and other media appearances, she speaks at conferences, churches, and political events.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can purchase Denise's book at amazon.com. Find out more about him and his ministry at www.denisegracegitsham.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 17, 2024

In this episode, James and Nate sit down with Brock Simmons. Brock is the founder of the Always Present Institute. He has many years of experience in executive coaching and organizational development. James, Nate, and Brock discuss the importance of leadership and the various ways of approaching leadership within organizations and within the church.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. Find out more about Brock and his work at https://www.alwayspresent.institute/who-we-are. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 16, 2024

In today's episode, James and Nate welcome Julie Bradley. Julie and Nate have known each other for a long time and attend the same church in Lenxa, KS. Julie talks about the "40 Days of Lament" that she has been leading with her church's prayer ministry and on social media. James, Nate, and Julie discuss the insights lament can provide, as well as the significance of lament as an extension of the church's witness. To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can participate in the 40 Days of Lament on Facebook or Instagram. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 15, 2024

In this episode, James welcomes Christian Werner. She is an SVP with Public Square, a company focused on helping local businesses succeed while upholding specific values that have been abandoned by some of the other major companies in the United States. Christina and James discuss Public Square and the way businesses often sell ideologies rather than products.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. Find out more about Public Square at https://www.publicsquare.com/. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 11, 2024

In this episode, James offers a perspective on Halloween that highlights its role in promoting discontentment. He discusses the challenges of being Chrisitan in a consumer society and encourages God's people to rethink the holidays so that they become times for conforming more closely to Christ.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 10, 2024

In this episode, James welcome Rachel Wojo, author of Desperate Prayers. James and Rachel discuss the difficulties associated with prayer. Rachel offers insights intot he ways she has developed a vibrant prayer life. She also discusses the way life's challenges provide us with opportunities to sharpen our relationship with God. To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can purchase Rachel's book at deperateprayers.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 9, 2024

In this episode, James and Nate use Carl Bernstein's "The Idiot Culture" as a jumping off point to discuss the relationship between Christians and media. They address the various ways the media landscape has changed, as well as looking back to Augustine for wisdom about how to love our neighbor despite our finite capacity to love.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 2, 2024

In this episode, James and Nate discuss some of the ways the Bible and other theological concepts and theologians are pressed into the service of political agendas. They urge listeners not to encourage falsehood, but to hold accountable those who seek to apply biblical language to modern-day politics.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

September 30, 2024

In this episode, James discusses the Sabbath commands, particularly the Sabbath command in Deuteronomy. He offers his thoughts on how Israel's time in Egypt might inform our understanding of the Sabbath commands. To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

September 23, 2024

In this episode, James discusses 1 Corinthians 9 and Paul's adaptability in relation to U. S. politics. He urges Christian to follow God's example and discusses that challenges of being "all things to all people" in a digital age.  For more from James visit usefultogod.com or pick up James's new book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness at amazon.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

September 23, 2024

In this episode, James considers Deuteronomy 8. He discusses the dynamics of obeidence and the way that it aligns us with God's order. He also distinguishes God's promised blessing and the prosperity gospel highlighting the dangers of prosperity and the necessity of remembering God. To connect with James and to find additional content, like the 30-Days in the Gospels Reading Plan or the Walk Through the Gospels course, visit, usefultogod.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

September 19, 2024

In this episode, James welcomes Ed Uszynski, author of Untangling Critical Race Theory: What Christians Need to Know and Why It Matters. James and Ed discuss Marxism, critical theory, and critical race theory, as well as the biblical idea of partiality. To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can purchase Ed's book at ivpress.com (use IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount). Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

September 17, 2024

In this episode, James welcomes Mark Matlock, author of Faith for the Curious: How an Era of Spiritual Openness Shapes the Way We Live and Help Others Follow Jesus. James and Mark discuss Mark's research about the spiritual curious in the United States, the relative lack of curiosity in the church, and how Christians might think about evangelism and discipleship differently. To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can purchase Mark's book at amazon.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

September 16, 2024

In this episode, James discussed Genesis 15-22 (the life of Abraham). He focuses on Abraham's legitimate concerns and the way he learns to trust God rather than chart his own course. Abraham is, in this sense, a model of discipleship becasue God allows Abraham the time to learn how to truth in Him and, ultimately, to become "one who fears the Lord."  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

September 13, 2024

In this episode, James speaks with Dr. May Young who authored a chapter in a book James co-edited titled A Praying People. Dr. Young is an expert on the topic of lament and the book of Lamentations. James and Dr. Young discuss lament more generally and how it can build community in the Church. To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. Get A Praying People on amazon.com  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

September 12, 2024

In this episode James welcomes Carl Amari. Carl hosts Hollywood360, a nationally syndicated radio show, as well as serving as a producer on a variety of audio projects and movies. James and Carl discuss his early interest in radio dramas and how that led him to create dramatized audio versions of the Bible.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can find Carl's audio Bibles and other projets on his amazon.com author page. Check out his radio program here.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

September 10, 2024

In this episode, James hosts Amy Williams. Amy is a "hope dealer" working with teens involved in gangs in the Chicagoland area. Here book titled Worth Seeing: Viewing Others Through God's Eyes offers stories of her time in ministry and encourages Christians to see ourselves and others as Christ see us. James and Amy discuss some of the challenges of working between gangs and churches, as well as the promise Amy sees in young men and women who learn to look with eyes that see and listen with ears that hear. To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can purchase Amy's book at ivpress.com (use IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount).   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

September 9, 2024

In this episode James and Nate sit down with Michael Tait and Adam Agee from the Newsboys to disucss the latest movie in the God's Not Dead series, God's Not Dead: In God We Trust. They talk about how God's Not Dead got started, their latest album, and their current tour, as well as diving into their creative process as songwriters and performers.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can find out more about the movie at https://godsnotdead.com/. You can find out more about the Newboys' latest album (Worldwide Revival) and tour at newsboys.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

September 4, 2024

In this episode, Nate and James discuss the distinction between the right, the left, and Chrisitans. Along the way, they place a strong emphasis on the need for discipleship and offer some practical considerations for Christians seeking to participate in politics.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

September 2, 2024

In this episode, James discusses the latest moving in the God's Not Dead series with David A. R. White and Scott Baio. They talk about the movie, the state of the nation, and the ways Christians can get invovled in the political realm. You can catch the movie in theaters beginning on September 12th. To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can find out more about the movie at https://godsnotdead.com/.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

August 29, 2024

In this episode, James welcomes Dr. Sean McGever. Sean is the author of numerous books including Ownership: The Evangelical Legacy of Slavery in Edwards, Wesley, and Whitefield. James nad Sean discuss early views of slavery, the way that the bible was (at times) used to justify the practice, and the distinction between the institution of slavery and individual practice of that institution.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can purchase Sean's book at ivpress.com (use IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount). Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

August 28, 2024

In this episode, James and Nate consider David French's New York Times peice in which he argues that to save conservatism, he is voting for Kamala Harris. In the piece, he claims that Trump is changing the church. James and Nate discuss whether this is true and offer thoughts on how the church needs to be approaching this year's election.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

August 28, 2024

In this episode, James and Nate begin and end with a discussion of the Old Testament's treatment of the Trinity. Along the way, they also discuss the Holy Spirit, obeidence, and a variety of other related topics.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

August 27, 2024

In this episode, James is joined by Dr. Ben Matthew, Professor of Clinical Counseling at Columbia International University. James and Ben discuss transgenderism, the influence of social contagion, and the need for a theology of the body.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. For more on Dr. Ben Matthew, see his faculty page at Columbia International University.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

August 22, 2024

In this episode, James welcomes Bill Nienhuis, CEO and President of Childcare Worldwide. James and Bill discuss the lives of children in various locations around the world. While children and families face pressures everywhere, there are also a number of lessons to be learned from the church overseas.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can find ways to get involved at Childcare Worldwide at https://childcareworldwide.org/. Sponsor a child ($42/mo): https://childcareworldwide.org/sponsor?t=0154&c=0154 Send a child to Life Center ($25/mo): https://childcareworldwide.org/project/life-center-membership?t=0154&c=0154 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

August 21, 2024

In this episode, James and Nate discuss the politics of the day. They attempt to differentiate between civic and sacred acts in relation to voting, as well as encouraging Christians to recognize the symbolic "freight" that certain candidates carry for wins and losses.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

August 20, 2024

In this episode, James welcomes Sarah E. Westfall. Sarah is the author of The Way of Belonging. James and Sarah discuss the idea of belonging, how it differs from fitting in, and the way that our relationship with God and our own self-awareness helps us cultivate a sense of belonging in the various contexts of our lives. To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can purchase Sarah's book at ivpress.com (use IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount). To find out more about Sarah, visit www.sarahewestfall.com.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

August 15, 2024

In this episode, James welcomes Fred Pry, Vice President of Administration at Child Evangelism Fellowship. James and Fred discuss the ministry of CEF, the various resources CEF makes available to share the gospel with children, and the ways CEF has navigated legal obstacles and other forms of oppostion (including opposition from a Satanic Temple) to share the gospel with kids in public spaces.  For more from James, visit usefultogod.com.  To find out more about Child Evangelism Fellowship, visit https://www.cefonline.com/. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

August 13, 2024

In this episode, James welcomes David Koyzis back to Thinking Christian to discuss the use of the psalms in the liturgy of the church. Davis is affiliated with Global Scholars Canada and is engaged in an international academic ministry of writing, researching, lecturing, and conversing with readers of his books. He is the author of Political Visions and Illusions and We Answer to Another: Authority, Office, and the Image of God. He taught undergraduate political science for thirty years. In addition to his other work, David writes a blog and does on the liturgical use of the psalter. James and David discuss the importance of the psalms to the life of faith, the resources available to guide Christians through the psalter, and the various benefits of daily Christian prayer at the corporate level. To hear more from James, visit usefultogod.com. To purchase The Book of Common Prayer, visit amazon.com.  You can read more about David's work with the psalter on his blog at https://genevanpsalter.blogspot.com/p/koyzis-genevan-psalter-project.html.  For the specific resources noted in the podcast, see below:  For the specific resources noted in the podcast, see below:  Cranmer's liturgical legacy The Alter Psalter: a review Where Alter's Psalter falters The Daily Office Genevan Psalter Project (1985-2021) God as Judge: Praying the Imprecatory Psalms Gelineau psalmody Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

August 12, 2024

This week, James looks at Genesis 11:1-9, which is often reffered to as the Tower of Babel narrative. After making several observations about the text, James offers an interpretation of the narrative that connects it to God's call of Abram in Genesis 12.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

August 8, 2024

In this episode, James speaks with Caleb Campbell, author of Disarming Leviathan: Loving Your Christian Nationalist Neighbor. James and Caleb discuss the various challenges associated with Christian nationalism, some of the theological errors associated with the movement, and how to go about interacting with Christian nationalists to encourage a more faithful perspective in which pointing to and glorifying the Triune God takes first place. For more from James on Christian nationalism and other topics, visit usefultogod.com or pick up his book titled Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness at amazon.com. Be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you don’t miss an episode! To purchase Disarming Leviathan, visit ivpress.com (use IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount). You can also check out disarmingleviathan.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

August 6, 2024

In this episode, Carmen Joy Imes returns to talk about her book titled Bearing God's Name: Why Sinai Still Matters. James and Carmen talk about the importance of the Old Testament, the way the Ten Commandments are often misunderstood and misapplied, and how bearing God's name shapes the message of the Old and New Testaments.  For more from James visit usefultogod.com or pick up James's new book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness at amazon.com. You can purchase Carmen's book at ivpress.com (use IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount). You can also follow her on YouTube.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

August 1, 2024

In this episode, James talks with Miranda Zapor Cruz who is a professor of hisotrical theology at Indiana Weslyan University and author of Faithful Politics: Ten Approaches to Christian Citizenship and Why It Matters. James and Miranda discuss various perspectives on Christians and politics, as well as the way Christian nationalism harms Christianity.  For more from James visit usefultogod.com or pick up James's new book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness at amazon.com. You can purchase Miranda's book at ivpress.com (use IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount). You can also find her blog at https://mirandazaporcruz.com/.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 30, 2024

In this episode, James talks with fellow Old Testament scholar Michael Rhodes about biblical justice. Michael is the author of Just Discipleship: Biblical Justice in an Unjust World and Formative Feasting, Practicing the King’s Economy. He also has numerous articles in Christianity Today and The Biblical Mind. He spent more than fourteen years in community development in urban ministry work. He is ordained in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church and is currently a lecturer in Old Testament at Carey Baptist College. James and Michael discuss a variety of ideas associated with biblical justice including the interrelationship between the church and governing authorities, the narratives of Joseph and Daniel, and David's final words to Solomon.  To connect with James visit usefultogod.com. If you are interested in the interrelationship of Christians and politics, check out his new book titled Serpents and Doves on amazon.com or the Serpents and Doves course here. To purchase Michael's book visit ivpress.com (use IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount). Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 29, 2024

In this episode, James looks at Genesis 4. He discusses the tension between Cain and God, Cain's poor choice, and the resolution that God ultimately brings about through Seth. He argues that the narrative centers on Cain's unwillingness to worship God on God's terms. To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 25, 2024

In this episode, James and Nate sit down with Dayton Moore. In addition to holding various other positions in Major League Baseball, Dayton was a general manager for the Royals. Under his leadership, the Royals won the world series in 2015. James, Nate and Dayton talk about leadership, the need for mentoring, and the importance of faith in Jesus Christ.  Dayton is also the founder and board president of C You In the Major Leagues, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting children and families in crisis and developing strong future leaders. To connect with James, visit https://usefultogod.com/contact-us. You can find out more about C You In the Majors at https://cyouinthemajorleagues.org/. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 23, 2024

In this episode, James sits down with Jay Y. Kim, author of Analog Christian: Cultivating Contentment, Resilience, and Wisdom in the Digital Age. James and Jay discuss the promise and pitfalls of digital technologies, how to slow down in a world that is constantly pushing us to speed up, and technology's capacity to shape us into something other than the image of Christ. You can connect with James at usefultogod.com. To purchase Jay's book at ivpress.com (use IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount).  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 23, 2024

In this episode, James talks with Jake Hamilton, author of Journey to Biblical Masculinity: 12 Paths Every Man Must Take. Jake is also the founder and CEO of "The Fight," a ministry dedicated to challenging men to own who they are and discover who they could be. They discuss how to distringuish what it means to be a man from more general spiritual and character formation that would apply to both genders. They also speak about the importance of "owning" one's own self, the need for wise elders in the body of Christ, and the vulnerability necessary to become Christian men.  To connect with James, visit https://usefultogod.com/contact-us. To purchase Jake's book, visit amazon.com or thisisthefight.com. You can also find out more about "The Fight" at thisisthefight.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 22, 2024

In this episode, James discusses 1 Samuel 17, the narrative of David and Goliath. He discusses the differences between David and the other characters in the narrative, as well as highlighting the underlying theology of this well-known Bible story. To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 18, 2024

In this episode, James has a conversation with Helen Cepero. Helen is the author of Christ-Shaped Character: Choosing Love, Faith and Hope. She also started the C. John Weborg Center for Spiritual Direction at North Park Seminary and practices spiritual direction formation program at the Journey Center in Santa Rosa, CA. James and Helen discuss spiritual direction, the role of effort and discipline in Christian spiritual life, and the importance of listening to others.  You can connect with James at https://usefultogod.com/contact-us. Purchase Christ-Shaped Character at ivpress.com (use IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount). You can also get Helen's book titled Journaling as a Spiritual Practice here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 17, 2024

In this episode, James is joined by co-host Nate Giarratano. James and Nate discuss some of the conversations that occurred at last week's National Conservatism Conference in Washington, D.C., where Pastor Doug Wilson, Al Mohler, and others spoke about America, politics, and Christianity. James lays out five ideas that are crucial for understanding the relationship between Church and state and interacts with some of the statements made at the conference.  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. For more on the conference, see the article posted here along with the associated links.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 16, 2024

In this episode, James sits down with David Koyzis author of Citizenship Without Illusions: A Christian Guide to Political Engagement. He also writes a blog titled "Notes from a Byzantine-Rite Calvinist." David and James discuss the challenge of idolatry in the political realm, as well as strategies for Christians to love God and neighbor by engaging in activities oriented toward justice.  To connect with James, visit https://usefultogod.com/contact-us. You can find Citizenship Without Illusions at ivpress.com (use the code IVPPOD20 for 20% off your purchase). You can also find David's other works at ivpress.com or amazon.com.  Political Visions and Illusions: A Survey of Christian Critique of Contemporary Ideologies (https://www.ivpress.com/political-visions-illusions). We Answer to Another: Authority, Office, and the Image of God (click here)  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 15, 2024

In this episode, James considers Matthew 10. He talks about what Jesus is trying to teach his disciples (and us!) by sending them out on their initial mission. He also provides an explanation of what it looks like to be "wise as serpents and innocent as doves."  To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 11, 2024

In this episode, James hosts Paul D. Miller author of The Religion of American Greatness: What's Wrong with Christian Nationalism. Paul and James discuss nationalism, politics, conservatism, and the difference between patriotism and nationalism. The conversation offers Christians a fresh perspective on the importance of distinguishing church from state, as well as addressing the need for incremental change as a political strategy.  To connect with James visit https://usefultogod.com/contact-us. You can purchase Paul's book at ivpress.com (use the code IVPPOD20 for 20% off your purchase). Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 9, 2024

In this episode, James discusses discipleship with Eun Strawser, author of Centering Discipleship: A Pathway for Multiplying Spectators into Mature Disciples. James and Eun discuss discipleship in terms of imitating Christ and the way that our own cultural commitments (or the commitments of others) can hinder us from conforming more closely to Christ's image. Eun also relates her experience leading a church that is centered on discipleship.  To connect with James or to download free spiriatul growth resources, visit usefultogod.com. To purchase Eun's book visit ivpress.com (use IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount) or find out more about Eun Strawser at https://www.iwacollaborative.com/. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 8, 2024

In this episode, James considers the parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10. He discusses the Old Testament background of love for neighbor in Leviticus and what it might mean for us to show mercy in today's world.  For more from James visit usefultogod.com.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 3, 2024

In this episode, James and Nate discuss a Pew Research study titled "Cultural Issues and the 2024 Election." They talk about how Christians might approach specific cultural issues, the differences between the roles of the state and the church, and the attitudes that Christians might adopt as they seek to be faithful in a fallen world. For more from James, visit usefultogod.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 2, 2024

In this episode, James welcomes Chris Morris author of Resilient and Redeemed: Lessons about Suicidality and Depression from the Psych Ward. James and Chris have a candid conversation about mental illness and discuss ways the church might come alongside those struggling with mental illness. They also talk about the importance of developing intimate relationships within the body of Christ. To connect with James visit https://usefultogod.com/contact-us. You can purchase Chris's books at the following links: Resilient and Redeemed: Lessons about Suicidality and Depression from the Psych Ward Perfectly Abnormal: Uncovering the Image of God in Chronic Illness Whispers in the Pews: Voices on Mental Illness in the Church By Faith: Strength and Hope for Life's Challenges For more on Chris visit chrismorriswrites.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

July 1, 2024

In this episode, James discusses Jesus's baptism and subsequent temptation in the gospel of Matthew. He considers each of the temptation's Jesus faces and the lessons that Christians can learn from Matthew 4.  For more from James visit usefultogod.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

June 28, 2024

In this bonus episode, James considers the recent legislation passed in the state of Louisiana. He suggests that Christians recognize the challenges of American civil religion without creating an "us versus them" mentality. For more from James visit usefultogod.com or purchase Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness from amazon.com.  See the text of the Louisiana law here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

June 27, 2024

In this episode, James speaks with David Richardson of The Assumptions Institute. James and David talk about critical thinking, the necessity of questioning assumptions, and the importance of pointing other toward reality. They also discuss the shortcomings of Christian worldview. To connect with James, visit https://usefultogod.com/contact-us. You can find more information on the Assumptions Institute at learntodiscern.com/thinkingchristian. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

June 24, 2024

In this week's devotional, James considers Matthew 6 and its potential to help Christians think through the various practices in which they are engaged. James encourages us not just to ask whether or not we should engage in a particular practice, but how we should engage in it.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

June 21, 2024

In this episode of Thinking Christian, James interacts with an essay published on June 17, 2024, in which the surgeon general calls for warning labels on social media. James discusses the importance of this call and the need for us to pause and think about the ways technology may be hindering us from conforming more closely to the image of Christ.  You can view the Surgeon General's essay here. To read his previous advisory, click here. James also has an opinion piece dealing with the advisory at Christian Post. For more on technology from James, check out the following resources and visit usefultogod.com. Be sure to check out James's 20 Questions: Christian Resistance, Technology, and Artificial Intelligence.  https://www.thinkingchristianpodcast.com/christians-think-human/ https://www.thinkingchristianpodcast.com/how-should-we-think-about-kids-and-technology-a-conversation-with-david-eaton/ https://www.thinkingchristianpodcast.com/thinking-christian-about-family-and-technology-use-a-conversation-with-krista-boan/     Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

June 20, 2024

In this episode, James and Nate welcome Jason Gray. Jason is a Christian recording artist and deep thinker. James, Nate, and Jason discuss the creative process, Jason's musical influences, and the way that Jason goes about writing songs. They also discuss Jason's forthcoming book and some of his other musical offerings.  To connect with James, visit https://usefultogod.com/contact-us. You can find out more about Jason Gray at https://www.jasongraymusic.com/. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

June 17, 2024

In this first weekly devotional, James discusses distractions and the way they hinder us from listening to the teachings of Jesus. Considering Luke 10:38-42, James encourages listeners to recognize that Jesus is infinitely more relevant than any other actor or factor we will ever encounter.  To connect with James and find additional content, like the 30-Day Gospels readign plan or the walk through the gospels course, visit, usefultogod.com.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

June 13, 2024

In this episode, James welcomes Joshua Jipp. Joshua is Professor of New Testament and Director of the Henry Center for Theological Understanding. He is also the author of Pauline Theology as a Way of Life: A Vision of Human Flourishing in Christ. Joshua and James discuss various vision of human flourishing and the necessity of Christ for human flourishing. They also discuss what sort of practices are necessary to conforming more closely to the image of Christ.  To connect with James, visit https://usefultogod.com/contact-us. You can get Joshua Jipp's Pauline Theology as a Way of Life at amazon.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

June 10, 2024

Beginning June 17th, James will be releasing weekly devotionals every Monday as part of the Thinking Christian line-up. Subscribe to Thinking Christian on your favorite podcasting platform or visit www.thinkingchristianpodcast.com. You can find out more about James and Useful to God at www.usefultogod.com.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

June 6, 2024

In this episode, James hosts author and slow-living activist Jodi Grubbs to discuss her book titled Live Slowly: A Gentle Invitation to Exale. Jodi and James discuss the various ways our world pushes us to move more quickly and take on more than our capacities will allow. They also talk about the church and how community, presence, and intentionality are crucial to develop a cadence of life that allows us to know God, others, and ourselves.  To connect with James and Useful to God Ministries, visit https://usefultogod.com/contact-us. You can find out more about Jodi at https://jodigrubbs.com/. Her book is available at https://www.ivpress.com/live-slowly (enter IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount). Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

June 4, 2024

In this episode, James sits down with journalist, author, and podcaster Katelyn Beaty to discuss her series of essays on her substack "The Beaty Beat" about the "Evangelical Bro Code." They consider the various components of the bro code, possible solutions to the bro code, and the ways the bro code negatively impact both women and men.  For more from Katelyn subscribe to The Beaty Beat at https://katelynbeaty.substack.com/. You can also listed to more conversations from Katelyn on her podcast Saved by the City or purchase Celebrities for Jesus: How Personas, Platforms, and Profits Are Hurting the Church on amazon.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 29, 2024

In this episode, James sits down with his friend John Koessler to talk about prayer. In addition to being a retired faculty emiritus from the Moody Bible Institute, John is an award-winning writer and podcaster whose work has been featured in Christianity Today and Our Daily Bread. James and John discuss John's recent work When God is Silent: Let the Bible Teach You to Pray. They consider a variety of topics including prayer and anger, the need for transparency and authenticity in prayer, and the importance of acknowledging one's own personality as they approach God in prayer. You can get John's book on amazon.com or at his website johnkoessler.com where you can also find free resources designed to go along with When God Is Silent for use in small group study. There is also a link for a discount on When God is Silent at johnkoessler.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 27, 2024

In this episode, James is joined by co-host Nate Giarratano and special guest Erin Alexandrino. Erin works with Chrisitan and non-Chrisitan men as part of his High Value Man coaching program. Erin, James, and Nate discuss the role of faith in the formation of men, the approach Erin takes to evangelism, and the importance of fitness in men's lives.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 24, 2024

In this episode, James speaks with Grace Ji-Sun Kim, professor of theology at Earlham School of Religion, host of the Madang podcast, and author of When God Became White. James and Grace discuss her book, the challenge of navigating difference in the world and the church, and various Korean concepts that may inform our understanding of God and the Chrsitian life.  We are giving away five free copies of When God Became White. Visit usefultogod.com/bookgiveaway, to register to win.  You can also visit www.ivpress.com to find Grace's book. Use IVPPOD20 to recieve 20% off your purchase. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 22, 2024

In this episode, James and co-host Nate Giarratano sit down with Vic Murphy. Vic shares his story of getting invovled in skateboarding and BMX as a young man in Alaska, being evangelized by his grandmother, and ultimately coming to faith in California. James, Nate, and Vic discuss the work God is doing around the world through Vic's ministry and the necessity of doing and preaching the basics of the faith in today's world.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 20, 2024

In this episode, James sits down with president of GotQuestions.org Shea Houdman. Shea and James talk about the genesis of gotquestions.org, how Shea and his team deal with the difficulties of answering questions online, and where the ministry may go next.  For more on Shea and his ministry visit gotquestions.org.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 17, 2024

In this episode, Jeff King, president of International Chrsitian Concern and author of Islam Uncensored, joins James to discuss Isalm. James and Jeff consider the various interviews Jeff includes in his book, as well as the underlying assumptions and tactics of radical Islam. For more on Jeff King and International Christian Concern, visit persecution.org. To purchase Islam Uncensored: 14 Leaders: Liberals, Conservatives, Muslims, Jews, Atheists, Christians, & A Former CIA Director Reveal: What The Government & Media Won't Tell You About Islam visit amazon.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 15, 2024

In this episode, James sits down with Stephen Covert, a natural bodybuilder and owner of Iron Thearpy Club, an explicitly Christian clothing brand and community. Stephen and James talk about fitness, the challenges of fitness on social media, and the way that the disciplines of exercise inform our spiritual disciplines. For more on The Iron Theapy Club visit https://theirontherapyclub.com/ or on Instagram at @irontherapyclub You can also find Stephen on Instagram @stephen.covert where he shares his thoughts on keeping Christ primary in the midst of his own fitness regime as well as other fitness related posts.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 13, 2024

In this episode, James discusses evil and suffering with Ingrid Faro, PhD. Ingrid is professor of Old Testament at Northern Seminary in Lisle, IL, and author of Demystifying Evil: A Biblical and Personal Exploration. They discuss the nature of evil, its connection to human perception, and a variety of other topics.  To purchase Demystifying Evil: A Biblical and Personal Exploration visit https://ivpress.com/. Use the promotional code IVPPOD20 to recieve 20% off your purchase.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 10, 2024

In this episode, James discusses personhood with Paul Louis Metzger author of More Than Things: A Personalist Ethics for a Throwaway Culture. James and Paul dive into the idea of personalism, how it intersects with technology and other aspects of life, and how Christians might go about making decisions.  For a free study guide based on More Than Things, visit https://www.ivpress.com/more-than-things. You can also puchase More Than Things at www.ivpress.com. Use IVPPOD20 to get 20% off your purchase. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 9, 2024

In this episode, James sits down with co-host Maggie Hubbard and special guest David Eaton. David is Co-founder and CEP of Axis, an organization that provides resources to parents seeking to navigate cultural issues, technology, and a variety of other concerns. James, Maggie, and David discuss smart phones, social media, and the significant influence of parents in the lives of children. For more about Axis visit www.axis.org. You can find David's book titled Smart Phone Sanity at amazon.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 8, 2024

In this episode, James is joined by co-host Maggie Hubbard and special guest Krista Boan. She is a former middle school teacher and co-founder of Screen Sanity. James, Maggie, and Krista discuss the difficulties of navigating technology today, particualrly in relation to kids and families.  For more on Krista, visit kristaboan.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 7, 2024

In today's episode, James is joined by co-host Maggie Hubbard and guest Natalie Abbott from Dwell Differently. They discuss Dwell Differently's ministry, as well as hearing Natalie's testimony and considering the importance of memorizing God's word.  Dwell Differently also provided a code for Thinking Christian listeners to get a free month's subscription. (Code: Thinking)  Check out Dwell Differently at dwelldifferently.com.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 6, 2024

In this episode, James is joined by Maggie Hubbard to discuss the "Go Dark, Shine Bright" (GDSB) campaign. GDSB is a seven-day media fast that encourages Christians to step away from media that is hindering their walk with Christ in order to focus on prayer and Bible study. The campaign begins on May 6th, but is available throughout the year. To sign up for the free campaign, go to godarkshinebright.org.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 3, 2024

In this episode, James discusses discipleship with Ron Tewson. Ron is a former pastor and president and founder of Therefore Project. Ron is also the author of Threads: Weaving a Life of Peace and Purpose in a Chaotic World. James and Ron have a conversation about evangelism, discipleship and the need to get back to the basics in the Christian life.  Find about more about Ron and his ministry at https://www.thereforeproject.com/. Order Threads: Weaving a Life of Peace and Purpose in a Chaotic World on amazon.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

May 1, 2024

In this episode, James sits down with Carmen Joy Imes, an Old Testament scholar and author of Being God's Image: Why Creation Still Matters. They discuss the meaning and significance of the image of God to the life of the church and its members today. To order Being God's Image: Why Creation Still Matters visit https://ivpress.com/. You can use the code IVPPOD20 for 20% off your purchase. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 29, 2024

In this episode, James sits down with co-host Nate Giarratano and special guest Ryan Ries to discuss Ryan's story. Ryan was a pro-skateboarder who gave his life to Christ and began to proclaim the gospel.  For more about Ryan and his ministry go to https://ryan-ries.com/. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 23, 2024

In this episode, James and Nate sit down with Jamie Thomas.  Jamie shares his testimony and how he got involved in skateboarding as a teenager.  Thomas is a world renowned professional skateboarder and entrepreneur. Jamie Thomas was also in Tony hawks video games "Tony Hawk Pro Skater".  Jamie has an amazing perspective and heart for people to really know who Jesus Christ is.     For more info check out his social media @jamiethomas  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 22, 2024

In this episode, James discusses the recent research concerning perceptions of religious influence in the United States. While the report offers many reasons to be hopeful, James encourages Christians to ensure their hope is rooted in Christ and to focus on being prepared to obey regardless of the consequences.  For the full research report visit https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2024/03/15/8-in-10-americans-say-religion-is-losing-influence-in-public-life/ For the article James references in the episode visit https://www.christianity.com/wiki/marriage/what-does-the-bible-say-about-love-and-respect-in-marriage.html Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 19, 2024

In this episode, James and Nate sit down to talk about the origin story Grammy award winning band for King & Country.  Luke Smallbone shares some inside info on the new movie "Unsung Hero" movie coming to theaters April 26th.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 18, 2024

In this episode, James and Nate sit down with the two founding members of Unspoken. Chad Mattson and Jon Lowry talk about their history together, the challenges of Christian music, and the privilege of being involved in ministry. Chad also shares his testimony.  You can find out more about Unspoken at https://www.unspokenmusic.com/. We would also encourage you to check out the ministry Chad mentions in the episode at https://soldiersforfaith.com/. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 16, 2024

In this episode of Thinking Christian, James sits down with Brad Dacus, president of the Pacific Justice Institute. Brad shares his testimony and describes the landscape of legal issues facing Christians in the United States.  You can find the resources noted on the episode at https://pacificjustice.org/resources/for-parents/. Also, check out Brad's radio and television programs at https://mailchi.mp/pji.org/pji-tv-radio.    Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 10, 2024

In this episode, Nate and James host David Zach from Remedy Drive. They discuss the creative process and how there is no realm of the "mundane." David also discusses the bands invovlement with Exodus Road, a human trafficking ministry that helps women and men who are being exploited find freedom from that exploitation and re-enter society.  For more on Remedy Drive and ideas on how to get involved in the fight against human trafficking see https://remedydrive.com/action. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 9, 2024

James sits down with Dr. Gregg Quiggle, author of the forthcoming book titled Bread and Bibles. They discuss Dwight Moody's enduring impact on the world, the characteristics that make him so compelling, and the challenging aspects of his ministry. James and Gregg also talk about the deep connection between proclaiming the gospel and performing works of care for others. To pre-order Dr. Quiggle's book, click here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 5, 2024

In this episode, James and Nate have a very real and transparent conversation about life and what that looks like in comparison to America and Ireland.  It is very easy to see Darren's zeal and heart for the Lord!   For more on Darren and We Are Messengers click here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 4, 2024

It was a pleasure to welcome Shayna Rattler from A God Shift to Thinking Christian. Shayna talks about the trajectory her ministry is taking and how every Christian needs to be listening to and following Christ. She also talks about her ministry with Christian women.  Find out more about Shayna here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 3, 2024

In this episode, James speaks with Dan Biddle, executive producer of The Ark and the Darkness. In addition to discussing the new film, James and Dan consider some of the evidence presented in the film and the plausibility of the biblical account of the worldwide flood. For more on The Ark and the Darkness click here. You can also find out more about Dan's minisry at Genesis Apologetics. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 2, 2024

In this episode, James discusses the convergence of Easter and the Transgender Day of Visibility that occured this March 31st. After clearing some ground about the Bible's teachings about our misdirected desires and actions, as well as what it means to be made in the image of God, James discusses the political messaging that can be a distraction to the Church (both on Easter and beyond).  To read James' opinion piece published by Fox News, click here.  For more of James' thinking on the Church and politics, purchase his new book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness at amazon.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

April 1, 2024

In this episode, James sits down with Chris Worthington.  He is the director of the movie "Multiplied" coming to theaters for two days only.  May 20th and 21st.  In this movie Chris sets out to document what the future of evangelism looks like.  Hear a behind the scenes look at the movie from the director!  Purchase tickets at https://www.multipliedmovie.com/. Follow Multiplied on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/multipliedmovie?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 22, 2024

In this episode, James offers a brief discussion of God and evil. He provides a description of evil as disorder based on Genesis 1-3, as well as considering the role of suffering in the Christian life.  To read more on God and Evil, visit James' article on christianity.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 21, 2024

In this episode, James talks with Jeff King, president of International Christian Concern (persecution.org) and author of a new book titled The Whisper. They discuss some of the lessons Jeff has learned in working with the persecuted church over a number of years, as well as how suffering can conform Christians more closely into the image of Christ.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 20, 2024

In this episode, James speaks with Theresa Sidebotham from Telios Law. They talk about the necessity of caring for the vulnerable in the context of the local church. Theresa shares her thoughts on how spiritual abuse develops within a given congregation and offers helpful tips and resources for those looking to develop stronger policy frameworks for thier local congregations. You can find out more about Telios Law at https://telioslaw.com/. Check out some of the resources mentioned in the show at https://teliosteaches.com/. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 18, 2024

In this episode, James discusses the modern state of Israel. He considers some of the challenges associated with eschatology and encourages Christians (regardless of their views of the end times) to recognize that Israel's conversion is more significant than their political formation as a state.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 15, 2024

In this episode, James and his guest host Richard Beatty sit down with Darryl Strawberry. Darryl shares his testimony, talks about his ministry, and offers insights into the sort of legacy he wants to leave beyond baseball.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 14, 2024

In this episode, James speaks with Jeremy Slayden about Jeremy's research on dispensationalism. Jeremy and James discuss a variety of issues related to biblical eschatology and the modern state of Israel. You can find out more about Jeremy on Instagram. Check out the video referenced in the podcast at rumble.com/c/JSlayUSA. Visit Jeremy's Substack at https://jslayusa.substack.com/p/the-dubious-origins-of-americas-most Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 12, 2024

In this episode, James speaks with Laura Gallier author of the Delusion Series, a set of fictional novels highlighting the spiritual struggles that are too often lost when we consider the issues we face in today's world. James and Laura discuss Laura's story, her new book, and the other ministries with which Laura is involved.  For more information on Laura visit www.lauragallier.com To purchase Laura's book visit amazon.com.    Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 9, 2024

Marching forward requires an understanding of the direction that God wants us to go. In this special episode of “March or Die”, another Christian podcast on the LifeAudio podcast network, Veteran Jeremey Stalnecker will speak on the importance of spending time with God understanding his directions and how we can do that.  If you like what you hear, subscribe to March or Die on Spotify & Apple Podcasts!   Check out the top episodes of March or Die:  A Conversation with Nick Vujicic of Life Without Limbs: Apple:https://apple.co/3uRCsWK  Spotify: https://sptfy.com/Qa1R Understanding and Finding Victory in Spiritual Warfare: Apple:https://apple.co/4383sxV Spotify: https://sptfy.com/Qa22 Developing a Growth Mindset with an Eternal View: Apple: https://apple.co/434y4jw Spotify: https://sptfy.com/Qa24   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 8, 2024

In this episode, James and co-host Nate Giarrantano sit down with Brant Hanson to talk about Brant's life, career, and ministry. In particular, James, Nate, and Brant talk about Brant's work with Cure International, the miracle of God's healing presence today, and the power of Christian participation in the medical field. They also discuss the Followership Conference that Brant has coming up in April. Find out more about Brant and Cure International at the following links: Followership Conference Cure Internation BrantHansen.com Order Brant's New book titled Life is Hard, God is Good, Let's Dance at amazon.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 6, 2024

In this episode, James follows up the interviews with Ayanda Khumalo and Dan Bremnes with a discussion of worship based on his new book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness. You can check out his book on amazon.com.    Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 6, 2024

In this episode Nate Giarrantano and James Spencer sit down with Christian recording artist Dan Bremnes. We discuss Dan's winding road in the music industry and God's ongoing faithfulness.  You can find out more about Dan at https://danbremnes.com/. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 5, 2024

In this episode, James continues his conversation Ayanda Khumalo. Ayanda recently released his album titled In Jesus. He is also getting ready to release his second children's book as a follow-up to Aya and Abba. Ayanda and James continue to discuss Ayanda's music and the reason he decided to write a children's book.  You can find Ayanda's album on iTunes and a variety of other platforms, which can be found at theakmusic.com. Check out Aya and Abba at amazon.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

March 4, 2024

In this episode, James sits down with Ayanda Khumalo who recently released his album titled In Jesus . Ayanda and James discuss Ayanda's approach to worship and the way he thinks about pulling an album together.  You can find Ayanda's album on iTunes and a variety of other platforms, which can be found at theakmusic.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 29, 2024

In this episode, James continues his conversation with Rylee Meek of The King's Council and The King's Council Podcast. James and Rylee discuss Rylee's ministry and how the Chruch might think differently about business and money.  You can find out more about Rylee at www.ryleemeek.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 28, 2024

In this episode, James speaks with Rylee Meek of The King's Council and The King's Council Podcast. James and Rylee discuss Rylee's background and how his faith informs his life, ministry, and understanding of business.  You can find out more about Rylee at www.ryleemeek.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 27, 2024

In this episode, James continues his conversation with Lowell Busenitz. They discuss the ways our mindsets are influenced by the gifts God has given us and how to go about thinking well as Christians.  You can find Soul Work by Lowell Busenitz at amazon.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 26, 2024

In this episode of Thinking Christian, James discusses entrepreneurship with Lowell Busenitz. Lowell completed his dissertation on the mindset of entrepreneurs and the mental models they use. He and James discuss the ways his findings may relate to Christian thinking.  You can find Lowell's book titled Soul Work on amazon.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 20, 2024

In this episode, James continues his conversation with Dr. Bryan Babcock, who contributed an essay on lament in the 2023 book titled A Praying People. James and Bryan discuss the way lament can help build Christian community and the way lament transforms us personally.    Listen to Part 1 on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or LifeAudio.com!  Get A Praying People on amazon.com  Purchase Trajectories: A Gospel-Centered Introduction to Old Testament Theology here.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 19, 2024

In this episode of Thinking Christian, James speaks with Dr. Bryan Babcock. Dr. Babcock contributed an essay on lament in the 2023 book titled A Praying People. He also co-authored Trajectories: A Gospel-Centered Introduction to Old Testament Theology with Drs. James Spencer and Russel Meek in 2018. James and Bryan discuss Bryan's work with various relief efforts and how that has shaped his understanding of lament.  Listen to Part 2 on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or LifeAudio.com!  Get A Praying People on amazon.com  Purchase Trajectories: A Gospel-Centered Introduction to Old Testament Theology here. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 16, 2024

In this episode, James continues his conversation with Beth Runkle, author of Another Move God?. Beth talks about the unique needs of military families and the various ways God's people can reach out to and care for those serving in the armed forces. She also discusses her approach to discipleship through her ministry with CRU. Pre-order Beth's book titled Another Move God?: 30 Encouragements to Embrace Your Life as a Military Wife at amazon.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 15, 2024

In this episode, James sits down with Beth Runkle, author of the forthcoming book Another Move God?. Beth was a military wife for many years and talks about how she learned to focus on God's mission during times of significant transmission. Her book is focused on military wives, but the lessons are broadly applicable to anyone who is undergoing change and seeking to remain faithful to the Lord. Beth's book Another Move God?: 30 Encouragements to Embrace Your Life as a Military Wife is available for pre-order at amazon.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 14, 2024

How can we improve our relationships just by showing love and respect? How have changes in the culture changed the way we relate to one another? In this episode, James continues his conversation with Emerson Eggerichs, author of Love and Respect and president of Love and Respect Ministries, and Emerson offers his perspective on how showing Love and Respect can help us develop stronger relationships.  Listen to Part 1: https://apple.co/42Uh4wA / https://sptfy.com/Q3hH  Get Love and Respect on amazon.com Find more from Dr. Emerson Eggerichs at www.loveandrespect.com   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 13, 2024

In this episode, James sits down with Dr. Emerson Eggerichs, author of Love and Respect and President of Love and Respect Ministries. They discuss Ephesians 5 and the dynamics of love and respect within marriages and in other relationships.    Listen to Part 2: https://apple.co/3SOiKmp / https://sptfy.com/Q3hI  Get Love and Respect on amazon.com Find more from Dr. Emerson Eggerichs at www.loveandrespect.com   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 9, 2024

In this episode, James continues his conversation with Nancy Pearcey, author of The Toxic War on Masculinity. They discuss the ways remote work may be opening up opportunities for men to reestablish a bigger role in the home and a variety of other topics related to Nancy's research.  You can purchase The Toxic War on Masculinity at amazon.com. To learn more about Nancy Pearcey visit:  https://www.nancypearcey.com/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 8, 2024

In this episode, James sits down wit Nancy Pearcey to discuss her new book titled The Toxic War on Masculinity. Nancy shares her research and perspective on the difficulties men are facing, as well as describing some of the odd challenges she faced while writing a book on men.  Listen to Part 1 here. Get Nancy Pearcey's new book at: The Toxic War on Masculinity Learn more about Nancy Pearcey at: https://www.nancypearcey.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 6, 2024

In this episode, James speaks with Dr. May Young who authored a chapter in a book James co-edited titled A Praying People. Dr. Young is an expert on the topic of lament and the book of Lamentations. James and Dr. Young discuss lament more generally and how it can build community in the Church. Get A Praying People on amazon.com    Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 2, 2024

In this episode, James and Alin continue to discuss the role of the Church in the world and how individual Christians can participate in politics.  Part 1: https://apple.co/3UEbsoa / https://sptfy.com/PYSY Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

February 1, 2024

Is the church playing the wrong game? In this episode of Thinking Christian, James sits down with Alin Vrancila to discuss Religion's role in government. They discuss the challenge of maintaining a clear distinction between Church and state while continuing to engage politically.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

January 31, 2024

On this episode, James Spencer sits down with Dan Meers...the KC Wolf. Dan talks about his career with the Chiefs, their hopes for the Super Bowl, and, most importantly, his Christian faith. You can find out more about Dan and his story at danmeers.org. You can also purchase Dan's book Wolves Can't Fly. All proceeds from the sale of Dan's book go to charity. Wolves Can't Fly: KC Wolf: Faith, Family and Fur www.danmeers.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

January 19, 2024

In this episode, James sits down with Alin Vrancila to discuss the recent results of the Iowa Caucus. They discuss how evangelicals might make their political decisions moving forward and offer insights about how to oder our loves as Christians.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

January 18, 2024

In this episode, James Spencer is joined by Alin Vrancila to discuss Christian Nationalism. They continue to examine the Neighborly Faith survey on Christian Nationalism released in December 2023. Having grown up under communism in Romania, Alin brings a unique perspective on the connections between Church and state. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

January 17, 2024

In this episode, James and his guest Alin Vrancila discuss the Neighborly Faith research on Christian Nationalism that came out in December of 2023. They focus on one of the statements with which those identified as Chrisitan Nationalist adherents strongly agreed. The statement concerns the federal government's role in instituting "Christian values." James and Alin discuss the implications of such a statement for the Church, for the meaning of the word "Christian," and highlight the difficulties of the statement for an orthodox understanding of the Bible and theology. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

January 16, 2024

In this episode of Thinking Christian, we kick off a series of talks on Christian Nationalism. Using the Neighborly Faith survey on Christian Nationalism as a jumping off point, we will be discussing the statements that those designated "adherents" of Christian Nationalism strongly agree with and disagree with. The goal is to situate the Church and state within an appropriate theological and biblical perspective.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

January 11, 2024

In this episode James interviews Greg Finke who leads Dwelling 1:14 (www.dwelling114..org). They discuss the incarnation, Jesus's mission, and the way that Christians can offer testimony about God and the gospel in the midst of a broken world.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

January 10, 2024

In this episode of Thinking Christian, guest host Maggie Hubbard continues her conversation with Pam Whitehead. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

January 9, 2024

In this episode of Thinking Christian, our guest host Maggie Hubbard begins the first part of her conversation with Pam Whitehead about her experience with abortion.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

January 9, 2024

This episode is a replay of a conversation between James Spencer and Maggie Hubbard  last year on the changes Canada made to its Medical Assistance in Dying policies.  As we think about the Sanctity of Human Life and the various ways we tend to neglect it, these sorts of policies are important.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

January 5, 2024

In this episode, guest host Maggie Hubbard talks with Brian Doyle from Iron Sharpens Iron. Bryan describes his ministry and talks about the importance of men in the body of Christ. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

January 4, 2024

In this episode, James and Richard discuss the sanctity of human life through the lens of Genesis and various other biblical passages.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

January 1, 2024

In this episode, James and Richard talk about church membership, why it’s important, and some of the factors that may lead people away from participating in a local congregation.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 26, 2023

In this episode, Dr. James Spencer and Richard Beattie discuss the issue of God and change. The address issues related to God and time and the way that learning suggests a deficiency in God's knowledge. They also talk about the various times God appears to change his mind and the way conditional and unconditional decisions play into the portrayal of God, particularly in the Old Testament. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 25, 2023

In this episode, Dr. James Spencer reads the Christmas Story from the Gospel of Luke followed by a few thoughts on Luke’s narrative and the way God brings all things together. James and Richard Beattie also discuss joy and Christmas.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 22, 2023

In this episode, James and Richard discuss the state of higher education through the lens of the recent challenges at Harvard, MIT, and the University of Pennsylvania. Having served as an administrator in higher education for more than a decade and as a higher education consultant, James talks about the difficulties associated with changing institutions, the dangers of scapegoating, and various other concerns related to the state of higher education.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 20, 2023

In this episode, Dr. James Spencer discusses the virgin birth and Matthew's use of Isaiah 7:14. Beginning with an analysis of the Isaiah 7:14 in its Old Testament context, Dr. Spencer moves on to consider various issues of interpretation before describing how Matthew uses Isaiah 7:14 to point to the virgin birth of Jesus Christ.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 19, 2023

James and Richard sit down and discuss the results of the State of Theology Report. In this episode, they consider the statement: "God accepts the worship of all religions, including Christianity, Judaism, and Isalam." 56% of U.S. Evangelical respondents agreed with the statement in the 2022 report. Is the statement supported biblically? Find out in today's episode of Thinking Christian. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 18, 2023

In this episode, James and Richard discuss New Year's Resolutions. They discuss various topics based on James' background as a personal trainer and offer tips about when to start a New Year's resolution, what sort of strategy to take as one sets a New Year's resolution, and how to make realistic resolutions.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 15, 2023

In this episode, James sits down with Craig Hendrickson who is the new President of Arrow Leadership. They discuss the use of the Bible and, in particular, Jesus's life as portrayed in the gospels to encourage Christian leaders.    You can find out more about Arrow Leadership at: https://www.arrowleadership.org/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 13, 2023

Pornography is a problem. No matter how you slice it, the widespread accessibility of pornography is impacting our society. In this episode, James sits down with Sathiya Sam of Deep Clean to talk about the challenges associated with pornography and how his ministry helps individuals break their porn addictions.  You can see more about Sathiya's minstry at https://www.sathiyasam.com/. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 12, 2023

In this episode of Thinking Christian, guest host Maggie Hubbard interviews Joshua Broome. Joshua is an ex-porn star who came to faith in Jesus Christ and became a pastor. They discuss his experience in the pornography industry and his new life in Jesus Christ. Need help overcoming a porn addiction? Listen to our interview with Sathiya Sam, the founder of DeepClean Coaching: https://apple.co/3UH6fMe / https://sptfy.com/Q3i3    Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 11, 2023

Honesty, humility and a sense of humor are what makes Stephen Mcwhirter's story so inviting.  In this episode, Stephen, James, and guest co-host Nate Giarrantano discuss Stephen's story, what its like to be a worship leader, and the power of social media to proclaim the gospel. "Come, Jesus Come" a perfect song for Advent and every season.  You can find out more about Stephen at worshipjesus.life. If you are interested in learning more about the gospel, check out "The Uncomplicated Gospel" course at usefultogod.com. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 8, 2023

Russell Meek is an Old Testament Scholar and author of Ecclesiastes and the Search for Meaning in an Upside-Down World. He and Dr. James Spencer discuss the book of Ecclesiastes, how it relates to the broader patterns of the Old Testament and why Ecclesiastes is a hopeful book that every Christian should be reading. It is a great discussion of one of the more difficult books in the bible.  Purchase Ecclesiastes and the Search for Meaning in an Upside-Down World at amazon.com. Check out Trajectories: A Gospel-Centered Introduction to Old Testament Theology co-authored by James Spencer, Russ Meek, and Bryan C. Babcock at amazon.com. You can find more from Russ Meek at www.russmeek.com.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 7, 2023

James and guest host Nate Giarranto sit down with Michael McDowell to discuss his testimony, his career in NASCAR, and how he lives out his faith today. Michael McDowell won the Dayton 500 in 2021 and appeared in the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs in 2023. He also won Brickyard 200 in 2023. Most importantly, McDowell is a follow of Christ and outspoken Christian athlete. You can find out more about Michael McDowell at mmcdowell.com and on his various social media sites. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 6, 2023

In this episode, James sits down with Lee Humerian, a missionary with Josiah Ventures serving in Ukraine. They discuss the current situation in Ukraine and the opportunities the church has to serve in the context of war. We don't talk politics. We just talk about how God works through a people who love him and love others.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 5, 2023

In this episode of Thinking Christian, we tackle the issue of "cancel culture." We consider the dangers of cheap participation and the limitations of social media advocacy. We also offer tips on how to think Chrisitan about the way we interact with the world as we seek to be witnesses for Jesus Christ. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

December 4, 2023

What does it mean to be a praying people? How do Tolkien's writings relate to prayer? On this episode of Thinking Christian, James Spencer and Ashish Varma dive into Ashish's essay titled "A Home Among the Trees: Prayer from the Heart of the Earth," which was published in A Praying People, a new book that James and Ashish co-edited. They also discuss some of the work he is doing with Princeton Theololigcal Seminary's Center for Asian American Christianity.   A Praying People: Essays Inspired by Dwight L. Moody is available on amazon.com. https://www.amazon.com/Praying-People-Essays-Inspired-Dwight/dp/1666765694 Read more from Ashish Varma at: https://caac.ptsem.edu/even-in-the-dark-reflections-on-diwali-and-the-stars-in-the-sky/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

November 29, 2023

The question of anxiety and fear today runs rampant. How do I let the world's stories capture reality and hinder my walk? What can we embrace and what should we resist? Dr. James Spencer and Richard Beattie discuss. Follow Thinking Christian on Apple Podcasts & Spotify for more!    Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

November 28, 2023

What can sound louder than bullets and tanks, louder than machine guns and entire villages being burned to the ground? What can last longer than scars on someone’s face or heart? What can change a human heart that is determined to do wrong and what can end a conflict that is embedded in a culture? We believe it is an act of mercy. We believe it is a sack of grain that has in it more than grain. It carries a message of humanity, love, hope, dignity, consideration, respect, compassion. It is a simple act of mercy that can sound louder than bullets. Apostle Paul once said: “To the contrary, if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink… Do not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

November 27, 2023

Like in so many American Holidays- Gratitude is often regulated to weeks before, and gets reduced to a thing called, "Turkey Day." If we were to really think Christian about it- we would probably give thanks- on a daily basis- if we really think about it!  Dr. James Spencer had a little time recently to be thankful for a technical dilemma he found himself in - when travelling through Germany. We call this episode- Grateful Beyond Thanksgiving!  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

November 22, 2023

James offers some insights into thankfulness from the book of Deuteronomy and the history of Israel. He then has a brief time of prayer to help Christians cultivate a heart of gratitude.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

November 17, 2023

This episode continues the conversation with Dr. Gregg Quiggle about Dwight Moody's enduring significance. We discuss Dwight Moody's "secret sauce" and the way God used him to reach the world.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

November 13, 2023

In this episode, James has a discussion with Dr. Gregg Quiggle. Dr. Quiggle is a D. L. Moody expert who contributed to A Praying People, a new book edited by James Spencer and Ashish Varma. He and James talk about who Dwight Moody was and how his life may inform the lives of modern-day Christians.  Dr. Quiggle, who is also an expert in the Protestant Reformation, also discusses an opportunity to travel abroad this December to learn about the Reformation. You can email him at ranch812@hotmail.com.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

November 1, 2023

In this episode, James Spencer is joined by Alin Vrancila to discuss the Transhumanist Declaration from a biblical and theological perspective.  They consider the problems with pursuing immortality through human means and discuss the changing landscape of technology. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 30, 2023

Another useful conversation about Halloween and seasons. Dr. James Spencer and producer Richard Beattie have a thoughtful conversation about who this season is for and what are ways to mark the change of seasons in a productive way.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 27, 2023

Dr. James Spencer and producer/journalist, Richard Beattie, talk about Halloween and the globalization of seasons, consumerism, and regionalism.  This came from an Op-ed that James wrote in 2022 for Halloween.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 26, 2023

What it means to be human--If you look at history it could be "to err," or to "empathetic," or sympathetic. Can your computer be human? And with that can we become less human if artificial intelligence overtakes us. Wait! Can AI overtake us? Dr. James Spencer and producer Richard Beattie have a conversation or a brainstorm on human nature as well as dehumanization. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 26, 2023

This is a special podcast with skateboarding pro, Josh Harmony. Dr. James Spencer and Nate Giarratano take us on a journey with Josh that has had its share of bumps and bruises! This is a two-part story. Remember: Wear a helmet.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 25, 2023

Dr. James Spencer makes the connection between dehumanization in the latest push towards AI with slavery, human trafficking and what we are becoming. This is one conversation that is useful and helpful in reaching an understanding on how to be "Thinking Christian."  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 24, 2023

Are you someone who takes time to think and process, rather than rushing to make decisions? In a world filled with distractions, being able to consciously determine how you're going to spend your time, who you're going to spend it with, and why you're going to do certain things is a gift. In this episode, Dr. James Spencer and Richard Arnold Beattie have a thoughtful conversation on Christian resistance and what it means in time and space.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 20, 2023

Here is the second part of the discussion between Dr. James Spencer and John Van Sloten on the connection between creation, arts and science. A good way to end the first week of "Thinking Christian."    Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 19, 2023

Is there a link to Scientific Method and Creative Process? On Jamesgspencer.com, we discuss the link with John Van Sloten on Think Radio, the artist once known as Talk Radio begins "thoughtful and useful conversations!" The new book by pastor and author John Van Sloten explores the connection to creation, the creator and science.  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 18, 2023

What if artificial intelligence (AI) is allowing us to reward our own bad behavior?  At what point is the need for the sort of efficiency AI promises to provide driven by our skewed priorities, broken systems, and unwillingness to address our problems through non-technological means?  I don’t doubt that AI will help humans move beyond where we could go individually or together in certain arenas.  Like other technological platforms, AI will have benefits.  As we look at the various ways AI models are being used, we need to consider in a robust fashion who is benefiting from these new technologies and, perhaps more importantly, how they are benefiting.   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 17, 2023

Welcome to Thinking Christian, an audio podcast with Dr. James Spencer and Richard Arnold Beattie. This week, we interview Ed Vigatalino from American Family about a new interactive AI-Jesus. Then, James Spencer speaks to Shayna Rattler, an executive coach, about purpose and "The God Shift." Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

October 15, 2023

Christians shouldn’t just think. They should think Christian. Join Dr. James Spencer and guests for calm, thoughtful, theological discussions about a variety of topics Christians face every day. The Thinking Christian Podcast will help you grow spiritually and learn theology as you seek to be faithful in a world that is becoming increasingly proficient at telling stories that deny Christ. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.