Episodios

  • Managing holiday loneliness, controversial cloning, and the spiritual revival of Millennials and Gen Z

    Managing holiday loneliness, controversial cloning, and the spiritual revival of Millennials and Gen Z
    Dec 3 2025
    Dr. Mark Turman gathers with Josh Miller and Conner Jones for a heartfelt roundtable on some of the cultural and spiritual tensions many of us feel this time of year. Together, they reflect on the quiet ache of holiday loneliness, the pressure that often shadows our celebrations, and why intentional, grace-filled connection matters more than ever.The conversation also widens to consider the ethical questions surrounding cloning—what it means for human dignity, and how Christians can respond with both conviction and compassion. And in a hopeful turn, they look at the surprising spiritual momentum among younger generations, from increased Bible engagement to renewed interest in the church among Millennials and Gen Z.It’s a gentle, honest, and encouraging dialogue—one that offers clarity for the holidays, wisdom for navigating complex issues, and a reminder that God is at work in places we might not expect.Topics(00:00): Introduction(01:18): Favorite Christmas memories and traditions(04:12): Discussing holiday loneliness(06:25): The impact of loneliness on health(15:14): Practical steps to combat loneliness(20:32): Cloning and genetic engineering(28:01): Genetic testing and ethical dilemmas(31:55): The sanctity of life and genetic manipulation(36:23): The future of gene editing(37:49): Spiritual reflections on genetic engineering(38:50): Cultural shifts in holiday celebrations(44:02): Rising church attendance among younger generations(54:19): Encouraging faith and community engagementResourcesAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgHow has Denison Forum impacted your faith?Year-End GivingWhy are so many young people struggling to find hope—and how can we help?Why are teens sadder, lonelier, and more depressed than ever before?If you’re suffering from the “friendship recession,” you’re not alone“My closest friend is a fish”: Responding to the loneliness and anxiety of our dayWhy is loneliness as dangerous as smoking?How the church can solve "touch-starvation": An excerpt from "Digital Church in a Lonely World" by Benjamin WindleTom Brady Cloned His Dog. Here's How Much it Cost — and How to Do It YourselfGenetically Engineered Babies Are Banned. Tech Titans Are Trying to Make One Anyway. - WSJA ‘generational reversal’ is underway: Gen Z and millennials are now the most church-going groups, study findsA ‘generational reversal’ is underway: Gen Z and millennials are now the most church-going groups, study findsWhat true revival looks likeSomething Is Stirring in Christian America, and It’s Making Me Nervous - The New York TimesAbout Josh MillerJosh Miller is the Chief of Staff and Chief Strategy Officer at Denison Ministries. He is also a disciple of Jesus, husband, and father. A Christian leader, author, and songwriter, Josh brings over 20 years of ministry experience—from global worship tours to pastoral leadership. He lives in Plano, Texas with his wife and two sons, fueled by faith, craft coffee, and a love for tacos.About Conner JonesConner Jones is the Director of Performance Marketing at Denison Ministries and Co-Hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2019 with a degree in Business Management. Conner passionately follows politics, sports, pop-culture, entertainment, and current events. He enjoys fishing, movie-going, and traveling the world with his wife and son.About Dr. Mark TurmanMark Turman, DMin, serves as the Executive Director of Denison Forum, where he leads with a passion for equipping believers to navigate today’s complex culture with biblical truth. He is best known as the host of The Denison Forum Podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom Chapel, the in-person congregation of Denison Ministries.Dr. Turman is the coauthor of Sacred Sexuality: Reclaiming God’s Design and Who Am I? What the Bible Says About Identity and Why it Matters. He earned his undergraduate degree from Howard Payne University in Brownwood, Texas, and received his Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He later completed his Doctor of Ministry at George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University in Waco.Before joining Denison Forum, Mark served as a pastor for 35 years, including 25 years as the founding pastor of Crosspoint Church in McKinney, Texas.Mark and his high school sweetheart, Judi, married in 1986. They are proud parents of two adult children and grandparents to three grandchildren.About Denison ForumDenison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, the Faith & Clarity podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
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    1 h
  • Navigating faith and political discussions with Gen Z

    Navigating faith and political discussions with Gen Z
    Nov 26 2025
    Dr. Mark Turman discusses the dynamics of intergenerational discussions with Mark Jones, Micah Tomasella, and Conner Jones, focusing on topics such as politics and faith. They share insights on meaningfully engaging younger generations, especially Gen Z, who are characterized by their spiritual curiosity and unique perspectives shaped by technology and social media. Their discussion emphasizes the importance of relationship-building over political debates, encouraging listeners to approach family gatherings with openness, prayerfulness, and a focus on understanding rather than confrontation.Topics(03:05): Understanding generational differences(06:00): The role of technology in shaping generations(08:52): Engaging college students in spiritual conversations(11:47): The importance of evangelism on college campuses(15:08): Navigating political discussions at family gatherings(17:58): Trends in spiritual curiosity among Gen Z(20:54): The impact of social media on beliefs(23:59): Preparing for Thanksgiving conversations(27:01): The need for evangelism in Christian colleges(30:04): Addressing skepticism and cynicism in young adults(32:58): Advice for college students at family gatherings(36:04): Choosing relationships over politics(38:57): Navigating complex conversations with family(42:03): The role of faith in political discussions(45:05): Finding hope amidst cultural challenges(48:0):5 Final thoughts on generational engagementResourcesEpisode Transcript (PDF)Preparing for your first voteElection 2024: Discern politics differentlyFirst15 Guided PrayersPeace in Politics PodcastPeace in Politics E-Book“What does the Bible say about politics?”The After Party: Toward Better Christian Politics - Redeeming BabelMy Faith VotesAbout Conner JonesConner Jones is the Director of Performance Marketing at Denison Ministries and Co-Hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2019 with a degree in Business Management. Conner passionately follows politics, sports, pop-culture, entertainment, and current events. He enjoys fishing, movie-going, and traveling the world with his wife and son.About Micah TomasellaMicah Tomasella is the Director of Advancement at Denison Ministries and co-hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. A graduate of Dallas Baptist University, Micah is married to Emily, and together they are the proud parents of two daughters. With an extensive background in nonprofit work, finance, and real estate, Micah also brings experience from his years in pastoral church ministry.About Mark JonesMark Jones is the State Director for Texas Baptist Student Ministry (BSM). He has served with BSM for 27 years, including 21 years in Tyler, working with Tyler Junior College and UT Tyler. Mark grew up in San Antonio and came to Christ through a campus-based high school ministry (Youth for Christ / Campus Life). He attended Baylor University (BA in English & Religion) and sensed a call to full-time ministry. Mark continued his education at both Southwestern Seminary (M.Div) and Samford University / Beeson Divinity School (D.Min). It was at Baylor that he met his wife, Becky. They enjoy time with their children and grandchildren, all Baylor sports, and finding great pizza places in Dallas.About Dr. Mark TurmanMark Turman, DMin, serves as the Executive Director of Denison Forum, where he leads with a passion for equipping believers to navigate today’s complex culture with biblical truth. He is best known as the host of The Denison Forum Podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom Chapel, the in-person congregation of Denison Ministries.Dr. Turman is the coauthor of Sacred Sexuality: Reclaiming God’s Design and Who Am I? What the Bible Says About Identity and Why it Matters. He earned his undergraduate degree from Howard Payne University in Brownwood, Texas, and received his Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He later completed his Doctor of Ministry at George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University in Waco.Before joining Denison Forum, Mark served as a pastor for 35 years, including 25 years as the founding pastor of Crosspoint Church in McKinney, Texas.Mark and his high school sweetheart, Judi, married in 1986. They are proud parents of two adult children and grandparents to three grandchildren.About Denison ForumDenison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, the Faith & Clarity podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
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    1 h y 4 m
  • Why are so many young people struggling to find hope—and how can we help?

    Why are so many young people struggling to find hope—and how can we help?
    Nov 19 2025
    In this episode of Faith & Clarity, host Mark Turman welcomes Tim Altman, President and CEO of TheHopeLine, for a heartfelt and timely conversation about the growing need for hope among today’s young people—especially during the holiday season.Tim shares how TheHopeLine, a 24/7 online ministry, is meeting students and young adults right where they are—offering free, compassionate support through live chat to those struggling with loneliness, anxiety, and crisis. He and Mark talk about the realities facing this generation, from the isolating effects of social media to the rise in mental health challenges that leave many searching for purpose and belonging.Drawing from TheHopeLine’s LEAP model—Listen, Encourage, Advise, and Plan/Pray—Tim explains how hope coaches are trained to provide both practical guidance and spiritual care in real time. He also offers insight into how parents can best love and support their teens, and what families can do to bring light into what can be a difficult season for many.Together, Mark and Tim reflect on the deep spiritual hunger behind the headlines and the remarkable ways God is working through everyday conversations of care and faith. It’s a reminder that hope is not abstract—it’s alive, active, and available in Christ, even in our darkest moments.Topics(00:00): Introduction(01:17): Introducing Tim Altman and TheHopeLine(03:12): Defining hope and its importance(04:11): The rising tide of anxiety among youth(06:24): The impact of social media on isolation(09:52): TheHopeLine's mission and history(14:40): Transition to internet-based support(19:07): The LEAP approach to counseling(22:52): Parental support and love(25:30): Hope coaches and internships(29:13): Future goals and vision(34:34): Funding and donor support(38:23): Holiday advice for families(41:17): ConclusionResourcesAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgHow has Denison Forum impacted your faith?TheHopeLineFacebook: TheHopeLineTheHopeLine (@thehopeline) • Instagram photos and videosTheHopeLine (@thehopeline) / Posts / XTikTok: TheHopeLine.com Tim Altman on LinkedInWhat does the Bible say about suicide? • Denison ForumHaving suicidal thoughts? Call or text 988Why are teens sadder, lonelier, and more depressed than ever before?To stop suicide every 40 seconds: Jacob Coyne with StayHere.liveHow to help prevent suicide and aiding survivors: A conversation with John Mark CatonHow to navigate suicide, self-harm, depression, and emotions with preteens and teens: A conversation with Jeff and Terra MattsonHow can Christians navigate anxiety and negative thoughts?How can understanding the mind-body-spirit connection improve mental health struggles?About Tim AltmanIn 1986, after 7 years in local Christian radio and video production in Denver, Colorado, Tim joined the Dawson McAllister Association (DMA). In January 1991, he helped launch and produce Dawson McAllister Live!, a syndicated call-in talk radio program for students 21 and younger. Later that same year, The HopeLine was launched as a back-end to the radio show. It began as a part-time toll-free phone connection for young people needing to connect with a caring adult volunteer. In 1994, the show was awarded Talk Show of the Year by the National Christian Broadcasters. In 1996, Tim became the Senior Vice President of Programming.In 2000, he left to work with academia as a media consultant and producer in the development of interactive web-based curriculum, but returned to DMA in 2006 as CEO. This corresponded with a new Top 40 version of Dawson’s call-in show that became syndicated nationwide through then Clear Channel, now iHeart Radio.This large radio platform led to major growth for TheHopeline, eventually taking on a life of its own. With Dawson’s blessing, the ministry officially changed its name to TheHopeLine in 2019. Tim has a BBS in Pastoral Theology from Colorado Christian University. He has been married to Janice for 52 years, and they have the kids and grandkids to prove it.About Dr. Mark TurmanMark Turman, DMin, serves as the Executive Director of Denison Forum, where he leads with a passion for equipping believers to navigate today’s complex culture with biblical truth. He is best known as the host of The Denison Forum Podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom Chapel, the in-person congregation of Denison Ministries.Dr. Turman is the coauthor of Sacred Sexuality: Reclaiming God’s Design and Who Am I? What the Bible Says About Identity and Why it Matters. He earned his undergraduate degree from Howard Payne University in Brownwood, Texas, and received his Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He later completed his Doctor of Ministry at George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University in Waco.Before joining Denison Forum, Mark served as a pastor for 35 years, including 25 years as the founding pastor of Crosspoint Church in McKinney, Texas.Mark and his high ...
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    44 m
  • What can we learn from Africa’s growing church amid trial and persecution?

    What can we learn from Africa’s growing church amid trial and persecution?
    Nov 12 2025
    In this episode of Faith & Clarity, host Mark Turman sits down with Dr. Louis Blom, president of Judea Harvest, for an inspiring conversation about how God is moving across the continent of Africa.Dr. Blom shares his remarkable journey of faith—from growing up under apartheid in South Africa to leading a movement that has planted thousands of churches and trained countless pastors and evangelists. Through creative ministry tools, such as tent churches and solar-powered audio Bibles, Judea Harvest is helping to bring the gospel to some of the most remote and unreached communities in the world.Together, Mark and Louis reflect on the spiritual landscape of Africa, where persecution and poverty often meet profound revival and resilience. They explore how digital innovation, local leadership, and global collaboration are shaping the future of evangelism—and what the Western church can learn from Africa’s deep faith and dependence on God.It’s a conversation that reminds us that the Great Commission is still unfolding today, and that God’s Spirit is powerfully at work in every corner of the world.Topics(0:00): Welcome to the Faith & Clarity podcast(01:04): Introducing Dr. Louis Blom and Judea Harvest(03:03): Dr. Blom's journey to faith(06:49): Experiencing apartheid in South Africa(14:47): The Great Commission and global evangelism(21:55): Understanding Africa's spiritual landscape(24:58): Persecution and conflict in Nigeria and Mozambique(26:37): Economic and religious motivations behind conflicts(29:20): Spiritual landscape and revival in Africa(33:10): Judea Harvest's church planting strategies(36:21): Innovative tools for ministry in West Africa(41:32): Future plans and how to support Judea HarvestResourcesAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgHow has Denison Forum impacted your faith?Judea HarvestYouTube: Judea Harvest2024 Judea Harvest Annual ReportIs Nigeria committing genocide against Christians? - Denison ForumTariffs on trial, Nigerian Christian persecution, Dick Cheney, Mamdani and Dems win big & NFL trades | Ep. 44 - Culture Brief PodcastNigeria is becoming a “mass grave” for Christians - Denison ForumAbout Dr. Louis BlomDr. Louis Blom, a visionary South African minister and global evangelist, has devoted over three decades to igniting a continent-wide revival through church planting, pastoral training, and holistic community development. As President and Co-Founder of Judea Harvest, an international Christian nonprofit, Blom has spearheaded the establishment of more than 35,000 churches across 40 African nations since 1999, transforming remote villages into beacons of faith and hope. His passion for the “Great Commission” has mobilized thousands of believers, earning him recognition as a key figure in modern missions.Born and raised in South Africa, Blom’s early path blended technical precision with spiritual calling. He completed engineering studies in Industrial Electronics and Instrumentation, attaining National Technical Qualification, before a profound sense of divine purpose redirected his trajectory. In 1991, he graduated from Auckland Park Theological Seminary, equipping him for pastoral ministry. Blom’s initial decade in service was spent pastoring two congregations in Kempton Park under the Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) of South Africa, where he honed his skills in local church leadership and community outreach. In April 1999, Blom co-founded Judea Harvest alongside Pastor Hansie Henning, responding to Africa’s urgent spiritual needs. What began as a modest initiative has burgeoned into a multifaceted movement, emphasizing rapid church multiplication through “John’s Journey” evangelism—a simple, replicable model inspired by the Apostle John’s relational witness. Blom’s academic pursuits amplified this work: he earned an Honours Degree in 2001 and a Master’s in 2004 from the University of Johannesburg (UJ), exploring African cultural contexts and gospel integration. His 2009 Doctorate (DLitt et Phil) in Missiology focused on tailored evangelism strategies for the continent, directly informing Judea Harvest’s scalable approaches. Over the years, he has preached and trained leaders in more than 30 nations, fostering partnerships that extend beyond Africa to Europe and North America.Recognizing evangelism’s interconnectedness with social justice, Blom launched Judea Hope in 2006, addressing HIV/AIDS, poverty, corruption, and education gaps. This arm supports 1,300 child care centres—often makeshift tents in churches—providing meals, schooling, and care for vulnerable orphans, breaking cycles of despair in war-torn and impoverished regions. In 2013, he established Judea Training to equip over a million untrained African pastors, offering practical theology and leadership development to sustain church growth. Blom’s influence extends to authorship; his 2020 eBook, Sharing Jesus: Evangelism – John’s Journey Style, distills decades of ...
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    48 m
  • How can Christians respond to persecution and defend religious freedom?

    How can Christians respond to persecution and defend religious freedom?
    Nov 5 2025
    In this episode of Faith & Clarity, host Mark Turman welcomes Wissam al-Saliby, president of 21Wilberforce, for a rich conversation about God’s heart for religious freedom and the hope that drives advocacy around the world.Wissam shares his story of faith and calling, shaped by his years in Lebanon and his work at the United Nations in Geneva with the World Evangelical Alliance, where he championed the cause of 600 million evangelical Christians. From training national alliances in religious freedom to equipping leaders across the Middle East in human rights and humanitarian law, Wissam has seen firsthand both the suffering and the steadfast courage of those who follow Christ under pressure.Together, Mark and Wissam explore how defending freedom of belief is part of God’s greater mission in the world, the biblical vision that grounds that work, and the practical ways churches and individuals can respond. It’s a conversation that invites us to see advocacy not as politics, but as a reflection of God’s love for every person made in his image.Topics(00:00): Introduction(00:37): Reflecting on American history and religious freedom(02:40): Introducing Wissam al-Saliby (04:50): Wissam's faith journey and career path(09:52): The mission of 21Wilberforce(13:27): Biblical inspiration and real-world challenges(21:12): Stories of persecution and advocacy(27:19): Theological foundations of religious freedom(28:30): Challenges and complexities in religious persecution(32:54): Global advocacy and local empowerment(38:19): Hotspots and lesser-known areas of persecution(44:58): Call to action for churches and believers(47:52): Conclusion and ways to get involvedResourcesAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgHow has Denison Forum impacted your faith?21WilberforceWhy Supporting Religious Freedom is Part of God's Global Mission - 21WilberforceWorld Evangelical AllianceThe Voice of the MartyrsOpen DoorsFirst Liberty InstituteWhy is religious freedom necessary? “Liberty for All” offers answers - Denison ForumWhat does the Bible say about religious liberty? - Denison ForumKen Starr's "Religious Liberty in Crisis" is an indispensable guide to defending religious freedom - Denison ForumGlobal persecution of Christians continues to rise - Denison ForumWhen I'm attacked for being a Christian, how should I respond? - Denison ForumAre Christians the most persecuted faith on earth? - Denison Forum"Free to believe" is for everyone: A conversation with Randel Everett of the 21st Century Wilberforce Initiative - Denison ForumAbout Wissam al-SalibyPrior to his appointment as President of 21Wilberforce, Wissam al-Saliby was the Advocacy Officer and then the Director of the United Nations Office in Geneva, Switzerland for the World Evangelical Alliance, a network of 140 national alliances representing 600 million evangelical Christians. Under his leadership, the Geneva Office has engaged the United Nations in direct advocacy in approximately 20 country situations each year. Al-Saliby has also pioneered new efforts to help national alliances strengthen their religious freedom training and empower them as religious freedom leaders.Before his work engaging with the United Nations, al-Saliby served as the Development and Partner Relations Manager at the Arab Baptist Theological Seminary (ABTS). In his role as Manager of Development and Partnership Relations at ABTS, al-Saliby was a member of the leadership team that set the vision of the seminary and helped shape its ministry. In addition to nurturing and cultivating existing relationships, he identified and built new relationships with churches, foundations, and individuals in the United States, Europe, and the Arab World.Al-Saliby previously co-founded and managed the Summer School on Law and Armed Conflict in Lebanon. He has also served as the National Coordinator and Lead Trainer for Geneva Call in Humanitarian Law and Human Rights and traveled across the Middle East region for seven years training numerous multi-faith religious leaders, civil society groups, armed groups, and political parties in strengthening human rights and the protection of civilians in armed conflict.Al-Saliby graduated from Lebanese University with a bachelor’s degree in law and then earned from the Université Paul Cézanne, France a master’s degree in international law with a specialization in Protection and Human Security.About Dr. Mark TurmanMark Turman, DMin, serves as the Executive Director of Denison Forum, where he leads with a passion for equipping believers to navigate today’s complex culture with biblical truth. He is best known as the host of The Denison Forum Podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom Chapel, the in-person congregation of Denison Ministries.Dr. Turman is the coauthor of Sacred Sexuality: Reclaiming God’s Design and Who Am I? What the Bible Says About Identity and Why it Matters. He earned his undergraduate degree from Howard Payne University in Brownwood, ...
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    51 m
  • How can Christians navigate anxiety and negative thoughts?

    How can Christians navigate anxiety and negative thoughts?
    Oct 29 2025
    In this episode of Faith & Clarity, Mark Turman sits down with author Chris Morris for an honest and deeply hopeful conversation about mental health and faith. Chris shares his personal story of walking through mental illness—and how God met him in the midst of despair after a suicide attempt. Together, they unpack common misconceptions Christians often have about mental health, the value of therapy and medication, and practical ways to quiet anxious thoughts. They also reflect on the gift of humor, community, and long-term relationships rooted in grace and truth. Whether you’re navigating your own struggles or supporting someone you love, this conversation offers gentle wisdom and a reminder that God’s presence meets us even in the darkest places.Topics(01:27): Introducing Chris Morris(04:58): Understanding mental health myths(06:56): Holistic approach to mental health(10:22): The role of medication(17:16): Chris Morris' faith journey(23:08): Taking every thought captive(30:40): Self-reflection and preparation(31:42): The role of humor in mental health(34:53): Mental health and sin: Untangling the connection(35:58): Understanding anxiety in biblical context(44:08): Finding the right counselor(50:27): Supporting long-term mental health struggles(55:23): Encouragement for those strugglingResourcesAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgHow has Denison Forum impacted your faith?Chris Morris SpeaksChris Morris (@chrismorriswrites) • Instagram photos and videosChris Morris WritesResilient and Redeemed: Lessons about Suicidality and Depression from the Psych WardTrekking Toward Tenacity: Your Family’s Roadmap to Stronger Mental HealthBy Faith: Strength and Hope for Life’s ChallengesPerfectly Abnormal: Uncovering the Image of God in Chronic IllnessWhispers in the Pews: Voices on Mental Health Illness in the ChurchAbout Chris MorrisIn 2020, Chris Morris experienced a life-changing encounter with God that transformed his struggle with mental health. After a suicide attempt, Chris heard God’s radical message: “I still love you,” which gave him the strength to rebuild his life. Today, Chris is a passionate author, speaker, and ministry leader, helping others navigate mental health challenges through faith and therapeutic tools. He leads a mental health ministry at his church, which launched with 70 attendees on its first night— reflecting the deep need for safe spaces to discuss mental health and spirituality. Chris has authored three books on the intersection of faith and mental health, sharing his personal journey and spiritual insights. As a graduate of Northern Seminary, Chris is able to process deep theological concerns with creativity and faith. A sought-after speaker, he regularly presents at national conferences, including the Disability and the Church conference. With humor and authenticity, Chris makes tough conversations easier, encouraging others on their own paths to healing and hope. One thing Chris has learned along the way? It’s important to laugh at yourself. He’s a six-foot-seven guy who’s terrified of heights (ridiculous, right?), so he doesn't take himself too seriously. Life’s tough enough as it is, and bringing humor and authenticity to hard conversations always makes them a little bit easier to navigate.About Dr. Mark TurmanMark Turman, DMin, serves as the Executive Director of Denison Forum, where he leads with a passion for equipping believers to navigate today’s complex culture with biblical truth. He is best known as the host of The Denison Forum Podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom Chapel, the in-person congregation of Denison Ministries.Dr. Turman is the coauthor of Sacred Sexuality: Reclaiming God’s Design and Who Am I? What the Bible Says About Identity and Why it Matters. He earned his undergraduate degree from Howard Payne University in Brownwood, Texas, and received his Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He later completed his Doctor of Ministry at George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University in Waco.Before joining Denison Forum, Mark served as a pastor for 35 years, including 25 years as the founding pastor of Crosspoint Church in McKinney, Texas.Mark and his high school sweetheart, Judi, married in 1986. They are proud parents of two adult children and grandparents to three grandchildren.About Denison ForumDenison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, the Faith & Clarity podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
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    1 h
  • What is cultural apologetics and why is it critical for today’s culture?

    What is cultural apologetics and why is it critical for today’s culture?
    Oct 22 2025
    In this episode of Faith & Clarity, Mark Turman sits down with Skyler Flowers, Program Director for The Carson Center for Theological Renewal, to talk about what it really means to practice cultural apologetics. Skyler, who also serves as an elder at Grace Bible Church and is pursuing his PhD in Systematic Theology, shares how faith and culture intersect in the everyday questions people are asking about identity, technology, politics, and more.Together, they reflect on voices like Augustine, C.S. Lewis, and Tim Keller, exploring how story, imagination, and truth work together to help people see the beauty and reasonableness of Christianity in our modern world. It’s a thoughtful, hopeful conversation about helping others understand—not just what Christians believe—but why those beliefs make sense and bring life in a shifting culture.Topics(01:44): Introducing Skyler Flowers(03:04): Skyler's journey of faith(06:58): The Gospel After Christendom(12:56): Defining cultural apologetics(19:44): Tim Keller's influence and legacy(26:03): Paul's approach in Athens(30:37): The role of the Holy Spirit(33:13): Good, true, and beautiful(37:34): Historical anchoring of cultural apologetics(43:52): The power of storytelling(46:19): Current cultural shifts and opportunities(50:51): Conclusion and resourcesResourcesAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgHow has Denison Forum impacted your faith?The Keller Center for Cultural ApologeticsThe Gospel CoalitionThe Gospel After Christendom: An Introduction to Cultural ApologeticsThe rise of a post-truth culture - Denison ForumApologetics for Gen Z: A conversation with Dark Room’s Mary Jo SharpWhy are some atheists becoming Christians? - Denison ForumAbout Skyler R. FlowersSkyler Flowers (MDiv, Reformed Theological Seminary) is the Program Director for The Carson Center for Theological Renewal and cohort director for all TGC cohorts. He serves as an elder at Grace Bible Church in Oxford, Mississippi, and is working toward his PhD in systematic theology at the University of Aberdeen. Skyler served as an editor for The Gospel After Christendom. He is married to Brianna, and they have two kids.About Dr. Mark TurmanMark Turman, DMin, serves as the Executive Director of Denison Forum, where he leads with a passion for equipping believers to navigate today’s complex culture with biblical truth. He is best known as the host of The Denison Forum Podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom Chapel, the in-person congregation of Denison Ministries.Dr. Turman is the coauthor of Sacred Sexuality: Reclaiming God’s Design and Who Am I? What the Bible Says About Identity and Why it Matters. He earned his undergraduate degree from Howard Payne University in Brownwood, Texas, and received his Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He later completed his Doctor of Ministry at George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University in Waco.Before joining Denison Forum, Mark served as a pastor for 35 years, including 25 years as the founding pastor of Crosspoint Church in McKinney, Texas.Mark and his high school sweetheart, Judi, married in 1986. They are proud parents of two adult children and grandparents to three grandchildren.About Denison ForumDenison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, the Faith & Clarity podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
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    55 m
  • Understanding the AI Bible, assisted suicide, congressional term limits & free speech

    Understanding the AI Bible, assisted suicide, congressional term limits & free speech
    Oct 15 2025
    Dr. Mark Turman sits down with Conner Jones and Micah Tomasella from the Culture Brief podcast, as well as Dr. Ryan Denison, for a thoughtful roundtable on some of today’s most pressing cultural issues.Together, they explore how artificial intelligence is shaping the way we encounter Scripture—including the rise of an AI Bible—and what it means for people of faith seeking truth in a digital world. They also wrestle with the complex topic of assisted suicide, comparing global approaches while reflecting on the biblical call to uphold life and compassion in suffering.From there, the conversation turns to questions of leadership and governance, like whether congressional term limits could help restore trust in American politics, and the ongoing tension between protecting free speech and practicing biblical wisdom in public life.It’s an honest, wide-ranging dialogue that helps listeners think clearly, live faithfully, and engage today’s culture with both courage and grace.Topics(01:29): Introducing the AI Bible(04:22): Debating the impact of AI Bible(13:43): Assisted suicide: A complex issue(17:57): Personal reflections on assisted suicide(30:37): The role of term limits in politics(33:15): Arguments for term limits(37:23): Challenges in implementing term limits(39:33): Local politics and term limits(44:39): Free speech in America(50:01): Biblical perspective on speech(59:03): Conclusion and final thoughtsResourcesAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgHow has Denison Forum impacted your faith?Biblical Insight to Tough Questions, Volume 8The AI Bible: ‘We Call It Edutainment’ - Christianity TodayFantasy or faith? One company's AI-generated Bible content stirs controversyThe AI Bible - YouTubeThe AI Bible (@theaibibleofficial) • Instagram photos and videosCanadian writer Robert Munsch approved for assisted dyingEuthanasia is now the fifth leading cause of death in Canada - Denison ForumFirst Amendment | The Foundation for Individual Rights and ExpressionAbout Dr. Ryan DenisonRyan Denison, PhD, is the Senior Editor for Theology at Denison Forum. Ryan writes The Daily Article every Friday and contributes writing and research to many of the ministry’s productions. He holds a PhD in church history from BH Carroll Theological Institute after having earned his MDiv at Truett Seminary. He’s authored The Path to Purpose, What Are My Spiritual Gifts?, How to Bless God by Blessing Others, 7 Deadly Sins, and has contributed writing or research to every Denison Forum book.About Conner JonesConner Jones is the Director of Performance Marketing at Denison Ministries and Co-Hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2019 with a degree in Business Management. Conner passionately follows politics, sports, pop-culture, entertainment, and current events. He enjoys fishing, movie-going, and traveling the world with his wife and son.About Micah TomasellaMicah Tomasella is the Director of Advancement at Denison Ministries and co-hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. A graduate of Dallas Baptist University, Micah is married to Emily, and together they are the proud parents of two daughters. With an extensive background in nonprofit work, finance, and real estate, Micah also brings experience from his years in pastoral church ministry.About Dr. Mark TurmanMark Turman, DMin, serves as the Executive Director of Denison Forum, where he leads with a passion for equipping believers to navigate today’s complex culture with biblical truth. He is best known as the host of The Denison Forum Podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom Chapel, the in-person congregation of Denison Ministries.Dr. Turman is the coauthor of Sacred Sexuality: Reclaiming God’s Design and Who Am I? What the Bible Says About Identity and Why it Matters. He earned his undergraduate degree from Howard Payne University in Brownwood, Texas, and received his Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He later completed his Doctor of Ministry at George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University in Waco.Before joining Denison Forum, Mark served as a pastor for 35 years, including 25 years as the founding pastor of Crosspoint Church in McKinney, Texas.Mark and his high school sweetheart, Judi, married in 1986. They are proud parents of two adult children and grandparents to three grandchildren.About Denison ForumDenison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, the Faith & Clarity podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.
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