• What can Japan teach the global Church?
    Mar 4 2026
    In this episode of Faith & Clarity, Dr. Mark Turman welcomes Jay Greer and Chad Farmer of Mustard Seed Network to discuss what it looks like to share the gospel in Japan, where less than 1 percent of the population is Christian.They explore Japan’s complex history with Christianity, the cultural blend of Buddhism, Shinto, and secularism, and the deep skepticism toward organized religion shaped by persecution and modern tragedies. Jay and Chad also reflect on the challenges of ministry in one of the world’s most urban and aging societies, and what believers everywhere can learn about faithful presence, church-centered mission, and praying for God to move in spiritually resistant places.Topics(0:00) Introduction(1:19) Japan culture and gospel need(4:26) Population and urban life(10:00) Aging society and family vision(16:07) Church planting challenges(18:10) Christian history in Japan(24:17) Religion mix and gospel conversations(28:26) Cults and public outreach(32:29) Religion seen as dangerous(37:32) Harmony with the Creator(40:58) Mustard Seed Network origins(48:18) Abiding through evangelism hardship(51:47) Prayer needs and Tokyo School of Theology(56:00) ConclusionResourcesMustard Seed NetworkMustard Seed Christian Church Tokyo Ask Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgSign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeDonate: SupportDF.org About Jay GreerJay Greer and his wife Caitlin moved to Japan in 2008 with the hope of making disciples of Jesus and establishing churches in major cities. He is the pastor of Mustard Seed Christian Church Tokyo which was planted in 2020 and he has worked with church plants in Osaka (2011) and Nagoya (2009) as well. He serves in leadership with Mustard Seed Network. He studied biblical literature at Ozark Christian College and theology at Gateway Seminary. He has also worked with City to City Asia Pacific as a coach and serves in leadership with the Church Planting Institute of Japan. Jay and Caitlin have four kids and a goofy, tiny dog in west Tokyo. About Chad FarmerChad Farmer serves with Mustard Seed Network, a church-planting network focused on urban Japan. After more than a decade living and ministering in Japan, Chad helps oversee operations, missionary deployment, and long-term strategy while also serving in the life of a local church in Tokyo. His work centers on planting gospel-centered churches, training leaders, and helping the local church take responsibility for reaching the unreached. Chad is passionate about seeing the gospel take root in places where fewer than one percent of people identify as Christian, and about reminding churches that missions is not a side project but a central part of God’s purpose for his people.About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. Mark Turman 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 Faith & Clarity podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom Lake 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 degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He later completed his Doctor of Ministry degree at George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University in Waco.Before joining Denison Forum, Mark served as a pastor for thirty-five years, including twenty-five 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 our day from a biblical perspective, helping believers discern today’s news and culture through the lens of faith. Led by Dr. Jim Denison and a team of contributing writers, we offer trusted insight through The Daily Article, a daily email newsletter and podcast, along with articles, podcasts, interviews, books, and other resources. Together, these form a growing ecosystem of Christ-centered content that equips readers to respond to current events not with fear or partisanship, but with clarity, conviction, and hope. To learn more visit DenisonForum.org.
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    1 h y 3 m
  • Christian parenting in the age of AI and influencers
    Feb 25 2026
    In this episode of Faith & Clarity, Dr. Mark Turman is joined by Stephanie Thurling, Josh Miller, and Dr. Ryan Denison for a timely roundtable on authority, wisdom, and raising kids in a noisy culture shaped by influencers, AI, and declining trust in institutions.Together, they explore a four-phase parenting framework—caregiver, cop, coach, and consultant—and reflect on how authority is being redefined by authenticity and relatability. The conversation offers practical insight on helping kids discern character and spiritual fruit through a biblical lens, while keeping ultimate trust anchored in God. They also discuss the growing role of AI in teens’ lives, the difference between knowledge and wisdom, and how families can process polarizing news with prayer, humility, and intentional media habits.Topics(0:00) Introduction(1:35) Parenting phases framework(7:39) Authority crisis and Gen Z(13:03) Influencers and trust online(20:38) Information vs. wisdom in the AI age(28:34) Kids using AI for schoolwork(33:22) Wisdom beyond information(37:09) Immigration news and kids(44:39) Emotions, facts, and Scripture(48:13) Media diet and guarding hearts(54:20) Prayer and parenting wrap upResourcesAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgSign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeJH Ranch: 4 Phases of ParentingTeens, Social Media and AI Chatbots 2025The Christian Parenting PodcastAbout Stephanie Thurling Steph Thurling is the host of The Christian Parenting Podcast, and a mom of three amazing kids! Steph has her master’s in youth, family, and culture from Fuller Theological Seminary and has a background in youth and children’s ministry. She is the co-author of Raising Prayerful Kids, a book that shares easy, life-giving, and fun ways to teach kids to pray. She loves helping families grow closer to each other and to God through meaningful experiences and conversations. Steph is a frequent speaker at churches and mom groups and is known for her relatable stories, practical ideas, and gentle encouragement.About Josh Miller Josh 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 Dr. Ryan DenisonRyan Denison, PhD, is the Senior Editor for Theology at Denison Forum and the author of The Focus newsletter, contributing writing and research to many of the ministry’s productions. He holds a PhD in church history from B. H. Carroll Theological Institute and an MDiv from Truett Seminary. Ryan has also taught at B. H. Carroll and Dallas Baptist University. He and his wife, Candice, live in East Texas and have two children.About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. Mark Turman 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 Faith & Clarity podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom Lake 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 degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He later completed his Doctor of Ministry degree at George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University in Waco.Before joining Denison Forum, Mark served as a pastor for thirty-five years, including twenty-five 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 our day from a biblical perspective, helping believers discern today’s news and culture through the lens of faith. Led by Dr. Jim Denison and a team of contributing writers, we offer trusted insight through The Daily Article, a daily email newsletter and podcast, along with articles, podcasts, interviews, books, and other resources. Together, these form a growing ecosystem of Christ-centered content that equips readers to respond to current events not with fear or partisanship, but with clarity, conviction, and hope. To learn more visit DenisonForum.org.
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  • What does “I Can Only Imagine 2” teach us about faith in suffering?
    Feb 18 2026
    In this episode of Faith & Clarity, Dr. Mark Turman sits down with filmmaker and Kingdom Story Company co-founder Andrew Erwin (I Can Only Imagine, Jesus Revolution) to talk about storytelling, faith, and the power of film to share God’s truth. Andrew reflects on how the Erwin brothers found their voice through underdog stories, the unexpected success of I Can Only Imagine, and how faith-based films have grown in both craft and impact.They also discuss I Can Only Imagine 2 and the deeper themes it explores—gratitude, grief, and trusting God when “happily ever after” feels uncertain. The conversation closes with a practical encouragement for believers to see films as opportunities to invite others into meaningful conversations about faith with courage and hope.Topics(0:00) Introduction(3:34) From “Woodlawn” to “I Can Only Imagine:” the breakthrough story(8:44) Andrew’s origin story(14:04) Global impact: Film as a modern “Romans Road”(16:02) No more “cheesy” faith films(21:13) Why make “I Can Only Imagine 2” (27:51) How faith films has changed (33:21) Wrap-up ResourcesTrailer: I Can Only Imagine 2Website: I Can Only Imagine 2Ask Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgSubscribe to a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeSupportDF.org About Andrew ErwinAndrew Erwin is a director, producer and co-founder of Kingdom Story Company, the premier destination for films of faith that ignite a rush of hope. Andrew has directed and co-directed feature films like I CAN ONLY IMAGINE, I STILL BELIEVE, AMERICAN UNDERDOG, and I CAN ONLY IMAGINE 2 (2026), among others, and is one of just five directors (along with Steven Spielberg and Rob Reiner) to receive three A+ Cinema Scores.In partnership with Lionsgate, Kingdom Story Company’s films have consistently opened in the top ten at the box office, earning the coveted A+ CinemaScore® rating six times. Prioritizing faith, inspiration, and positive impact in storytelling, notable Kingdom Story Company films include the 2023 hit JESUS REVOLUTION, ORDINARY ANGELS, UNSUNG HERO, WHITE BIRD, THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER and SARAH’S OIL.Andrew also hosts “The Storytellers Podcast,” which explores the transformative power of storytelling through the lens of faith, and features conversations with artists, directors, actors, and other creative thought leaders. Guests have included Mel Gibson, Dennis Quaid, Roma Downey, Candace Cameron Bure, Jonathan Roumie, DeVon Franklin, and more.About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. Mark Turman 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 Faith & Clarity podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom Lake 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 degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He later completed his Doctor of Ministry degree at George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University in Waco.Before joining Denison Forum, Mark served as a pastor for thirty-five years, including twenty-five 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 our day from a biblical perspective, helping believers discern today’s news and culture through the lens of faith. Led by Dr. Jim Denison and a team of contributing writers, we offer trusted insight through The Daily Article, a daily email newsletter and podcast, along with articles, podcasts, interviews, books, and other resources. Together, these form a growing ecosystem of Christ-centered content that equips readers to respond to current events not with fear or partisanship, but with clarity, conviction, and hope. To learn more visit DenisonForum.org.
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    36 m
  • How should Christians think about economics, capitalism, and government policy?
    Feb 11 2026
    In this episode of Faith & Clarity, Dr. Mark Turman is joined by economist and longtime professor Dave Arnott for a thoughtful conversation about how Christian faith intersects with economic realities. Drawing on decades of experience teaching economics and management, Dave helps frame complex economic ideas in accessible ways, inviting listeners to think more clearly and faithfully about money, markets, and social responsibility.Together, they explore foundational economic principles, the strengths and limits of systems like capitalism and socialism, and the role the church can play in addressing real human needs. The conversation also touches on timely issues such as inflation, government policy, tariffs, and the lasting economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, all viewed through a Christian lens that values both truth and compassion.This episode invites listeners to move beyond sound bites and fear-driven narratives, offering clarity, wisdom, and a faith-informed perspective on how economic decisions shape lives, communities, and our shared future.Topics(0:00) Introduction (1:13) Meet Dave Arnott, the Christian Economist(5:48) A Christian worldview on economics(11:53) Freedom in economics(18:25) Capitalism vs. socialism from a biblical perspective(32:21) The role of government in the economy(37:10) Presidential influence on the economy(45:34) Understanding inflation(51:59) Housing market challenges(55:41) Future economic concerns and hopesResourcesThe Christian EconomistAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgSign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeAbout Dave Arnott Dave Arnott is Dean of the Turning Point USA Prep Year program in Ft. Worth, TX. He recently retired after serving 31 years as a professor of Management and Economics at Dallas Baptist University. He has authored five books on the topics of Leadership, Management and Economics. His Ph.D. is from the University of Texas at Arlington.As The Christian Economist he has delivered 200 podcasts, exploring the intersection of Christianity and Economics. They are available on the Dave Arnott YouTube channel. His latest book is Biblical Economic Policy.He is an accomplished keynote speaker who has visited 60 countries and led business study visits to many of those countries. He has led more than 200 days of management seminars. The Professor and Ginger live on a small farm near Dallas where they enjoy go-kart races around the pasture with their seven grandchildren. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. Mark Turman 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 Faith & Clarity podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom Lake 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 degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He later completed his Doctor of Ministry degree at George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University in Waco.Before joining Denison Forum, Mark served as a pastor for thirty-five years, including twenty-five 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 our day from a biblical perspective, helping believers discern today’s news and culture through the lens of faith. Led by Dr. Jim Denison and a team of contributing writers, we offer trusted insight through The Daily Article, a daily email newsletter and podcast, along with articles, podcasts, interviews, books, and other resources. Together, these form a growing ecosystem of Christ-centered content that equips readers to respond to current events not with fear or partisanship, but with clarity, conviction, and hope. To learn more visit DenisonForum.org.
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  • What does faith have to say about today’s sports culture?
    Feb 4 2026
    In this episode of Faith & Clarity, Dr. Mark Turman is joined by Dr. Ryan Denison and Bobby Dagnel for a thoughtful conversation on the intersection of sports and faith. Together, they explore why sports hold such a powerful sway in our culture and how competition can reflect deeper themes of beauty, courage, sacrifice, and struggle that point beyond the game itself.The conversation touches on the rapidly changing landscape of modern athletics, including NIL contracts, the player transfer portal, and the growing concerns around sports gambling. Ryan and Bobby also reflect on the unique spiritual opportunities found in sports, how teams, locker rooms, and competition can become places of influence, character formation, and faithful witness. This wide-ranging and engaging discussion invites fans, athletes, and believers alike to consider how faith can shape the way we play, watch, and engage with the world of sports, and how God can be at work even in the arena.Topics(0:00) Introduction to Faith and Clarity(1:28) Meet the guests: Dr. Ryan Denison and Bobby Dagnel(2:41) Sports as a universal language(7:03) Bobby Dagnel’s journey as a sports chaplain(14:11) The global passion for sports(18:08) Theology of play and Sabbath(22:49) Sports metaphors in the Bible(29:11) The evolution of college sports(32:12) The impact of NIL on college athletes(35:31) The growing problem of sports gambling(41:57) Understanding the transfer portal(51:11) The role of faith in sports(56:14) Conclusion and final thoughtsResourcesNational Collegiate Athletic AssociationAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgSign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeAbout Bobby DagnelFor over four decades, Bobby Dagnel has dedicated his life to serving the local church. Utilizing the biblical insight and practical wisdom that guided his three pastorates, Bobby's retirement now focuses on the encouragement and motivational enrichment of student-athletes, coaches, and leaders. Bobby and his wife, Patti, have been married for 42 years and are the proud parents of a daughter and a son, and the prouder grandparents of two grandkids.About Dr. Ryan DenisonDr. Ryan is the Senior Editor for Theology at Denison Forum and the author of The Focus newsletter, contributing writing and research to many of the ministry’s productions. He holds a PhD in church history from B. H. Carroll Theological Institute and an MDiv from Truett Seminary. Ryan has also taught at B. H. Carroll and Dallas Baptist University. He and his wife, Candice, live in East Texas and have two children.About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. Mark Turman 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 Faith & Clarity podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom Lake 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 degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He later completed his Doctor of Ministry degree at George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University in Waco.Before joining Denison Forum, Mark served as a pastor for thirty-five years, including twenty-five 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 our day from a biblical perspective, helping believers discern today’s news and culture through the lens of faith. Led by Dr. Jim Denison and a team of contributing writers, we offer trusted insight through The Daily Article, a daily email newsletter and podcast, along with articles, podcasts, interviews, books, and other resources. Together, these form a growing ecosystem of Christ-centered content that equips readers to respond to current events not with fear or partisanship, but with clarity, conviction, and hope. To learn more visit DenisonForum.org.
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  • Finding hope after life’s detours
    Jan 28 2026
    In this episode of Faith & Clarity, Dr. Mark Turman sits down with longtime Christian media voices Dawn Rae May and Steve Hiller to talk about faith, resilience, and what it looks like to trust God when life takes an unexpected turn. Dawn and Steve share their journeys into Christian radio, the challenges of live morning shows, and the sudden job loss that forced them into a season of deep uncertainty and dependence on God.Along the way, they reflect on grief, family, financial stress, and the spiritual practices that sustained them—journaling, stillness, prayer, and leaning into community. Dawn and Steve also discuss the transition from daily radio to launching their podcast, Dawn and Steve Plus, and why conversations around spiritual and mental health matter now more than ever. This honest and hope-filled conversation reminds listeners of the vital role of the local church and the enduring promise that God is at work, even when the path forward feels unclear.Topics(0:00): Introduction (1:40): Dawn Rae and Steve’s journey into Christian media(6:07): Challenges of morning radio(12:00): Life changes and termination(15:05): Processing grief and loss(22:50): Trusting and waiting on God(30:20): Processing job loss together(35:41): The importance of community(45:03): Media as a supplement to church(50:11): Final thoughts and encouragementResourcesDawn and Steve PlusWalking in His Commands Lent devotional Ask Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgSign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeAbout Dawn Rae MayDawn has worked in Christian radio for over two decades, in three states. She loves talking about the Lord, his Word and how life intersects with both. Dawn and her husband Ben, have three grown children and live just outside of Nashville, TN. About Steve HillerSteve is Director of Products for Open the Bible. He also serves as the co-host and producer of Open the Bible's radio program. You can also hear Steve as the co-host of Treasured Truth with Pastor James Ford Jr. and Encounter the Truth with Jonathan Griffiths. Steve and his wife, Suzy, have three children, and live in Nashville, TN.About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. Mark Turman 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 Faith & Clarity podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom Lake 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 degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He later completed his Doctor of Ministry degree at George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University in Waco.Before joining Denison Forum, Mark served as a pastor for thirty-five years, including twenty-five 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 our day from a biblical perspective, helping believers discern today’s news and culture through the lens of faith. Led by Dr. Jim Denison and a team of contributing writers, we offer trusted insight through The Daily Article, a daily email newsletter and podcast, along with articles, podcasts, interviews, books, and other resources. Together, these form a growing ecosystem of Christ-centered content that equips readers to respond to current events not with fear or partisanship, but with clarity, conviction, and hope. To learn more visit DenisonForum.org.
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    54 m
  • Faith and politics, yoga and Christian practice, salvation, and hope in a divided culture
    Jan 21 2026
    In this episode of Faith & Clarity, Dr. Mark Turman is joined by Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Ryan Denison for a thoughtful conversation about following Jesus faithfully in a confusing cultural moment. Together, they explore how Christians can seek wisdom, clarity, and hope when the questions feel complex and the headlines feel overwhelming.The discussion touches on faith and leadership, the role of personal character, and how a biblical worldview shapes our engagement with culture and global issues. Mark and Jim also share writers and spiritual voices that have shaped their own journeys, offering meaningful recommendations for continued growth.Ryan joins the conversation to respond to listener questions on everyday discipleship, including spiritual practices, relational boundaries, assurance of salvation, and what it means to live as a practicing Christian. The episode concludes with reflections on Gen Z and how believers can engage culture and politics with conviction, humility, and faith rather than fear.Topics(0:00): Welcome to Faith & Clarity(2:29): Biblical expectations from government(7:31): Foreign policy and Christian perspective(13:34): Spiritual heroes: Henri Nouwen and C.S. Lewis(25:20): Discussing yoga in Christian context(30:31): Relational boundaries and forgiveness(37:39): Defining a practicing Christian(43:12): Judgment and rewards in heaven(46:34): Can a person lose their salvation?(51:15): Expository sermons and pastors in politics(58:37): Gen Z and the future of the churchResourcesAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgGen Z Archives CS Lewis FoundationHenri Nouwen Society New Barna Data: Young Adults Lead a Resurgence in Church AttendanceAbout Dr. Jim Denison Dr. Jim Denison is a Cultural Theologian and the Founder of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues through The Daily Article at DenisonForum.org. He is the author of over thirty books, including The Coming Tsunami: Why Christians Are Labeled Intolerant, Irrelevant, Oppressive, and Dangerous—and How We Can Turn the Tide; Respectfully, I Disagree: How to Be a Civil Person in an Uncivil Time; and the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series.He has taught the philosophy of religion and apologetics at several seminaries. Dr. Denison serves as Resident Scholar for Ethics with Baylor Scott & White Health, where he addresses issues such as genetic medicine and reproductive science. He is also a senior fellow with CEO Forum, the International Alliance of Christian Education, and Dallas Baptist University’s Institute for Global Engagement.He holds a Doctor of Philosophy and a Master of Divinity degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He also received an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Dallas Baptist University. Dr. Denison is the Theologian in Residence for the Baptist General Convention of Texas.Prior to launching Denison Forum in 2009, he pastored churches in Texas and Georgia. Jim and his wife, Janet, have two married sons and four grandchildren.About Dr. Ryan DenisonDr. Ryan is the Senior Editor for Theology at Denison Forum and the author of The Focus newsletter, contributing writing and research to many of the ministry’s productions. He holds a PhD in church history from B. H. Carroll Theological Institute and an MDiv from Truett Seminary. Ryan has also taught at B. H. Carroll and Dallas Baptist University. He and his wife, Candice, live in East Texas and have two children.About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. Mark Turman 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 Faith & Clarity podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom Lake 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 degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He later completed his Doctor of Ministry degree at George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University in Waco.Before joining Denison Forum, Mark served as a pastor for thirty-five years, including twenty-five 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 our day from a biblical perspective, helping believers discern today’s news and culture through the lens of faith. Led by Dr. Jim Denison and a team of contributing writers, we offer trusted insight through The Daily Article, a daily email newsletter and podcast, along with articles, podcasts, interviews, books, ...
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  • How do I study the Bible when it feels boring?
    Jan 14 2026
    In this episode of Faith & Clarity, Dr. Mark Turman is joined by Faith Womack, founder of Bible Nerd Ministries, for a thoughtful conversation about how we approach Scripture and why it matters. Faith shares how her own experiences with the misuse of the Bible shaped her desire to help others engage God’s word with humility, care, and genuine curiosity.Together, they explore what it looks like to move beyond treating the Bible as a task to be completed and instead encounter it as a living story that forms our faith. Faith offers practical insight into reading Scripture wisely, paying attention to the Bible’s larger story, choosing helpful translations, and balancing personal study with learning in community, inviting listeners to rediscover the joy and depth of knowing God through his word.Topics(00:00): Introduction(01:56) Introducing Faith Womack and Bible Nerd Ministries(05:21) Common mistakes in Bible study(08:10) The importance of hermeneutics(11:32) Should every Christian be a Bible nerd?(17:24) Misuse of Scripture and personal testimony(27:03) Understanding Bible translations(30:55) The role of paraphrased translations(31:28) Using multiple translations for deeper understanding(33:48) The importance of studying the Bible in groups(35:57) The necessity of church in Christian life(39:11) Understanding the story arc of the Bible(43:34) Digital tools for Bible study(46:09) Maintaining humility in Bible study(49:52) Encouragement for new Bible readers(54:12) Favorite Bible books and final thoughtsResourcesAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgHow has Denison Forum impacted your faith?Walking in His Commands: A Lenten Journey with JesusThe Focus NewsletterWhy are there so many different Bible translations? And which Bible should I read? • Denison ForumWhat are the best tools for studying Scripture? • Denison ForumHow can I study the Bible? • Denison ForumBible Nerd Ministries on YouTubeBible Nerd Ministries on InstagramBible Nerd Ministries on TikTokBible Nerd Ministries WebsiteAbout Faith WomackFaith Womack is the founder of Bible Nerd Ministries and a content creator who aims to inspire Christians to get back into the Word of God. Her courses, including “Bible Study Bootcamp” and “Theology Bootcamp,” have reached thousands, and her Bible study content has reached over 10 million people on TikTok and YouTube. Faith aims to empower Christians not only to understand the Bible but also to enjoy it. Her debut book, No More Boring Bible Study: Why Taking Scripture Seriously Is Easier and More Exciting Than You Think, was released from Zondervan in November 2025.Faith has a B.A. in biblical and theological studies from Covenant College and a M.A.T.S. from Erskine Seminary. When she’s not filming or teaching, Faith spends her time with her family going on hikes, crafting and drinking way too much coffee.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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