Episodios

  • How should Christians engage in a polarized society?

    How should Christians engage in a polarized society?
    Apr 8 2026
    In this episode of Faith & Clarity, Dr. Mark Turman is joined by Bishop Mark Beckwith of Braver Angels to explore how Christians can engage a deeply divided culture with conviction, courage, and Christlike love.They discuss the rise of polarization and declining trust in America, and why rebuilding relationships is essential for a healthier public witness. The conversation highlights practical ways believers can pursue unity without compromising truth, grounded in the Imago Dei, love of neighbor and enemy, and a commitment to faithful presence in everyday life.Bishop Beckwith also shares how initiatives like Braver Angels are helping people listen better, engage across differences, and model what it means to live as citizens of heaven in a divided world.Topics(0:00) Introduction(2:29) Meet Bishop Beckwith(6:40) How Braver Angels began(11:32) Braver Faith in churches(17:17) Politics versus faith(25:31) Faith and citizenship(28:34) Religion as democracy support(30:55) Imago Dei in practice(33:16) Love as a command(36:17) Surviving family politics(40:41) Bridgebuilding without compromise(44:51) Handling anger and ego(47:20) ConclusionResourcesBraver AngelsDenison Forum: Our political future and an interview that moved me deeplyPew Research: Public trust in government Ask Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgSign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeAbout Bishop Mark BeckwithOrdained in the Episcopal Church in 1979, Mark Beckwith served parishes in Connecticut, New Jersey and Massachusetts. Elected Bishop of Newark (NJ), he served in that capacity for twelve years until his retirement in 2018. In the wake of gang violence in Newark, he helped found the Newark Interfaith Coalition for Hope and Peace. With a local Rabbi and Imam from that coalition, he appeared several times on Morning Joe, and did two PBS interview shows hosted by Jon Meacham. The three of them co-hosted A Matter of Faith, a NJ Public TV show that focused on local issues. He currently serves as the Bishop Liaison for Bishops United Against Gun Violence, a network of 100 bishops he co-founded after the Newtown, Ct. killings in 2012. He is the co-founder of Faith Leaders for Ending Gun Violence, a national ecumenical group of diverse religious leaders. He has been co-chair of Braver Faith, a department of Braver Angels, a national movement that seeks to depolarize America. He is the author of Seeing the Unseen: Beyond Prejudices, Paradigms and Party Lines (Morehouse Publishing, 2022). He posts weekly on his website, markbeckwith.net. He hosts a podcast, Reconciliation Roundtable, which involves conversations with religious and civic leaders. He offers spiritual direction and coaching for clergy. A graduate of Amherst College and Yale Divinity School, he lives in Jaffrey, New Hampshire.His passion is to invite people to look beyond and beneath their political and theological positions, which in today’s climate of polarization can be overly confining; and find hope and blessing – and a way forward.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.
    Más Menos
    54 m
  • Why should Christians regularly go to church?

    Why should Christians regularly go to church?
    Apr 1 2026
    In this episode of Faith & Clarity, Dr. Mark Turman is joined by pastors Sam Holm and Justin Hornsby to discuss why corporate worship matters and why many Christians struggle to make church a priority.They explore what worship truly is—centering our attention and affection on God—and why gathering weekly offers essential reminders of the gospel that shape our faith and fuel our mission. The conversation also addresses common challenges like consumer-driven expectations, performance-focused services, and how both leaders and congregants play a role in creating Christ-centered worship.Sam and Justin offer practical insight into the elements of meaningful worship, from confession and prayer to communion and congregational singing, inviting listeners to rediscover the purpose and power of gathering together as the church.Topics0:00) Introduction(3:00) Why church attendance drops(5:22) From consumer to contributor(10:25) Defining corporate worship(20:02) Worship leader influences(23:27) Preparing hearts for Sunday(25:55) Questions before worship(28:42) Confession in worship(30:31) Tell the gospel again(35:18) Stewardship on stage(41:02) Forgotten worship tools(43:38) Fresh vs. familiar songs(50:50) Funniest service moments(56:02) ConclusionResourcesAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgSign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeAbout Sam HolmSam Holm grew up at a therapeutic wilderness camp with five brothers in East Texas. He served at Pine Cove Camps for 11 years before God called him to the local Church. He has been the pastor at First McKinney since 2017. He is married to Rebecca and the father of two girls. Sam desires to make authentic disciples of Jesus. About Justin HornsbyJustin Hornsby has been a Worship Pastor since he was 19 and currently serves at First Baptist Church in McKinney, TX. He leads worship, oversees various ministry teams, and is part of the preaching team alongside his wife, Hollye. A father of 3, Justin's desire is to point people to the greatness of God through Jesus, often saying, "Music is great, but Jesus is greater."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.
    Más Menos
    1 h y 1 m
  • Is Bible education allowed in public schools today?

    Is Bible education allowed in public schools today?
    Mar 25 2026

    In this episode of Faith & Clarity, Dr. Mark Turman is joined by Joel Penton, founder of LifeWise Academy, to explore a growing movement bringing Bible education to public school students during the school day through a unique, Supreme Court–recognized model.

    Together, they discuss how these programs are launching in communities across the country, how they navigate funding and school partnerships, and the impact they’re having on students’ lives. The conversation also addresses important questions around religious freedom and what it looks like for churches and families to help the next generation engage Scripture in today’s culture.

    Topics
    • (0:00) Introduction
    • (5:50) Scaling LifeWise nationwide
    • (9:09) How communities start
    • (15:52) Religious freedom for all
    • (18:26) Curriculum and teachers
    • (22:22) Finding movement builders
    • (26:04) Public schools value proposition
    • (30:04) Gospel-centered curriculum
    • (37:00) Starting small and scaling
    • (40:12) Faith calling and wrap up
    Resources
    • LifeWise Academy
    • Allstate Wuerffel Trophy
    • Danny Wuerffel
    • Ask Us Anything: info@denisonforum.org
    • Sign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribe
    About Joel Penton

    Joel Penton is the founder and CEO of LifeWise Academy, a program that brings Bible education to public school students during the school day. Before his 15-year career in ministry leadership, Joel was a defensive tackle at Ohio State University, where he received the prestigious Danny Wuerffel Trophy, often called the “Humanitarian Heisman.” He is also an author and public speaker. Joel lives in Columbus, Ohio with his wife, Bethany, and their six children.

    About Dr. Mark Turman

    Dr. 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 Forum

    Denison 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.
    Más Menos
    47 m
  • Why Christian unity matters for the global Church today

    Why Christian unity matters for the global Church today
    Mar 18 2026

    In this episode of Faith & Clarity, Dr. Mark Turman is joined by Botrus Mansour of the World Evangelical Alliance to explore why Christian unity matters and how it strengthens the church’s witness around the world.

    Together, they discuss how churches are partnering across 163 nations to support evangelism, discipleship, and global advocacy, while also addressing real challenges facing believers in regions of conflict. The conversation highlights both the complexity of global ministry and the growing spiritual hunger seen in many parts of the world today.

    Topics

    (0:00) Introduction

    (4:39) Why unity matters

    (7:50) World Evangelical Alliance global reach

    (9:53) Advocacy and UN work

    (21:41) Botrus’ journey to Secretary General

    (26:21) New season challenges

    (31:35) Why evangelical matters

    (33:59) Planting a church in Nazareth

    (37:36) War and prayer fatigue

    (40:00) Global revival reports

    (43:25) Conclusion

    Resources
    • World Evangelical Alliance
    • Lausanne Movement
    • Nazareth Baptist School
    • Ask Us Anything: info@denisonforum.org
    • Sign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribe
    About Botrus Mansour

    Botrus Mansour, based in Nazareth, Israel, is a lawyer, an ordained elder, and the General Director of Nazareth Baptist School. He has held significant leadership positions across the evangelical world, including serving as the Chairman of The Convention of Evangelical Churches in Israel and Co-Chairman of the Lausanne Initiative for Reconciliation Israel-Palestine. He is also a published author, with books including When Your Neighbor is the Savior and Looking from the Precipice.

    About Dr. Mark Turman

    Dr. 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 Forum

    Denison 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.
    Más Menos
    48 m
  • Iran, war, and the surprising growth of Christianity

    Iran, war, and the surprising growth of Christianity
    Mar 10 2026
    In this episode of Faith & Clarity, Dr. Mark Turman is joined by Gerald Griffin and Dr. Hormoz Shariat, founder of Iran Alive Ministries, to discuss the Iran–Israel–U.S. conflict and what’s happening spiritually inside Iran.Dr. Shariat shares how life in Iran has changed since the 1979 Islamic Revolution and describes the growing persecution Christians face today. Yet amid the hardship, he points to a surprising spiritual awakening as many Iranians are turning to Jesus through underground churches, dreams, and personal encounters with Christ.The episode closes with ways believers can pray for the people of Iran and support the growing church there.Topics(0:00) Introduction(3:13) Iran before the revolution(10:20) Persecution and revival(15:50) War and regime change(23:13) Views on America and Israel(28:42) Iranians seek spirituality(31:38) Outlook after regime change(32:42) Where Christianity is growing(38:19) How to pray for Iran(43:30) Call to join the movement(49:08) Closing prayer Resources2Cultivate Iran Alive MinistriesText “Iran” to 85789Ask Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgSign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeAbout Gerald GriffinGerald Griffin is the founder and leader of 2Cultivate, a ministry dedicated to strengthening pastors through free coaching, mentoring, and counseling. With 30 years of experience pastoring Preston Ridge Church in Frisco, Texas, Gerald also serves as a trainer for the North American Mission Board, equipping church planters for the work ahead.About Dr. Hormoz ShariatDr. Hormoz Shariat is the founder and president of Iran Alive Ministries (IAM), a Christian ministry that uses satellite broadcasting and the internet to reach Iranians with the gospel. He is an Iranian Muslim convert who has a Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence from the University of Southern California and a BA in Bible and Theology from Jessup University.Dr. Shariat has been featured in Christianity Today, Charisma, and other publications. He has also been a guest on various radio and TV stations, such as the 700 Club, TBN, Daystar and the Inspiration Channel. IAM is a growing ministry that is making a significant impact in Iran. Dr. Shariat is a passionate leader who is committed to sharing the gospel with the people of Iran.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.
    Más Menos
    57 m
  • What can Japan teach the global Church?

    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.
    Más Menos
    1 h y 3 m
  • Christian parenting in the age of AI and influencers

    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.
    Más Menos
    1 h
  • What does “I Can Only Imagine 2” teach us about faith in suffering?

    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.
    Más Menos
    36 m