Wretched Radio with Todd Friel

Fortis Institute
  • 4.8 (250)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED DAILY
Wretched Radio with Todd Friel

Wretched Radio is hosted by Todd Friel. On the show, you will hear live witnessing encounters, discussions of tough theological issues, and various topics in the Christian community. You might even have a laugh.

  1. IS JESUS JUST A LEGEND, OR DID HE REALLY RISE?

    4 HRS AGO

    IS JESUS JUST A LEGEND, OR DID HE REALLY RISE?

    It’s Witness Wednesday! Segment 1: • A history student reflects on how World Wars I & II led to postmodernism—truth is now "relative." • Todd challenges the student—does truth change based on belief, or is there an objective standard? • The student wrestles with defining truth, showing the internal conflict of a postmodern worldview. Segment 2: • Todd presents historical evidence—Jesus’ resurrection was witnessed by hundreds who refused to recant, even under threat of death. • The concept of textual criticism—the Bible is the most well-documented ancient text in existence. • The student acknowledges Christianity’s credibility but hesitates on full belief. Segment 3: • Using a courtroom analogy, Todd demonstrates how God’s judgment is unavoidable—good deeds can’t erase past sins. • The student realizes that personal morality fails to meet God’s perfect standard. • The only way to be declared innocent is if someone else pays the fine—which leads to Jesus. Segment 4: • Todd shifts from intellect to the conscience—the student acknowledges the logic but hesitates on personal commitment. • The real issue isn’t evidence—it’s surrendering control and turning from sin. • The urgency of the gospel—today is the day of salvation, not tomorrow. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!

    55 min
  2. AI AND CHRISTIANITY: WHY THE CHURCH MUST ENGAGE NOW

    1 DAY AGO

    AI AND CHRISTIANITY: WHY THE CHURCH MUST ENGAGE NOW

    Segment 1: • Divided by Ideology: One of their own members writes Psychology Supersedes Biology, exposing internal contradictions. • Cultural Madness: The idea that society must conform to individuals rather than the other way around is gaining traction. • Transracialism?: If gender is fluid, can race be as well? The secular worldview starts collapsing under its own logic. Segment 2: • History Matters: Michelangelo sat under Jerome Savonarola’s preaching and found comfort in the doctrine of justification. • The Reformation’s Reach: Even in 1497, the seeds of justification by faith alone were shaping history. • AI and the Church: Christians need to be part of AI development—otherwise, it will be shaped by secular worldviews. Segment 3: • The Pope’s Bold Move: Calls to eliminate national debt raise questions about economic and theological implications. • AI’s Growing Influence: AI isn’t just advancing—it’s being evangelized. Christians must be informed and engaged. • Lessons from Savonarola: Quotes from this fiery reformer still challenge the church today—are we listening? Segment 4: • Cultural Chaos: Microaggressions now include asking tall people to reach things, while Trump’s inauguration Bible sells for $70. • Sobering Reality: Abortion is the leading cause of death worldwide—what is the church doing about it? • The Gospel Must Be Clear: If we’re going to proclaim Christ, we must include the essential elements of the true gospel. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!

    55 min
  3. DO YOU ATTEND CHURCH AS A CONSUMER? HOW TO SHIFT YOUR MINDSET

    2 DAYS AGO

    DO YOU ATTEND CHURCH AS A CONSUMER? HOW TO SHIFT YOUR MINDSET

    Segment 1: • Tim Challies Hits Hard: We easily fall into the habit of critiquing sermons rather than learning from them. • What’s at Stake? Constant criticism of pastors does little to build us up spiritually. • Biblical Perspective: Matthew 20 reminds us that Scripture isn’t random—it’s teaching us to focus on Jesus, not just theological nitpicking. Segment 2: • Consumer vs. Servant: Do you approach church expecting to be fed, or expecting to serve? • A Better Way to Listen: Instead of critiquing every word of a sermon, come to church as a needy person, eager to grow. • Matthew 20’s Challenge: True greatness in the kingdom isn’t found in tearing down but in humbling yourself and serving others. Segment 3: • God’s Sovereignty in Your Church: Your pastor is the one God placed in your life for a reason—support and pray for him. • Big Names Aren’t Always Better: Older pastors often soften their theology—are we idolizing voices over biblical truth? • Where’s Your Assignment? Instead of chasing spiritual celebrity culture, invest in your local church community. Segment 4: • Different Reactions: Why do we mourn some fallen pastors while being outraged by others? • Who Are You Consuming? If a pastor simply echoes your voice, their fall will agitate you. But if they help you love Jesus more, it will grieve you. • Isaac Watts’ Warning: Even centuries ago, humanism was creeping into the church—what are we allowing to shape our theology today? ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!

    55 min
  4. PARENTING WITH GRACE: HOW TO APPLY THE GOSPEL IN EVERYDAY DISCIPLINE

    5 DAYS AGO

    PARENTING WITH GRACE: HOW TO APPLY THE GOSPEL IN EVERYDAY DISCIPLINE

    It’s Mailbag Friday! You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers! Segment 1 • How do we discipline a toddler’s heart, not just their behavior? • Astrology is making a comeback—how do I witness to those who believe in it? Segment 2 • Why do churches ignore grief and widows? Where is the support for those suffering? Segment 3 • Should men listen to a podcast hosted by a woman? • Can couples fast together, or should fasting always be private? • Was Lazarus “de-glorified” when he was brought back from the dead? • Can Christians who aren’t church members still go to heaven? Segment 4 • Should pastors help all Christians or only their church members? • Are minimum wages biblical, socialist, or both? ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!

  5. LEAKY EVANGELICALISM: WHY WE’RE LOSING YOUNG PEOPLE AND WHERE THEY ARE GOING

    6 DAYS AGO

    LEAKY EVANGELICALISM: WHY WE’RE LOSING YOUNG PEOPLE AND WHERE THEY ARE GOING

    Segment 1: • Tired of Church-tainment: Many are leaving evangelical churches due to shallow entertainment and weak leadership. • Masculinity and Structure: Young men are drawn to Eastern Orthodoxy’s rigid structure and historical depth. • Podcast Influence: A significant number discover Orthodoxy through online content, seeking deeper commitment. Segment 2: • The Appeal of Formality: Eastern Orthodoxy’s formality and disciplined approach attract those disillusioned with modern churches. • The Strength Dilemma: Many leaving evangelicalism say church leaders aren’t “strong men,” but strength alone isn’t biblical leadership. • The Evangelical Response: Should evangelical churches embrace more structure while staying rooted in biblical truth? Segment 3: • Biblical Justification: Clement of Rome emphasized that God alone justifies—our works play no role. • Eastern Orthodox Shift: By the 4th century, Orthodoxy began blending justification with sanctification, moving away from the forensic (legal) view. • Why This Matters: The Bible teaches justification is external—righteousness belongs to Christ and is credited to believers. Segment 4: • Works-Based Salvation: Eastern Orthodoxy teaches salvation is progressive, leading believers toward deification. • Reformers' Stand: The Reformers refuted this, affirming that righteousness is imputed, not infused. • What Should We Do? As young men continue flocking to Orthodoxy, evangelical churches must refocus on deep discipleship, servanthood, and biblical teaching. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!

    55 min
  6. SOLOMON HAD IT ALL—SO WHY DID HE CALL LIFE MEANINGLESS?

    JAN 8

    SOLOMON HAD IT ALL—SO WHY DID HE CALL LIFE MEANINGLESS?

    It’s Witness Wednesday! Todd Friel is at Kennesaw State University where he’s talking with students about faith, evolution, and the human condition. Segment 1: • A future dentist, Nick, wrestles with the complexity of human anatomy—too intricate to be accidental? • Todd challenges the evolutionary perspective, arguing that microevolution doesn’t explain the leap to full-functioning systems—evidence of intelligent design. • Nick concedes that a creator may have "set the ingredients," but stops short of committing to full belief. Segment 2: • Todd presents the moral argument—every human has broken God's law and faces judgment. • The courtroom analogy: good deeds can’t erase guilt, but Christ’s sacrifice can fully satisfy divine justice. • Nick agrees it sounds logical but hesitates to call it absolute truth, raising the question of objectivity. Segment 3: • Sociology student Jordan acknowledges the surge in suicide rates, citing academic pressure and societal expectations. • Todd argues that postmodernism and evolutionary thinking have stripped young people of meaning, leaving them lost. • Jordan admits many in her generation feel directionless, questioning, "What’s the point of life?" Segment 4: • Todd presents the Gospel as the final answer to life's biggest questions—purpose, morality, and eternity. • Jordan, though religious, realizes she hasn’t fully considered if she truly believes in salvation through Christ. • The urgency—this isn’t just theology; it’s a decision that determines eternity. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!

    55 min
  7. FROM DEATH ROW TO LIFE: WHY JUSTICE MATTERS FOR THE IMAGE OF GOD

    JAN 7

    FROM DEATH ROW TO LIFE: WHY JUSTICE MATTERS FOR THE IMAGE OF GOD

    Segment 1: • Too Exclusive for Christmas? The Church of England now discourages hymns that reference Jesus as Messiah. • Specific Hymns Targeted: O Come, O Come Emmanuel and Once in Royal David’s City are considered problematic. • The Bigger Issue: If core Christian hymns aren’t inclusive enough, where does the church go next? Segment 2: • Holding Onto Tradition: The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols remains a Christmas staple for many believers. • The Mary Focus: An increasing emphasis on Mary has been happening for decades, shifting theological emphasis. • Calvin Robinson’s Shift: The well-known Anglican figure is now in the U.S.—and Catholic. Segment 3: • Why People Are Leaving: Many are abandoning seeker-sensitive churches for liturgical, tradition-heavy faiths. • A Lesson for Evangelicals: People are tired of shallow entertainment in churches and are looking for deeper theology. • Podcast Success: New Fortis Podcasts are ranking in the top 10% worldwide—proof people crave solid teaching. Segment 4: • Anglican Catholics Resemble Rome: Their statement of faith reveals significant Catholic influence. • Presidential Decision: Nearly every death row inmate’s sentence is commuted to life without parole. • Biblical Justice Matters: Murder earns the wage of death, and minimizing justice diminishes the value of human life made in God's image. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!

    55 min
  8. THE POPE: MARXIST OR THEOLOGICAL ERROR? WHY IT MATTERS MORE THAN POLITICS

    JAN 6

    THE POPE: MARXIST OR THEOLOGICAL ERROR? WHY IT MATTERS MORE THAN POLITICS

    Segment 1: • Catholic vs. Protestant Views: Michael Knowles and Charlie Kirk discuss "spreading the love of the Eucharist," but Protestants reject its validity. • The Real Issue: The Pope isn’t just a political problem—his entire role is a theological hoax (John MacArthur). • Kirk’s Missed Opportunity: He critiques the Pope’s Marxism but avoids addressing deeper theological divides. Segment 2: • A Soft Approach: Kirk, usually outspoken, handles Catholicism gently—avoiding doctrinal confrontation. • 500 Years of Division: Protestants and Catholics share some moral values but fundamentally differ on salvation, Mary, and authority. • Historical Perspective: Looking into how Reformers saw the Pope and Catholic teachings provides necessary clarity. Segment 3: • Catholic Claims Under Fire: The idea that Peter was the first Pope doesn’t hold up biblically. • Seeking Clarity Over Unity: Doctrinal precision should take precedence over a surface-level agreement. • Wretched's Breakdown: 25 reasons why Peter was never the Pope highlight how the Catholic system isn’t what it claims to be. Segment 4: • Who Led the Early Church? Scripture shows James, not Peter, was the head of the Jerusalem church. • Canon Controversy: The Catholic Church codified additional books in response to the Reformers, but Jews never recognized them. • Peter’s Own Words: He taught on the priesthood of all believers, which contradicts the idea of a papal hierarchy. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!

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Hosts & Guests

4.8
out of 5
250 Ratings

About

Wretched Radio is hosted by Todd Friel. On the show, you will hear live witnessing encounters, discussions of tough theological issues, and various topics in the Christian community. You might even have a laugh.

Information

  • Creator
    Fortis Institute
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2025
  • Episodes
    180
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024 Fortis Institute

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