The Truth Response

Derek Stephenson

About The Truth Response Podcast The Truth Response is a podcast that explores the complexities of modern life through the lens of Christian faith. Each episode invites listeners on a journey to discover how biblical teachings can provide hope and guidance amid contemporary challenges. We tackle a variety of important topics, from the intricacies of scriptural canon to the struggles of living out one’s faith in the workplace. Join host Derek Stephenson as he engages with difficult questions about temptation, forgiveness, and the reality of death from a believer’s perspective. Expect contemplative discussions on the significance of prayer, the role of the church, and interpretations of prophetic writings like the book of Revelation. From examining the ‘Armor of God’ in the lives of Christian women to unpacking the concept of ‘Praying without Ceasing,’ The Truth Response offers a space for insight and solace. It encourages listeners to find comfort in the truths of the Bible amidst the chaos, fear, and anxiety of everyday life.

  1. 29/12/2025

    Is It Okay to Be Mad at God? | Faith, Anger, and Trust in the Wilderness | TTR 236

    Have you ever been angry, frustrated, or upset with God — and felt guilty for even admitting it? In this Christmas Eve episode of The Truth Response, Derek, Matt, and Dave have an honest, Scripture-grounded conversation about anger toward God, His silence in the wilderness, and learning to trust Him when life doesn’t follow your timeline. Through personal stories of divorce, ministry transitions, parenting, unanswered prayers, and seasons of waiting, the guys explore a question many believers are afraid to ask out loud: Is it okay to be mad at God? This episode dives into: Feeling abandoned or unheard when God is silentThe biblical idea of the wilderness as a place of preparationWhy God’s silence doesn’t mean God’s absenceParenting analogies that reveal God’s patience and disciplineTrusting God’s plan when you don’t understand the timingWhy staying in relationship with God matters more than pretending you’re okay From David’s suffering, Israel’s 40 years in the wilderness, to modern faith struggles, this episode reminds us that God has broad shoulders — and He would rather you come to Him angry than walk away entirely. 🎄 Recorded on Christmas Eve, this conversation points us back to the truth that God entered our suffering, understands our frustration, and is always working — even when we can’t see it. 📖 “The wilderness is not where God abandons us — it’s where He trains us.”

    1h 12m
  2. 22/12/2025

    Rooted, Not Transient: Why Young Adults Struggle with Church Commitment - TTR 235

    Why do so many young adults struggle to stay committed to a local church? In this episode of The Truth Response, Derek and Matt sit down with Dave, a young adult pastor, to talk about church hopping, discipleship, and staying rooted in Christ. They discuss how information-driven faith can replace obedience, why baptism matters, and how serving in the local church shapes spiritual maturity. This episode is for believers wrestling with commitment, leaders discipling young adults, and anyone asking what biblical church involvement really looks like. 2 Corinthians 5:20 | James 3 | Job 2 You’ll Hear About:Church consumerism and young adult faithStaying rooted in Scripture and missionWhy service matters more than preferenceHospitality and first impressions in churchRepresenting Christ in everyday lifeGrowth through commitment, not convenience Takeaways: Young adults are often transient in their church involvement, which can hinder their spiritual growth and community impact.Rootedness in Scripture is essential for young adults to develop a solid foundation in their faith and understanding of God's will.The mission of the church should be a guiding principle for individuals seeking to serve and engage with their community effectively.Serving in the church is not just a task; it is an expression of being ambassadors for Christ in every interaction with others.Young people often seek knowledge and information but must balance that with building relationships and community in their faith journey.Creating a welcoming environment in churches significantly influences newcomers' willingness to return and become part of the community. Links referenced in this episode: blueletterbible.combiblegateway.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Victory ChurchBlue Letter BibleBible GatewayOcean's ChurchAndy StanleyRitz CarltonDax EntertainmentRoman Roofing

    1h 16m
  3. 15/12/2025

    Anxiety to Peace: A Christian Conversation on Fear, Control, and Trusting God - The Truth Response 234

    Anxiety is something nearly everyone faces — but few know how to navigate it with clarity, faith, and peace. In this episode of The Truth Response, Derek is joined by Shaleza and Shaelyn for an honest, multi-generational conversation about anxiety, fear, control, and the search for peace in a chaotic world. From school stress and uncertainty about the future, to medication, generational trauma, and surrendering control to God, this episode dives deep into what anxiety really is — and how faith can transform how we respond to it. We explore: What anxiety looks like across different generationsHow fear and uncertainty fuel anxious thinkingThe difference between reacting in anxiety and acting in peaceWhy anxiety is often a symptom, not the root issueFaith-based tools for grounding yourself when anxiety hitsThe tension between truth, compassion, and speaking in love This conversation is raw, thoughtful, and grounded in Scripture — reminding us that peace isn’t the absence of anxiety, but learning how to walk through it with God. 📖 Key Scripture Referenced: “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” — 1 Peter 5:7 Whether you’re struggling with anxiety yourself, walking alongside someone who is, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of peace through faith, this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen, reflect, and join the conversation.

    1h 29m

About

About The Truth Response Podcast The Truth Response is a podcast that explores the complexities of modern life through the lens of Christian faith. Each episode invites listeners on a journey to discover how biblical teachings can provide hope and guidance amid contemporary challenges. We tackle a variety of important topics, from the intricacies of scriptural canon to the struggles of living out one’s faith in the workplace. Join host Derek Stephenson as he engages with difficult questions about temptation, forgiveness, and the reality of death from a believer’s perspective. Expect contemplative discussions on the significance of prayer, the role of the church, and interpretations of prophetic writings like the book of Revelation. From examining the ‘Armor of God’ in the lives of Christian women to unpacking the concept of ‘Praying without Ceasing,’ The Truth Response offers a space for insight and solace. It encourages listeners to find comfort in the truths of the Bible amidst the chaos, fear, and anxiety of everyday life.

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