Faith & Clarity - Biblical Perspectives and Biblical Wisdom on News & Cultural Issues

Denison Forum
Denison Forum
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Faith & Clarity goes beyond the headlines, helping you think biblically about the news and cultural issues shaping our world. Join Dr. Mark Turman and his guests for insightful conversations that combine intellectual depth with real-world application, equipping you to respond to current events and trends with wisdom and faith. Drawing from his nearly forty years of leading churches, Mark makes theology practical for everyday life, empowering you to engage culture with clarity, compassion, and conviction.

  1. 5d ago

    What is the "Vibe Shift" and does it point to revival?

    In this episode of Faith & Clarity, Dr. Mark Turman sits down with philosopher, cultural theologian, author, and podcaster Paul Anleitner to discuss early signs of a cultural "vibe shift" that may signal revival in the church and renewed openness to faith in Western culture. Paul traces how postmodern deconstruction and cynicism moved from academia into 1990s pop culture, fueling a "meaning crisis," rising religious "nones," and increased isolation and despair. He defines cultural vibe as a culture's shared spirit shaped by its guiding stories, rituals, and symbols, and explains why humans can't sustain a negative story, unpacking meaning's three pillars: coherence, purpose, and significance. Together, they explore Christianity's unique ability to hold together life's rationality and apparent randomness, the difference between healthy reform and perpetual deconstruction, and hopeful signposts emerging in entertainment and culture. The conversation closes with Paul sharing about his nonprofit, Good Makers, and its focus on cultural renewal and collaboration. Topics(0:00) Introduction (0:41) Meet Paul and His Story (6:28) Defining Cultural Vibe (11:14) Deconstruction Goes Mainstream (18:55) Why Negativity Fails (22:57) Hope and Ultimate Concern (30:26) Media Shapes Perception (37:07) Hope Against Cynicism (40:05) Reform Versus Deconstruction (43:42) Nehemiah Rebuilding Signs (54:43) Good Makers Mission (57:32) Where To Find Paul (58:10) Conclusion ResourcesReading the ZeitgeistGoodmakers PodcastBASED ON A TRUE STORY: Vibe Shifts, the End of Deconstruction, and the Reboot of MeaningPaul Anleitner’s websiteAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgSign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeAbout Paul AnleitnerPaul Anleitner is a cultural commentator, speaker, and writer exploring the intersection of faith, philosophy, and modern culture. His work examines the search for meaning, identity, and the cultural shifts shaping a generation navigating uncertainty and change. He shares his insights through his widely read Substack, Reading the Zeitgeist, and hosts thoughtful conversations on the Goodmakers Podcast. His new book BASED ON A TRUE STORY: Vibe Shifts, the End of Deconstruction, and the Reboot of Meaning, releasing in 2026, offers a timely and compelling vision for rebuilding meaning in a disoriented age. 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. All episodes are produced by Sound of a Rose. For more information, you can visit soundofarose.com.

  2. Aug 12

    Heaven on Earth: What the Bible really promises about the new Earth

    In this episode of Faith & Clarity, Dr. Mark Turman and Steph Thurling are joined by author Randy Alcorn to discuss his children's book Heaven on Earth and the biblical promise of a new heaven and new earth. Drawing on 2 Peter 3 and other passages, Randy contrasts the common disembodied, "clouds and harps" view of heaven with Scripture's emphasis on resurrection bodies and a renewed earth where God removes the curse and restores creation. Together, they explore how parents can talk with kids about death, grief, memory, and reunions with loved ones, along with hope for those who have lost children or pregnancies and questions about marriage in the resurrection. The conversation closes with a look at disabilities, the role of time in eternity, and why animals, and possibly even pets, have a place in the renewal of "all things." Topics(0:00) Introduction (3:47) New Earth Explained (12:56) Helping Kids Understand (17:06) When to Start Talking to Kids (22:54) Marriage in Resurrection (27:53) Children in Heaven (29:16) Grief With Hope (31:17) Remembering Loved Ones (32:46) Miscarriage And Hope (37:48) Healing Disabilities (42:01) Pets In The New Earth (51:47) Questions About Suffering (55:44) Conclusion ResourcesEternal Perspectives MinistryHeaven on Earth bookAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgSign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeAbout Randy AlcornRandy Alcorn is the founder and director of Eternal Perspective Ministries (EPM), a nonprofit organization dedicated to teaching biblical truth and drawing attention to the needy and how to help them. EPM exists to meet the needs of the unreached, unfed, unborn, uneducated, unreconciled and unsupported people around the world. A New York Times bestselling author, Randy has written over sixty books, including Courageous, Heaven, The Treasure Principle, and the Gold Medallion winning novel Safely Home. His books, including on theology, Christian life, murder mysteries, fantasy, graphic novels (comic book style) and Children’s books, have been translated into over 70 languages and have sold over 13 million copies. 100% of his book royalties go to need-meeting ministries. About Steph ThurlingSteph Thurling is the host of The Christian Parenting Podcast. 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 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. Steph lives in Minnesota with her husband and three amazing and hilarious kids. When she is not hanging out with her family, you can probably find her on a walk with a friend, organizing things that won’t stay organized, or somewhere cozy reading a book. 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. All episodes are produced by Sound of a Rose. For more information, you can visit soundofarose.com.

    Heaven on Earth: What the Bible really promises about the new Earth

  3. Aug 5

    Loving God with your mind: a guide to Christian critical thinking

    In this episode of Faith & Clarity, Dr. Mark Turman is joined by Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Ryan Denison to discuss critical thinking as a core part of Denison Forum's mission to help Christians engage culture biblically. They clarify that critical thinking isn't negativity or quick certainty, but prayerful processing, examining one's own biases, and resisting "gotcha" arguments. Jim explains why ideas shape cultures and geopolitics, defining ideology as a coherent worldview that explains reality and how to change it, with examples ranging from Iran to Putin and Xi Jinping.  Together, they explore why Christians are commanded to love God with their minds, how Jesus modeled logical reasoning and exposed faulty assumptions, and why starting with Scripture guards against heresy. The conversation closes with an invitation for listeners to learn from history and other thinkers, to think "for yourself but not by yourself" within Christian community, and to cultivate Spirit-led "mind control" through daily surrender, ongoing prayer, and listening to God. Topics(0:00) Introduction (0:43) Why critical thinking matters (2:16) What critical thinking is not (10:02) Defining ideology and worldviews (12:57) Why Christians must think well (23:48) Thinking biblically first (26:24) Jesus models logic (29:14) Sadducees marriage trap (32:27) Schaeffer worldview questions (34:19) Sadducees arrogance today (39:24) Tools for discernment (40:30) Scripture and great minds (43:56) Think together, not groupthink (48:32) Holy Spirit mindset (50:20) Daily surrender practices (53:58) Conclusion ResourcesAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgSign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeAbout Dr. Jim DenisonJim Denison, PhD, is a cultural theologian and the founder and CEO of Denison Ministries. He speaks biblically into significant cultural issues at Denison Forum. He is the chief author of The Daily Article and has written more than 30 books, including The Coming Tsunami, the Biblical Insight to Tough Questions series, and The Fifth Great Awakening. About Dr. Ryan DenisonDr. Ryan Denison 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. All episodes are produced by Sound of a Rose. For more information, you can visit soundofarose.com.

    Loving God with your mind: a guide to Christian critical thinking

  4. Jul 29

    Best of: Why are so many young people struggling to find hope—and how can we help?

    Note: This episode was originally published on November 19, 2025 and was one of our most popular conversations over the last 12 months. We're currently taking a summer break for the month of July, but we will be back with new episodes starting on August 5th. In this episode of Faith & Clarity, host Mark Turman welcomes Tim Altman, President and CEO of TheHopeLine, for a heartfelt and timely conversation about the growing need for hope among today’s young people—especially during the holiday season. Tim shares how TheHopeLine, a 24/7 online ministry, is meeting students and young adults right where they are—offering free, compassionate support through live chat to those struggling with loneliness, anxiety, and crisis. He and Mark talk about the realities facing this generation, from the isolating effects of social media to the rise in mental health challenges that leave many searching for purpose and belonging. Drawing from TheHopeLine’s LEAP model—Listen, Encourage, Advise, and Plan/Pray—Tim explains how hope coaches are trained to provide both practical guidance and spiritual care in real time. He also offers insight into how parents can best love and support their teens, and what families can do to bring light into what can be a difficult season for many. Together, Mark and Tim reflect on the deep spiritual hunger behind the headlines and the remarkable ways God is working through everyday conversations of care and faith. It’s a reminder that hope is not abstract—it’s alive, active, and available in Christ, even in our darkest moments. Topics(0:00) Introduction (3:26) Defining hope today (7:31) Why hope is fading (10:31) HopeLine mission origins (13:14) From radio to web (16:56) Live chat and LEAP (17:58) Crisis story and identity (24:42) HopeLine global reach (27:10) Crises beyond suicide (30:39) Recruiting hope coaches (37:45) Website resources support (42:32) Conclusion ResourcesTheHopeLineFacebook: TheHopeLineTheHopeLine (@thehopeline) • Instagram photos and videosTheHopeLine (@thehopeline) / Posts / XTikTok: TheHopeLine.com Tim Altman on LinkedInWhat does the Bible say about suicide? • Denison ForumHaving suicidal thoughts? Call or text 988Why are teens sadder, lonelier, and more depressed than ever before?To stop suicide every 40 seconds: Jacob Coyne with StayHere.liveHow to help prevent suicide and aiding survivors: A conversation with John Mark CatonHow to navigate suicide, self-harm, depression, and emotions with preteens and teens: A conversation with Jeff and Terra MattsonHow can Christians navigate anxiety and negative thoughts?How can understanding the mind-body-spirit connection improve mental health struggles?Ask Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgSign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeAbout Tim AltmanIn 1986, after 7 years in local Christian radio and video production in Denver, Colorado, Tim joined the Dawson McAllister Association (DMA). In January 1991, he helped launch and produce Dawson McAllister Live!, a syndicated call-in talk radio program for students 21 and younger. Later that same year, The HopeLine was launched as a back-end to the radio show. It began as a part-time toll-free phone connection for young people needing to connect with a caring adult volunteer. In 1994, the show was awarded Talk Show of the Year by the National Christian Broadcasters. In 1996, Tim became the Senior Vice President of Programming. In 2000, he left to work with academia as a media consultant and producer in the development of interactive web-based curriculum, but returned to DMA in 2006 as CEO. This corresponded with a new Top 40 version of Dawson’s call-in show that became syndicated nationwide through then Clear Channel, now iHeart Radio. This large radio platform led to major growth for TheHopeline, eventually taking on a life of its own. With Dawson’s blessing, the ministry officially changed its name to TheHopeLine in 2019. Tim has a BBS in Pastoral Theology from Colorado Christian University. He has been married to Janice for 52 years and they have the kids and grandkids to prove it. About Dr. Mark 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. All episodes are produced by Sound of a Rose. For more information, you can visit soundofarose.com.

    Best of: Why are so many young people struggling to find hope—and how can we help?

  5. Jul 22

    Best of: Faith, science, and the call to hospitality with Dr. James Tour

    Note: This episode was originally published on October 8, 2025 and was one of our most popular conversations over the last 12 months. We're currently taking a summer break for the month of July, but we will be back with new episodes starting on August 5th. Dr. Mark Turman sits down with world-renowned scientist Dr. James Tour for a conversation that bridges faith and science in remarkable ways. Dr. Tour shares his story of coming to faith in Jesus—how a secular Jewish student became a passionate follower of Christ—and what that journey has taught him about truth, reason, and grace. Together, they talk about the mysteries of life’s origin, the promises and pitfalls of artificial intelligence, and how Christian hospitality can open hearts to the gospel. Dr. Tour also reflects on his pioneering work in nanotechnology at Rice University and offers wisdom for students and parents seeking to hold onto faith in the world of higher education. It’s a thoughtful, hope-filled dialogue about what it means to follow Jesus with both mind and heart. Topics(0:00) Introduction (1:48) Meet Dr. James Tour (3:20) From Judaism to Jesus (12:28) Discipleship and church (27:28) Hospitality as ministry (34:29) Science meets faith (42:42) Nanomachines vs. superbugs (45:41) Origin of life debate (49:10) Evolution and fossils (57:56) AI jobs and society (1:11:18) Conclusion ResourcesJesus and Science FoundationPersonal Website: https://jmtour.com Dr. James Tour – YouTubeDr James Tour- FacebookDr James Tour (@drjamestour) • Instagram photos and videosDr James Tour (@DrJamesTour) / XDr James Tour : DiscordApple PodcastsSpotifyDr. Tour’s weekly email newsletterAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgSign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeAbout Dr. James TourProfessor James Tour is the T. T. and W. F. Chao Professor of Chemistry, Professor of Computer Science, and Professor of Materials Science and NanoEngineering at Rice University in Houston, Texas. Professor Tour has over 800 research publications, over 140 granted patents, and over 100 pending patents. His h-index is 178, with total citations over 150,000. He is a member of the National Academy of Engineering and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry. His research group works in materials science, energy, medicine, electronics, and single-molecule nanomachines. He founded 17 companies based on his academic research, three of which are now public companies. In addition to this, he has an active social media presence, @drjamestour, spanning YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Rumble, Facebook, and X. In 2024, on YouTube alone, there were 24 million views of his content for over 2 million viewed hours, which spans topics on science, faith, and the origin of life. For 10 years, Professor Tour led weekly Bible studies in the living units of maximum-security prisons.  He has been teaching a weekly Bible study to college students for the past 26 years, and he and his wife, Shireen, have served about 75 meals to students per week in their home for that entire time. They also distribute dozens of weekly meals to local cancer patients residing in church facilities and elderly shut-ins in Houston. 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. All episodes are produced by Sound of a Rose. For more information, you can visit soundofarose.com.

    Best of: Faith, science, and the call to hospitality with Dr. James Tour

  6. Jul 15

    Best of: How can understanding the mind-body-spirit connection improve mental health struggles?

    Note: This episode was originally published on September 17, 2025 and was one of our most popular conversations over the last 12 months. We're currently taking a summer break for the month of July, but we will be back with new episodes starting on August 5th. On this episode of Faith & Clarity, Dr. Mark Turman welcomes health coach and mental health advocate Erin Kerry for an honest conversation about the labels we carry and how to live beyond them. One in four Americans struggles with a diagnosable mental illness every year, and for many, those diagnoses come wrapped in stigma, shame, and judgment. Erin knows this firsthand. By age eighteen, she had been labeled with PTSD, depression, and bipolar disorder. Today, she’s living symptom-free and helping others find the same freedom. Drawing from her new book, Live Beyond Your Label: A Holistic Approach to Breaking Old Patterns and Rediscovering a Healthier You in Mind, Body, and Spirit, Erin shares how faith, functional nutrition, and self-advocacy work together to bring healing and wholeness. She introduces her LIVE process: addressing stress, uncovering root issues, nourishing the body, exercising the body and brain, and living in wholeness, offering a roadmap to integrated health. If you’ve ever felt defined by a diagnosis or trapped by a label, this conversation will encourage you to see yourself as God does, discover practical ways to care for your whole self, and take your next step toward freedom and hope. Topics(00:00) Introduction(00:30) Addressing the mental health crisis(01:39) Meet Erin Kerry: Health coach and advocate(02:57) Erin's personal journey with mental health(07:44) Understanding functional medicine(19:47) The importance of labels and identity(26:19) Biblical perspectives on labels(32:22) Advocating for yourself beyond labels(38:09) The impact of trauma and adverse experiences(43:00) Faith and mental health: A holistic approach(53:55) The role of nutrition in mental and physical health(59:52) Conclusion ResourcesAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgHow has Denison Forum impacted your faith?Denison Forum | North Texas Giving DayLive Beyond Your Label: A Holistic Approach to Breaking Old Patterns and Rediscovering a Healthier You in Mind, Body, and SpiritErin's WebsiteSparking Wholeness PodcastErin’s InstagramErin’s FacebookCheck out Erin’s free Bible app devotional, Reset Your Stress Response with Scripture Also available on the Life Bible appWhat is Christian self-care? A conversation with Erin KerryHow can a Christian deal with anxiety?How to practice biblical self-careWhy the church doesn’t want to talk about traumaThe truth about triggers: What the church needs to know about traumaShould I take meds for my depression? A Christian approach to the mental illness epidemicAre you SAD? How to fight against the winter bluesDoes the Bible say being anxious is bad? About Erin KerryErin Kerry is a health coach and mental health advocate. She encourages people to live beyond their labels, sparking hope and wholeness each week through her podcast, Sparking Wholeness. Erin knows how suffering from a chronic illness can infiltrate every area of life. By the age of 18, she was given the labels PTSD, depression, and bipolar disorder. Today, she is living symptom-free. She empowers people to be their own health advocates so they don’t have to be limited by a label or diagnosis. She and her husband, Richard, live in Tyler, Texas, with their three kids: Isabel, Roman, and Rhett. 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. All episodes are produced by Sound of a Rose. For more information, you can visit soundofarose.com.

    Best of: How can understanding the mind-body-spirit connection improve mental health struggles?

  7. Jul 8

    Best Of: John Stonestreet on "Truth Rising" and courage in today’s culture

    Note: This episode was originally published on September 5, 2025 and was one of our most popular conversations over the last 12 months. We're currently taking a summer break for the month of July, but we will be back with new episodes starting on August 5th. In this episode of Faith & Clarity, Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Ryan Denison are joined by John Stonestreet, President of the Colson Center, to talk about the new documentary Truth Rising. More than a film, Truth Rising is a call to courage in a time when faith, identity, and morality are being redefined. Through stories of ordinary people making an extraordinary impact, the documentary points us back to the unchanging truth of Christ. Listen in as Mark and Ryan explore why this cultural moment matters, how you can access the film and study guide, and what it looks like to stand with clarity and conviction today. Topics(0:00) Introduction (1:06) Podcast mission and scripture (2:25) Meet John Stonestreet (6:30) Colson Center mission (10:55) Truth Rising documentary overview (15:38) Os Guinness and his influence (19:22) Existential crisis and revival (25:14) Stories of courage and truth (29:44) Ayaan Hirsi Ali's journey (33:00) Chloe Cole and the power of truth (34:40) Jack Phillips: A stand for truth (37:36) The role of comedians and musicians in culture (41:13) Accessing the documentary and final thoughts (43:24) Conclusion ResourcesHow has Denison Forum impacted your faith?Truth RisingTruth Rising YouTubeTruth Rising: The Study​​Truth Rising Film Instagram (@truthrisingfilm)Colson CenterA Practical Guide to Culture Who Am I? What the Bible Says About Identity and Why it MattersAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgSign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeAbout John StonestreetJohn Stonestreet serves as president of the Colson Center. He’s a sought-after speaker and author on areas of faith and culture, theology, worldview, education and apologetics. John is the daily voice of Breakpoint, the nationally syndicated commentary on the culture founded by the late Chuck Colson. He has co-authored five books including A Practical Guide to Culture and Restoring All Things.   Before coming to the Colson Center in 2010, John served in various leadership capacities with Summit Ministries and was on the biblical studies faculty at Bryan College (TN). John is an ordained deacon in the Anglican Diocese of All Nations (Anglican Church of North America). He and his wife, Sarah, have four children and live in Colorado Springs, CO.   In addition to hosting the Truth Rising documentary, he also serves as the instructor for the small-group curriculum to be released after the film. About Dr. Ryan DenisonDr. Ryan Denison 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. All episodes are produced by Sound of a Rose. For more information, you can visit soundofarose.com.

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  8. Jul 1

    What Washington, Lincoln, and JFK teach us about leadership today

    In this episode of Faith & Clarity, Dr. Mark Turman is joined by author and attorney Talmage Boston for a conversation on leadership, history, and faith, drawing on Talmage's book How the Best Did It, which examines eight of America's top-ranked presidents based largely on C-SPAN historian polls. Talmage explains why he studies history not just for facts, but for wisdom, and how that approach makes the leadership lessons of past presidents surprisingly relevant for today's challenges. He and Mark dig into George Washington's singular legacy as the unanimous choice for four nation-shaping roles, exploring his gift for unifying collaboration, his humility, and his quiet but steady faith, while also acknowledging the hard complexities of his relationship to slavery. The conversation then turns to Abraham Lincoln, whose unmatched breadth of leadership traits—magnanimity, equanimity, and resilience—were shaped by a difficult marriage, profound personal loss, and a faith that deepened over time, culminating in the haunting humility of his second inaugural address. They close with a look at John F. Kennedy, tracing his growth as a leader after the failure at the Bay of Pigs, his steady crisis leadership during the Cuban Missile Crisis, his moral framing of the civil rights movement, and the unique pressures of leading in a new media age as the nation's first Catholic president. Talmage ends with a call for listeners to lead with integrity and pursue bridge-building in an age of deep polarization. Topics(0:00) Introduction (4:34) Early leadership fascination (9:11) Why leadership matters (12:58) Washington leadership traits (19:52) Washington slavery tension (24:30) Washington faith influence (26:48) Lincoln genius and humility (30:13) New Lincoln book honesty (47:21) JFK learning curve (54:23) Celebrity presidency era (57:11) First Catholic president (1:00:04) Choosing leaders today (1:04:35) Conclusion ResourcesTalmage BostonAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgSign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeAbout Talmage BostonTalmage Boston has spent the last 48 years balancing two high-profile careers: one of Dallas's top commercial litigators and an acclaimed author of books on baseball, law, and the American presidency. A partner at Shackelford, Bowen, McKinley & Norton, LLP, he has been board certified in Civil Trial Law and Civil Appellate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, and has prevailed in trials and appellate courts throughout Texas, including the Texas Supreme Court and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. He has been named a Texas Super Lawyer every year since 2003 and listed among the Best Lawyers in America every year since 2013. Boston's unique footing in both law and history made him uniquely qualified to write his latest book, How the Best Did It: Leadership Lessons From Our Top Presidents, which draws leadership lessons from America's greatest presidents and applies them to leaders today. His other acclaimed books include Cross-Examining History (foreword by Ken Burns), Raising the Bar (foreword by former U.S. Attorney General Dick Thornburgh), Baseball and the Baby Boomer (foreword by Frank Deford), and 1939: Baseball's Tipping Point (foreword by John Grisham). He received both his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Texas at Austin. 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. All episodes are produced by Sound of a Rose. For more information, you can visit soundofarose.com.

    What Washington, Lincoln, and JFK teach us about leadership today
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Faith & Clarity goes beyond the headlines, helping you think biblically about the news and cultural issues shaping our world. Join Dr. Mark Turman and his guests for insightful conversations that combine intellectual depth with real-world application, equipping you to respond to current events and trends with wisdom and faith. Drawing from his nearly forty years of leading churches, Mark makes theology practical for everyday life, empowering you to engage culture with clarity, compassion, and conviction.

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