The Denison Forum Podcast - Christian perspective on current events, Christian news and culture, Biblical wisdom

Denison Forum
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The Denison Forum Podcast - Christian perspective on current events, Christian news and culture, Biblical wisdom

On The Denison Forum Podcast, host Dr. Mark Turman interviews knowledgeable guests on timely news and relevant spiritual topics. Each week an author, commentator, pastor, theologian, or a topical expert joins the show to bring biblical insight and practical applications to help Christians further develop a biblical worldview on current events.

  1. Is your Jesus too American?

    3 DAYS AGO

    Is your Jesus too American?

    Join Denison Forum’s podcast host, Dr. Mark Turman, as he engages with Dr. Steve Bezner, pastor of Houston Northwest Church, in an insightful conversation on how Christians can faithfully navigate modern culture. They discuss the tension between biblical and cultural values, the importance of community and racial reconciliation, and what it means to maintain a distinctly Christian identity. Drawing from his ministry experience and his book Your Jesus Is Too American, Dr. Bezner challenges believers to prioritize kingdom values over the American dream. The conversation also covers practical topics like financial generosity, biblical sexuality, and deepening relationships within the church and beyond.  Topics(01:06): Meet Dr. Steve Bezner(01:37): The Unique Challenges and Opportunities in Houston(05:01): Promoting Unity and Collaboration Among Churches(07:17): Building Relationships Across Faith Lines(09:39): Responding to Community Needs During Disasters(13:45): The Role of Identity in Modern Christianity(17:35): The Influence of Technology and Media(20:04): American Individualism and Its Impact on Faith(22:52): Hospitality and Community Building(28:08): Financial Stewardship and Generosity(32:58): Biblical Sexuality and Cultural Challenges(39:50): Success, Suffering, and the Christian Life(46:20): Hope for the American Church(47:58): Upcoming Event: Christian Life Commission Advocacy Day(50:25): Conclusion and Final ThoughtsResourcesYour Jesus Is Too American: Calling the Church to Reclaim Kingdom Values over the American DreamChristian Life Commission Advocacy Day Houston Northwest ChurchSteve Bezner’s WebsiteSteve Bezner on InstagramSteve Bezner on XSteve Bezner on FacebookAbout Dr. Steve BeznerSteve Bezner has been the Senior Pastor of Houston Northwest Church since January 2013. His passion is to see Houston—and the world—become more like Heaven as people become more like Jesus.  Steve loves to preach, teach, write, and speak about the Bible in a way that is easy to understand but also challenges people to live the life that God has designed for each of them. In Houston, Steve works to foster collaboration between local churches, serving on the board of the Houston Church Planting Network (to start new churches locally) and Houston Pastors United We Stand (to foster racial reconciliation). He also works through GlocalNet to build bridges with other faiths in the city, particularly Jews and Muslims. Steve is passionate about training other pastors. He works with World Hope Ministries International to train pastors in remote global locations, coaches planters and pastors, and teaches seminary occasionally.  He is married to Joy and has two sons—Ben and Andrew. He holds his B.A. and M.A. from Hardin-Simmons University and his Ph.D. from Baylor University. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture. About Denison ForumDenison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.

    54 min
  2. Is the church serious about justice?

    FEB 12

    Is the church serious about justice?

    Join Denison Forum’s podcast host, Mark Turman, as he engages with author, pastor, and speaker Skye Jethani in a profound discussion about justice, faith, and the teachings of Jesus. They explore the theme of taking Jesus seriously, particularly in the context of the Sermon on the Mount. Skye shares insights from his book, What If Jesus Was Serious About Justice?, highlighting the biblical principles of justice and righteousness.  The conversation covers the historical and cultural influences on American Christianity, the intersection of God's wrath and love, and the role of justice in God's plan. The episode aims to equip listeners to think biblically, live beautifully, and serve eagerly in their communities. Topics(00:32): Introducing Skye Jethani and the Topic of Justice(01:41): Exploring the Sermon on the Mount(04:18): The American Church and the Concept of Justice(06:00): Historical Context: Revivalism and Social Justice(08:04): The Role of Slavery in Dividing the Church(12:59): Justice and Righteousness: A Biblical Perspective(16:50): The Interplay of Justice and Mercy(20:14): Personal and Social Dimensions of Faith(24:42): The Parable of the Prodigal Son: Cultural Perspectives(28:02): Understanding the Judgment of Nations(30:48): Disney Princess Theology(34:12): The Subtle Nature of Revenge(37:50): Active and Passive Wrath of God(44:58): The Intersection of God's Wrath and Love(49:14): Making Theology Accessible(50:53): Conclusion and Final Thoughts ResourcesWhat If Jesus Was Serious about Justice? By Skye JethaniWhat If Jesus Was Serious about Heaven? By Skye JethaniIf Jesus was serious . . . then our view of heaven must match his: An excerpt from "What If Jesus Was Serious about Heaven?" by Skye JethaniThe Holy Post podcastMore about Skye JethaniWhat does it mean to hunger and thirst for righteousness?What is biblical righteousness?About Skye JethaniSkye Jethani (MDiv, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School) is an award-winning author, former pastor, and speaker. He is cohost of the popular Holy Post podcast. Jethani has written numerous books, including the What If Jesus Was Serious? series, and served for more than a decade in numerous editorial and executive roles at Christianity Today. He also writes a daily devotional called With God Daily. He and his wife live in Wheaton, Illinois, with their three children. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture. About Denison ForumDenison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.

    54 min
  3. Exploring religion in a secular world

    FEB 5

    Exploring religion in a secular world

    Join host Mark Turman and Dr. Ryan Denison on the Denison Forum Podcast for a compelling conversation with Ross Douthat, New York Times opinion columnist and bestselling author. In this special episode, they dive into Douthat’s latest book, Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious. Explore the dynamic relationship between faith and reason, the impact of secularization, and the crucial role of communal and institutional religious practices. Gain insight into Douthat’s personal faith journey, his critique of atheism, and his reflections on how to navigate today’s challenges to traditional Christian teachings. Whether you’re a believer, a skeptic, or somewhere in between, this episode offers thought-provoking perspectives on why religion continues to be vital in our modern world. Topics(00:37): Meet Our Special Guests: Dr. Ryan Dennison and Ross Douthat(01:16): Discussing Ross Douthat's Latest Book, Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious(03:53): The Rise of Secularization and Its Impact(09:15): Religion vs. Spirituality: Understanding the Differences(16:55): The Rational Approach to Faith(44:40): Challenges in Modern Christianity(48:19): Ross Douthat's Personal Faith Journey(53:39): Final Thoughts and EncouragementResourcesBelieve: Why Everyone Should Be ReligiousRoss on XRoss Douthat: New York TimesWhy Jesus? -Dr. Jim Denison About Ross Douthat Ross Douthat has been a New York Times Opinion columnist since April 2009. Previously, he was a senior editor at the Atlantic. He is the author of The Deep Places; The Decadent Society; To Change the Church; Bad Religion; Privilege; and, with Reihan Salam, Grand New Party. He is the film critic for National Review. He lives with his wife and five children in New Haven, Connecticut. About Dr. Ryan DenisonRyan Denison, PhD, is the Senior Editor for Theology at Denison Forum. Ryan writes The Daily Article every Friday and contributes writing and research to many of the ministry’s productions. He holds a PhD in church history from BH Carroll Theological Institute after having earned his MDiv at Truett Seminary. He’s authored The Path to Purpose, What Are My Spiritual Gifts?, How to Bless God by Blessing Others, 7 Deadly Sins, and has contributed writing or research to every Denison Forum book. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture. About Denison ForumDenison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.

    56 min
  4. Transforming lives with Mercy Ships

    JAN 29

    Transforming lives with Mercy Ships

    In this podcast episode, Mark Turman discusses the importance of serving in the Christian faith, highlighting the work of Mercy Ships, an international ministry that provides surgical care to the world's forgotten poor. Raeanne Newquist shares her personal journey with Mercy Ships, detailing the transformative impact of their work on patients and the community. The conversation emphasizes the significance of restoring dignity and humanity to those in need, as well as the personal growth experienced by volunteers and their families. The discussion explores the various roles available for volunteers, the unique family dynamics aboard the ships, and the spiritual impact of serving in diverse communities. Raeanne emphasizes the importance of prayer, the need for various skill sets, and the profound experiences that come from working in a global mission context. Topics(00:00): The Call to Serve: Understanding Christian Service(06:02): Introducing Mercy Ships: A Unique Ministry(12:06): The Impact of Mercy Ships: Transformative Patient Stories(17:57): Personal Connections: How Mercy Ships Changed Lives(26:25): Transformative Journey with Mercy Ships(31:40): The Broad Scope of Service Opportunities(35:43): Family Life Aboard Mercy Ships(39:55): Commitment Levels and Volunteer Roles(44:00): Navigating Complexities of Service(48:29): Spiritual Impact and Community on BoardResourcesMercy ShipsFacebookInstagramXYouTubeAbout Raeanne NewquistRaeanne, her husband, and 3 children joined Mercy Ships in 2019. After leaving everything behind in Southern California, they boarded the Africa Mercy in Las Palmas and made their first sail down to Dakar, Senegal for their first field service. On board, Raeanne volunteered in the communications department and later in chaplaincy. Currently, Raeanne works in the Mercy Ships U.S. Marketing department. Raeanne is the host of the New Mercies podcast, is the voice of the Mercy Minute daily radio broadcast and serves as a staff writer. About Mercy ShipsMercy Ships, founded in 1978, operates hospital ships that deliver free surgeries and other healthcare services to those with little access to safe medical care.  Mercy Ships bases its work from its two hospital ships, the Africa Mercy®, which went into service in 2007, and the Global Mercy® — the world’s first purpose-built civilian hospital ship—which began serving African nations in 2022. Direct Medical - Mercy Ships provides safe, free surgeries on board its hospital ships, focusing on seven specialties: maxillofacial/head and neck surgery; reconstructive plastic surgery; pediatric orthopedic surgery; specialized pediatric surgery; general surgery; opthalmic; and women’s health.  Education, Training, and Advocacy - Mercy Ships focuses on long-term, sustainable education and training across the surgical ecosystem, working to create lasting impact by increasing surgical capacity in host nations. Since 1978 Mercy Ships has provided: 117,000+ Life-Saving Surgeries541,000+ Dental Procedures54,300+ Professionals trained in their area of expertise2.87 million+ direct beneficiariesAbout Dr. Mark TurmanDr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture. About Denison ForumDenison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.

    56 min
  5. God’s power and grace to break sexual addiction

    JAN 22

    God’s power and grace to break sexual addiction

    Join Dr. Mark Turman, executive director of Denison Forum, as he interviews Pedro Reyes about his extraordinary journey from Cuba to the United States, his battle with sexual addiction, and his ultimate redemption through faith. Pedro shares his heartfelt story of dealing with childhood abuse, the struggles of addiction, and how he found freedom and healing. Learn about the transformative power of grace, the importance of accountability, and how Pedro now ministers as a chaplain for the Texas Rangers. This episode offers hope and resources for those battling similar struggles and emphasizes the enduring love and commitment of Pedro's wife, Susi. Topics(00:43): Meet Pedro Reyes: A Journey from Cuba to the US(03:07): Pedro's Early Life and Family Challenges(06:49): Hopes for Cuba and Ministry Efforts(09:51): Pedro's Struggles with Sexual Addiction(13:50): The Turning Point: Seeking Help and Recovery(16:48): Rebuilding Marriage and Family(22:28): Advice for Others and Church Involvement(35:57): Becoming a Chaplain for the Texas Rangers(40:28): Conclusion and Final ThoughtsResourcesEpisode Transcript (PDF)Covenant EyesProclaim CubaWhat does the Bible say about pornography? Can you break free from sexual temptation?Fighting pornography and sexual sin: A conversation with Matt JacobsonFreedom CourseFight the New Drug About Pedro ReyesPedro was born in Havana, Cuba. His family moved to the US in January 1960. He lived in Delaware, not knowing how to speak English as a young boy. In September 1965, his family moved to Texas. He went to high school in Dallas and attended the University of Texas in Arlington. He gave his life to Christ in college in March 1971 and graduated from college in 1974. After graduating, he joined the Campus Crusade for Christ staff, now known as CRU, and was assigned to a Junior College in Phoenix, AZ, where he met his wife. They married in May 1976 and moved to Dallas. He has 4 grown, married children and 10 grandchildren. He owns a Construction company and volunteers as a chaplain for the Texas Rangers. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture. About Denison ForumDenison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.

    48 min
  6. What does the Bible say about temptation, leadership, and Islam?

    JAN 15

    What does the Bible say about temptation, leadership, and Islam?

    In this episode, Dr. Mark Turman sits down with Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Ryan Denison to explore topics ranging from biblical leadership principles, modern temptations, faith, and rationality to the geopolitical implications of Islamic eschatology.  They discuss how to balance shepherding and equipping within the church, the importance of rational faith, and how temptation works in our lives today. Listen as they provide thought-provoking insights on how to foster a flourishing community rooted in biblical values. Topics(00:27): Introducing Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Ryan Denison(02:20): Discussing Leadership and Integrity(08:31): Biblical Principles of Shared Power(11:43): Understanding Temptation and Sin(18:22): The Craftiness of the Devil(26:45): Understanding Temptation and Resistance(29:06): The Rationality of Faith(34:51): Metaphors in the Bible and Church Dynamics(44:27): The Mahdi and Geopolitical ImplicationsResourcesEpisode Transcript (PDF)Reflecting on the funeral of Jimmy CarterWhat does the Bible say about pornography? Can you break free from sexual temptation?Defeating temptation before it becomes sinIran is “closer than ever” to a nuclear bomb: Why this is a global threat, and how Christians should respondWhy does God value integrity?The Coming Tsunami About 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 DenisonRyan Denison, PhD, is the Senior Editor for Theology at Denison Forum. Ryan writes The Daily Article every Friday and contributes writing and research to many of the ministry’s productions. He holds a PhD in church history from BH Carroll Theological Institute after having earned his MDiv at Truett Seminary. He’s authored The Path to Purpose, What Are My Spiritual Gifts?, How to Bless God by Blessing Others, 7 Deadly Sins, and has contributed writing or research to every Denison Forum book. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture. About Denison ForumDenison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.

    56 min
  7. Introducing Culture Brief: A new Denison Forum podcast on sports, pop culture, and more

    JAN 8

    Introducing Culture Brief: A new Denison Forum podcast on sports, pop culture, and more

    In this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, host Mark Turman kicks off 2025 by introducing listeners to the new Culture Brief podcast. Joined by Connor Jones and Micah Tomasella, the discussion covers the objectives and format of Culture Brief, highlighting its focus on news, sports, entertainment, and technology from a biblical perspective. The trio dives into current topics like the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, the tragic murder of a healthcare CEO, and the excitement surrounding NFL and college football playoffs. They examine these events' cultural and spiritual implications, offering listeners a taste of what's to come with Culture Brief. Topics(00:28): Introducing the New Podcast: Culture Brief(01:24): Meet the Hosts: Connor and Micah(03:07): What to Expect from Culture Brief(05:13): The Format and Audience of Culture Brief(12:16): Diving into the First Stories(18:07): The Tragic Story of Brian Thompson(28:10): Mental Health and Spiritual Influences(29:33): Syria's Political Upheaval(31:30): Impact on the Middle East(35:46): Prayers and Humanitarian Efforts(41:12): Football Season Highlights(50:54): Faith in Sports(53:57): Conclusion and Call to Action ResourcesCulture Brief Podcast Luigi Mangione charged with murder in death of insurance CEOThe Health Care System Is Flawed. Let’s Fix It.Boise State’s faith-driven journey to the College Football PlayoffsWhat Travis Hunter’s Heisman win says about our cultureCivil war in Syria escalates as rebels take HamaWhat does the Syrian conflict mean for the world? About Micah TomasellaMicah Tomasella is the Advancement Officer at Denison Ministries and co-hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. A graduate of Dallas Baptist University, Micah is married to Emily, and together they are the proud parents of two daughters. With an extensive background in nonprofit work, finance, and real estate, Micah also brings experience from his years in pastoral church ministry. About Conner JonesConner is the Director of Performance Marketing at Denison Ministries and Co-Hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2019 with a degree in Business Management. Conner passionately follows politics, sports, pop-culture, entertainment, and current events. He enjoys fishing, movie-going, and traveling the world with his wife and son. About Dr. Mark TurmanDr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture. About Denison ForumDenison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.

    56 min
  8. The rise of secular religion - Part 5

    JAN 1

    The rise of secular religion - Part 5

    Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman explore how Christians have lived faithfully in their cultural moment for thousands of years, how we must break free from the Sunday/Monday heresy, the importance of a personal relationship with Christ, how Christianity is a bad religion without such a personal relationship, and how the culture has created a new religion of humanism and self-affirming authenticity. Mark discusses how we often don’t see the results of our faithfulness in our lifetime, and we must leave the results to God’s providence. Faithfulness takes patience, and, as Jim has written, “You can’t measure the eternal significance of present faithfulness.” They delve into the Protestant Reformation, how it began, and some of the key believers in the movement. They then address the “Sunday/Monday heresy,” which refers to the view of many Christians who live as Christians on Sunday morning but have their own lives every other day of the week. Christ calls us to give every minute of our lives over to him.  This leads them to discuss the essential part of Christianity as being in the relationship with Christ, not the religion. While religion is important, i.e., going to church, singing hymns, liturgy, etc., without the relationship, religion is an empty shell. Jim reveals a time when, as a pastor, God convicted him that while Jim loved Jesus, he wasn’t in love with Jesus.  They then delve into what has become the overarching ideology or creed of our culture: personal authenticity. They discuss the evolution of this creed over time: how Christianity was at first important and culturally encouraged, then it became a personal hobby, then irrelevant, and now it’s considered dangerous. The culture has almost fully bought into humanism.  They consider the implications of this creed, how nowadays everything is centered around feelings and our experience.  Sometimes, true repentance is harder than religion. Often, having a relationship with Christ is more difficult than following an empty creed. Many issues in our culture stem from the transference of responsibility to anything and everyone but ourselves. There’s a sense in the culture now that “I” cannot be at fault; it must be the system or other people. While there are complex issues here, the gospel ultimately relies on the submission of oneself to Christ, no matter our circumstances.  Resources and further readingThe Coming Tsunami, Jim Denison The Master Plan of Evangelism, Robert E. Coleman To Change the World, James Davison Hunter “The Third Great Awakening,” Christianity Today About 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. Mark TurmanDr. Mark Turman is the Executive Director of Denison Forum and Vice President of Denison Ministries. Among his many duties, Turman is most notably the host of The Denison Forum Podcast. He is also the chief strategist for DF Pastors, which equips pastors and church leaders to understand and transform today’s culture. About Denison ForumDenison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.

    49 min
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On The Denison Forum Podcast, host Dr. Mark Turman interviews knowledgeable guests on timely news and relevant spiritual topics. Each week an author, commentator, pastor, theologian, or a topical expert joins the show to bring biblical insight and practical applications to help Christians further develop a biblical worldview on current events.

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