Episodios

  • Public, private, homeschool, or online? A guide for Christian parents

    Public, private, homeschool, or online? A guide for Christian parents
    Aug 13 2025
    On this episode of Faith & Clarity, Dr. Mark Turman talks with Dr. Ryan Denison and Steph Thurling of Christian Parenting about one of the most important decisions parents face: choosing the right schooling path for their children. They explore public, private, online, and homeschooling options, especially in light of the post-COVID education landscape. Drawing from personal experiences and Steph’s recent parenting podcast series, they offer biblical wisdom and practical guidance to help families make decisions rooted in faith rather than fear. Whether you’re weighing options for the first time or rethinking your current choice, this conversation will help you approach the process with clarity, confidence, and a Christ-centered perspective.Topics(00:25): Discussing school options for Christian parents(02:10): Personal stories and experiences with school choices(11:10): Biblical principles in education choices(16:16): Exploring the Christian Parenting podcast series(21:21): Choosing the right school district(27:41): Challenges and changes in public schools(32:23): Concerns and misconceptions about public schools(34:41): Transitioning from public to private schools(36:23): Homeschooling during COVID-19(38:48): Challenges and realities of homeschooling(46:06): Online schooling as an emerging option(47:43): Building community in different school settings(52:17): Avoiding judgment in school choices(56:10): Resources and final thoughtsResourcesAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgHow has Denison Forum impacted your faith?Christian Parenting Education Series PlaylistSchool Simplified Digital GuideA Great Cloud of Witnesses: Prayer Journal Christian Parenting PodcastShould I send my kid to private school? - Christian ParentingWhy I chose to put my kids in public school - Christian ParentingWhy should I homeschool? - Christian Parenting Schooling options: Preferences rather than requirements- Christian ParentingHow the body of Christ can help local school districtsAbout 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 Steph ThurlingSteph Thurling is the Executive Director of Christian Parenting and host of The Christian Parenting Podcast. She has a master’s in youth, family, and culture from Fuller Theological Seminary and a background in youth and children’s ministry. She is the co-author of Raising Prayerful Kids, a book that shares easy, life-giving, and fun ways to teach kids to pray. She loves helping families grow closer to each other and to God through meaningful experiences and conversations. Steph is a frequent speaker at churches and mom groups and is known for her relatable stories, practical ideas, and gentle encouragement. 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 TurmanMark Turman, DMin, 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 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 from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He later completed his Doctor of Ministry at George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University in Waco.Before joining Denison Forum, Mark served as a pastor for 35 years, including 25 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 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.
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    1 h y 3 m
  • Biblical clarity on climate change, Ten Commandments in the classroom, and AI companions

    Biblical clarity on climate change, Ten Commandments in the classroom, and AI companions
    Aug 6 2025
    In the debut episode of the newly rebranded Faith & Clarity Podcast, Dr. Mark Turman sits down with Josh Miller, Conner Jones, and Dr. Ryan Denison for a thoughtful roundtable conversation. Together, they tackle timely issues including climate change, the mandated display of the Ten Commandments in classrooms, and the growing presence of AI companions, examining each through a biblical lens.Throughout the discussion, the team emphasizes how Christians can respond to cultural challenges with both conviction and compassion. The episode concludes with practical insight on how to engage in meaningful conversations with loved ones, especially when navigating moral or ethical disagreements, while staying rooted in truth and guided by love.Topics(00:13): Introducing the Faith & Clarity Podcast (00:47): Round table discussion Topics(02:49): Climate change: A nuanced perspective(15:14): The Ten Commandments in schools debate(30:04): Understanding different perspectives on religious displays(32:40): Reflecting on the impact of religious policies(35:05): Exploring the concept of AI companions(37:07): Discussing the ethical implications of AI(47:00): Navigating relationships with LGBTQ+ individuals(55:15): Concluding thoughts and reflectionsResourcesAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgHow has Denison Forum impacted your faith?A Cold, Hard Truth About Climate - The DispatchTexas will require public school classrooms to display Ten Commandments under bill signed by governorTexas Republicans are trying to force public schools to display the Ten Commandments Republicans passed the bill on the Sabbath… breaking the 4th CommandmentTalarico on Joe Rogan clip#2352 - James Talarico - The Joe Rogan ExperienceReplikaAI friendships claim to cure loneliness. Some are ending in suicide.Should I attend a same-sex wedding?What does the Bible say about homosexuality? • Denison ForumAbout 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 Conner JonesConner Jones 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 Josh Miller Josh Miller is the Chief of Staff and Chief Strategy Officer at Denison Ministries. He is also a disciple of Jesus, husband, and father. A Christian leader, author, and songwriter, Josh brings over 20 years of ministry experience—from global worship tours to pastoral leadership. He lives in Plano, Texas, with his wife and two sons, fueled by faith, craft coffee, and a love for tacos.About Dr. Mark TurmanMark Turman, DMin, 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 Denison Forum Podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom 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 from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He later completed his Doctor of Ministry at George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University in Waco.Before joining Denison Forum, Mark served as a pastor for 35 years, including 25 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 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.
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    1 h
  • What do miracles, sinful lifestyles, and David’s heart for God teach us about faith in today’s world?

    What do miracles, sinful lifestyles, and David’s heart for God teach us about faith in today’s world?
    Jul 30 2025
    In this "Ask Us Anything" episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Mark Turman is joined by Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Ryan Denison for a thoughtful roundtable conversation. Together, they explore the purpose of affliction in the Christian life, what it truly means that David was “a man after God’s own heart,” and whether pastors should endorse political candidates. The conversation also touches on how Christians can love those living in sinful lifestyles, how to reconcile the violence of the Old Testament with a God of love, and whether miracles are still relevant today.As the podcast prepares to relaunch under a new name—Faith and Clarity with Dr. Mark Turman—this episode offers a preview of what’s to come: biblical wisdom, honest dialogue, and clarity for navigating the complexities of our culture through the lens of faith.Topics(02:35): Discussing affliction and suffering(10:46): Understanding David as a man after God's own heart(15:37): Navigating political endorsements as Christian leaders(23:17): Balancing love and truth in relationships with LGBTQ individuals(28:52): Addressing Old Testament questions(30:21): Understanding God's wrath and love(31:34): Cultural context of biblical commands(37:21): Normalizing sin in modern culture(43:50): Miracles and the Holy Spirit today(49:51): Biblical perspective on divorce and remarriage(57:12): Upcoming changes and new resourcesResourcesAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgHow has Denison Forum impacted your faith?Subscribe to The Daily Article by Dr. Jim DenisonReconciling the “Gods” of the Old and New Testaments: Part 1Reconciling the “Gods” of the Old and New Testaments: Part 2What does the Bible say about homosexuality? • Denison ForumWhat Are My Spiritual Gifts?Power for Spirit-filled living in today’s worldWhat does the Bible say about divorce?The impact of divorce on future generationsChip and Joanna Gaines’ new show features a gay coupleEpstein backlash, Christianity is growing, Chip and Joanna Gaines controversy & Scottie Scheffler's introspection | Ep. 28What should pastors say about the election?Avoiding the idol of politics with a biblical approachThe intersection of faith, politics, and a culture of lifeAbout 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 coauthored Sacred Sexuality: Reclaiming God’s Design and Who Am I? What the Bible Says About Identity and Why it Matters and has contributed writing or research to every Denison Forum book.About Dr. Mark TurmanMark Turman, DMin, 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 Denison Forum Podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom 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 from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He later completed his Doctor of Ministry at George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University in Waco.Before joining Denison Forum, Mark served as a pastor for 35 years, including 25 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 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.
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    1 h y 5 m
  • Following Christ in a sports-obsessed world

    Following Christ in a sports-obsessed world
    Jul 23 2025
    In this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Mark Turman sits down with Dr. Ryan Denison, Conner Jones, and Micah Tomasella for a thoughtful roundtable conversation exploring the intersection of faith, sports, and culture. Together, they discuss the spiritual implications of sports gambling, the complexities of compensating college athletes, and what it means to follow Christ in the world of competitive athletics.They also reflect on the example of professional golfer Scottie Scheffler, whose quiet faith continues to speak louder than his success. Finally, the group offers biblical wisdom for families navigating youth sports and the challenge of keeping Christ at the center.Whether you're deeply invested in the sports world or simply curious about its cultural impact, this conversation offers helpful, faith-first perspectives on one of the most influential forces in American life today.Topics(00:24): Meet the hosts(02:17): Culture Brief podcast insights(05:33): The slowest sports day of the year(08:18): The ESPYs and sports media(11:22): Personal sports fandom(17:20): Scottie Scheffler's perspective on golf and life(23:32): Biblical perspectives on sports(27:57): The evolution of college sports compensation(33:34): Exploitation of families in NIL deals(35:34): Spiritual reflections on NIL inequities(41:12): The rise of sports gambling(46:10): The impact of gambling on athletes and fans(55:45): Balancing faith and sports in family life(01:05:07): Final thoughts and reflectionsResourcesAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgHow has Denison Forum impacted your faith?Sports betting culture negatively impacts mental health; NCAA works to support student-athletesScottie Scheffler before winning The Open: “This is not a fulfilling life”Why March Madness can be both a joy and a dangerWhat watching sports says about our soulsWhat Travis Hunter’s Heisman win says about our cultureMLB’s Faith and Family events can expand our view of evangelismMarch Madness tips off today: How the NCAA tournament became a cultural phenomenonBabe Ruth, the curse of the Bambino, and seeking truth over perceptionAbout 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 Conner JonesConner Jones 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 Micah TomasellaMicah Tomasella is the Senior 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 Dr. Mark TurmanMark Turman, DMin, 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 Denison Forum Podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom 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 from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He later completed his Doctor of Ministry at George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University in Waco.Before joining Denison Forum, Mark served as a pastor for 35 years, including 25 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 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.
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    1 h y 11 m
  • Breaking the chains of slavery with Families Set Free

    Breaking the chains of slavery with Families Set Free
    Jul 16 2025
    On this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Mark Turman sits down with Mike Brickley, CEO of Families Set Free—a ministry working to rescue Christian families trapped in bonded labor in Pakistan’s brick kilns. Mike shares how God led him from the world of Silicon Valley business to a calling that now brings freedom to thousands.Together, they unpack the realities of modern-day slavery, the spiritual and systemic forces behind it, and how the gospel is making a tangible difference. You’ll hear stories of hope, transformation, and the power of ordinary people stepping into extraordinary obedience.To learn more or to join this redemptive work, visit FamiliesSetFree.org.Topics(00:29): Reflecting on service and sacrifice(03:03): Introducing Mike Brickley(03:58): Mike's background and faith journey(06:56): The plight of brick kiln workers in Pakistan(09:36): Rescue efforts and success stories(14:48): Daily life in the brick kilns(22:21): Modernizing brick kilns to end slavery(25:56): Rehabilitation and support for freed families(28:34): Challenges and future plans(30:56): Success stories of freed families(36:26): How to get involved and supportResourcesAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgHow has Denison Forum impacted your faith?Families Set FreeWhat is biblical righteousness?Is the church serious about justice?What does it mean to hunger and thirst for righteousness?About Michael BrickleyMichael Brickley is the CEO of Families Set Free, a ministry dedicated to rescuing Christians trapped in brick-making slave camps in Pakistan. Over the last three years, the organization has rescued more than 7,000 individuals and started over 1,400 small businesses to help freed families achieve independence.Through faith-filled determination and innovative strategies, Mike has helped eliminate over 90,000 years of combined slavery, restoring hope and dignity to countless families.About Dr. Mark TurmanMark Turman, DMin, 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 Denison Forum Podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom 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 from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He later completed his Doctor of Ministry at George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University in Waco.Before joining Denison Forum, Mark served as a pastor for 35 years, including 25 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 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.
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    46 m
  • How do the arts and sciences reveal the genius of God?

    How do the arts and sciences reveal the genius of God?
    Jul 9 2025
    Is the world a meaningless churning of random intersecting events or a beautiful place of genius that reveals the reality of God as the ultimate Genius? Dr. Jonathan Witt joins The Denison Forum Podcast to discuss this central question of his book, A Meaningful World: How the Arts and Sciences Reveal the Genius of NatureWhen we encounter, discover, or help to create things in our world that express the unmistakable qualities of depth, harmony, clarity, and elegance, how do we explain them? What are they pointing us to? From great literature to music, to mathematics, biology, chemistry and physics, the majestic fingerprints of an all-powerful, good and majestic creator are all around us—if we have the eyes, ears, and heart to receive them. It just may be that breathtaking beauty and order will lead us to the greatest discovery of all.Topics(01:57): Guest introduction: Dr. Jonathan Witt(04:52): Dr. Witt's journey of faith and intellectual exploration(08:05): Critique of Evolutionary Theory(10:13): The intersection of science, art, and faith(15:44): The influence of Christianity on modern science(21:10): The philosophy of Scientism vs. True Science(24:57): Exploring the book: A Meaningful World(33:27): The Periodic Table and the search for order(37:52): The genius in nature and art(45:30): Mathematics: The language of genius(52:06): Theological reflections on suffering and genius(57:31): Conclusion and further resourcesResourcesAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgRead the prologue to A Meaningful World.A Meaningful World: How the Arts and Sciences Reveal the Genius of Nature, Dr. Jonathan WittThe Discovery Institute Center for Science & CultureYour Designed Body, Steve Laufmann and Howard GlicksmanThe Wonder of Water, Michael DentonHow has Denison Forum impacted your faith?Subscribe to The Daily Article by Dr. Jim DenisonStand. Engage. Transform. summer campaign.About Dr. Jonathan WittJonathan Witt, PhD, is Executive Editor of Discovery Institute Press and a senior fellow and senior project manager with Discovery Institute’s Center for Science and Culture. His latest book is Heretic: One Scientist’s Journey from Darwin to Design (DI Press, 2018) written with Finnish bioengineer Matti Leisola. Witt also authored Intelligent Design Uncensored (IVP, 2010) with William Dembski, and A Meaningful World: How the Arts and Sciences Reveal the Genius of Nature (IVP, 2006) with Benjamin Wiker.He is also the author of The Hobbit Party: The Vision of Freedom That Tolkien Got, and the West Forgot (Ignatius, 2014), written with Jay Richards.Witt is also the lead writer and associate producer for Poverty, Inc., winner of the $100,000 Templeton Freedom Award and recipient of over 50 international film festival honors.He also scripted three other documentaries that aired widely on PBS and were translated into multiple languages for airing in countries around the globe: The Privileged Planet (written with Lad Allen), The Birth of Freedom, and The Call of the Entrepreneur.Additionally, he scripted two Acton Media DVD curricula carried by Zondervan, including Effective Stewardship, and he served as the lead writer for The PovertyCure DVD Series and the PovertyCure initiative, which includes a content-rich website, more than a million Facebook followers, and a network of 400+ poverty-fighting organizations from around the world.Witt also has provided editing or deep editing work for several successful books, including three New York Times bestsellers.Before returning to work full time again with Discovery Institute’s Center for Science and Culture, Witt served as the managing editor for the news and commentary site The Stream, and as a research fellow for the Acton Institute in Grand Rapids, Michigan.Witt’s academic essays have appeared in various periodicals and he has been interviewed by numerous regional and national radio programs. He is a regular annual speaker for Discovery Institute’s summer seminar on science and culture and has spoken at universities on a range of topics connected to political and economic freedom, cultural renewal, and the arts.Witt previously served as a tenured professor of literature and writing at Lubbock Christian University. He has a Ph.D., with honors, in English and Literary Theory from the University of Kansas.About Dr. Mark TurmanMark Turman, DMin, 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 Denison Forum Podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom 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 from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in ...
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    1 h y 3 m
  • Why does God allow disasters like the Texas Hill Country floods?

    Why does God allow disasters like the Texas Hill Country floods?
    Jul 7 2025
    In this special episode of The Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman respond to the devastating floods in Kerrville, Texas, and the surrounding area. Offering both pastoral wisdom and biblical insight, they wrestle with the hard questions that arise in moments of suffering: Why does God allow disasters like this? How can we respond with faith, compassion, and hope?Whether you’re grieving personally or looking for ways to support others, this conversation offers clarity, comfort, and encouragement rooted in God’s word. Join us as we reflect, pray, and consider how to be the presence of Christ in the midst of crisis.Topics(03:00): Personal reflections and theological questions(03:55): Stories of heroism and personal loss(09:35): The challenge of compassion fatigue(11:20): Spiritual guidance and coping mechanisms(17:52): The mystery of sharing in Christ's sufferings(22:02): Biblical stories for comfort and understanding(29:23): Reconciling tragedy and heroic salvation(31:46): The mystery of God's will(35:51): Faith amidst suffering(44:49): Loving God and others in times of grief(49:50): Concluding thoughts and encouragementResourcesAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.orgHow has Denison Forum impacted your faith?Stand. Engage. Transform. summer campaign.Subscribe to The Daily Article by Dr. Jim DenisonTexas Flood Hero, Camp Mystic Director Makes Ultimate Sacrifice: 'Just Who He Was'Camp Mystic director dies trying to save kids during floodWhy does God allow innocent suffering? • Denison ForumMaking Sense of SufferingAn honest approach to the mystery of suffering • Denison ForumWhy a good God must allow even innocent suffering to existWhat does the Bible say about suffering? • Denison ForumWhen you’re disappointed by GodHow to talk to your kids about the flooding at Camp MysticAbout 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 TurmanMark Turman, DMin, 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 Denison Forum Podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom 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 from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He later completed his Doctor of Ministry at George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University in Waco.Before joining Denison Forum, Mark served as a pastor for 35 years, including 25 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 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.
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    54 m
  • Why are some atheists becoming Christians?

    Why are some atheists becoming Christians?
    Jul 2 2025
    On this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Mark Turman welcomes theologian and scientist Dr. Alister McGrath for a thought-provoking conversation on the relationship between science, faith, and the rise of New Atheism. Together, they examine the influence of voices like Richard Dawkins and Christopher Hitchens, and how their arguments have ironically led some to consider the Christian faith more seriously. Drawing from Dr. McGrath’s book Coming to Faith Through Dawkins, the discussion highlights powerful stories of former atheists who encountered Christ through intellectual inquiry and personal reflection. This episode encourages believers to approach cultural and scientific questions with both clarity and compassion, showing how reason and faith can work hand in hand in today’s world.Summary(00:59): Introducing Dr. Alister McGrath(02:00): Dr. McGrath's journey from Atheism to faith(05:02): Current ministry and reflections on faith in the UK(07:58): The New Atheism movement(09:15): Personal stories of faith transformation(19:01): Critique of Richard Dawkins and New Atheism(24:42): Contributors and their unique journeys(29:10): The misuse of history by New Atheists(34:34): The myth of conflict between science and faith(38:51): Old Atheists vs. New Atheists(43:21): The role of faith in the scientific community(50:24): The impact of the pandemic on Scientism(56:16): The importance of personal faith storiesResourcesAsk Us Anything: info@denisonforum.org Alister E. McGrath Coming to Faith Through Dawkins: 12 Essays on the Pathway from New Atheism to Christianity The Dawkins Delusion? C. S. Lewis: A Life How has Denison Forum impacted your faith? Subscribe to The Daily Article by Dr. Jim Denison Stand. Engage. Transform. summer campaign.About Dr. Alister McGrathDr. Alister E. McGrath is a former atheist who studied natural sciences at Oxford before switching to theology and becoming an Anglican priest. He served as the Andreas Idreos Professor of Science and Religion at the University of Oxford from 2014 to 2022. He holds three doctorates from Oxford in molecular biophysics, theology, and intellectual history. McGrath is also the author of the international bestseller The Dawkins Delusion?, as well as C. S. Lewis: A Life and his latest book, Coming to Faith Through Dawkins: 12 Essays on the Pathway from New Atheism to Christianity.About Dr. Mark TurmanMark Turman, DMin, 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 Denison Forum Podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom 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 from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He later completed his Doctor of Ministry at George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University in Waco.Before joining Denison Forum, Mark served as a pastor for 35 years, including 25 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 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.
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    1 h