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

This episode of the Faith & Clarity Podcast features Thomas West and Trevin Wax in a conversation about an ancient but timely tool for discipleship—the catechism. Their new resource, The Gospel Way Catechism: 50 Truths That Take On the Word, is designed to help Christians push back against the secular and individualistic stories of our age with the truth of God’s word.The discussion explores how catechisms can guide both new and mature believers, shape family life and community, and build a deep and resilient Christian identity. Listeners will also hear practical ways to bring this practice into...

On this episode of the Faith & Clarity Podcast, Dr. Mark Turman sits down with former Ohio Governor John Kasich to talk about his new book, Heaven Help Us: How Faith Communities Inspire, Hope, Strengthen Neighborhoods, and Build the Future. Together, they explore how local churches and faith communities can be catalysts for hope, healing, and renewal in our world.Governor Kasich reflects on lessons from his years in public service, shares personal stories that shaped his journey, and explains why seeing every person as made in the image of God is essential for lasting change. The conversation...

In this episode, Dr. Mark Turman, executive director of Denison Forum, talks with Dr. Byron Johnson, distinguished professor at Baylor University, about the Global Flourishing Study—a landmark research project following more than 200,000 people around the world. Together they explore how faith, relationships, and community shape human well-being, why this research matters, and what it can teach us about living lives of true flourishing. Dr. Johnson also shares his own story and the vision behind this ambitious project.This conversation highlights the vital connection between faith and research and offers a hopeful look at what it means to...

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 conve...

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...

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 po...

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...

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 e...

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 mu...

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 t...

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...

Dr. Tom Rudelius shares his remarkable journey from scientific skepticism to Christianity, guided by his twin brother, challenged by a polygraph test, and ultimately compelled by the story of Jesus. In this thoughtful conversation, he explores how science and faith are not at odds but offer complementary ways of understanding reality.In this conversation with Denison Forum Executive Director Dr. Mark Turman, Dr. Rudelius discusses: 1:51 How his twin brother led him to Christ5:37 The myth of the incompatibility between science and faith (9:15 How story and science diverge15:07 His preconceptions and misconceptions about Christianity19:38 The turning point i...

Dr. Mark Turman sits down with Dr. Stephen Meyer, director of the Center for Science and Culture at Discovery Institute and author of Return of the God Hypothesis, Darwin’s Doubt, and Signature in the Cell. Together, they explore how recent scientific discoveries—from the origin of the universe to the fine-tuning of the cosmos and the digital code found in DNA—point to the reality of an intelligent designer. Dr. Meyer also reflects on his own journey of faith and reason, offering insight into how science can strengthen our understanding of God and shape the cultural conversation around truth...

In this special Father's Day episode, Mark Turman, executive director of Denison Forum, sits down with Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Ryan Denison to explore the meaning and calling of fatherhood through a biblical lens. They discuss why Scripture’s view of fathers matters, the surprising history behind Father’s Day, and what it means that Christians call God “Father.” With personal stories and theological reflection, the conversation also looks at today’s challenges—from single parenting to declining birth rates—and how the church can come alongside men in every stage of fatherhood with truth, grace, and support.Topics<...

Join Mark Turman, Executive Director of Denison Forum, as he sits down with Jason Pieratt, President of Children's Relief International (CRI). In this episode, they discuss the mission and work of CRI, which focuses on meeting both physical and spiritual needs in some of the world's poorest regions. Learn about Jason's personal journey from reluctant teacher to dedicated missionary, and the incredible impact of CRI's programs in areas like child nutrition, education, shelter, and more. Discover how you can get involved, whether through prayer, sponsorship, or mission trips, and be inspired by stories of transformation and hope in communities...

On this special Q&A episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, host Mark Turman is joined by Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Ryan Denison to answer your questions on some of today’s most pressing faith topics. They explore the role of the Pope, Christian nationalism, and the popular Chosen TV series and offer practical insights on what it means to live redemptively in today’s world. You’ll also hear thoughtful discussion on the government’s role in social responsibility, Christian beliefs about communion, and how Christians should understand sharia law. Join us for a conversation to help y...

On this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Mark Turman sits down with Dr. Hormoz Shariat for a thought-provoking conversation at the crossroads of artificial intelligence and Christian faith. With a PhD in AI and a heart for gospel ministry in Iran, Dr. Shariat brings a rare and insightful perspective to the digital revolution shaping our world.Together, they explore how AI has developed over time, what it means for the future of the church, and how Christians can respond with both wisdom and courage. What are the opportunities AI presents for ministry? Where should we...

On this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Mark Turman welcomes Leigh Scarborough, founder and CEO of Shield of the Children, for a sobering yet vital conversation about the global crisis of child sex trafficking. Drawing from his firsthand work in Southeast Asia and beyond, Leigh shares the harsh realities of trafficking, including the distinction between “soft” and “hard” rescues, the long-term harm caused by pornography, and why major public events like the Super Bowl often become centers for trafficking activity. Leigh also opens up about his journey of faith, his military background, and the calling that led him into...

In this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Mark Turman is joined by Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Ryan Denison for a thoughtful conversation on the history and diversity within the Christian faith. Together, they explore the key moments that shaped the church, including the Great Schism, the Protestant Reformation, and Vatican II. They also discuss the rise of non-denominational churches and what it looks like to find a faithful church home in today’s landscape.This conversation offers both clarity and encouragement for Christians navigating differences in doctrine and tradition—and reminds us why unity in C...

On this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Mark Turman is joined by Dr. Glenn Packiam for a timely and thoughtful conversation about the enduring significance of the Nicene Creed. In a cultural moment marked by confusion and instability, they explore how this ancient declaration of faith offers clarity, grounding, and hope.Dr. Packiam—a pastor, theologian, and author—unpacks the creed’s rich theology, the role of the Holy Spirit in our daily lives, and why the communal nature of belief matters more than ever. Their discussion also reflects on the themes of Easter, pointing us tow...