In this episode of the Current Reality Podcast, hosts Michael Clary and Wade Thomas explore the eerie phenomenon of AI romances, where individuals form intimate relationships with AI chatbots, and discuss the cultural and spiritual implications. Through analysis of a New York Times article and biblical scripture, they highlight the fundamental differences between human beings and artificial intelligence. They emphasize the danger of personifying and deifying AI, pointing out how it leads to a dehumanized society and warn against the folly of treating AI as a replacement for human relationships. The episode underscores the critical need to maintain our humanity in the face of advancing technology.

00:32 AI Romances and Monstrosities

01:41 The Illusion of AI Companionship

04:00 Real Relationships vs. AI

06:10 The Dangers of AI Dependency

12:11 AI's Impact on Society and Human Psyche

15:23 The Ethical and Spiritual Implications of AI

20:20 AI in Popular Culture and Future Concerns

33:22 Reasserting Human Identity in the Age of AI

36:18 The Inescapable Nature of Religion in Society

36:49 The Unique Value of Human Life

39:08 AI and the Materialist Worldview

41:50 The Limitations of AI Compared to Human Thought

46:14 The Dangers of Worshiping AI

01:02:20 The Foolishness of Deifying Creations

01:14:57 Maintaining Humanity in the Age of AI

01:16:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

For questions or comments, send us an email at [email protected].

Our church is Christ the King Church in Ft. Thomas, KY

The Current Reality Podcast is a resource of King's Domain

Resources mentioned in this episode

• New York Times Article: “They Fell in Love With A.I. Chatbots - and Found Something Real”

• Gaming AI by George Gilder

  
  

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Michael's Book "God's Good Design" is now available everywhere

• God's Good Design: A Biblical, Theological, and Practical Guide to Human Sexuality

  
  

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• www.dmichaelclary.com

In this episode of the Current Reality podcast, hosts Michael Clary and Wade Thomas from Christ the King Church in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, discuss the increasing liberal tilt among young women, particularly on social issues. They explore the impact of higher education, white-collar work, and the lack of traditional feminine roles on this trend. The conversation is prompted by various sources, including an article by David Mitzenmacher and insights from Ryan Burge. The hosts examine the role of the church and Christian parents in disciplining young women, urging men to take more responsibility in their households and communities. While acknowledging the challenges, they remain hopeful that God's design for men and women will ultimately prevail.01:52 Topic Introduction: The Liberal Tilt of Young Women02:00 Article Discussion: Founders Ministries02:17 Radicalization of Young Women02:41 Statistical Analysis and Trends03:25 Ryan Burge's Insights04:12 Transgender Issue and Historical Context06:04 Election Results and Young Women's Voting Patterns10:43 Gallup Poll Analysis16:03 Conservative Men and Marriage Prospects21:44 Impact of Higher Education on Women's Values29:50 Unmarried and Childless Women: Societal Impact38:22 Biblical Perspective on Gender Roles46:15 The Role of Husbands in Theological Guidance46:33 Modern Assumptions and Women's Learning47:18 Paul's Perspective on Women's Learning48:06 Feminine Nature and Leadership50:17 Women in the Workplace51:53 Masculine and Feminine Roles in Society52:59 Impact of Feminine Influence in Corporate Settings54:54 Gender Dynamics in Law Enforcement58:32 The Reality of Physical Labor and Gender01:02:32 Technology's Role in Gender Dynamics01:03:54 The Influence of Higher Education on Gender and Politics01:06:35 The Importance of Masculine Virtue01:17:47 The Role of Government in Compassion and Care01:21:36 Self-Responsibility and Community Leadership01:23:41 Raising Godly Women and Men01:30:20 Hope for the Future

For questions or comments, send us an email at [email protected].

Our church is Christ the King Church in Ft. Thomas, KY

The Current Reality Podcast is a resource of King's Domain

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Fortune Magazine on women voters in 2025 elections

• Ryan Burge on Gen Z women

• Gallup on the liberal tilt of young women

• Forbes on more women in college than men

• Bureau of Labor Statistics 2001 data on gender differences among occupations

  
  

  
  

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Michael's Book "God's Good Design" is now available everywhere

• God's Good Design: A Biblical, Theological, and Practical Guide to Human Sexuality

Follow Michael’s writings 

• www.dmichaelclary.com

In this episode of the Current Reality podcast, hosts Michael Clary and Wade Thomas engage in a comprehensive discussion on the topic of church discipline. They explore the importance of staying anchored in biblical reality amidst modern culture and delve into mechanisms and principles of church discipline, including rebuking sin, fencing the Lord's Table, and the formal process of disfellowship. They emphasize the crucial role of local church membership and the deference owed to pastors and elders, highlighting potential pitfalls and best practices for maintaining unity and holiness within the church. The episode underscores the significant blessing and privilege of being part of a local church, urging listeners to appreciate and engage wholeheartedly with their church communities.

00:28 Lighthearted Banter and Coffee Talk

02:10 Transition to Church Discipline Discussion

08:57 The Importance of Church Membership

13:45 The Role of Church Discipline

23:45 Practical Applications and Personal Reflections

35:34 The Importance of In-Person Church Community

36:20 Real Interactions vs. Online Connections

37:07 Observations and Reflections During Church Service

38:39 The Value of Healthy Churches

39:13 The Need for Marriage and Church in Modern Times

42:33 Church Discipline: Purpose and Practice

46:50 Mechanisms of Church Discipline

48:33 The Role of Rebuke in Church Discipline

57:36 Communion and Church Discipline

01:08:02 Disfellowship: The Final Step in Church Discipline

01:13:07 Navigating Church Discipline: A Complex Process

01:13:23 The Wisdom in Matthew 18: Beyond Linear Steps

01:13:57 Balancing Discipline and Grace in Church Leadership

01:14:22 The Role of Elders in Church Discipline

01:15:13 The Dangers of Rigid Church Discipline

01:16:18 The Household and Church: Overlapping Responsibilities

01:18:11 The Seriousness of Divisiveness in the Church

01:28:17 Outward, Serious, and Unrepentant Sins: Criteria for Discipline

01:30:39 Disciplining Pastors and Elders: A Higher Standard

01:48:42 The Importance of Local Church Community

For questions or comments, send us an email at [email protected].

Our church is Christ the King Church in Ft. Thomas, KY

The Current Reality Podcast is a resource of King's Domain

 Follow us on Twitter

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Michael's Book "God's Good Design" is now available everywhere

• God's Good Design: A Biblical, Theological, and Practical Guide to Human Sexuality

Follow Michael’s writings 

• www.dmichaelclary.com

In this episode of the Current Reality podcast, hosts Michael Clary and Wade Thomas dive into a controversial topic prompted by an email from a listener. The discussion centers around a recent online debate involving Brian Sauve and Doug Wilson about generalizations made regarding 'black culture,' especially focusing on issues like violence, impoverished neighborhoods, and differing cultural subgroups. The hosts explore and critique the term 'black culture,' considering whether it is too broad and how it may be better categorized as 'street' or 'gang' culture. They draw parallels with biblical generalizations and examine complications due to large populations and the impacts of social media. The episode concludes with reflections on pastoral implications, responsible noticing, and how certain controversies are turned into marketing opportunities.00:28 Listener Email and Initial Reactions01:03 Controversial Debate on Black Subculture01:52 Doug Wilson's Response and Further Context05:29 Listener's Questions and Personal Reflections06:11 Living in a Diverse Community: Personal Experiences18:25 Addressing Black Culture and Crime Statistics27:34 The Role of Fatherlessness and Broader Cultural Issues29:33 Navigating Controversial Topics with Biblical Wisdom36:30 Analyzing Cultural Conditioning in Media37:29 The Importance of Noticing and Cultural Programming39:55 Personal Experiences and Observations42:32 Evaluating Cultural Generalizations51:05 The Role of Social Media and Internet in Shaping Perceptions01:09:28 The Impact of Fatherlessness and Entitlement01:12:25 Final Thoughts and Reflections

For questions or comments, send us an email at [email protected].

Our church is Christ the King Church in Ft. Thomas, KY

The Current Reality Podcast is a resource of King's Domain

 Follow us on Twitter

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https://twitter.com/wadethomasjr

Michael's Book "God's Good Design" is now available everywhere

• God's Good Design: A Biblical, Theological, and Practical Guide to Human Sexuality

Follow Michael’s writings 

• www.dmichaelclary.com

In this episode of the Current Reality podcast, hosts Michael Clary and Wade Thomas delve into the topic of Eastern Orthodoxy. They discuss its theological and historical backgrounds, comparing it to other Christian traditions such as Roman Catholicism and various Protestant denominations. The hosts examine key elements like the sacraments, icons, monasticism, and the mystical practices within Eastern Orthodoxy. They provide warnings about potential pitfalls, especially regarding the church's authority and the risk of drawing hearts away from a Christ-centered faith. The episode also touches on the problematic appeals to tradition and ancient practices that may tempt modern Christians. Clary and Thomas emphasize the importance of grounding one's faith in biblical teaching while acknowledging the positive aspects of various traditions.00:25 Why Discuss Eastern Orthodoxy?02:39 Overview of Eastern Orthodoxy03:43 Comparing Eastern Orthodoxy and Roman Catholicism05:22 The Concept of the Church in Eastern Orthodoxy10:05 The Role of Tradition and Scripture12:38 The Mystical and Transcendent in Eastern Orthodoxy17:02 The Importance of the Institutional Church22:25 Orthodox Practices and Beliefs39:12 Structure of the Eastern Orthodox Church44:43 Exploring Repentance in Church Traditions45:50 The Role of Chrismation in Eastern Orthodoxy47:01 Orthodox Views on Magic and Spells50:21 Mysticism and the Jesus Prayer55:18 Monasticism and Asceticism in Orthodoxy58:35 Veneration of Icons and Its Implications01:06:27 The Appeal of Ancient Traditions01:10:58 Scriptural Warnings and Final Thoughts

For questions or comments, send us an email at [email protected].

Our church is Christ the King Church in Ft. Thomas, KY

The Current Reality Podcast is a resource of King's Domain

Resources mentioned in this episode

• “The Fundamental Teachings of the Eastern Orthodox Church” from The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America

 Follow us on Twitter

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Michael's Book "God's Good Design" is now available everywhere

• God's Good Design: A Biblical, Theological, and Practical Guide to Human Sexuality

  
  

Follow Michael’s writings 

• www.dmichaelclary.com

In this episode, Michael and Wade reflect on the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk, exploring its impact on the church, culture, and the Christian response to evil in modern society. The conversation covers personal reactions, the cultural and spiritual significance of Kirk’s life and death, and the broader implications for Christians living boldly in today’s world.

[00:35] Personal Reactions

[03:19] Kirk’s Influence

[10:44] Christian Figures

[12:45] Kirk’s Approach

[15:55] Media Coverage

[29:29] The Murder

[34:29] Aftermath

[45:09] Cultural Implications

[49:35] Apologetics

[57:39] Why Kirk Was a Threat

[63:21] Truth & Country

[67:44] Christian Response

[71:04] Perspective

[76:35] Language & Framing

[78:35] Scripture

[87:44] Final Thoughts

For questions or comments, send us an email at [email protected].

Our church is Christ the King Church in Ft. Thomas, KY

The Current Reality Podcast is a resource of King's Domain

 Follow us on Twitter

https://twitter.com/dmichaelclary

https://twitter.com/wadethomasjr

Michael's Book "God's Good Design" is now available everywhere

• God's Good Design: A Biblical, Theological, and Practical Guide to Human Sexuality

Follow Michael’s writings 

• www.dmichaelclary.com

Show Notes:

In this episode of the Current Reality Podcast, hosts Michael Clary and Wade Thomas dive deep into the biblical role of elders in the church. They discuss what elders are, how different denominations interpret the role, and why having multiple qualified elders is essential for a healthy church. The conversation covers the biblical qualifications for elders, the impact of church leadership on congregational culture, and the dangers of misplaced authority. The hosts also reflect on the importance of doctrine, the challenges of balancing spiritual shepherding with organizational management, and share personal stories from their own ministry experiences. The episode wraps up with practical insights for both church leaders and members on fostering a church culture rooted in biblical truth and humility.

Timestamps for Main Topics:

[0:00] – Introduction & Coffee Banter

[2:34] – What Are Elders? (Biblical definitions and church traditions)

[6:41] – Elders in Different Denominations

[10:01] – The Biblical Model for Eldership

[13:41] – Elders vs. Modern Church Leadership (Church of England example)

[18:03] – Why Elders Matter (Impact on church culture and doctrine)

[28:05] – The World is a Dangerous Place (Elders as protectors)

[32:59] – Doctrine Matters (Teaching and doctrinal soundness)

[37:32] – Authority and Leadership in the Church

[44:54] – Balancing Shepherding and Management

[49:00] – Closing Thoughts & Reflections

For questions or comments, send us an email at [email protected].

Our church is Christ the King Church in Fort Thomas, KY.

The Current Reality Podcast is a resource of King's Domain, Fort Thomas, KY.

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Statement of Needs for the Archbishop of Canterbury

  
  

 Follow us on Twitter

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https://twitter.com/wadethomasjr

Michael's Book "God's Good Design" is now available everywhere

• God's Good Design: A Biblical, Theological, and Practical Guide to Human Sexuality

In this episode of the Current Reality podcast, hosts Michael Clary and Wade Thomas delve into the complex topic of war and violence from a biblical perspective. They discuss historical and scriptural examples that illustrate when violence and war may be considered just and necessary for Christians. The episode highlights the difference between justified self-defense and unlawful violence, citing biblical principles and historical instances of just warfare. The hosts also address the modern tendency to be either overly enthusiastic or squeamish about violence, offering balanced guidance for Christians on this sensitive issue.

00:00 Introduction to the Current Reality Podcast

00:18 Historical Insights: Fort Thomas and Civil War

01:00 Summer Reflections and Church Life

03:03 Discussing War, Violence, and Christian Ethics

05:47 Debating Non-Violence in Christianity

22:18 Biblical Examples of Justified Violence

33:47 The Righteous Man's Duty

34:16 Just War Theory Explained

37:20 Biblical Examples of Just War

48:20 Modern Warfare and Deception

55:45 Self-Defense and Capital Punishment

01:03:11 The Ethics of Violence and War

01:09:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

For questions or comments, send us an email at [email protected].

Our church is Christ the King Church in Ft Thomas, KY.

The Current Reality Podcast is a resource of King's Domain, Fort Thomas, KY.

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Royal Navy Articles of War - 1757

• Christian Nonviolence Activist Jerry Robinson on Guns

  
  

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Michael's Book "God's Good Design" is now available everywhere

• God's Good Design: A Biblical, Theological, and Practical Guide to Human Sexuality
  

In this episode of the Current Reality podcast, hosts Michael Clary and Wade Thomas delve into their experiences and lessons learned as fathers. They discuss the importance of joyfulness, the pitfalls of guilt-tripping, confessing sins, and fostering a loving, forgiving family culture. They also emphasize the significance of inclusive family activities, maintaining the sanctity and stability of parental relationships, and not withholding warmth and approval from sons. The discussion is framed in a context that recognizes the significant challenges faced by modern Christian fathers and offers practical, heartfelt advice for maintaining a nurturing, godly household.

00:00 Introduction to the Current Reality Podcast

00:29 Discussing the Matrix Trilogy

02:13 Lessons Learned as Fathers

05:05 The Humbling Journey of Fatherhood

12:41 Balancing Authority and Humility

13:31 Joyfulness and Warmth in Parenting

30:29 Confession and Forgiveness in the Household

42:56 The Weight of Responsibility

43:57 Discipline and Doubt

45:06 Confession and Accountability

48:08 Balancing Warmth and Discipline

56:36 Family Projects and Involvement

01:03:24 Creating a Joyful Family Culture

01:10:30 Sanctification as a Group Effort

01:13:17 Romantic Affection and Stability

01:18:12 Encouragement for Young Fathers

For questions or comments, send us an email at [email protected].

Our church is Christ the King Church in Fort Thomas, KY.

The Current Reality Podcast is a resource of King's Domain, Fort Thomas, KY.

 Follow us on Twitter

https://twitter.com/dmichaelclary

https://twitter.com/wadethomasjr

Michael's Book "God's Good Design" is now available everywhere

• God's Good Design: A Biblical, Theological, and Practical Guide to Human Sexuality

In this episode of the Current Reality podcast, hosts Michael Clary and Wade Thomas explore the themes of biblical marriage in the context of modern culture. They discuss the importance of building trust and loyalty in marriage, maintaining joy and playfulness in the household, and staying committed to a family mission. Highlighting the inherent challenges posed by the pervasive influence of feminism, they stress the necessity of addressing these issues head-on. They also touch on the biblical aspects of marital roles, differences in gender-specific sins, and the significance of treating each other as God's gifts. The episode concludes with a reminder to cherish and enjoy the unique partnership that marriage provides.

00:00 Introduction to the Current Reality Podcast

00:15 Coffee Talk and Office Life

03:15 Conference Announcements and Controversies

05:30 Protests and Cultural Commentary

13:38 Marriage Insights and Personal Stories

47:24 The Joyful Father: Embracing Positivity at Home

48:19 Acting Godly Even When You Don't Feel Like It

50:02 The Importance of Joy in Family Life

51:31 Personal Reflections on Family Dynamics

55:18 Setting a Family Mission and Vision

01:07:44 Addressing the Impact of Feminism

01:28:48 Concluding Thoughts on Marriage and Family