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

In this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Mark Turman sits down with Nancy French to discuss her newly released memoir, 'Ghosted: An American Story.' Nancy, a renowned ghostwriter whose work has landed five times on the New York Times bestseller list, opens up about her personal journey including the challenges behind ghostwriting for celebrities and her decision to finally share her own story. 

The conversation delves into Nancy's traumatic past marked by childhood abuse, her journey in understanding her faith, and the cultural and spiritual homelessness she has felt. They also explore her family life, including her husband's transformative experience after military service and their adoption of a daughter from Ethiopia. 

Nancy's insights into the complexities of American politics, her change in perspective on patriotism, and the issues of sexual abuse within the church are eye-opening. This deeply engaging and inspiring discussion is a must-listen for anyone grappling with faith, trauma, and the search for identity in today's tumultuous times. 

Topics

(01:45): Nancy's Journey to Writing Her Memoir

(02:51): The Life of a Ghostwriter

(06:59): Nancy's Early Life and Challenges

(10:06): Overcoming Trauma and Family Influence

(13:22): Nancy's Faith Journey and Struggles with the Church

(16:39): Addressing Abuse and Accountability in the Church

(27:32): The Stigma Around the Term 'Victim'

(30:18): Challenges in Addressing Sexual Abuse in the Church

(32:44): The Southern Baptist Convention's Stance

(35:42): The Impact of War on Family and Faith

(37:27): Political Engagement and Personal Growth

(39:38): Reflections on Partisan Rhetoric

(44:24): Adoption and Divine Providence

(47:17): The Concept of Being 'Holy Ghosted'

Resources

Episode Transcript (PDF)

Ghosted: An American Story

Nancy French’s Website

Book Review: In "Ghosted," Nancy French shares her unique and compelling life story

About Nancy French

Nancy French is a five-time New York Times bestselling author. As a ghostwriter, she has written for a variety of people, from Sarah Palin to Kim Kardashian. As an investigative journalist, she uncovered sexual and spiritual abuse in America’s largest Christian camp. She lives in Franklin, Tennessee with her husband, journalist David French, and family. 

About Dr. Mark Turman

Dr. 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 Forum

Denison 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.

Join Dr. Mark Turman, executive director of Denison Forum, for an insightful conversation with Pastor Chris Legg as they discuss biblical and psychological insights on sex and marriage. In this episode, they explore concepts from Chris's new book, co-authored with his son, Mark, titled 'Sex and Marriage: Unlocking and Restoring the Power of Sex Through Biblical and Psychological Insight.' Learn about the sacred nature of sex in marriage, the pitfalls of transactional relationships, and how a healthy, godly perspective can transform marriages. Perfect for couples at any stage, from premarital to the many-year mark, this conversation aims to equip you to think biblically, live beautifully, and serve redemptively. 

Topics

(02:10): Diving Deep into 'Sex and Marriage': A Clarity Conversation

(05:44): Exploring the Sacred Mystery of Marriage and Sexuality

(18:36): Reclaiming the Garden: The Sacredness of Sex in Marriage

(23:45): Paul's Teaching to the Corinthian Church: A Sacred Mystery Unveiled

(30:45): Unpacking Sexual Intimacy and Identity

(33:53): The Impact of Stress and Energy on Marital Intimacy

(35:53): The Power of Language in Understanding Each Other

(37:05): Marriage, Sexuality, and Identity in Biblical Context

(40:48): Unveiling the True Essence of Marriage and Sexuality

(49:51): Navigating Identity and Sexuality: A Deeper Dive

(56:43): Concluding Thoughts on Identity, Freedom, and Grace

Resources

• Episode Transcript (PDF)
• Sex and Marriage: Unlocking and Restoring the Power of Sex Through Biblical and Psychological Insight 
• South Spring Baptist Church
• Alethia Family Counseling Center
• Chris Legg’s Website
• Sacred Sexuality: Reclaiming God’s Design
• Denison Forum’s Resources on Sexuality

About Rev. Chris Legg, LPC-S 

Pastor Chris Legg, LPC, and his wife Ginger have been living out the parable of God’s love for His people since 1993 and have been blessed with five great kids. He is the Lead Pastor at South Spring Baptist Church in Tyler, TX and is also the founding owner and clinical director of Alethia Family Counseling Center, which offers counseling, speaking and business consulting. 

About Dr. Mark Turman

Dr. 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 Forum

Denison 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.

In this final episode of our special eight-episode series called “Being Christian in today’s culture,” Dr. Denison discusses the significance of cultural engagement. He explores how Christians can utilize their influence in various areas of society like family, church, community, and job, to foster a closer relationship with God and help the world flourish biblically. 

The conversation highlights the concept of being a 'cultural missionary' rather than a 'cultural warrior,' stressing the importance of the Holy Spirit’s role in empowering believers to make a practical, tangible difference in the kingdom of God. 

For more, read this episode’s accompanying articles, “Changed people change the world” and “Lies that lead us astray.”

Topics

(01:22): The Foundation of Cultural Engagement: White Papers and Biblical Flourishing

(04:02): Understanding and Embracing Cultural Engagement

(07:31): Strategic and Spirit-Led Cultural Engagement

(16:44): Leveraging Spiritual Gifts for Kingdom Impact

(29:49) The Challenge of Being Transformational in a Complex World

(34:15): The Pursuit of a Christian Majority: Goals and Realities

(39:13): The Power of the Holy Spirit in Christian Life

(48:46): Cultural Engagement and the Normal Christian Life

Resources

• Episode Transcript (PDF)
• Changed people change the world
• Lies that lead us astray
• Sacred Sexuality: Reclaiming God’s Design
• A pathway for becoming culture-changing Christians - Part 1
• Live by biblical truth and authority- Part 2
• The power of Christ to change the culture - Part 3
• Who determines the value of life? - Part 4
• What does it mean to hunger and thirst for righteousness? - Part 5
• What is God’s design for sex and relationships? - Part 6
• Why must Christians be civil in uncivil times? - Part 7

About Dr. Jim Denison

Jim 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 Turman

Dr. 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 Forum

Denison 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.

In this seventh episode of our special eight-episode series called “Being Christian in today’s culture,” Dr. Denison discusses the significance of political civility. He answers questions such as: 

Are we living in “unprecedented” times? Why are so many Christians now energized by politics? How can Christians deepen their reliance on the Holy Spirit? 

He emphasizes the binary choice between exhibiting the fruit of the Spirit or the flesh, urging Christians to act as cultural missionaries through biblically rooted political engagement and daily reliance on the Holy Spirit.

For more, read this episode’s accompanying article, “The lost art of civility.”

(03:14): Diving Deep into Political Civility and Biblical Flourishing

(07:23): Unpacking the Unprecedented: Navigating Today's Political Landscape

(12:03): The Power of Participation: Engaging in Democracy with Hope

(15:45): Navigating Politics with Faith Over Fear

(32:27): The Role of Christians in Promoting Biblical Civility

(35:31): The Importance of Preserving Christian Witness in Politics

(39:26): The Role of Civility in Political Engagement

(43:11): Challenging the 'End Justifies the Means' Mentality in Politics

(52:11): The Dangers of Celebrity in Politics and Leadership

(01:02:25): Embracing the Holy Spirit in Political Civility

• Episode Transcript (PDF)
• The lost art of civility
• Respectfully, I Disagree
• A pathway for becoming culture-changing Christians - Part 1
• Live by biblical truth and authority- Part 2
• The power of Christ to change the culture - Part 3
• Who determines the value of life? - Part 4
• What does it mean to hunger and thirst for righteousness? - Part 5
• What is God’s design for sex and relationships? - Part 6

Jim 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.

Dr. 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.

Denison 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.

In this sixth episode of our special eight-episode series called “Being Christian in today’s culture,” Dr. Denison discusses biblical sexuality. He explores the history of sexual ethics, the impact of cultural shifts on biblical truths regarding sexuality, and the need for clear teaching and reliance on the Holy Spirit to live out God's design for sex and relationships.

The conversation also touches on topics such as cohabitation, same-sex attraction, transgenderism, and pornography, emphasizing the importance of community, biblical teaching, and the transformative power of God's love and redemption. 

For more, read this episode’s accompanying article, “Is biblical sexuality outdated and irrelevant? ”

(01:22):  Inspirations from CS Lewis and Tolkien: Seeking Clarity in Today's Culture

(03:20): The Pillars of Being Christian in Today's Culture: A Series Overview

(04:46): Diving Deep into Biblical Sexuality: A Critical Pillar for Believers

(10:53): The Historical Journey: From Biblical Authority to the Sexual Revolution

(18:41): The Consequences of the Sexual Revolution: Legal Battles and Cultural Shifts

(21:55): The Future of Marriage and Family: Declining Birth Rates and Societal Impacts

(26:26): Addressing the Spiritual Battle: Satan's Role in Undermining Biblical Values

(29:32): The Enduring Relevance of Biblical Marriage and Family

(32:41): Pop Culture's Reflection on Relationship Dynamics

(35:03): The Societal and Psychological Impacts of Polygamy and Polyamory

(39:44): Transitioning to New Testament Teachings on Marriage

(46:26): The Challenge of Living Out Biblical Sexual Ethics Today

(49:59): The Role of the Holy Spirit in Overcoming Sexual Temptation

(55:56): Concluding Thoughts on God's Love and Redemption

Episode Transcript (PDF)

Is biblical sexuality outdated and irrelevant? 

Sacred Sexuality:Reclaiming God's Design

A pathway for becoming culture-changing Christians - Part 1

Live by biblical truth and authority- Part 2

The power of Christ to change the culture - Part 3

Who determines the value of life? - Part 4

What does it mean to hunger and thirst for righteousness? - Part 5

Jim 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.

Dr. 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.

Denison 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.

In this fifth episode of our special eight-episode series called “Being Christian in today’s culture,” Dr. Denison discusses biblical righteousness. He answers questions such as: 

What is the difference between righteousness and biblical righteousness? Is righteousness the same thing as justice? What does it look like to be righteous in today’s society?

The conversation with Dr. Denison also addresses topics such as racism, gender inequality, economic disparities, immigration, and environmental stewardship. Their conversation seeks to encourage Christians to think biblically, live holy lives, and act redemptively in order to foster a world that flourishes by God's design.

For more, read this episode’s accompanying article, “What is biblical righteousness?”

Topics

(01:55): Diving Deep into Biblical Righteousness

(08:12): The Challenge of Hypocrisy in Pursuing Righteousness

(14:05): Hungering and Thirsting for Righteousness: A Biblical Perspective

(22:28): Navigating Complex Cultural Issues with a Biblical Lens

(31:40): The Role of Social Media and Celebrity Culture in Shaping Public Values

(33:09): Addressing Racism: From Historical Context to Personal Experiences

(38:03): The Complex Landscape of Progress and Challenges in Combating Racism

(45:35): Exploring Gender Equality and the Biblical Perspective on Women's Roles

(50:5): Immigration, Borders, and the Biblical Call for Compassion

(57:53): Confronting Simplification and Polarization in Societal Debates

Resources

Episode Transcript (PDF)

What is biblical righteousness?

A pathway for becoming culture-changing Christians - Part 1

Live by biblical truth and authority- Part 2

The power of Christ to change the culture - Part 3

Who determines the value of life - Part 4

About Dr. Jim Denison

Jim 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 Turman

Dr. 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 Forum

Denison 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.

In this fourth episode of our special eight-episode series called “Being Christian in today’s culture,” Dr. Denison discusses the sanctity of life as a pillar for biblical flourishing. He answers questions such as: 

Is life intrinsically sacred? Who determines the value of life? Is euthanasia a sin?

The conversation with Dr. Denison highlights the intrinsic value of life from a biblical standpoint, spanning from issues like abortion to broader considerations of human dignity and societal values. He also tackles ethical dilemmas related to human life, euthanasia, and the impact of evolutionary and psychoanalytic theories on society, emphasizing the significance of recognizing the value of every human life.

For more, read this episode’s accompanying article, “The sanctity of life from conception to natural death.”

(01:04): Introducing the Series: Being Christian in Today's Culture

(02:31): Exploring the Sanctity of Life: A Deep Dive

(08:11): The Impact of Christianity on Society and Culture

(15:01): Christianity's Role in Advancing Women's Status and Addressing Immigration

(22:13): Ontology and the Sacredness of Life: A Philosophical Examination

(30:14): The Ethical Dilemmas in Modern Conflicts and Surveillance Societies

(35:43): The Slippery Slope of Utilitarian Ethics in Euthanasia and Abortion

(45:11): Marxism, Capitalism, and the Sanctity of Life

(55:04): The Importance of a Biblical Worldview on Identity and Value

Episode Transcript (PDF)

The sanctity of life from conception to natural death

A pathway for becoming culture-changing Christians - Part 1

Live by biblical truth and authority- Part 2

The power of Christ to change the culture - Part 3

Jim 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.

Dr. 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.

Denison 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.

In this third episode of our special eight-episode series called “Being Christian in today’s culture,” Dr. Denison discusses the necessity of faith in Christ as a pillar for biblical flourishing. He answers questions such as: 

What is faith? How can a life transformed by faith in Christ transform the culture? What is the difference between religion and morality?

The conversation with Dr. Denison also covers the significance of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers to live out their faith, the challenge of maintaining Christian beliefs in an increasingly secular culture, and the practical ways Christians can influence society positively.

For more, read this episode’s accompanying article, “The necessity of personal faith in Christ.”

Topics

(00:31): Introducing the Series: Being Christian in Today's Culture

(02:09): Defining Terms: Equipped vs. Armed

(03:24): The Cultural Warrior vs. Cultural Missionary Debate

(07:28): Exploring Worldviews and Metanarratives

(11:10): The Impact of Technology on Storytelling and Worldviews

(18:02): The Necessity of Faith in Christ for Personal and Corporate Flourishing

(22:06): Understanding Biblical Flourishing in Marriage and Society

(31:08): Exploring the Necessity of Faith in Christ

(34:23): The Role of the Holy Spirit in Empowering Believers

(39:34): The Impact of Faith on Morality and Democracy

(43:52): Christianity's Unique Contribution to Moral Society

(47:19): Navigating Faith in a Pluralistic Society

(53:02): Living Out Faith in Today's World

(01:01:24): Concluding Thoughts on Being Christian in Today's Culture

Resources

Episode Transcript (PDF)

The necessity of personal faith in of Christ

A pathway for becoming culture-changing Christians - Part 1

Live by biblical truth and authority- Part 2

About Dr. Jim Denison

Jim 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 Turman

Dr. 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 Forum

Denison 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.

In part two of our special eight-episode series called “Being Christian in today’s culture,” Dr. Jim Denison explores the intersection of biblical truth, authority, and cultural relevance for Christians today answering questions such as:

What does it mean to embrace biblical truth and authority in the modern world? What does it mean to love God with all your mind? What is truth? 

The conversation highlights the significance of understanding and adhering to biblical principles, not as mere beliefs but as authoritative guides for life's decisions. It emphasizes the transformative power of submitting to biblical authority and striving to live out one's faith authentically in society. Dr. Denison also discusses the role of education and critical thinking in faith, underscoring the need for discernment and engagement with culture without compromising biblical integrity. 

For more, read this episode’s accompanying article, “Why we should live by biblical truth and authority.”

Topics

• (00:31): Introducing the Seven Pillars of Biblical Flourishing
• (08:21): The Importance of Loving God and Loving Others: A Deep Dive
• (11:26): Embracing Biblical Truth and Authority: A Rational Approach to Faith
• (12:12): Understanding the Mind in Faith: Rational, Practical, and Intuitive Knowledge
• (18:22): The Journey Between Head and Heart: Integrating Rational and Emotional Faith
• (26:16): Leveraging Our Minds for Faith: The Role of Thoughts in Spiritual Growth
• (29:47): Harnessing the Power of a Trained Mind
• (31:03): The Quest for Truth: A Philosophical Journey
• (32:34): Objective vs. Subjective Truth: Navigating Modern Challenges
• (45:09): The Impact of Academic Institutions on Cultural Perceptions of Truth
• (55:10): Embracing Biblical Authority: The Path to Flourishing

Resources

• Episode Transcript (PDF)
• Why we should live by biblical truth and authority
• How to become a culture-changing Christian 
• The Greatest Commandment Course

About Dr. Jim Denison

Jim 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 Turman

Dr. 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 Forum

Denison 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.

In this first episode of a special eight-episode series called “Being Christian in today’s culture,” Dr. Jim Denison lays out seven essential convictions that a Christian who wants to engage and influence their culture most effectively should adhere to.

These seven pillars of biblical flourishing are:

• Biblical truth and authority
• The necessity of faith in Christ
• The sanctity of life from conception to natural death
• Biblical sexuality
• Racial and gender equality
• Political civility
• Cultural engagement

At Denison Forum, we often use the phrase “culture-changing Christian.” But what does it truly mean to be a Christian who changes the culture? Can one person even do something so seemingly large?

In this opening episode, Christians are encouraged to use their gifts, skills, and influence to serve God and draw others to him. Because when a life is deeply rooted in Christ and a Christian chooses to think biblically and act redemptively, the world can’t help but change.

For more, read this episode’s accompanying article, “How to become a culture-changing Christian.”

(00:00): Welcome to the Journey: Equipping Culture-Changing Christians

(00:22): Introducing the Seven Pillars of Biblical Flourishing

(03:05): Exploring the Beatitudes and the Foundation of Christian Beliefs

(06:24): The Challenge of Spreading the Gospel in Today's World

(12:20): Understanding Biblical Flourishing and Abundant Life

(17:33): The Inclusiveness and Uniqueness of Christianity

(23:53): Unveiling the Seven Pillars of Biblical Flourishing

(33:52): The Dangers of Hypocrisy in Believers

(37:47): The Inevitable Consequences of Sin

(40:35): The Power of Accountability in Spiritual Growth

(55:56): Living a Life of Redemption and Influence

How to become a culture-changing Christian

Episode transcript (PDF)

Jim 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.

Dr. 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.

Denison 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.