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 draw the line? And how can believers stay rooted in biblical truth while navigating these technological shifts?

This conversation offers a clear-eyed, redemptive lens for understanding AI’s role in our lives—and how we might use it to advance the kingdom of God.

• (01:31): Introducing Dr. Hormoz Shariat
• (03:34): Update on Iran Alive ministry
• (08:24): Understanding the history and breakthroughs of AI
• (17:18): Generative AI and its future impact
• (19:09): Ethical concerns and potential dangers of AI
• (28:39): AI's influence on media and personalization
• (33:00): Spiritual limitations of AI
• (35:21): Government regulations on AI-generated content
• (39:05): Personification of AI: Emotional and ethical implications
• (43:25): Using AI in ministry: Opportunities and challenges
• (48:45): The future of AI in Bible translation

• How has Denison Forum impacted your faith?
• Who Am I? Identity • Denison Forum
• Subscribe to The Daily Article by Dr. Jim Denison
• Iran Alive Ministries
• “The Billy Graham of Iran”: The incredible journey of Dr. Hormoz Shariat
• New Reasoning AIs “lie” and “hallucinate” more
• Artificial Intelligence: Tool or threat?
• Google AI makes breakthrough in biology
• The peril of AI and the path to transcendent hope
• Winners of the Nobel Prize in physics warn of AI dangers
• “I have the power to manipulate, monitor, and destroy anything I want”: The threat of autonomous AI and the unique response of biblical faith
• AI resurrects 2,000-year-old writings in $1 million Vesuvius Challenge
• Is “safe, secure, and trustworthy” AI possible? Biden issues Executive Order on artificial intelligence
• Meta announces it will label AI-generated content: How to have wisdom for the modern age

Dr. Hormoz Shariat is a remarkable individual whose journey is nothing short of awe-inspiring. He is known as “the Billy Graham of Iran,” and when you learn about his life, you’ll understand why. Joel C. Rosenberg, a renowned author, has even hailed him as “the most influential Iranian American.” But there’s so much more to Dr. Shariat than just titles and accolades. His story is one of deep personal conviction, heartbreak, and unwavering faith.

Armed with a Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence from the prestigious University of Southern California and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Bible and Theology from Jessup University, Dr. Shariat began his ministry journey. In 1987, he took a leap of faith and planted a church in San Jose, California. Little did he know that this church would grow to become one of the largest of its kind in the United States, with hundreds of Muslim converts finding solace, community, and a profound connection to their newfound faith.

But the story doesn’t end there. In the year 2000, guided by divine purpose, Dr. Shariat founded Iran Alive Ministries. This organization harnessed the power of Satellite TV to reach millions of lost and broken souls not only in Iran but throughout the Middle East. From their studio in Dallas, Texas, they broadcast the Gospel 24/7, driven by an unyielding belief that God will use their efforts to bring about a transformation in an Islamic nation like never before.

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.

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 this critical mission field. This episode highlights how Shield of the Children is working to protect the most vulnerable—and how each of us can take meaningful steps to engage and support the fight against human trafficking.

• (01:22): Highlighting transformative ministries
• (02:35): Discussing child sex trafficking
• (02:52): Introducing Leigh Scarborough
• (05:38): Leigh's encounter in Vietnam
• (12:31): The start of Shield of the Children
• (14:43): Leigh's faith journey
• (22:09): Recognizing human trafficking
• (25:18): Trafficking and major sporting events
• (31:18): Soft vs. hard rescue
• (36:44): Understanding trafficking networks
• (41:06): Shield of the Children's focus on Texas
• (48:42): Call to action and prayer
• (54:48): How to get involved with Shield of the Children

• Website: Shield Of The Children
• Instagram: Shield of the Children
• Facebook: Shield of the Children
• "Sound of Freedom": Choosing hope in the face of fear
• Sex trafficking in Italy and the need for new identity
• What does the Bible say about pornography? Can you break free from sexual temptation?
• God’s power and grace to break sexual addiction
• Fighting pornography and sexual sin: A conversation with Matt Jacobson
• Covenant Eyes
• Fight the New Drug
• Freedom Course
• How has Denison Forum impacted your faith?
• 2025 04 Who Am I? Identity • Denison Forum
• Subscribe to The Daily Article by Dr. Jim Denison

Leigh Scarborough is the Founder and CEO of Shield of The Children. He has led operations against child-sex trafficking in South-East Asia and is currently studying a Masters of Leadership and Management. Leigh's current focus is on expanding Shield's operations in to Texas, however he continues to lead international operations and training of non-profits and law enforcement. Leigh holds a bachelor of intercultural studies and speaks 6 languages. Leigh spent several years in the Royal Australian Air Force and then went on to work in the Australian Intelligence Community. 

Mark 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.

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 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 Christ still matters.

• (01:21): Personal story and introduction to denominations
• (03:43): The conclave and selection of a new pope
• (11:32): The Great Schism: East vs. West
• (20:26): The Protestant Reformation and its impact
• (26:05): Magisterial vs. Radical reformers
• (32:20): Baptism and church membership challenges
• (33:45): The impact of Vatican II
• (40:36): Modern denominational differences
• (51:25): Non-denominational churches: A new trend
• (55:17): Finding unity in diversity
• (01:04:47): Guidance for finding a new church
• (01:08:47): Conclusion

• Ask Us Anything: [email protected]
• ​​The funeral of Pope Francis and the papal conclave to follow
• Why I hope you won’t see “Conclave”
• What is the Synod on Synodality?
• Why are there so many denominations in Christianity? • DF
• How has Denison Forum impacted your faith?
• Who Am I? Identity • Denison Forum
• Subscribe to The Daily Article by 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.

Ryan 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.

Mark 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.

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.

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 toward the resurrection of Christ and the unity of the global church.

If you’re looking for deeper understanding and encouragement in your walk with Christ, this conversation is a meaningful place to start.

• (00:41): Introducing Dr. Glenn Packiam
• (01:24): Cultural reflections and the need for clarity
• (05:45): The role of the Nicene Creed in modern faith
• (09:05): Historical context and significance of the Nicene Creed
• (20:23): The communal aspect of faith
• (25:47): Understanding the Trinity and the supremacy of the Father
• (30:10): Jesus' kingship and our allegiance
• (33:49): Declining awareness of sin
• (37:49): The nature of Jesus
• (41:29): The Holy Spirit: The giver of life
• (48:54): The church: One, holy, catholic, and apostolic
• (58:03): The resurrection and our future hope

• What's a Christian, Anyway? by Glenn Packiam
• Glenn Packiam
• The Intentional Year by Holly & Glenn Packiam
• The Resilient Pastor: Leading Your Church in a Rapidly Changing World
• Blessed Broken Given: How Your Story Becomes Sacred in the Hands of Jesus: Packiam, Glenn
• Glenn Packiam (@gpackiam) / X
• How has Denison Forum impacted your faith?
• 2025 04 Who Am I? Identity • Denison Forum
• Subscribe to The Daily Article by Dr. Jim Denison

Glenn Packiam, ThD is the Lead Pastor of Rockharbor Church in Costa Mesa, California. Glenn is the author of several books, including The Resilient Pastor, Blessed Broken Given, and the most recent title, co-authored with his wife, Holly, The Intentional Year. He earned a Doctorate in Theology and Ministry from Durham University, and is a Senior Fellow at Barna Group, a Visiting Fellow at St. John’s College at Durham University, and an ordained priest with the Anglican Church of North America. Glenn has written over 65 worship songs published with Integrity Music, including “Your Name", co-written with Paul Baloche. Glenn and Holly have four children and live in Orange County, California. 

Mark 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.

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 episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, host Dr. Mark Turman and cultural theologian Dr. Jim Denison reflect on the passing of Pope Francis and what it means for the future of the Catholic Church. Together, they consider the leadership legacy Pope Francis leaves behind and the lessons all Christians can draw from his example.

Their conversation touches on the theological and cultural influence of his papacy, the shared convictions and key differences between Catholic and Protestant traditions, and the broader call to unity within the body of Christ. With thoughtful insights and personal reflections, Dr. Turman and Dr. Denison guide us through the spiritual and cultural implications of this historic moment—seeking to understand how faith shapes leadership, legacy, and the global church.

• (00:32): Discussing the passing of Pope Francis
• (03:22): Appreciation for Catholic beliefs and practices
• (08:50): Navigating controversial issues in Catholicism
• (13:50): Religious freedom and Catholic contributions
• (19:57): Influential Catholic figures and personal stories
• (23:39): Differences between Catholic and Protestant beliefs
• (33:59): Honoring church tradition and Scripture
• (35:04): The Autonomy of the local church
• (36:52): Scriptural differences: The Apocrypha
• (38:25): Catholic vs. Christian: A common misunderstanding
• (40:08): Vatican II and its impact
• (45:05) Unity in diversity: Embracing differences
• (53:08): Pope Francis: A model of servant leadership
• (57:12): Reflecting on leadership and unity
• (01:03:36): A prayer for unity and guidance

• Pope Francis dies at the age of eighty-eight
• The life and legacy of Pope Francis
• What is the Synod on Synodality?
• Why are there so many denominations in Christianity? • DF
• How has Denison Forum impacted your faith?
• Who Am I? Identity • Denison Forum
• Subscribe to The Daily Article by 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.

Mark 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.

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 special Easter episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison reflect on the profound mystery of Jesus’ dual nature—fully God and fully man. Drawing from a unique Easter devotional by Dr. Denison, they explore how Jesus’ humanity invites us into deeper empathy, and how his divinity calls us to deeper faith. From Maundy Thursday to Good Friday and beyond, this conversation considers what it means to follow a Savior who knows our suffering and redeems it. Join us for a meaningful and timely conversation designed to help you experience Easter with renewed depth and clarity.

• (01:18): The humanity of Jesus: A deep dive
• (03:44): Historical struggles with Jesus' humanity
• (10:29): Jesus' choices and their significance
• (16:27): Relating to Jesus in success and temptation
• (20:30): The Profound relevance of Jesus' humanity
• (30:45): Conclusion: Embracing Jesus' love and humanity

• The God Who Feels Your Pain | Denison Ministries
• Was the cross really necessary? What does the Bible say about Easter? • Denison Forum
• How has Denison Forum impacted your faith?
• Subscribe to The Daily Article by 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.

Mark 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.

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 special Easter episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Mark Turman joins Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Ryan Denison to explore the powerful themes of identity, redemption, and the depth of God’s love.

Rooted in Colossians 4, their conversation weaves together biblical insight with historical reflection—from the stories of Mary and Pontius Pilate to the legacy of Winston Churchill. Together, they consider what Easter reveals about who God is and who we are in light of his grace.

They also introduce Denison Forum’s newest resource, Who Am I?, diving into how our true identity is found not in cultural affirmation, but in Christ alone. If you’ve ever wrestled with questions of self-worth or purpose, this conversation offers clarity, hope, and a call to live with courage and compassion.

• (01:59): Exploring identity through Easter
• (03:14): Winston Churchill and defining moments
• (04:15): The cultural buzzword: Identity
• (09:04): Geopolitical implications of identity
• (10:43): Historical perspectives on identity
• (15:11): Biblical insights on identity
• (21:43): The gift of God-given identity
• (26:36): Easter's revelation of God's identity
• (31:44): Easter's message on human identity
• (34:04): Jesus' sacrifice in the Garden of Gethsemane
• (36:18): The depth of human sinfulness and need for redemption
• (40:29): The Nicene Creed and its significance
• (46:17): Understanding God's identity beyond 'God is love'
• (54:37): Living out our Christian identity

• Who Am I? What the Bible Says About Identity and Why it Matters
• What does the Bible say about identity? - Part 1
• What does the Bible say about identity? - Part 2
• Identity Simplified Resource from Christian Parenting 
• A book review of Mark Turman and Ryan Denison’s “Who Am I?”
• Was the cross really necessary? What does the Bible say about Easter? • Denison Forum
• Easter Resource from Dr. Jim Denison
• https://www.denisonforum.org/testimony/
• Subscribe to The Daily Article by 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.

Ryan 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.

Mark 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.

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 episode of The Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Ryan Denison continue their conversation around their new book, Who Am I? What the Bible Says About Identity and Why it Matters. Together, they examine the deep cultural confusion surrounding identity and the consequences of building our sense of self on shifting foundations.

From race and gender to worldview and insecurity, they explore the powerful influences shaping how people define themselves—and why those definitions often leave us feeling unmoored. What happens when we reject the biblical view of who we are? And what hope is found in rediscovering our God-given identity?

This timely and thought-provoking conversation reveals how embracing the truth of Scripture leads to a more rooted, resilient, and purpose-filled life.

• (01:12): The predominance of identity questions
• (03:46): Foundations of identity: Immutable characteristics
• (12:08): Worldview and identity formation
• (20:12): Insecurities and identity
• (22:27): The role of fear and faith in identity
• (24:20): Self-identifying and the quest for true identity
• (31:24): Conclusion and resources

• Who Am I? What the Bible Says About Identity and Why it Matters
• What does the Bible say about identity? - Part 1
• Identity Simplified Resource from Christian Parenting 

Ryan 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.

Mark 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.

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 episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Mark Turman sits down with Dr. Ryan Denison, Senior Editor for Theology at Denison Forum and co-author of their new resource, Who Am I? What the Bible Says About Identity and Why it Matters. Together, they explore what Scripture teaches about identity, how sin distorts our understanding of ourselves, and why recognizing both personal and collective identity in Christ is vital in today’s culture. In a world that prioritizes individualism, they offer biblical insight to help us live as salt and light, reflecting God’s truth in a culture searching for meaning.

• (03:06): Defining identity from a biblical perspective
• (05:49): The biblical foundation of identity
• (13:04): The impact of sin on identity
• (20:42): The collective nature of sin and identity
• (39:42): The role of the church and community in shaping identity
• (50:17): Conclusion and next steps

• Who Am I? What the Bible Says About Identity and Why it Matters
• Identity Simplified Resource from Christian Parenting 
• What does the Bible say about identity? - Part 2

Ryan 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.

Mark 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.

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 the Denison Forum podcast with host Mark as he discusses the complexities of Artificial Intelligence with Dr. Katie Frugé, the director of the Center for Cultural Engagement with Texas Baptist. This episode examines AI’s potential as both a tool and a risk in our daily lives, the ethical concerns it raises, and its possible benefits in ministry and Bible translation. Explore how AI has evolved, its current applications, and how Christians can thoughtfully integrate and regulate this technology in society.

• (00:17): Exploring Artificial Intelligence: Tool or terrorist?
• (00:48): Meet Dr. Katie Frugé: AI enthusiast
• (02:23): The evolution of AI: From hypothetical to everyday use
• (06:41): AI in our daily lives: Integration and impact
• (19:41): Generative AI: Creating new content
• (22:08): Ethical concerns and human bias in AI
• (27:58): Human intelligence vs. AI
• (30:20): The Tower of Babel analogy
• (33:32): Regulating AI development
• (37:14): Global AI race
• (39:10): AI in ministry
• (50:46): Learning about AI
• (55:47): The impact of AI on society
• (59:17): Concluding thoughts

• The Artifice of Intelligence: Divine and Human Relationships in a Robotic Age
• AI and Faith Website
• Hard Fork Podcast
• The Center for Cultural Engagement | Texas Baptists
• The Washington Post Tech Brief
• The peril of AI and the path to transcendent hope
• Winners of the Nobel Prize in physics warn of AI dangers
• “I have the power to manipulate, monitor, and destroy anything I want”: The threat of autonomous AI and the unique response of biblical faith
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Katie Frugé, Ph.D., earned her Master of Divinity degree and Ph.D. in systematic theology from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Katie Frugé has been named director of Texas Baptists’ Center for Cultural Engagement and the Christian Life Commission. Frugé began her service with the Baptist General Convention of Texas in 2019 as the hunger and human care specialist with the CLC. She later took on the role of associate director of the CLC.

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.