The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 044The Secret of Contentment

Welcome to Episode 44 of The Thinklings Podcast!

Season 3 is officially underway! In this episode, the Thinklings kick off the new season with announcements, new Thinklings merchandise, and a discussion of several recommended books before Andy begins a new series on the biblical topic of contentment.

Thanks for joining us for another thoughtful conversation!

📚 Books & Business

* Thinkling Stearns — The Secret of Contentment by William Barcley

* Thinkling Little — Outdated by Jonathan Pokluda

* Thinkling Carter — The Wingfeather Saga by Andrew Peterson

📖 Main Content

Andy introduces a new series on contentment by exploring how Scripture and Christian writers have defined the concept throughout church history.

The discussion includes:

* Why biblical contentment is more than happiness or satisfaction

* The meaning of contentment in Philippians 4 and 1 Timothy 6

* Insights from Jeremiah Burroughs, Thomas Watson, and other Christian writers

* The relationship between contentment and God’s providence

* Why contentment is primarily an inward matter rather than an external one

* How Christians can learn to trust God’s wisdom in both good days and difficult days

The Thinklings reflect on the challenge of submitting to—and even delighting in—God’s sovereign care in every circumstance.

🌿 Final Meditation

Thinkling Little closes with a meditation on Exodus 31 and the biblical principle of rest. While New Testament believers are not bound to Old Testament Sabbath regulations, Christians are still called to trust God enough to rest. Contentment and rest go hand in hand as believers learn to rely on God’s provision rather than their own constant striving.

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The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 043Summer Episode

Welcome to Episode 43 of The Thinklings Podcast!

In this summer episode, the Thinklings discuss apologetics resources, biographies, children’s literature, and the value of learning from different perspectives. The conversation then turns back to the Great Commission, focusing on the often-overlooked responsibility of teaching and discipleship.

Thanks for tuning in to this summer conversation!

Books & Business

Five Views on Apologetics — Thinkling Stearns

David Livingstone (Christian Heroes: Then & Now Series) — Thinkling Little

The Book of Three — Thinkling Carter

Main Content

Continuing a previous discussion on the Great Commission, the Thinklings focus on Jesus’ command to teach disciples to observe all that He commanded. The conversation explores the relationship between evangelism, church involvement, discipleship, and spiritual maturity.

Topics include:

* Why the Great Commission involves more than evangelism alone

* The importance of bringing believers into the life of the local church

* Teaching people not only what Scripture says, but how to study it for themselves

* The role of Scripture in teaching, correcting, rebuking, and training believers

* How truth shapes desires and helps Christians grow in wisdom and obedience

Drawing from 2 Timothy 3 and other passages, the Thinklings reflect on how God’s Word transforms believers and equips them for faithful service.

Final Meditation

The episode closes with an encouragement to live out the Great Commission through faithful engagement with God’s Word. As believers submit themselves to Scripture, they are taught, corrected, trained, and equipped to help others follow Christ as well.

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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thethinklingspodcast.substack.com

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 042Summer Episode

Welcome to Episode 42 of The Thinklings Podcast!

In this summer episode, the Thinklings share a few book recommendations before turning to a devotional study through the plagues of Exodus. Along the way, the conversation includes ministry reflections, theology resources, and encouragement for Christians who want to grow in their understanding of God and His Word.

Thanks for tuning in to this summer conversation!

Books & Business

Exodus Commentary — Thinkling Little

Have We No Rights? — Thinkling Carter

The Moody Handbook of Theology — Thinkling Stearns

Main Content

Thinkling Little leads a study through Exodus 8–11, focusing on the repeated phrase, “that you may know.” The discussion explores how God reveals His power, glory, and sovereignty through the plagues, demonstrating that there is no one like the Lord. The Thinklings reflect on God’s authority over creation, His control over rulers and nations, and His purpose in making Himself known to both Egypt and Israel.

Final Meditation

A meditation on the plagues of Exodus and the glory of God. The Thinklings consider how Pharaoh repeatedly attempted to resist and deceive, yet God ultimately displayed His power and accomplished His purposes. The episode closes with a call to worship the Lord, who reveals Himself through His mighty works and is worthy of all praise.

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The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 41Summer Episode

Welcome to Episode 41 of The Thinklings Podcast!

In this summer episode, the Thinklings share a variety of books and reflections before turning to a devotional discussion of Psalm 32. Along the way, the conversation touches on westerns, mythology, reading habits, family life, and the joy of good books. The episode concludes with a rich discussion on repentance, forgiveness, and the blessing of walking closely with God.

Thanks for tuning in to this summer conversation!

Books & Business

Thinkling Carter — Crow Killer

Thinkling Stearns — Unmasking the Cults by Alan Gomes

Thinkling Little — The Imagination Station series

Main Content

Thinkling Little leads a discussion through Psalm 32, exploring David’s description of the burden of unconfessed sin and the joy of God’s forgiveness. The Thinklings reflect on repentance, self-deception, the role of confession, and the freedom believers experience when they turn honestly to the Lord. The conversation also considers the relationship between sinful desires, habitual sins, and the transforming grace of God.

Final Meditation

A meditation on Psalm 32, centered on two simple exhortations: repent and rejoice. The Thinklings encourage listeners to bring their sins honestly before the Lord, rest in His forgiveness, and rejoice in the steadfast love that surrounds those who trust Him.

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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thethinklingspodcast.substack.com

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 040Summer Episode

Welcome to Episode 40 of The Thinklings Podcast!

This summer episode features another round of Books & Business followed by a conversation on the Great Commission and what it means to “go” and make disciples. The Thinklings discuss evangelism, community, relationships, and practical ways Christians can intentionally place themselves in the lives of unbelievers.

Thanks for tuning in to this summer conversation!

Books & Business

The Next Story: Life and Faith After the Digital Explosion — Thinkling Stearns

Preaching Christ from the Old Testament — Thinkling Little

The Everlasting Man — Thinkling Carter

Main Content

The Thinklings reflect on Jesus’ command to “go and make disciples” in Matthew 28. They discuss the importance of intentionally being around unbelievers, building meaningful relationships, participating in community life, and viewing everyday activities as opportunities for gospel conversations. The conversation explores how faithfulness, kindness, and visible Christian living often open doors for sharing the hope of Christ.

Final Meditation

Thinkling Stearns closes with a devotional reflection on the Great Commission, encouraging listeners to consider practical ways they can “go” this summer—whether through travel, hobbies, neighborhood relationships, or everyday interactions—and to pray for boldness as opportunities arise.

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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thethinklingspodcast.substack.com

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 039Summer Episode

Welcome to Episode 39 of The Thinklings Podcast!

This is another special summer episode of the podcast, featuring Books & Business and a final meditation from Scripture. Along the way, the Thinklings discuss Tolkien, poetry, apologetics, and the relationship between truth, beauty, imagination, and worship.

Thanks for tuning in to this summer conversation!

Books & Business

The Two Towers — Thinkling Little

The Collected Poems of W.B. Yeats — Thinkling Carter

How Should We Then Live? — Thinkling Stearns

Main Content

Thinkling Little reflects on Saruman’s persuasive speech in The Two Towers and Tolkien’s portrayal of deception, wisdom, and the danger of persuasive evil.

Thinkling Carter discusses the poetry of W.B. Yeats, considering the relationship between imagination, beauty, truth, and the longings expressed in Romantic poetry.

Thinkling Stearns recommends Francis Schaeffer’s How Should We Then Live?, exploring the rise and decline of Western thought and culture and the importance of understanding the history of ideas.

Final Meditation

Thinkling Stearns closes with a meditation from Isaiah 1, reminding listeners that God desires genuine repentance and heartfelt worship rather than empty religious activity. The Lord calls His people to come before Him with humble and repentant hearts, trusting in His provision for cleansing and forgiveness.

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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thethinklingspodcast.substack.com

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 038Summer Episode

Welcome to Episode 38 of The Thinklings Podcast!

This is another special summer episode of the podcast, which means a shorter format focused on Books & Business and a final meditation from Scripture.

In this episode, the Thinklings discuss hermeneutics, Old Testament studies, biblical interpretation, writing, and a few books that have recently captured their attention. The conversation also includes reflections on how Christians cultivate godly affections and learn to love what is truly good.

Thanks for tuning in to this summer conversation!

Books & Business

How to Understand and Apply the Old Testament — Thinkling Carter

“Coffee and Christ: A Metaphor of the Christian Life” — Thinkling Stearns

A Feminist Companion to the Bible: Song of Songs — Thinkling Little

Main Discussion

A conversation about Old Testament interpretation, genre studies, Hebrew poetry, biblical theology, and the importance of careful exegesis. The Thinklings also discuss the formation of Christian affections, the role of reading and writing, and how believers learn to delight in God.

Final Meditation

Thinkling Stearns closes with a meditation from John 7:37–39, reflecting on Jesus’ invitation to thirsty souls: “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink.” The discussion highlights Christ as the true source of living water and lasting satisfaction.

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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thethinklingspodcast.substack.com

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 037 — Summer Reading Spectacular

Welcome to Episode 37 of The Thinklings Podcast!

In this final episode of Season 2, the Thinklings wrap up the semester and look ahead to the summer. The conversation includes updates on the podcast's summer schedule, reflections on the past season, and a wide-ranging collection of book recommendations for listeners looking to make the most of their summer reading.

Whether you're interested in theology, biography, church history, apologetics, counseling, literature, or Christian living, there's something on this list for everyone.

Thanks for tuning in to this week's conversation!

Main Content

A special Summer Reading Spectacular featuring recommendations from the Thinklings, including:

Calvin on the Death of Christ — Paul Hartog

God in the Dock — C.S. Lewis

Fault Lines — Voddie Baucham

When People Are Big and God Is Small — Ed Welch

Out of a Far Country — Christopher Yuan

Finally Free — Heath Lambert

The Chronicles of Narnia — C.S. Lewis

Roman Catholic Theology and Practice — Gregg Allison

Pale Rider — Laura Spinney

The Most Reluctant Convert — David Downing

Planets in Peril — David Downing

The Gospel Comes with a House Key — Rosaria Butterfield

The Thinklings also discuss hospitality, discipleship, evangelism, theology, church history, and why good books remain some of the best companions for a summer well spent.

Season Reflections

As Season 2 comes to a close, the Thinklings reflect on the challenges and joys of podcasting, memorable episodes from the past year, lessons learned along the way, and their gratitude for listeners who have joined the conversation.

Summer Plans

The podcast shifts to a summer schedule, releasing episodes every other week before returning with Season 3 in the fall.

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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thethinklingspodcast.substack.com

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 036Lady Wisdom, Dame Folly, and Solomon’s Search

Welcome to Episode 36 of The Thinklings Podcast!

In this episode, the Thinklings begin with Books & Business before diving into a theological and literary discussion on Lady Wisdom and Dame Folly in Proverbs. Thinkling Little shares research from a developing article, exploring the relationship between Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Songs, and asking what Solomon’s search for wisdom reveals about contentment, marriage, and the human heart.

Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation!

Books & Business

Robinson Crusoe — Thinkling Little

Beginning at Moses: A Guide to Finding Christ in the Old Testament — Thinkling Carter

A Little Book for New Theologians — Thinkling Stearns

Narnia reflections and favorite characters — Thinkling Carter

Main Content

A discussion on the relationship between Dame Folly and Lady Wisdom in the book of Proverbs.

The Thinklings consider whether the “strange woman” of Proverbs is a literal individual or a personification of folly, and how that imagery helps readers understand wisdom and foolishness throughout Scripture. The conversation then turns to Solomon’s life, his many marriages, and the connection between Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Songs.

Topics include:

Dame Folly as the embodiment of rebellion, idolatry, and spiritual unfaithfulness

Lady Wisdom as the ideal of godly wisdom and faithful love

Solomon’s search for satisfaction and the role of discontentment in Ecclesiastes

The relationship between wisdom, marriage, and sanctification

How biblical personification helps readers understand larger theological truths

Final Thoughts

The episode closes with reflections on contentment, marriage, and the importance of dealing with the sin in our own hearts rather than constantly searching for fulfillment elsewhere. The Thinklings consider how true wisdom is found not through endless pursuit of something new, but through faithful obedience to God and stewardship of what He has already given.

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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thethinklingspodcast.substack.com

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 35The Making of an Atheist

Welcome to Episode 35 of The Thinklings Podcast!

In this episode, the Thinklings dive into The Making of an Atheist, as Thinkling Stearns leads a thoughtful discussion on James Spiegel’s influential work. Together, the Thinklings explore Spiegel’s argument that atheism is not merely an intellectual position but one deeply shaped by moral and spiritual factors. The conversation considers how worldview, desire, and obedience to God intersect in the formation of belief—and unbelief.

Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation!

Books & Business

The Intercourse of Knowledge — Thinkling Little

Mapping Apologetics — Thinkling Stearns

Privilege the Text — Thinkling Carter

Main Content

A discussion of The Making of an Atheist, focusing on:

* Spiegel’s central thesis about moral rebellion and disbelief

* How desire and practice influence intellectual conclusions

* Biblical categories for understanding unbelief

* How Christians can respond with truth, compassion, and clarity

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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thethinklingspodcast.substack.com