Thinking Christian: Bible, Theology, and Culture

Why do so many ministry leaders fall—and how should the church respond when they do?

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer and co-host Nate Giarratano tackle the complex terrain of restoring leaders who’ve failed morally. Using the recent controversy involving Josh Buice as a springboard, they explore biblical standards for leadership, the quiet erosion of integrity in the digital age, and the pressure cooker of platform-driven ministry.

From elder qualifications in 1 Timothy 3 to the seductive lure of public influence, this conversation exposes how leadership loneliness, accountability gaps, and misplaced priorities contribute to moral collapse. And most importantly, it asks: What does real restoration look like—and who gets to decide when someone is ready?

Thinking Christian is hosted by Dr. James Spencer, president of the D. L. Moody Center and author of Digital Discernment (InterVarsity Press). Each conversation reads the Bible as the final authority for life and faith, questioning the assumptions of our culture, even our Christian culture, so that we don't settle for a narrower vision than God's word offers.

Unsettling convention. Cultivating conviction.
Episodes, articles, and questions: thinkingchristian.org
About James Spencer: thinkingchristian.org/james
The Thinking Christian Framework: thinkingchristian.org/framework
Order Digital Discernment: amazon.com

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Advertising and partnership inquiries: [email protected]

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Join Dr. James Spencer on the Thinking Christian Podcast as he sits down with Dr. Stanley K. Ridgely, author of "DEI Exposed," for a critical examination of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Discover why Dr. Ridgely calls DEI the "biggest con of the 21st century," how it's impacting university campuses, and its ideological roots that categorize individuals into oppressors and victims. This episode delves into the Christian response to such cultural narratives, questioning underlying assumptions and seeking truth beyond prevailing ideologies. Explore themes of social justice, meritocracy, and the importance of critical thinking for Christians navigating today's complex world.

Go deeper: Christians & Politics

Thinking Christian is hosted by Dr. James Spencer, president of the D. L. Moody Center and author of Digital Discernment (InterVarsity Press). Each conversation reads the Bible as the final authority for life and faith, questioning the assumptions of our culture, even our Christian culture, so that we don't settle for a narrower vision than God's word offers.

Unsettling convention. Cultivating conviction.
Episodes, articles, and questions: thinkingchristian.org
About James Spencer: thinkingchristian.org/james
The Thinking Christian Framework: thinkingchristian.org/framework
Order Digital Discernment: amazon.com

Subscribe: YouTube · Apple Podcasts · Spotify

Advertising and partnership inquiries: [email protected]

Purchase DEI Exposed at amazon.com

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Join us for a special episode of PREPPED as we look back at some of the most thought-provoking and insightful moments from our top five most popular episodes so far.

These curated highlights feature deep theological insights, practical wisdom, and powerful reflections that have resonated with our listeners. From exploring sacred spaces to examining the heart of worship in the story of Cain and Abel, each segment offers a unique perspective on living faithfully in a complex world. We’ll also revisit the idea of discipleship as Christian resistance, unpack the symbolism of the biblical flood, and reflect on how technological progress can impact our spiritual lives.

Whether you're a long-time listener or new to the podcast, these highlights will inspire you to think deeper, grow stronger, and walk more faithfully with God. Tune in for a refreshing and insightful journey through some of the best moments from PREPPED!

(00:00) Exploring Sacred Spaces in Theology
(14:08) Christian Resistance and Biblical Meaning
(25:31) Navigating Technology and Prioritizing Spiritual Growth

For more information on PREPPED, and to enroll in our online seminary level learning courses, please visit and follow us at:

Website: preppedforseminary.com and www.usefultogod.com 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UsefulToGod
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usefultogodministries/ 
X: https://x.com/usefultogod 

How can a teaching feel true and still lead you away from God?

In this episode of PREPPED join James Spencer, PhD, as we dissect the subtle dangers of false teaching—particularly the kind that offers comfort at the expense of truth. From the lure of “terrible simplicity” to teachings that twist Scripture to serve political or personal agendas, Dr. Spencer invites us into a thoughtful conversation on discernment, integrity, and the importance of embracing theological complexity.

We’ll examine how messages that sound biblical can sometimes redirect our desires away from God, looking at examples such as Job’s friends and modern “ear-scratching” ideologies. Along the way, you’ll gain tools to recognize the difference between faithful teaching and distortion—and why protecting the richness of Scripture is essential for spiritual maturity

(00:00) Unmasking False Teaching
(10:36) Unmasking Terrible Simplicity
(19:32) Identifying and Resisting False Teaching

For more information on PREPPED, and to enroll in our online seminary level learning courses, please visit and follow us at:

Website: preppedforseminary.com and www.usefultogod.com 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UsefulToGod
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usefultogodministries/ 
X: https://x.com/usefultogod 

In this episode of the Thinking Christian Podcast, Dr. James Spencer and Nate Giarratano explore the critical difference between false prophets and false teachers in Scripture. Learn practical biblical discernment tools to evaluate theological claims, understand how to distinguish between doctrinal mistakes and deliberate false teaching, and discover why aligning with God's Word as your ultimate standard is essential for spiritual growth. This theologically rich discussion examines how Christians can maintain doctrinal integrity while navigating complex cultural messages that challenge biblical truth. Perfect for believers seeking to develop stronger discernment skills and church leaders wanting to protect their congregations from misleading teachings. Visit usefultogod.com for additional resources on living faithfully in today's world.

🔗 For information about the upcoming German Reformation Tour visit thomastours.com. 

🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com

📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing!

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation!

For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This episode features Mike Weaver of Big Daddy Weave, who shares his remarkable 25-year journey in Christian music ministry. Mike reveals how God has consistently shown up in both celebratory milestones and devastating personal seasons, demonstrating that authentic ministry flows from personal encounter rather than performance.

Through powerful testimonies of lives transformed by music—including a neighbor's journey to faith through a single song—listeners will discover how God uses melody to break down barriers and open hearts to His message.Whether you're questioning your purpose, facing doubt, or simply seeking deeper theological understanding, this podcast offers calm, thoughtful conversations that highlight God's active work in our world while equipping believers to live faithfully in today's complex cultural landscape.

Go deeper: Faith and Mental Health

Thinking Christian is hosted by Dr. James Spencer, president of the D. L. Moody Center and author of Digital Discernment (InterVarsity Press). Each conversation reads the Bible as the final authority for life and faith, questioning the assumptions of our culture, even our Christian culture, so that we don't settle for a narrower vision than God's word offers.

Unsettling convention. Cultivating conviction.
Episodes, articles, and questions: thinkingchristian.org
About James Spencer: thinkingchristian.org/james
The Thinking Christian Framework: thinkingchristian.org/framework
Order Digital Discernment: amazon.com

Subscribe: YouTube · Apple Podcasts · Spotify

Advertising and partnership inquiries: [email protected]

For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What if the key to spiritual transformation lies not in our circumstances but in our responses to God?

In this episode of PREPPED, join James Spencer, PhD, on an exploration of the power of response as a spiritual discipline. Through biblical narratives like the creation story, the call of Moses, and the fall of Jericho, we see that it is God who initiates—and it is our faithful response that leads to transformation.

From Jesus' perfect and ultimate obedience to small, Spirit-led acts of everyday faithfulness, this episode examines how we align our hearts with God's story in a world that constantly pulls us away from it. Alongside biblical insights, Dr. Spencer shares personal reflections—including a story of quiet service to someone in need—that highlight how intention, humility, and trust in God shape our spiritual growth.

(00:00) Responding to God in Daily Life
(10:36) Responding to God and Demonstrating Faith
(19:20) Developing a Heart for God

For more information on PREPPED, and to enroll in our online seminary level learning courses, please visit and follow us at:

Website: preppedforseminary.com and www.usefultogod.com 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UsefulToGod
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usefultogodministries/ 
X: https://x.com/usefultogod 

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer welcomes Bible teacher, author, and podcaster Lisa Harper for a rich, heartfelt conversation about her new book A Jesus-Shaped Life. Together, they explore how diving into theology isn’t about elitism or intellect—it’s about intimacy. Lisa shares stories that are as moving as they are humorous (yes, snot and sanctification are both on the table), revealing how theological reflection is meant to be lived out in community, kindness, and Christlikeness. From Leviticus to the Trinity, from doctrinal missteps to the presence of God, this episode reminds us that theology done well brings us closer to Jesus and shapes us to reflect His radical love in the world.

Whether you're a seminary student or someone whose eyes glaze over at the word "pericope," this episode will meet you where you are—and invite you deeper.

Go deeper: Trajectories

Thinking Christian is hosted by Dr. James Spencer, president of the D. L. Moody Center and author of Digital Discernment (InterVarsity Press). Each conversation reads the Bible as the final authority for life and faith, questioning the assumptions of our culture, even our Christian culture, so that we don't settle for a narrower vision than God's word offers.

Unsettling convention. Cultivating conviction.
Episodes, articles, and questions: thinkingchristian.org
About James Spencer: thinkingchristian.org/james
The Thinking Christian Framework: thinkingchristian.org/framework
Order Digital Discernment: amazon.com

Subscribe: YouTube · Apple Podcasts · Spotify

Advertising and partnership inquiries: [email protected]

Purchase A Jesus-Shaped Life at amazon.com

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this special announcement, Dr. James Spencer shares details about the upcoming German Reformation Tour, running from October 30 to November 9, 2025. Explore the theological and political heritage of Germany with stops in Wittenberg, Munich, Nuremberg, and beyond. From the legacy of Martin Luther to the resistance of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, this unique tour blends biblical insight, historical depth, and cultural discovery.

James will be joined by Reformation expert Dr. Greg Quiggle and political theology scholar Dr. Michael McDuffee—two former Moody Bible Institute professors with extensive experience in Germany and a deep love for its history.

🚨 Booking deadline is May 31, 2025.
📍 Visit thomastours.com for more info and to reserve your spot.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James Spencer and Nate Girarratano kick off a series on biblical manhood by asking a foundational question: What does it really mean to be a man under the authority of Christ? Too often, discipleship is confused with mentorship or reduced to checklists and programs. James and Nate reframe discipleship as the life-long process of learning to live in full submission to Jesus—and they challenge modern ideas of masculinity that rely more on cultural stereotypes than biblical wisdom. From the Great Commission to the Marks of Paul, from the creeds of the early church to the pressures of 21st-century manhood, this episode digs deep into how men—and all Christians—can learn to embody Christ, not a caricature.

🔗 For information about the upcoming German Reformation Tour visit thomastours.com. 

🔗 Learn more about Useful to God: www.usefultogod.com

🔗 Read "What Are the Characteristics of a Christian Man?" at usefultogod.com/read

📢 Stay Connected & Keep Growing!

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Thinking Christian so you never miss an insightful conversation!

For more resources to help you grow in faith and deepen your walk with Christ, visit Useful to God—where you'll find books, courses, podcasts, and more to equip you for faithful Christian living.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.