Thinking Christian: Bible, Theology, and Culture

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer sits down with authors Linson Daniel, Jon Hietbrink, and Eric Rafferty to discuss their new book, Reviving Mission: Awakening to the Everyday Movement of God. Together, they explore how mission and revival are inseparable, why cynicism hinders spiritual growth, and how to recognize and join God’s work in the ordinary moments of life. Drawing from biblical wisdom, personal stories, and practical insights, this conversation will challenge you to rethink what it means to be a disciple on mission.

Key Topics Covered:
How encountering God daily reshapes our mission
Overcoming cynicism and rediscovering wonder
The role of spiritual habits in preparing for revival
Why mission isn’t just for the “called” but for every believer

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]

Get Reviving Mission with 20% off! (20% off with code for IVP- use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount) IVP Press

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

Could a single act of courage redefine the course of faith and history? In this episode of PREPPED, join James Spencer, PhD, as he unpacks the remarkable narrative of Genesis 14, where Abram’s bold rescue of his nephew Lot reveals a profound story of faith, humility, and God’s providence.

Abram’s victory over a coalition of kings was more than a triumph of strategy—it was a powerful demonstration of loyalty, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to glorifying God. This episode explores the deeper theological implications of Abram’s actions, particularly his refusal of the spoils of war from the king of Sodom—a striking example of integrity and trust in divine provision.

We also be introduced to, and examine, the mysterious figure of Melchizedek, whose dual role as king and priest foreshadows the eternal priesthood of Christ. Through this encounter, we’ll uncover rich insights about responsibility, self-sacrifice, and the importance of aligning our hearts with God’s purpose.

(00:00) Lessons From Abram's Example
(10:24) The Mysterious Role of Melchizedek

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 should Christians think about race and justice five years after George Floyd? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer welcomes back Ed Uszynski, author of Untangling Critical Race Theory, to explore the nuanced realities of race, politics, and faith. They discuss the pendulum swings of political ideologies, the role of the church in fostering biblical justice, and how Christians can engage these conversations with wisdom and discernment. Plus, Ed previews his talk at the Exiles in Babylon conference and reflects on his 30+ years with Athletes in Action.

How can Christians avoid being swept into political rhetoric?
What does true justice look like from a biblical perspective?
Why should we transcend the culture’s binaries on race and inclusion?

This is a must-listen for those wanting to think biblically and critically about the complex issues of race and justice in today's 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]

Ed Uszynski’s Book – Untangling Critical Race Theory
Buy the book here

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

Deconstruction is often misunderstood—some see it as a step toward renewal, while others fear it as a path to apostasy. But what if we’re missing the deeper reality? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer talks with Ian Harber, author of Walking Through Deconstruction: How to Be a Companion in a Crisis of Faith.

Together, they explore the personal and cultural forces shaping deconstruction, why many in the church respond with fear or animosity, and how we can engage with those questioning their faith with patience, wisdom, and truth. Ian shares his own journey of deconstruction and reconstruction, highlighting the existential nature of faith crises and why intellectual arguments alone aren’t enough.

Join us for a deep and thoughtful conversation on how the church can walk with those wrestling with doubt, engage the deeper assumptions behind deconstruction, and foster a faith that is both intellectually rigorous and spiritually resilient.

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]

Check out Ian Harber’s book: Walking Through Deconstruction at IVP (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount)

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

Uncover the intricate dance between faith and fear as we explore Abram's journey into Egypt, in today’s episode of PREPPED.

By unpacking the events of Genesis 12:10-20, where Abram’s decision to present Sarai as his sister, James Spencer, PhD, digs into Abram’s profound struggle of leaning on his own understanding rather than trusting God’s plan. As we explore the cultural context of ancient Near Eastern beliefs and the concept of territorial gods, we reflect on how these themes mirror our own responses to crises.

In this episode, we’ll also be drawing striking parallels between Abram’s journey and the later Exodus, revealing God’s unwavering faithfulness despite human frailty. Through the lens of ancient customs and the recurring motif of "seeing, judging, and taking," we’ll uncover the enduring nature of God’s covenantal promises and His redemptive actions across generations.

(00:00) Lessons From Abram's Journey in Genesis
(07:46) God's Faithfulness Despite Human Frailty

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, James Spencer and Nate Giarratano take a deep dive into the complexities of meritocracy, systemic sin, and hiring practices. Using personal stories and broader cultural conversations—sparked by a recent presidential speech—they examine whether hiring is ever truly based on merit alone. They explore how networks, relationships, and institutional structures shape hiring decisions, sometimes in ways we fail to recognize.

Does meritocracy really exist? How should Christians think about hiring in ministry and beyond? And how does our dependence on God shape the way we navigate these realities? Join the conversation as James and Nate unpack these issues and challenge common assumptions about qualifications, fairness, and faith-led decision-making.

Listen to James's conversation with Kaitlyn Beatty on The Evangelical Bro Code here.

You can access James' article on the way the "bro code" impacts men here. 

🔗 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.

Today, on PREPPED, we’re exploring what happens when human ambition clashes with divine purpose. Listen in as James Spencer, PhD, contrasts the Tower of Babel narrative with God’s call to Abram, revealing two opposing paths—self-reliance or faith in God’s promises.

Genesis 11 demonstrates humanity’s attempt to make a name for themselves, seeking security apart from God. But in Genesis 12, God calls Abram into a life of trust, redefining what it means to build a lasting legacy. Through this contrast, we uncover the deeper theological implications of ‘name’ and how it relates to our own understanding of faith and discipleship today.

As we examine Abram’s learning curve—his struggles, doubts, and growth—we’re invited to reflect on how we engage with God’s ongoing mission. Are we building our own towers, or are we walking in trust with Him?

(00:00) The Faith That Saves
(04:45) God's Call
(15:03) The Covenantal Relationship With 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 

Can Christians faithfully engage in politics without compromising their convictions? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer is joined by Dr. Jesse Covington, Dr. Brian T. McGraw, and Dr. Micah Watson, co-authors of Hopeful Realism: Evangelical Natural Law and Democratic Politics. Together, they explore how natural law provides a foundation for engaging in the public square while maintaining theological integrity.

Topics Covered:

• What is natural law, and why should evangelicals care?
• How does natural law shape Christian engagement in politics?
• The dangers of both political withdrawal and theocratic overreach
• How to share governance in a pluralistic society while upholding biblical truth
• The role of prudence in navigating difficult political issues, such as abortion policy

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]

Get the book with an exclusive 20% discount at IVP! Visit ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount).

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

In this episode of Thinking Christian, James and Nate explore the razor-thin line Christian journalism walks between accountability and bearing false witness. Prompted by a controversy at the NRB convention, they discuss the tension between exposing sin and rushing to judgment, the biblical framework for justice and accountability, and the consequences of premature or biased reporting. How should Christians navigate the flood of information in a digital age? What does real accountability look like—for both accused and accuser? Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on truth, responsibility, and the impact of Christian media on the witness of the Church.

For more thoughts on the verses and ideas discussed in this episode, see James's article titled "Beyond the Scandal: Rethinking Christian Journalism in an Age of Speed and Spectacle" at usefultogod.com/read.

🔗 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.

he church is at a crossroads. With rising disaffiliation and declining trust, how can we re-engage the next generation? How do we stop the drift and disciple effectively in today's world?

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer welcomes Raymond Chang, Executive Director of 10x10 Collaboration at Fuller Seminary and co-author of Future Focused Church. They explore:

Key Topics:
The "10x10" Initiative: Engaging 10 million young people in faith over 10 years
Why are so many young adults leaving the church? (And how do we respond?)
How relational discipleship can transform church engagement
The biggest leadership & trust challenges churches face today
How to build a "Transformation Team" to drive church renewal
Why churches need a change map: Here, There, Who, & How
Practical steps for reshaping church culture & mission

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]

Resources & Links:
Get the Book: Future Focused Church 
Learn More About 10x10: www.tenx10.org
More from Fuller Youth Institute: Fuller Youth Institute

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