Thinking Christian: Bible, Theology, and Culture

Is technology shaping us more than we realize? Are we losing our ability to rest, reflect, and be present? In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer sits down with Dr. Felicia Wu Song, sociologist and author of Restless Devices: Recovering Personhood, Presence, and Place in the Digital Age (InterVarsity Press). They explore how digital technology influences our sense of self, why constant connectivity isn’t neutral, and how Christians can resist being shaped by algorithms instead of by God.

Key Discussion Topics:
The hidden ways digital media rewires our attention and habits
Marshall McLuhan & Neil Postman—what they got right about the power of media
Why modern tech trains us to consume, not reflect
The rise of digital exhaustion—why even Gen Z is feeling the burnout
Recovering personhood & presence—practical ways to reclaim attention and space
How Christians can build “analog” rhythms that resist digital overreach

Resources & Links:

Go deeper: Technology & Media

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]

📖 Restless Devices – Buy at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount) 

Dr. Felicia Wu Song’s Website – feliciawusong.com

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

Is your life more aligned with the world’s distractions or with God’s will? In this episode of PREPPED, we explore discipleship as an act of defiance—an intentional pull away from societal conventions to focus on imitating Christ. Through the use of vivid metaphors, join James Spencer, PhD, to examine how the church can cultivate harmony and purpose in a world filled with noise.

Through the lens of Christian resistance, we’ll share practical steps to nurture spiritual growth in today’s fast-paced culture. From limiting social media distractions to strengthening prayer habits and engaging in supportive communities, these conscious choices serve as barriers against cultural pressures. Discipleship is not about perfection—it’s about persistence. Inspired by biblical figures like Paul, Caleb, and Joshua, we highlight the role of mentorship, accountability, and community in fostering intentional spiritual growth. Join us as we challenge societal narratives, embrace God’s plan, and commit to a life of transformative faith.

(00:00) Discipleship as Resistance
(12:45) Christian Resistance and Discipleship Imitation
(20:12) The Practice of Christian Discipleship
(26:34) Challenging World Narratives Through Faith

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 

Technology is shaping our world at an unprecedented rate—but how should Christians respond? Are we thoughtfully engaging with the digital world, or are we being shaped by it in ways we don’t even realize?

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer sits down with Dr. Derek Schuurman, Professor of Computer Science at Calvin University and author of Shaping a Digital World: Faith, Culture, and Computer Technology. Together, they explore how theology, technology, and Christian discipleship intersect in our increasingly digital lives.

Key Discussion Points:
How does the biblical narrative shape our approach to technology?
Are we using technology wisely, or is it using us?
Theological insights from Genesis, the Tower of Babel, and eschatology
Are AI, social media, and digital tools eroding true human connection?
How Christians can practice discernment in an efficiency-driven world
Why technology is not neutral—and how we can shape it responsibly
McLuhan’s Four Laws of Media & how they help us evaluate new tech
Practical ways to maintain human flourishing in a digital-first culture

Resources & Links:

Go deeper: Technology & Media

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 Derek Schuurman’s Book: Shaping a Digital World 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.

Obedience isn't just about following rules; it's a journey into understanding the very essence of our relationship with God. In this episode of PREPPED, James Spencer, PhD, challenges the transactional myths surrounding obedience and reveals its true purpose—not as mere compliance, but as a relational act that draws us closer to God.

Drawing from insights by Andy Stanley and the wisdom of Deuteronomy 4:6, we explore how obedience invites us into God’s mission, shaping how we live and flourish within His creation. Rather than viewing blessings as simple rewards, this discussion uncovers how living in alignment with God’s order naturally leads to a life of harmony, much like the original design of the Garden of Eden. While blessings may come and go, the ultimate goal is an unbroken relationship with God, free from the burdens of disobedience.

(00:00) Exploring Obedience in Discipleship
(08:27) God's Blessings and Obedience

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 

William Wilberforce wasn’t just a politician—he was a man of deep faith who leveraged his influence to fight for abolition, social reform, and gospel-driven cultural transformation. In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer is joined by Michael Morgan, president of William Tennant Seminary, to explore the life and legacy of Wilberforce.

How did Wilberforce’s evangelical convictions shape his mission? What role did his friendships and the Clapham Sectplay in his work? And what can the modern church learn from his radical collaboration and holistic approach to faith in action?

Join us for a thoughtful discussion on Wilberforce’s impact, the intersection of faith and social change, and the importance of authentic Christian friendships in discipleship and cultural engagement.

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

Go deeper: The Reformation

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 on Michael Morgan and William Tennent, visit https://www.williamtennent.org/.

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

Unravel the complexities of modern Christianity with James Spencer, PhD, in today’s episode of PREPPED as we unpack the rise of exvangelicalism, the cultural forces shaping modern deconstruction, and the critical role of God’s Word in navigating doubt.

Exploring the impact of technology, shifting religious demographics, and the entanglement of evangelicalism with political ideologies, we examine how institutional priorities have sometimes overshadowed discipleship and individual well-being. James also shares insights from his own faith journey—from a Missouri-centered Lutheran background to his academic pursuits—highlighting how believers can stay anchored in truth even when wrestling with difficult questions.

Through the lens of Jacques Derrida’s concepts of law and justice, this episode underscores why theological deconstruction must have a trustworthy reference point: God’s revelation. Rather than abandoning faith, we are called to reconstruct in Christ, embracing humility, self-examination, and the enduring guidance of Scripture.

 (00:00) Navigating the Rise of Exvangelicalism
(14:25) Critiquing Evangelicalism With Exvangelicals
(24:20) The Role of Deconstruction in Theology

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 

What if the story of Cain and Abel isn’t just about sibling rivalry but rather a cautionary tale of worship gone astray? In this episode of PREPPED, James Spencer, PhD, unpacks the complex relationship between Cain and God in Genesis 4, challenging conventional narratives by highlighting Cain’s self-determined approach to worship, and how the rejection of his offering wasn’t about the material itself, but about the intent and quality behind it, contrasting it with Abel’s sincere devotion.

Through the lens of Cain’s lineage, particularly the figure of Lamech, we explore the destructive legacy of rebellion and its generational effects. Amid these troubled roots, a glimmer of hope emerges with the birth of Seth—a renewed call to authentic worship and restoration. By examining this narrative, we uncover the recurring biblical themes of familial strife and the consequences of unchecked sin, while reflecting on the hope found in God’s divine blueprint for worship. This episode invites you to consider the quality of your worship, reflect on its alignment with God’s expectations, and embrace the path of restoration offered through Him.

(00:00) The Legacy of Cain
(12:38) The Lineage of Seth

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 sits down with Dr. Chris Rappazzini, professor of leadership at Anderson University, author of Moving Forward After Messing Up, and founder of Faithful Steps Forward. James and Chris discuss how leadership serves as a specialized form of discipleship, the tension between cultural adaptation and biblical foundations in leadership theories, and the enduring challenge of learning from our failures.

Dr. Rappazzini shares insights from his personal journey, his work with leaders in organizational settings, and the biblical framework for moving forward after mistakes. Along the way, we explore themes of resilience, self-awareness, and the balance between mission and people-focused leadership.

Whether you're a seasoned leader, someone navigating life's challenges, or simply looking for a thoughtful conversation on integrating faith and leadership, this episode is for you.

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]

To check out Chris Rappazini's work, see the following: 

Faithful Steps Forward- https://www.faithfulstepsforward.com

Moving Forward after Messing Up- Purchase here.

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

Is it possible that we have misunderstood the serpent’s role in Genesis 3?  In this thought-provoking episode, James Spencer, PhD, challenges preconceived notions about the serpent in the Garden of Eden, peeling back the layers of Genesis 3:1–7 to reveal its nuanced character. By examining the Hebrew term "arum," often translated as crafty, we uncover its deeper meaning of shrewdness or prudence, inviting a fresh perspective on the serpent’s manipulation of God’s words and the tension it creates between perceived wisdom and divine truth.

We also explore the woman’s response, reflecting on themes of trust and temptation that resonate with our own struggles today. Through a survey of the recurring biblical motif of "seeing, judging as good, and taking," we highlight the contrast between human presumption and divine wisdom, drawing parallels to stories like Genesis 6:2 and Joshua 7:21. Finally, we’ll examine how Christ’s actions provide hope and a model for overcoming temptation, restoring trust in God’s wisdom and goodness.

(00:00) Navigating Ambiguity
(09:35) Eve's Interpretation of God's Command
(19:01) The Dynamics of Temptation and Sin

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 sits down with Mark Hancock, CEO of Trail Life USA, to discuss the unique challenges of raising boys in today’s culture. Mark shares how Trail Life USA is equipping the next generation of godly men through Christ-centered, boy-focused outdoor experiences.

Together, they explore topics like the importance of adversity, the transformative power of hands-on engagement, and how fathers and mentors can help boys build resilience and discover their God-given purpose. Whether you're a parent, mentor, or church leader, this conversation offers practical insights and encouragement for shaping boys into men who live for Christ.

Discover more about Trail Life USA, their mission, and how your church can get involved in this inspiring movement. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on faith, family, and the future of raising godly men!

Go deeper: Unmanly

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]

You can access the free book Let Boys Be Boys and find out more about Trail Life USA at https://www.traillifeusa.com. 

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