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Carl and Todd are a bit giddy as they talk to astronaut Jeffrey Williams, the subject of the new biography, Zero Gravity, by Chris Anderson. Spending 534 days in space across four missions, Jeff not only broke records but captured stunning images of Earth—offering a powerful perspective on God’s handiwork in the universe and His love for humanity revealed in Christ. From the challenges of living in zero gravity to the camaraderie among crew members, Jeff offers a unique perspective on life as an astronaut. He also discusses his faith journey and how it intersects with his scientific career, providing insights into the relationship between science and Christianity. Don't miss this fascinating conversation! Thanks to the generosity of our friends at Church Works Media, we are pleased to offer three of our listeners the opportunity to win a copy of Jeff William’s biography, Zero Gravity, by Chris Anderson. Enter here to win.  Show Notes: Book site: https://churchworksmedia.com/product/zero-gravity/ Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Zero-Gravity-Story-Astronaut-Williams/dp/B0FN3Y2323 YouTube trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eB7HYFexkY0   Jeff also wrote a book about his experiences in space that you may want to check out: https://www.cph.org/the-work-of-his-hands

Carl and Todd sit down with Devan Patel to discuss the hot topic of artificial intelligence. A legal and political strategist in Washington, D.C., an adjunct professor of law at Notre Dame Law School, and the senior advisor of public policy and ethics at the American Security Fund, Devan advises on religious and scholarly engagement to ensure that AI development and use are ethical, human-centric, and rooted in Western civilizational values.  Self-described as "not the happy, fun guy," Devan dives into the ethical implications of artificial intelligence. Together, they discuss the alarming rise of AI companion chatbots, particularly those aimed at children, exploring the potential dangers and moral dilemmas they present.  Patel sheds light on the urgent need for accountability in AI development and the importance of integrating ethical considerations into technology. Don't miss this sobering and thought-provoking conversation on the intersection of AI, ethics, and human values! Show Notes: To find out more about Devan Patel’s publications/speaking engagements: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devannpatel/ American Security Fund: https://www.americansecurityfund.com/

Based on the current state of the church and the challenges faced by congregations today, many Christians find themselves asking, "When should I consider leaving my church?" Or, "When does my church need to leave the denomination?" Carl and Todd discuss these topics today, touching on reasons an individual should (or should not) consider leaving a church, as well as the implications of leaving a denomination, such as those that have occurred recently within the Anglican Communion, including the GAFCON movement.  When do you know that a church is apostate?...It becomes apostate when it either denies the gospel positively…or denies the gospel practically, and that means when the rules are the rules, but it becomes absolutely impossible to apply them. – Carl Trueman Join them as they navigate these complex issues and provide insights for Christians seeking to maintain their faith in a rapidly changing world. We are pleased to offer three listeners a copy of J.I. Packer’s book, Concise Theology, courtesy of our friends at Crossway Publishing. Enter here for the opportunity to win.   Show Notes: GAFCON: https://gafcon.org/

Carl and Todd are pleased to welcome returning guest, Robert Letham, to the podcast to discuss his new book, The Eternal Son. The Eternal Son is the second of a planned trilogy on the Father, Son, and Spirit that will complement Letham’s prizewinning book, The Holy Trinity. The conversation delves into the critical issues surrounding Christology and the importance of understanding the doctrine of the Trinity in contemporary evangelicalism. Letham highlights the historical heresies that continue to influence modern beliefs and emphasizes the necessity of systematic theology for both pastors and laypeople. Tune in for an enlightening exploration of faith, doctrine, and the rich heritage of Christian theology! We are pleased to offer three listeners a copy of Robert Letham’s book, The Eternal Son, courtesy of our friends at P&R Publishing. Enter here for the opportunity to win.   Show Notes: Books by Robert Letham: The Holy Trinity https://reformedresources.org/the-holy-trinity-revised-and-expanded-paperback/ The Eternal Son https://reformedresources.org/the-eternal-son-paperback/ The Holy Spirit https://reformedresources.org/the-holy-spirit-paperback/

Todd and Carl engage in a lively discussion about the cultural influences shaping evangelicalism today. They explore the phenomenon of 'Gig Eva,' a term coined by Carl in an article he recently wrote, to describe the new landscape of evangelical influence that has shifted from traditional conference settings to the informal and often chaotic realm of social media. The conversation touches on the implications of this shift, including the rise of celebrity influencers and the dangers of online discourse. The game is not actually the upbuilding of the church. The game is the upbuilding of personal platforms and excluding those we don't approve of from market share. – Carl Trueman Join them as they navigate these pressing issues and reflect on the true essence of Christian community. We are pleased to award three listeners a copy of Guy Water’s book, How Jesus Runs the Church, courtesy of our friends at P&R Publishing. Congratulations to Grant B. from Hart, MI, Jon M. from Olathe, KS, and Jaime O. from Fayette, AL.   Show Notes: To read Carl’s article, “Goodbye ‘Big Eva,’ Hello ‘Gig Eva,’” visit https://firstthings.com/goodbye-big-eva-hello-gig-eva/  

Today, Todd is joined by Timothy Winterstein, pastor and author of the new book, Worshiped & Glorified: A Study of the Nicene Creed. Celebrating its 1700th anniversary this year, the summary of Christian faith known as the Nicene Creed has been a fixture in the church for centuries and is still recited in worship to this day. Todd and Timothy explore the significance of creeds in the Christian faith, their role in binding us to Scripture, and the historical context surrounding the development of the Nicene Creed. The Nicene Creed is a particular way of telling that scriptural story that binds us to the Scriptures. – Timothy Winterstein Timothy shares insights from his book, emphasizing how the creed shapes our worship and understanding of God, as well as what it means to confess faith in Him together at a deeper level. We are pleased to award three listeners a copy of Timothy Winterstein's book, Worshiped & Glorified: A Study of the Nicene Creed, courtesy of Concordia Publishing House. Congratulations to Marty P. from Sanford, NC, Steve O. from Midlothian, VA, and Micah B. from Oakland, ME.    Show Notes: Check out Timothy’s podcast which he co-hosts with his brother, Jay: https://www.saintsandcinema.com/

Jonathan Landry Cruse, pastor of Community Presbyterian Church in Kalamazoo, MI, returns to the podcast with Todd and Carl to discuss his latest book, Paradox People: Learning to Live the Beatitudes. Together they explore the significance of the Beatitudes in today’s culture. In fact, Jonathan says, when we embrace the paradoxical character preached by Jesus in the Beatitudes, we experience rich and surprising blessings.  We are meant to live these ways for the sake of the world, so we have a responsibility to the world, but it starts here, it starts with us. I need to take seriously these characteristics and say, I need to live this way; that’s how I can be most helpful to the world. And it’s going to look a lot different than what a lot of popular voices are saying right now in the Christian community, especially what you find on X or Twitter. Because it’s about meekness, it’s about humility, gentleness, and that is just as nonsensical today as it was 2,000 years ago. – Jonathan Landry Cruse Their conversation touches on the complexities of human identity, the role of technology, and the challenges faced by Christians in a rapidly changing world. Join us as we unpack how the Beatitudes can guide us in embodying Christian character amidst cultural tensions.  We are pleased to award three listeners a copy of Jonathan Cruse’s book, Paradox People, courtesy of P&R Publishing. Congratulations to James M. from Waynesboro, PA, Buzz H. from Seattle, WA, and Julian S. from Sugar Land, TX!   Show Notes: To check out Jonathan Cruse’s books, including Paradox People, click the link below: https://reformedresources.org/authors/jonathan-cruse/

Today, Carl and Todd are joined by John Stonestreet, president of the Colson Center and co-host of the new documentary, “Truth Rising,” with Os Guinness. Featuring powerful stories and expert insights, it challenges viewers to recognize the cultural moment we’re in, stand firm in biblical truth, and choose courage over fear.  Christians need to embrace this time and place that we're in as their calling. – John Stonestreet This episode explores the urgent need for Christians to engage with contemporary issues and the importance of understanding truth. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges listeners to embrace their calling in today's complex world. The Colson Center has generously made this documentary available to all and it can be viewed at https://www.truthrising.com/.   Show Notes: Colson Fellows Program: https://www.colsonfellows.org/

In light of recent tragic events, Carl and Todd engage in a thought-provoking discussion on the complexities of forgiveness in the wake of tragedy. They reflect on the recent memorial service for Charlie Kirk and the profound act of forgiveness demonstrated by his widow, Erica Kirk. The conversation delves into the nature of forgiveness, the challenges it presents, and its implications within the Christian faith.  I think oftentimes what we mean when we say we forgive someone who's done something wicked to us is not that we want them to escape justice, it's not that we think that, well, now we can have a perfectly reconciled relationship with that person. But oftentimes what we mean, and I'm sure it's what Erica Kirk meant, was, by God's grace, I'm not going to hate this person, and I'm not going to be overcome with bitterness, and I'm going to pray for this person's soul. – Todd Pruitt Join us as we explore the intersection of faith, justice, and the human experience in this deeply relevant topic. We awarded three listeners a copy of Chris Brauns’ book, Unpacking Forgiveness: Biblical Answers for Complex Questions and Deep Wounds, courtesy of Crossway Publishing. Congratulations to Sarah D. from Bridgewater, VA, Karl S. from Live Oak, TX, and Ping Y. from Johns Creek, GA!

In this episode, Todd flies solo with guest John Wilsey, a professor of church history at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and author of the thought-provoking book, Religious Freedom: A Conservative Primer. In his book, John addresses urgent questions about religious freedom in America today. How have conservatives historically understood the meaning of religious freedom? How do Americans who identify as conservative now think about religious freedom in this era? What are the differences between the historical and contemporary views, and how do those differences shape fights about religious freedom today? Todd and John explore the historical context of religious freedom in America and its implications for the church today, examining America's unique blend of religion and liberty, the dangers of an established church, and the importance of preserving religious freedom for the flourishing of the church and society. Disestablishment is the best way forward for the church. – John Wilsey Tune in for this timely and thought provoking conversation. We were pleased to award two listeners a copy of John Wilsey’s book, Religious Freedom: A Conservative Primer, courtesy of Eerdman’s Publishing. Congratulations to Kyle A. from Clarksville, IN and Noah G. from Minneapolis, MN!   Show Notes: Democracy in America by Alexis de Tocqueville

Todd and Carl sit down today to engage in a candid discussion about the complexities and challenges of pastoral ministry, particularly in relation to suffering and criticism.  Suffering is not a bug within the ministry system; it's actually going to be a feature of ministry. – Todd Pruitt They explore the insights of the Apostle Paul, especially from his letters to the Corinthians, and how his experiences can guide modern pastors through their own trials. With humor and sincerity, they delve into the necessity of being open-hearted in ministry, the burden of criticism, and the importance of maintaining a gentle spirit in the face of adversity. Join them for a thoughtful conversation that aims to encourage both pastors and those who support them. We are pleased to award three listeners a copy of Joel Beeke and Nick Thompson's book, Pastors and Their Critics, courtesy of P&R Publishing.* Congratulations Taylor K. from Greer, SC, Bree B. from New London, NH, and Vester G. from Myrtle Beach, SC! *The book originally mentioned on the podcast, New Life in the Wastelands, is out of print. 

It’s no secret that addictive digital technologies like smartphones and social media apps are harming a generation of kids socially, mentally, and even physically. But a workable solution seems elusive. After all, don’t kids need phones, and won’t they be vulnerable or socially isolated without tech? Clare Morell, author of the new book, The Tech Exit: A Practical Guide to Freeing Kids and Teens from Smartphones, argues that the answer is no.  A smartphone-free childhood is necessary to effectively protect our kids. – Clare Morell Carl and Todd engage in a thought-provoking and vitally important discussion with Clare, fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center and director of its Technology and Human Flourishing Project. Together, they touch on critical issues surrounding smartphones and their impact on children and teens. The smartphone with the combination of social media is, I think, the most destructive technology we’ve ever put in the hands of our children…ever. – Todd Pruitt Clare argues that there is a better way! Tune in for practical strategies parents can take to free kids from smartphones, even if you’ve already given them, and how to sustain that lifestyle over the long term.    We are pleased to award three listeners a copy of Clare’s book, The Tech Exit, courtesy of Penguin Books. Congratulations to our listeners: Chance W. from Hattiesburg, MS, Peder H. from Bozeman, MT, and Warner L. from Notre Dame, IN!    Show Notes: To order Clare’s book and access a discussion guide for the book, as well as a practical tip sheet: https://thetechexit.com  Clare’s blogging platform https://claremorell.substack.com You can find Clare at the Ethics & Public Policy Center https://eppc.org/author/clare_morell/

The dynamic duo of Todd and Carl engage in a fascinating discussion with Caleb Morell, assistant pastor at Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington, D.C., and author of the book, A Light on the Hill: The Surprising Story of How a Local Church in the Nation's Capital Influenced Evangelicalism. They explore the rich history of Capitol Hill Baptist Church, located just blocks away from the center of American power, its rich 150-year history, and its significant influence on evangelicalism in America.  Caleb shares insights into the church's resilience, its response during historical challenges, and the importance of faithfulness to the gospel in a changing cultural landscape.  There’s something really practical to take away from history. – Caleb Morell Don't miss this enlightening conversation that will encourage listeners to invest in their local churches and preserve the gospel for the next generation. We are pleased to award three listeners a copy of Caleb’s book, courtesy of our friends at Crossway Books. Congratulations to James W. from Dawsonville, GA, Cary S. from Plano, TX, and Joshua T. from Kansas City, MO!

Our hosts sit on opposite sides of the table today as Carl welcomes his guest, the Reverend Todd Pruitt, pastor of Covenant Presbyterian Church in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. They delve into the evolving challenges faced by pastors over the decades, from social media scrutiny to the changing dynamics of church leadership.  The ease with which a pastor's reputation can be harmed is now light speed. – Todd Pruitt Todd shares insights from his extensive experience in ministry, reflecting on the importance of friendships and confidants in navigating pastoral life.  A life which, where the Lord gives you three, four, five really good friends, is a blessed life indeed. – Carl Trueman Tune in for a candid conversation that sheds light on the complexities of leading a congregation in today's world. We are pleased to award three listeners some show swag – a Mortification of Spin poster signed by our very own Carl and Todd. Congratulations to Derrick B. from Aliceville, AL, Brian H. from Vidalia, GA, and Solomon C. from Bridgewater, VA! Show Notes: Concise Theology by J. I. Packer

Carl and Todd welcome special guest Melissa Dougherty to the podcast, a Christian apologist best known for her YouTube channel, where she covers a variety of theological topics. Melissa is also the author of the thought-provoking book Happy Lies: How a Movement You Probably Never Heard of Shaped Our Self-Obsessed World, in which she shares her insights on the New Thought movement, exploring its seductive nature and how it differs from New Age beliefs.  New Thought will deceive you before the New Age ever will because New Thought is made to look and sound Christian. – Melissa Dougherty The discussion explores the historical origins of New Thought, its influence on American evangelicalism, and the implications for contemporary Christian thought. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that encourages listeners to critically engage with the ideas shaping our spiritual landscape. We are pleased to award three copies of Melissa Dougherty's book, Happy Lies: How a Movement You Probably Never Heard of Shaped Our Self-Obsessed World, to our listeners, thanks to the generosity of Zondervan Publishing. Congratulations to Wendy C. from Katy, TX, Adina C. from Novi, MI, and Mike P. from York, PA! Show Notes: Check out Melissa’s YouTube channel here.