Mortification of Spin

Carl has come out with yet another book, and today, he and Todd sit down for Part 1 of a two part discussion about The Desecration of Man: How the Rejection of God Degrades Our Humanity. In The Desecration of Man, Carl argues that modern man’s crisis of meaning stems from a rejection of a simple fact—that he was made in the image of God. The revolutions of modernity have proved in the long run to be fundamentally dehumanizing. – Carl Trueman Todd and Carl explore the cultural implications of modernity's rejection of God, touching on topics such as abortion, gender identity, and the significance of human dignity. Drawing on insights from various intellectuals and a critique of contemporary society, this episode challenges listeners to consider the moral foundations of humanity and the necessity of reconsecrating our understanding of personhood through a Christian lens. We are pleased to offer listeners the opportunity to win a copy of Carl’s book, The Desecration of Man: How the Rejection of God Degrades Our Humanity, thanks to the generosity of Sentinel Publishing. Enter here to win. Show Notes: Episodes referenced by Carl and Todd: https://mortificationofspin.podbean.com/e/feminism-against-progress/ https://mortificationofspin.podbean.com/e/five-lies-of-our-anti-christian-age/

Carl and Todd welcome philosopher J. Budziszewski to discuss his insightful new book, The Pandemic of Lunacy: How to Think Clearly When Everyone Around You Seems Crazy. They delve into the current societal confusion surrounding morality, ethics, and identity, exploring the philosophical underpinnings of these issues. The confusion in the society has caused us to dig deeper and to think more thoroughly about these things, but the desire to perpetuate the lunacy has also caused the other side to dig deeper and come up with much more elaborate justifications. – J. Budziszewski With a blend of humor and serious inquiry, the conversation reveals how the church can respond to contemporary challenges with clarity and conviction. We are pleased to offer listeners the opportunity to win a copy of Pandemic of Lunacy, authored by J. Budziszewski. Enter here to win. Show Notes: Creed & Culture Publishing: https://creedandculture.com/

In this episode of Mortification of Spin, Carl and Todd welcome Ryan Anderson, president of the Ethics and Public Policy Center, to discuss the critical topic of religious freedom in America. As the nation grapples with challenges to this fundamental right, they delve into its historical context, the implications of recent political climates, and the intersection of religious liberty with contemporary social issues. Justice and the common good need to be maintained, and you want to have as much religious liberty as possible consistent with that. – Ryan Anderson Join us for an engaging conversation that explores the nuances of faith, freedom, and the future of religious rights in a changing world. We are pleased to offer listeners an opportunity to win a copy of, Tearing Us Apart: How Abortion Harms Everything and Solves Nothing, co-authored by Ryan Anderson and Alexandra Desanctis. Enter here to win. Show Notes: Articles referenced by Ryan Anderson: https://www.nationalaffairs.com/publications/detail/proxy-wars-over-religious-liberty https://www.wsj.com/opinion/religious-liberty-isnt-enough-11612125595 https://www.thepublicdiscourse.com/2020/07/67142/

Todd and Carl engage in an interesting discussion about the church calendar and its role in the Reformed Protestant tradition. They explore the historical context of the church calendar, its significance, and the nuances of its acceptance among different denominations. I think observation of the church calendar should be a matter of, should we say, congregational conscience. My own view on it has softened over the years in that I used to be very much the Puritan, you know… I've changed my opinion… – Carl Trueman They examine the pedagogical benefits of observing the calendar while addressing concerns about legalism, with a particular focus on Advent and Lent. Tune in for a rich conversation that challenges and inspires listeners to consider the implications of the church calendar in their worship practices. Thanks to the generosity of our friends at Crossway Books, we have awarded three copies of Kevin DeYoung’s beautiful board book for children, The Biggest Story: Advent. Congratulations to JD W. from Bridgewater, VA, Georgie M. from Sunnyvale, CA, and Maretta H. from Grottoes, VA.

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 award three of our listeners a copy of Jeff William’s biography, Zero Gravity, by Chris Anderson. Congratulations to Cheryl B. from Norristown, PA, Brad K. from Pagosa Springs, CO, and Greg P. from Greenville, SC. 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 award three listeners a copy of J.I. Packer’s book, Concise Theology, courtesy of our friends at Crossway Publishing. Congratulations to Anthony M. from Coatesville, PA, Justin C. from Lebanon, PA, and Cathryne S. from Fuquay Varina, NC! 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 award two listeners a copy of Robert Letham’s book, The Eternal Son, courtesy of our friends at P&R Publishing. Congratulations to Sarabeth K. from Lynchburg, VA and Dan G. from Eugene, OR! 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.

Carl and Todd welcome Reverend David McKay to discuss his new book, A Spiritual Checkup for a Healthy Life with Christ. With over four decades of pastoral experience, David shares insights on spiritual health, the importance of living out our faith, and the role of the church in our spiritual journeys. But why does David advocate a spiritual checkup for believers? Because Christ has done everything for us, he is the foundation of our new life, we have been given a new life that now must be lived out; sometimes said, we are to become what we are. We are righteous in Christ…that needs to be worked out in daily, godly living and there’s always progress to be made in our likeness to Christ. – David McKay Tune in for a thoughtful conversation that emphasizes the balance between grace and the call to live a godly life. This book is a really excellent tool for assessing the condition of your heart. – Carl Trueman We are pleased to award three copies of David McKay’s book, A Spiritual Checkup for a Healthy Life with Christ, to our listeners, thanks to the generosity of Crown & Covenant. Congratulations to our winners: William G. from Bozeman, MT, Jason E. from Ilderton, Ontario, and Josh N. from Conrad, MT! Sponsor link: https://www.logos.com/mos

In this episode, Carl and Todd are joined by Francis Maier, a senior fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center, to discuss the influential works of Neil Postman. They explore Postman's critiques of technology, particularly in relation to culture and education, and how these ideas resonate with contemporary issues. Until people understand that they have the personal responsibility of reform and conversion, there isn't going to be any change in the culture. – Fran Maier From the effects of social media on anger and despair to the importance of personal responsibility in navigating technology, this conversation delves into the complexities of modern life through the lens of Postman's insights. We are pleased to award three copies of Neil Postman’s book, Amusing Ourselves to Death, to our listeners, thanks to the generosity of Penguin Publishing. Congratulations to Jan B. from Sweetgrass, MT, Bob W. from Kansas City, MO, and Tom K. from South Bend, IN! Show Notes: Amusing Ourselves to Death by Neil Postman Technopoly by Neil Postman The End of Education by Neil Postman Building a Bridge to the 18th Century by Neil Postman Essays by Neil Postman: “The Parable of Ring Around the Collar” “Social Science As Moral Philosophy” “In the Kingdom of Noise,” article by Francis Maier

As technology increasingly blurs the distinction between man and machine, new questions emerge about the future of religion, education, work, politics, and family life. Today, Todd and Carl engage in a thought-provoking discussion with Joshua Pauling, co-author of the book Are We All Cyborgs Now? Reclaiming Our Humanity from the Machine. Together, they explore the implications of technology on humanity, the concept of being a cyborg, and how modern digital environments shape our understanding of human nature. The conversation delves into the ethical challenges posed by technological advancements, as well as the opportunities afforded to flourish in the digital age rooted in the sacramental life of the Church and the rich tradition of liberal learning. Technology is posing tremendous opportunities for getting the word out in ways that weren't possible before, but also tremendous challenges. – Todd Pruitt We are pleased to award three copies of Joshua Pauling and Robin Phillips’ book, Are We All Cyborgs Now? Reclaiming Our Humanity from the Machine, to our listeners, thanks to the generosity of Basilian Media & Publishing. Congratulations to Patrick P. from Prosper, TX, David H. from Travelers Rest, SC, and Brandon L. from Telford, PA! Show Notes: Amusing Ourselves to Death by Neil Postman

In this episode of Mortification of Spin, Carl and Todd discuss the pressing issues facing young men today, exploring the need for role models and the church's potential to fill this void. The church is a community, and if we're living in a world where young men really lack good role models, there is a tremendous opportunity for the church to speak to that. -- Carl Trueman They discuss the cultural landscape, the challenges of modern masculinity, and the importance of mentorship within the church community. Join them for a thought-provoking conversation that aims to inspire and encourage young men to embrace their identity and responsibilities in today's world. We are pleased to award three copies of J.C. Ryle’s book, Thoughts for Young Men, to our listeners, thanks to the generosity of Banner of Truth Publishing. Congratulations to Brian M. from Hampton, NH, David A. from Glennallen, AK, and Mike R. from Victoria, British Columbia!

In this episode of Mortification of Spin, Carl and Todd are joined by their friend, Michael Morales, professor of biblical studies at Greenville Theological Seminary. Together, they discuss Michael's much-anticipated 2-volume commentary on the Book of Numbers, an often-overlooked by preachers and students of the Bible. According to Carl, "If Michael Morales writes it, you need to read it." Discussing its significance in the biblical narrative and its implications for understanding the covenant community, Morales shares insights on how the Book of Numbers serves as a foundation for ecclesiology and its connections to Christ and the church today. The Torah really is the foundation of all of our theology. – Michael Morales Tune in for a rich conversation that aims to illuminate the depths of this vital text! Perhaps, like Todd, you'll renew your enthusiasm for this middle book of the Pentateuch after listening to their conversation. Congratulations to the winners of our giveaway! Edison W. from Cedar Lake, IN and Karol O. from Webb City, MO have each won Michael Morales' 2-volume Numbers Commentary, thanks to the generosity of Apollos Publishing.

In this episode, Todd Pruitt and Carl Truman welcome back Lydia Brownback, the director for women's resources at Crossway and a well-known author. They dive into Lydia's journey from seminary to writing and teaching, and how the Lord wove all of these experiences together in her life to prepare her for the work she is now doing. Isn't it true that what He is doing in our lives is always preparatory, in some way or another? – Lydia Brownback Lydia shares her insights on the growth of women's ministries, as well as the inspiration that led her to write her popular book, Flourish: How the Love of Christ Frees Us From Self-Focus. She also addresses the topic of loneliness, something experienced by everyone at some point in their lives, and how churches can address this common issue with their members. The goal is to incorporate everybody into the larger body so that it feels like family, whatever your stage of life. – Lydia Brownback Tune in for an engaging conversation covering a wide range of topics that is sure to be insightful and encouraging. We are pleased to award three copies of Lydia Brownback’s book, Flourish: How the Love of Christ Frees Us from Self-Focus, to our listeners, thanks to the generosity of Crossway Publishers. Congratulations Leah B. from Canton, GA, Marianne H. from Fuquay Varina, NC, and Carl C. from Lubbock, TX! Show Notes: Check out more of Lydia’s books at Reformed Resources! https://reformedresources.org/books/authors/lydia-brownback/

Todd and Carl, now officially an American citizen, dive into the challenging subject of immigration. Together, they explore the theological concept of the "order of love," its implications for prioritizing our obligations to others, and how this intersects with the responsibilities of the State versus the Church. The situation is complicated. How do we navigate? How do we develop a hierarchy of loves and obligations that is faithful to Scripture but also handles the complexities that Scripture throws up? – Carl Trueman In other words, how do we balance our responsibilities to our neighbors and the laws of the land? With references to contemporary issues and personal anecdotes, this episode challenges listeners to consider their perspectives on immigration and community, as Christians and citizens. We are pleased to award Mortification of Spin swag to three of our listeners, including a t-shirt, a baseball cap, and a mug! Congratulations to John T. from Brandon, MS, Matthew A. from Westfield, MA, and Gill M. from Washington, NJ!

In this episode of Mortification of Spin, Carl and Todd engage in a thought-provoking discussion with Brad Littlejohn, director of Programs and Education at American Compass, about Brad's newly published book, Call to Freedom: Retrieving Christian Liberty in an Age of License. Christians in the modern West hear a lot about—and talk a lot about—"freedom." The word has taken on so many meanings that Christians often fail to realize how much our contemporary ideals of freedom stray from what freedom has meant in Scripture and the Christian tradition. We need to redeem and recover a properly Christian way of thinking about freedom. – Carl Trueman Today's conversation touches on the Reformation's impact on individual liberty, the tension between authority and conscience, and the contemporary challenges Christians face in understanding freedom. As Protestants, we have to care about freedom because it's central to our theological heritage. – Brad Littlejohn Tune in for an insightful exploration of these critical themes! Thanks to the generosity of B&H Academic, we are pleased to award three copies of Brad's book, Call to Freedom: Retrieving Christian Liberty in an Age of License, to our listeners. Congratulations to Jonathan M. from Columbia, SC, Nancy J. from Albuquerque, NM, and Sean M. from Asheville, SC! Show Notes: Call to Freedom: Retrieving Christian Liberty in an Age of License https://bhacademic.bhpublishinggroup.com/product/called-to-freedom-3/#flipbook-sampler/

In this poignant episode, Todd and Carl welcome author Whitney Pipkin to discuss her book, We Shall All Be Changed: How Facing Death with Loved Ones Transforms Us. Drawing from her own experience, Whitney sheds light and hope, reminding us that we are not alone in our grief. And she reveals the mysterious way God ministers to and transforms us through death and suffering. "The places you are most afraid to go, feel most ill-equipped to venture to, are the places Christ has gone before you." – Whitney Pipkin Tune in as they explore how facing mortality can lead to deeper faith and understanding. This is coming for each of us. How then shall we live? This is the question that each of us has the opportunity to consider at a funeral, but also when we read the news and when loss is far away, and when it's close, really close to home. – Whitney Pipkin Thanks to the generosity of Moody Publishing, we are pleased to give away three copies of Whitney Pipkin’s book, We Shall All Be Changed: How Facing Death with Loved Ones Transforms Us. Congratulations to our winners: Katherine A. from Waterman, IL, Greg P. from Greenville, SC, and Timothy S. from Avondale, AZ! Show Notes: Whitney Pipkin’s Book https://www.moodypublishers.com/we-shall-all-be-changed/

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. – Proverbs 9:10 Today, Todd and Carl are joined by Chris Ansberry, associate professor at Grove City College, and a colleague of Carl's who refuses to wear socks, much to Carl's chagrin. Wardrobe choices aside, Chris recently wrote a commentary on the Book of Proverbs, published by Zondervan Academic as part of their Exegetical Commentary Series. Wisdom literature seems to be a little bit obscure to many students of the Bible, but Chris has a deep love for these books that have often been marginalized. "Proverbs is not only designed to form our intellect, but it's also cultivating and directing our desires, it's shaping our forms of life, it's helping our perception – how do we see people, how do we see the world? So within that realm of ethics, I think that there's a lot in which Proverbs can do for us…I can't read Proverbs without seeing the same sort of moral vision that's on offer in the Sermon on the Mount." – Chris Ansberry Discover the intricacies of wisdom literature and its place in Christian life and pastoral teaching. Find out how Proverbs can shape ethical understanding and spiritual formation, and how pastors can approach preaching from this often-overlooked biblical text. And find out the answer to Carl's question, "What is the church missing if the pastor never preaches on wisdom literature in general, and specifically if the pastor never preaches on Proverbs?" Thanks to the generosity of Zondervan Academic, we are pleased to award copies of Chris Ansberry’s Commentary on Proverbs to three of our listeners. Congratulations to Donald T. from Omaha, NE, Keith F. from Troy, IL, and Yulia S. from Mililani, HI! Show Notes: Zondervan Exegetical Commentary Series: Old Testament: https://zondervanacademic.com/promotions/zec#1151215 New Testament: https://zondervanacademic.com/promotions/zec#1151637 Chris Ansberry’s Proverbs Commentary: https://zondervanacademic.com/products/proverbs-2

Join Carl and Todd as they tackle the pressing issues of gender ideology and pastoral practice with special guests Mary Rice Hasson and Theresa Farnan from the Ethics and Public Policy Center. Mary and Theresa have worked on a book titled Gender Ideology and Pastoral Practice: A Handbook for Catholic Clergy, Counselors, and Ministerial Leaders, which Carl believes to be immensely valuable for Protestants and Catholics alike. Discover insights from their book as they discuss the challenges facing pastors today, from pronoun use to public education to the influence of social media on youth. Our children feel so lonely and alone, so what do they do? They go online, and they find a community of people. So we, as churches – our role has to be that online community. I don't care what denomination you are; if you're not there giving community to your young people, they will go looking for it somewhere, and what they will find is so toxic. – Theresa Farnan Learn how pastors and churches can equip themselves to address these complex issues with love and truth. Thanks to the generosity of Notre Dame Press, we are pleased to award two copies of Gender Ideology and Pastoral Practice: A Handbook for Catholic Clergy, Counselors, and Ministerial Leaders to our listeners. Congratulations to Shawn H. from Porter, TX and Hillary H. from Orange City, IA! Show Notes: Ethics and Public Policy Center: https://eppc.org/ Person and Identity Project: https://personandidentity.com/ Gender, Ideology and Pastoral Practice: A Handbook for Catholic Clergy, Counselors and Ministerial Leaders

Todd and Carl, the self-proclaimed Hall and Oates of podcasting, spend a few minutes reflecting on the longevity of Mortification of Spin – "We've been doing this for over a decade now. Easily we must be one of the longest-standing podcast partnerships in history." They then turn their attention to today's returning guest and their friend, Kevin DeYoung, to discuss his latest book, Daily Doctrine: A One-Year Guide to Systematic Theology. Deemed by Todd to be his "Book of the Year,” this daily devotional has been designed to make systematic theology clear and accessible for the everyday Christian. Daily devotions are a huge privilege and a tremendous powerhouse for Christian living. – Carl Trueman The conversation delves into the importance of understanding systematic theology, the value of daily devotions, and how Kevin's book aims to equip lay Christians with the historic vocabulary of the church. Thanks to the generosity of Crossway Publishing, we were pleased to award three copies of Kevin DeYoung's book, Daily Doctrine: A One-Year Guide to Systematic Theology, to our listeners. Congratulations to Elizabeth P. from Sioux Center, IA, Daniel L. from Gardena, CA, and Caleb H. from Huntsville, AL! Show Notes: Daily Doctrine: A One-Year Guide to Systematic Theology https://reformedresources.org/daily-doctrine-a-one-year-guide-to-systematic-theology-hardcover

Todd is pretty excited to have today’s guest on “his podcast,” who is none other than his Mortification of Spin co-host, Carl Trueman. Together, they discuss Carl’s latest book, To Change All Worlds: Critical Theory from Marx to Marcuse, where Carl examines the historical roots of critical theory, its evolution, and its impact on contemporary culture. I wanted to produce a book that was not a kind of “goodies” and “baddies” book…Everybody coming to critical theory has their opinion on whether the critical theorists are good guys or bad guys. I didn’t really want to address that. What I wanted to do was look at critical theory through the historical lens and say, okay, why did this group of men start thinking this way? What was going on? What sources are they using? What problems are they trying to address or questions are they asking in order to get below the surface? – Carl Trueman Todd and Carl discuss some key figures of critical theory, such as Marx, Hegel, and Freud, and how they and other early critical theorists shaped modern thought. What are the implications for Christians today? Tune in to find out! Thanks to the generosity of B&H Academics, we are pleased to award a copy of Carl’s book to Zach C. from Streator, IL! Show Notes: To Change All Worlds: Critical Theory from Marx to Marcuse https://reformedresources.org/to-change-all-worlds-critical-theory-from-marx-to-marcuse-hardcover/

Carl and Todd welcome Yannick Imbert and Iain Wright to discuss their new book, Reclaiming the Dark Ages: How the Gospel Light Shone from 500 to 1500. An often overlooked period, Yannick and Iain challenge the notion of the "Dark Ages" by highlighting key Christian figures and their contributions to church history including Leo the Great, Anselm of Canterbury, and Jan Hus. We wanted to take a selection of church leaders across that thousand years...to show that God was not sitting on his hands for a thousand years. – Iain Wright Discover how God’s work continued throughout this millennium and why these historical insights are relevant today. Whether you're a history enthusiast or new to church history, this episode offers a captivating exploration of faith across centuries. Even we who are decidedly Reformed can actually acknowledge that there were Christians prior to the 16th century. – Carl Trueman Thanks to the generosity of Christian Focus Publications, we awarded three copies of Yannick and Iain’s book to our listeners. Congratulations to Bruce M. from Conshohocken, PA, Aaron L. from Rochester Hills, MI, and Todd D. from Creston, IA! Show Notes: Reclaiming the Dark Ages: How the Gospel Light Shone from 500 to 1500

Join us in this enlightening episode as Todd and Carl welcome Thomas Bergler, a distinguished professor of ministry and missions at Huntingdon University, to discuss his insightful book, The Juvenilization of American Christianity. What exactly is “juvenalization?” Juvenilization is the process by which the beliefs, traits, developmental characteristics of adolescence become normative or celebrated for people of all ages. – Thomas Bergler Delve into the fascinating exploration of how youth ministry has shaped the modern church, its unintended consequences, and the cultural shift towards therapeutic faith. Discover the historical roots of adolescence, the impact of pop culture on spirituality, and the importance of intergenerational worship. If you are interested in the evolution of church practices and the future of faith communities, be sure to tune in. Thanks to the generosity of Wm. B. Eerdman’s Publishing Company, we were able to award two copies of Thomas Bergler’s book to our listeners. Congratulations to Jay C. from Bothell, WA and Andrew C. from Las Vegas, NV! Show Notes: Books by Thomas Bergler: The Juvenalization of American Christianity From Here to Maturity: Overcoming the Juvenilization of American Christianity Recommended by Thomas Bergler: Handing Down the Faith: How Parents Pass Their Religion on to the Next Generation by Christian Smith and Amy Adamczyk

Todd and Carl explore Christianity as a supernatural religion, diving deep into the Gospel of John and its portrayal of miracles as signs of Jesus' divine authority. Together they discuss the historical and philosophical shifts in belief systems from the Enlightenment to modern-day skepticism, and reflect on the modern quest for meaning and morality. "We are creatures who crave meaning, and any intelligent atheist is going to acknowledge that." – Carl Trueman Discover the opportunities present in today's cultural landscape for engaging with the supernatural claims of Christianity and the hope it offers in a world seeking meaning. What an opportunity then for the public witness of the church – a message of hope that’s anchored in something that’s real and eternal. – Todd Pruitt

Many young (and not-so-young) adults today struggle to figure out what they should do with their lives. Focusing on this significant issue, Todd and Carl talk with William (Bill) Boekestein about his new book, Finding My Vocation: A Guide for Young People Seeking a Calling. If people are in the situation of not having a sense of what they ought to do with their life, or people who are highly motivated but maybe are motivated for the wrong reasons, if they could get a glimpse of what God says to us in his Word about how to work for him, and with him in meaningful calling that serves the Lord and blesses others, that's a project well worth spending some time on. – Bill Boekestein Bill shares insights on guiding young people through career decisions, the importance of hard work, and the beauty of vocation. Whether you're a parent, pastor, or young adult, this episode offers wisdom on navigating the complex world of work and purpose. "Vocation is not just about survival; it's about living in God's world and demonstrating that we've been made to glorify and enjoy Him." – Bill Boekestein Thanks to the generosity of Reformed Free Publishing, we are pleased to award two copies of Finding My Vocation: A Guide for Young People Seeking a Calling to our listeners. Congratulations to Michelle D. from Chino, CA and Julie K. from Wyoming, MI!

Carl and Todd delve into the evolving complexities of medical ethics in today's world with guest Farr Curlin, the Josiah C. Trent Professor of Medical Humanities at Duke University and co-author of The Way of Medicine: Ethics and the Healing Profession. Together, they explore the crucial role of pastors in guiding their congregations through ethical medical decisions, the significance of understanding human identity, and the challenges posed by advancements in medical technology. …the field of healthcare, the profession of medicine, is divided by disagreements about what medicine is for, divided by or even completely agnostic regarding what it means to be human, and in the absence of a clear understanding of how medicine fits into a well-lived life, is basically offering to do everything possible to try to keep people alive, or offering to relieve people's suffering, however that's understood, in ways that it seems to me are not really compatible with the Christian story. – Farr Curlin In this enlightening conversation, Farr shares helpful insights on approaching medical ethics with biblical discernment. Thanks to the generosity of Notre Dame Press, we are pleased to offer award copies of The Way of Medicine: Ethics and the Healing Profession to our listeners. Congratulations to Judy J. from Summerset, SD, Michael R. from Fresno, CA, and Ben K. from Chesapeake, VA! Show Notes https://www.alliancenet.org/giving-tuesday

Carl and Todd sit down with Harrison Perkins, pastor of Oakland Hills Community Church and lecturer at Westminster and Edinburgh Theological Seminaries, to discuss his insightful new book, Reformed Covenant Theology: A Systematic Introduction. Why is the study of covenant theology significant, and how can it shape our understanding of the Bible and the Gospel? This is a framework for understanding the way that we relate to God – more specifically, the way He relates to us – with clarity, with assurance, with ways to understand how grace can be free. But also, now we are in this ongoing walk with the Lord…how can we bring these things together, and do so well, without undermining one side or the other? – Harrison Perkins Tune in to learn how this theological framework can deepen your faith and understanding of the Bible. Thanks to the generosity of Lexham Press, we are pleased to award three copies of Reformed Covenant Theology: A Systematic Introduction to give away to our listeners. Congratulations to Linda J. from Murphy, NC, Dana W. from Fairchance, PA, and Vincent M. from Bakersfield, CA!

In an increasingly secular world, Christians are often pulled in two directions. Some urge us to retreat and build insular communities. Others call upon us to wage a culture war, harnessing the government to shore up Christian cultural power. Is there a better way? Stephen Presley, senior fellow for religion and public life at the Center for Religion, Culture, and Democracy and associate professor of church history at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, argues that there is. Today, Carl and Todd talk to Stephen about his new book, Cultural Sanctification: Engaging the Word like the Early Church, in which he points to the first few centuries AD to show us how the first Christians approached cultural engagement. Amid a pagan culture that regarded their faith with suspicion, early Christians founded a religious movement that transformed the ancient world. Though many of the challenges they faced were unique to that time, close comparisons can be drawn between the early church and modern culture. Some of the similarities have to do with the church in its relationship to the broader cultural world. I mean, you can’t get out of the first three centuries of the church without recognizing that the church is embedded in a culture that is often set against them. – Stephen Presley Listen as they discuss the parallels between the early church and today's cultural challenges, and consider how ancient Christian teachings can inform how we engage with the wider culture. Thanks to the generosity of Eerdman’s Publishing Company, we are pleased to send three copies of Cultural Sanctification: Engaging the World like the Early Church to our listeners. Congratulations to Cristian B. from Washington, D.C., Tim T. from Lititz, PA, and Bryan K. from Normal, IL! Show Notes: Stephen recommends five ancient texts for listeners interested in learning more about how the early church engaged the culture: On the Apostolic Preaching by Iraneaus Tertullian’s Apologeticus On the True Doctrine by Celsus The Epistle to Diognetus (author unknown) The Christians as the Romans Saw Them by Robert Louis Wilken *Image: Saint Augustine Disputing with the Heretics, by Vergós Group, Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya, Public domain

How do we know if we're making the best choices possible? Todd and Carl discuss this important topic with their guest, T. David Gordon, former professor at Grove City College and the author of Choose Better: Five Biblical Models for Making Ethical Decisions. Over the centuries, Christians in different traditions have distilled scriptural guidance into five models for ethical decision-making: law, imitation, communion, wisdom, and warfare. Today, the discussion centers around the relevance and application of these five models in everyday life and pastoral ministry. "One of the things I really appreciate about the book, David, is with each of the models, you give sort of pluses and minuses in order to bring out the fact that we can't just have one model or even two models. They all complement each other." – Carl Trueman Biblical, profound, and practical, these models provide clear questions to ask in every situation. They help us improve our choices and better understand the choices of fellow believers—especially when they differ from ours. We were pleased to award two copies of Choose Better to our listeners, thanks to the generosity of our friends at P&R Publishing. Congratulations to Jon C. from Covington, LA and Francine C. from Louisburg, KS! Show Notes: Why Johnny Can’t Preach by T. David Gordon: https://reformedresources.org/why-johnny-cant-preach-paperback/

Carl and Todd welcome special guest Harold Senkbeil, executive director of Doxology, the Lutheran Center for Spiritual Care, and the author of the popular book The Care of Souls: Cultivating a Pastor's Heart. Together, they discuss the essence of pastoral ministry, the significance of patience, and the importance of the Word and sacraments in pastoral care. Pastoral work is really the work of Jesus in our time, in any given contemporary moment in history… In the twentieth century, pastoral work kind of took a left turn and reinvented itself in the mold of business perhaps or counseling, and so forth, all of which is helpful, but the essence is really the Word of God and the sacraments. To apply those with the goal of introducing people to Jesus and Jesus to them, is what pastoral work is about. - Harold Senkbeil What are the challenges and expectations pastors face today, and how can they stay true to their calling amidst modern-day complexities? And tune in to discover what part congregations should play in the life of the Church. We were pleased to award three copies of The Care of Souls to our listeners, thanks to the generosity of our friends at the Lexham Press. Congratulations to Patrick H. from Valencia, CA, Terry C. from Perkasie, PA, and Stephen W. from Naperville, IL! Show Notes: The Care of Souls series (5 volumes): https://lexhampress.com/product/258922/the-care-of-souls-bundle The Care of Souls (audiobook): https://lexhampress.com/product/254940/the-care-of-souls-cultivating-a-pastors-heart

Maintaining appropriate Christian behavior can be particularly challenging in a world where political discourse often becomes heated and divisive. In today's timely episode, Carl and Todd delve into the complexities of navigating faith and politics, especially during an election year. "We want to talk today about how Christians can have strong opinions on important issues and express those opinions in a way that does not undermine their broader Christian witness." – Carl Trueman What impact does political discourse have on Christian testimony, and how can we express strong opinions without compromising our witness? Their conversation delves into the rise of neo-Christian nationalism, the infantilism in modern politics, and the need for Christians to engage in the public sphere with integrity and honor. "We are not going to win the culture by aping the culture. Seek influence, push back against the darkness, but do so uniquely as Christians." – Todd Pruitt We were pleased to award three copies of Carl's book Crisis of Confidence to our listeners, thanks to the generosity of our friends at Crossway Books. Congratulations to Bradley L. from Rock Hill, SC, Brent B. from Longview, WA, and Alex O. from Jenison, MI!

Carl and Todd dive deep into the complex relationship between religion and politics with Miles Smith from Hillsdale College as they discuss his new book, Religion and Republic: Christian America from the Founding to the Civil War. Why did he decide to write this book now, and why did he intentionally not use the more commonplace terms “Church and State”? What is the difference between Christian institutionalism and Christian nationalism? And what is the role of the church in addressing political issues? "I'm actually someone who doesn't want the church to do politics. I think the church is quite frankly, not competent to do politics." – Miles Smith Miles’ book offers profound insights into how Christians can maintain their witness in times of political polarization. Listen as they discuss the historical and contemporary challenges Christians face in navigating their faith within the civic and political spheres, Thanks to the generosity of our friends at the Davenant Institute, we are pleased to award three copies of Miles Smith’s book Religion and Republic to our listeners. Congratulations to Elizabeth B. from Poland, OH, Philip M. from Maidsville, WV, and Doug N. from Clendenin, WV.

Many adults look back fondly on their years in the church youth group or other parachurch ministries like Young Life and understand the impact that those ministries had on their faith. How has youth ministry changed over the years, and what has stayed the same? What qualities are needed to be an effective youth minister, and what challenges do leaders face in today’s culture? To shine some light on this subject, the guys are joined by Carl’s friend and a fellow Grove City College professor, Duffy Robbins, Professor of Youth Ministry and a 45-year veteran in the field. Widely respected as one of the leading voices in youth and family ministry, Duffy talks to Carl and Todd about the history, purpose, and future of youth ministry, as well as some of the issues that he sees. “Another problem is that youth ministry intentionally tries to make sure their ministries and messages and programming are suited to young people, but the problem is we really breed in our young people an appetite for ‘juvenalized’ Christianity, and so when they get into big church, adult church, they still want to have ‘juvenalized’ worship services.” – Duffy Robbins We are pleased to award three copies of Duffy Robbins’ book Building a Youth Ministry that Builds Disciples: A Small Book About a Big Idea to our listeners, thanks to the generosity of Zondervan Press. Congratulations to Nick H. from Sandy Lake, PA, Tyle G. from Wooster, OH, and Paula B. from Stamford, CT. Show Notes: The Juvenalization of American Christianity by Thomas Bergler

Is it ethical for physicians to assist patients in hastening their own death? Should Christians who are facing death accept the offer of an assisted death? Carl and Todd talk to physician Ewan Goligher about these important issues addressed in his book How Should We Then Die? In his book, Ewan draws from general revelation and Scripture to persuade and equip Christians to oppose physician-assisted death. The logic of assisted death is predicated on the idea that you’re rendering someone better off by ending their life. And [in] the philosophical and ethical literature where people write about this, they represent the logic as a kind of calculus where you weigh up the good of remaining alive and the bad of remaining alive, and you essentially decide that if the bad of remaining alive outweighs the good, then it makes sense to end my life. And the glaring gap in that logic is that it ignores the question of what it is like to be dead. – Ewan Goligher Proponents of euthanasia presume what it is like to be dead. But for Christians, death is not the end. Christ Jesus has destroyed death and brought life and immortality through the gospel. For this reason, Christians must think deeply about these life-and-death issues. We are pleased to award three copies of How Should We Then Die? to our listeners, thanks to the generosity of our friends at Lexham Press. Congratulations Erin D. from Sacramento, CA, Ben C. from Andover, KS, and Tom M. from Greer, SC! Show Notes: The Desecration of Man by Carl Trueman On Death and Dying: A Catechism for Christians by Ewan Goligher

Blaise Pascal, the seventeenth-century French philosopher and scientist, is perhaps best known for his "wager," an argument about the existence of God. But there was much more to Pascal and his brilliance, according to today's guest, Douglas Groothuis, a leading Christian thinker and longtime student of Pascal. In his latest book, Beyond the Wager, Doug introduces readers to Pascal's life and the breadth of his intellectual pursuits, including his contributions to mathematics, science, ethics, and theology. "You really want to read Pascal, and if you write about him, you want to quote him and do justice to what he said because it really was so insightful and profoundly put. Especially his comments about what it means to be a human being and his reflections on the nature of knowing Christ. They're really not just philosophically insightful and compelling, but also devotionally compelling." – Doug Groothuis Three of our listeners received copies of Beyond the Wager: The Christian Brilliance of Blaise Pascal, thanks to the generosity of our friends at Intervarsity Press. Congratulations to Zane L. from Washington, DC, Sam B. from Deerfield, WI, and Joshua M. from Jonesborough, TN! Show Notes: Douglas Groothuis’ original book about Blaise Pascal written 20 years ago: On Pascal Pensées by Blaise Pascal: https://archive.org/details/pascalspenseesor00pasc Christian Apologetics by Douglas Groothuis

Many faithful Christian parents today grieve for their adult children who have left the faith. They ask, "Where did we go wrong? What should we have done differently?" Carl and Todd discuss this important topic in this episode and encourage parents not to give up hope. "Parents have enormous impact on their kids' lives, even into adulthood. Even when there's been pain, a parent has enormous influence. See how best to leverage that for the soul of your child. – Todd Pruitt Thanks to P&R Publishing, we awarded copies of Wayward Children: Finding Peace, Keeping Hope to three of our listeners. Congratulations to Renee R. from Little Rock, AR, Karen G. from St. Peters, MO, and Mickie G. from Arab, AL!