Mortification of Spin

OK kids, it’s summer and your reading list is out! Grab your flip flops, sunscreen, a good read and join the Spin Gang by the shore. My my, Todd's looking rather bronzed in his white-beater and Bermuda shorts - those trips to the tanning salon really paid off. Aimee’s shownin' off her beach-smarts in an SPF 100 denim jumper - class! As for Carl, he was last seen turning 50 shades of red seeking refuge at the cabana… Zinfandel in hand. Scandal! So clearly our team doesn't do the beach well but at least they're well-read! Hear them share what they'll be reading this summer - it's an interesting mix of theological and fictional books to enhance any beach-bumming experience you may have planned this season.For this week's Bully Pulpit, The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals would like to give away a couple free copies of Developing a Christian Mind: Learning to Think and Act Biblically w/ Study Guide by James Boice. You can enter here for a chance to win, or purchase this product on Reformed Resources.MoS's Summer Reading ListTodd: The Church of Christ - James BannermanStalin: Volume I: Paradoxes of Power - Stephen KotkinThe Buried Giant - Kazuo IshiguroThe World Beyond Your Head - Matthew CrawfordThe Critic's Companion to the Works of Carl Trueman by Todd PruittCarl:Paradise Lost - John MiltonJane Eyre - Charlotte BronteIn the Company of Preachers - Richard LischerShop Class as Soul Craft - Matthew Crawford Aimee:Hidden But Now Revealed: A Biblical Theology of Mystery - G.K. Beale and Benjamin LaddA Severe Mercy - Sheldon VanaukenJournibles Short stories - Flannery O'Connor

Is depression a sin? Can a Christian be depressed and still godly? Thankfully we have pastor David Murray chiming in with his wisdom on the matter. David has authored many books, and a few of them deal with the topic of depression: The Happy Christian and Christians Get Depressed Too. In the Reformed tradition we believe our whole bodies are fallen, falling apart, and in the case of Carl’s hair, falling out. So how should we view depression in light of that? David & Co. confront the theology shaping our thoughts on depression and the difference knowing God can make for the depressed believer.This week the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals would like to offer you a chance to win David Murray's The Happy Christian. You can enter here to win, or visit Reformed Resources to purchase this product.

Just back from Yale, Carl & Todd try not to make Aimee feel too bad for missing out on their trip. While at Yale, they shared tables with great thinkers, enjoyed dinners and other pleasantries, but it sometimes seems that no matter where these boys go trouble, dispute, and controversy are sure to follow. Their discussions with others raised an important question: how do we disagree with fellow man, even fellow Christians, in an honorable, civilized, and godly way? The boys share anecdotes from their travels and needless to say, it's a helpful conversation on how we deal with controversy without abandoning our Christian manners.If you have enjoyed this Bully Pulpit then you will benefit from Kosher Cooking and all That by James Boice as a free audio download from The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals. You can also find this product on Reformed Resources.

“Let no one despise you for your youth.” Those were Paul’s words to Timothy. But is that even an issue in today’s culture obsessed with catering to and seeking youthfulness? Youth is highly prized, while seasoned, wise leaders are tossed to the curb. So many churches have turned to attractive, cool, yet inept leaders who have more swagger than biblical knowledge. So how is this damaging the Church and what does it mean to have biblical church leadership that’s more useful than it is hip? Thankfully some churches still hire unpopular nerds like Todd & Carl who possess more Biblical know-how than chic, and we've got Aimee to validate that.If this week's Mortification of Spin has benefit you then you will be interested in Ministry in the Church by Eric Alexander as a free audio download from the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals. You can also find this product on Reformed Resources.

Two shady sheep wandered into Todd's megachurch today. Skirting by security, Carl and Aimee are incognito to rate Todd's preaching and their notes are ... lacking in content. Aimee's doing her usual multitasking - doodling nun chucks and jotting her grocery list while Carl's a man of one talent today: sleep. Probably not the shining examples you'd expect but raises an important question: How are we on listening to the preached word? Take it from these two, it's not always easy, especially with Pruitt in the pulpit. Is sitting under God's preached word something we take seriously, strategically, thoughtfully? Are we diligent or complacent, prepared or passive? And is there a difference between listening and hearing? Carl, Aimee & Todd take these questions to task while offering some basic tips and aids for congregants and their covenant children. Listen up, this is something we all need to hear.This week on Mortification of Spin, the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals would like to give away How to Listen to a Bad Sermon by Ligon Duncan as a free audio download. You can also find this free gift on Reformed Resources.

Where do our rights come from: God or Government? As Christians, how are we using (or should we say misusing) our American liberties? What does God have to say about abortion and sexual identity? These are pressing questions during an era submerged in promoting pro-choice and normalizing immoral sexual agendas. As Christians, we must know our stance. Frank Beckwith, professor of ethics, philosophy, and religion at Baylor University, and author of Defending Life: A Moral and Legal Case Against Abortion Choice, joins today's conversation. Hear Frank's fascinating defense against a society that twists virtue and hails immorality.For this week's Mortification of Spin, the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals would like to give away some free copies of God's Servant in Christian Liberty MP3 set. If you do not recieve a free copy, you can also find these messages on Reformed Resources.

Time for another book review, and we're giving this one three thumbs up! Our hosts discuss the recent republication of The Church of Christ, a classic of Scottish Presbyterian polity and theory by James Bannerman. This book highlights the Church's role, power, and importance during a time the world (and even Christians!) struggles to see its purpose. Does the church stand a chance in societies that continually belittle its values and undermine its presence? Not surprisingly, the world is growing more uncomfortable for Christians, so we must purpose to understand what God intended for His Bride and keep heart. Bannerman helps us do just that.This week The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals would like to give you the opportunity to win a free copy of James Bannerman's The Church of Christ. You can enter here to win a free copy of this timeless work.Additional ResourcesThe Post-Indiana Future for Christians

Domestic violence and sexual abuse are not easy topics to discuss, but they are ones every church leader must know how to address. Justin & Lindsey Holcomb, authors of Rid of My Disgrace: Hope and Healing for Victims of Sexual Assault, and Is It My Fault?: Hope and Healing for Those Suffering Domestic Violence, join the show today. What must a church do to promote a culture where victims feel safe to open up? What should pastors and church leadership do when a congregant reports a case of domestic violence or abuse? What the Holcombs say is as helpful as it is sobering - it's a conversation every pastor should heed.The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals would like to give away a free audio download - Not in my Church! Tackling Sexual Sin and Sexual Sinners with Gratitude by David Garner. You can also find this message and others at Reformed Resources.Additional Resources: G.R.A.C.E. (Godly Response to Abuse in the Christian Enviornment)God Made All of Me: A Book to Help Children Protect Their Bodies

Most of us know how we'd answer when asked to officiate, attend, or participate in a homosexual wedding, but what about baking the cake? Recently the media is all over Christian bakers who refuse to bake cakes for such unions. It's hitting close to home and those in the pew are feeling the pinch. So is it a church discispline issue if a Christian offers his or her creative talents and business services to a homosexual wedding, or is it merely a matter of conscious? Piece of cake, right? Carl, Aimee, and Todd have to admit, this ain't no cake walk! Listen as they reason and navigate this sticky situation and offer a pastoral response. On the topic of marriage, sexuality, and gender the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals would like to give away free downloads to The Church's Response - The Good, The Bad and The Ugly by Rosaria Butterfield. You can also find this free gift on Reformed Resources.For Further Reading:A Note From Creator CakesMainstreaming Homosexuality

Today we celebrate a momentous feat in reformed evangelical church history: Mortification of Spin’s 100th episode! Carl and Todd reminisce about “The Golden Age”, Aimee highlights Carl’s inability to pronounce the English language, and all three discuss the spin they mortified this last year. It's full of the typical spinful banter and helpful take-aways from times past. In 100 episodes, one thing is for certain: As Aimee’s skin has thickened, Carl & Todd's hair has not. So come join the casual celebration of this 100th conversation as our hosts do what they do best: take care of business. The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals would like to celebrate the 100th Mortification of Spin Episode by giving away the Mortification of Spin anthology - both seasons produced so far. You can enter here for a chance to win. You can also purchase season 1 and season 2 of Mortification of Spin on ReformedResources.org.

“Well-rounded ministry is relatively rare today ... ‘while in God’s grace, there is an encouraging number of bright spots in the church, we see no broad movement yet of this gospel–centered ministry.’ […] We want more gospel-shaped churches,” according to the Gospel Coalition, launching their new 'Gospel-Shaped Church' series of books and DVDs. So have we missed the mark and been doing worship all wrong for hundreds of years? What makes a church "gospel-shaped" anyway? With all due respect, why recreate the wheel and abandon the greats of old who thoughtfully hammered out the basic elements of worship for us? Carl, Aimee, and Todd have plenty to say on the Gospel and its “shapes.” If you have benefited from listening to this week's Bully Pulpit then you will enjoy Reformed Worship Mistakes to Avoid by Terry Johnson, a free digital audio download from The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals. You can also get your free gift from Reformed Resources.

Is it wise to recommend authors or quote those you don't agree with? Or is that playing with fire? What reasons justify avoiding a book or author altogether? Carl & Todd stand in agreement - you can respect, disagree with, or even dislike authors you quote. Exhibit A: Aimee Byrd. Joking aside, what's the rule of thumb here? From a preacher's perspective, Carl & Todd lend helpful insights for pastors from pastors and Aimee gives us her usual food for thought. If you have enjoyed this week's Bully Pulpit then you will want Significant Theological Works in the Past 50 years by Douglas Kelly as a free audio download from the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals. You can also find your free gift at Reformed Resources.

City Church San Francisco recently wrote a letter about their views and ministry towards those attending City and associate with LGBTQ. City Church now affirms that homosexual sex is justified within the context of marriage. How should we respond to this? Surely the Church welcomes sinners, otherwise Her pews would be empty, but why has City gone so far to disregard scripture? With any sin, there can be real physical dangers aside from the obvious spiritual ones. Carl, Aimee, & Todd do not shy away from speaking up and sharing their concerns on the matter. They also offer some helpful resources you'll want to read.If you have enjoyed this week's instalment of Bull Pulpit you will benefit from a free gift from the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals, Pagan Sexuality by Peter Jones. You can also find your free audio download at Reformed Resources.

Today a motion, only the second of its kind in history, is made on the Spin; one that is, as Todd so eloquently puts it: "...so Presbyterian." Joining the Crew for such an honor is Nancy Guthrie. An author, teacher, and speaker, Nancy joins the team to talk about bereavement. Having lost two children, she understands the shadow that grief and tragedy can cast on one's faith. Is God as sovereign over the days of healthy children who will know a "full" life as he is over the one born with a rare syndrome who dies "before his time?" Has God been absent and uncaring? Listen to Nancy's responses, which offer powerful theological truths any Christian can cling to in times of suffering and loss. If you have enjoyed today's conversation you will appreciate The Cross and Suffering by Ligion Duncan as a free audio download from The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals. You can also find this free gift on Reformed Resources.You can also find additional resources from Nancie Gutherie with the following ministries:Respite RetreatSeeing Jesus in the Old TestamentGrief Share

While Carl, known in some circles as RevMaster T, is off touring Australia with Lecrae, Aimee and Todd discuss the latest book on Luther with its token, British author. The book, Luther on the Christian Life, was written for the Church with a pastoral emphasis in mind, so it’s far from just another academic read. Its author has penned much on Luther before but even he was surprised by new findings about the legendary, revolutionary theologian. Listen to the end for a taste of The RevMaster’s latest work - a rap sensation that's exploding on YouTube.If you found this week's Bully Pulpit thought provoking, you may enjoy We Are Beggars: Luther's Famous Last Words by Carl Trueman, a free audio dowload from The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals. You can also visit Reformed Resources to recieve this free gift and other great resources from the Alliance.And order your copy of Luther on the Christian Life: Cross and Freedom from ReformedResources.org today!

Tom Ascol, Executive Director of Founders Ministries, author, and pastor, joins the Spin Crew for a riveting conversation on Calvinism in the Southern Baptist Convention. Are Calvinists and Baptists so oil-and-water after all? Tom speaks on why Baptists do what they do, and the Gang gets down to business asking some important questions: Are all southerners die-hard tailgaters or does Tom Ascol break the mold? And when will he retire to that Harley Davidson he deserves? But most important, will Tom reprimand our three hosts for leaving their Baptist roots? So much to discuss, so little time. It's another conversation that'll have your head spinning!If you have enjoyed this week's Mortification of Spin then you will benefit from The Five Points of Calvinism by Roger Nicole as a free audio download from The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals. You can recieve your gift at Reformed Resources.

It's Oscar Sunday and gracing the red carpet tonight are our very own podcast "superstars," Carl, Aimee, & Todd. As they await the chance to mingle with the famous (and infamous), they reflect on what it will be like to get a selfie with Lecrae and what Sabbath observance even means. It's a difficult and pressing question for Christians, (the Sabbath, not Lecrae-selfies), and it seems that many don't grasp the kindness in God's 4th commandment. Doesn't church hold us back from "better" leisures on Sunday? And is it so bad to forego public worship to seek trivial, even "restful" affairs? It's a glamorous conversation on a night like this as the Gang push back the paparazzi by the droves.This week The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals would like to offer you The Christian Sabbath by Stephen Miller, a free audio download. You can find this free offer on Reformed Resources.

Today our hosts have a meaningful, sober conversation with Todd Billings: author, pastor, and professor at Western Theological Seminary. Todd has been diagnosed with a rare, and for him terminal, form of cancer: Multiple Myeloma. He shares some of his experience and hope amidst acute awareness of his mortality, and how to, with strength and godliness, face death. Cancer affects some of us, either directly or indirectly, so Todd's words of trust in God's providence, Scripture, and prayer are helpful and relevant. Touching on points he raises in his book, Rejoicing in Lament: Wrestling with Incurable Cancer and Life in Christ, Todd lends insights on ways to encourage those suffering with serious illness. This is a conversation you're not likely to forget. This week the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals would like to give away some copies of Todd Billings' book Rejoicing in Lament, enter here for a chance to win. You can also purchase this product at Reformed Resources.The song featured at the end of this program is Nathan Clark George's rendition of Psalm 27 from The Book of Psalms for Worship.

Carl, Aimee & Todd find themselves in the company of a Canadian... again. Once running a fish 'n' chips restaurant, Francis VanDelden now pastors a church in Frederick, Maryland. Carl & Todd are dying to know: Does Francis regret the day Aimee Byrd cast a shadow on his church door? Listen as Francis shares his personal joys of the pastorate and the privilege it is to enter the pulpit each week. The Gang asks Francis how he shepherds an OPC "megachurch" of almost two hundred. It's a conversation that is casual, helpful, and refreshing.If you have enjoyed this week's Bully Pulpit then check out "Devoted to the Means of Grace: The Life and Ministry of John Owen" by Jon Payne, a free audio download from the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals. Visit Reformed Resources to download the MP3.

Authors & "Canadian cultural icons" Linda & Sandy Finlayson, join the round table to talk Shania Twain, maple syrup, books, and their estranged friendship with the Spin's own Carl Trueman. They discuss Sandy's biography on Thomas Chalmers and Linda's book Wielding the Sword. The dynamic duo share their reasons for taking up the pen to publish these books centered around church history as it is both a passion and mission of theirs.This week, the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals is giving away free copies of Wielding the Sword by Linda Finlayson OR Thomas Chalmers by Sandy Finlayson. Enter here for a chance to win. You can also purchse these books on Reformed Resources.

This week the spin's all about Thomas Oden and his latest book, A Change of Heart: A Personal and Theological Memoir. Oden, once a man deep in radical, liberal ideals passionately opposed to orthodoxy, confesses a stunning conversion to orthodox evangelical Christianity, and at the coaxing of the most unlikely person. Carl, Aimee, & Todd discuss many fascinating stories of Oden's life and the array of renowned theologians, politicians, leaders, and icons he's rubbed shoulders with along the way. His humble accounts occupying these pages are shocking and showcase an intellectual man with a pastor's heart. It's a page-turner the gang suggests you read in 2015. This week the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals would like to give away free copies of the Reformed Biography Series, a collection of teachings on four prominent theologians in church history. For an opportunity to win a copy of this audio set, enter the giveaway.

Welcome back to the Preaching Conference as we rejoin the panel discussion where the team and Reverend Kent Hughes tackle meaningful questions submitted by pastors and seminary students attending the event. The banter is contagious and some of the questions outrageous… yet helpful. Tune in to hear how this quartet of theological know-how takes on questions like: "How can I get in the pulpit when I am so sinful?" and, "Now that you've reached the pinnacle of evangelical celebrity, what's the view like from the top?" and a Spin favorite: "Where would you draw the line of being vulnerable from the pulpit in sharing your own personal sin?"This week the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals would like to give away free copies of Mortification of Spin: Season Two. Enter here for a chance to win.

Take a gander with Carl, Aimee, and Todd as they browse today's Christian Best-Sellers list. Discerning worthwhile reads from sentimental fluff, they look for theological substance but the pickin's are slim. With the casual aside, this is a courageous conversation to address a serious question: Why do so many Christian women read garbage? And if the allure of weak theology is so great, should pastors go on book patrol? Being our token female (and honorary man), Aimee has plenty to say. Of course, Carl has another question for our Fair Lady that really gets her goat...If you have found this Bully Pulpit helpful you will enjoy Understanding God's Will by Derek Thomas, a free audio download from the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals. You can find your free gift on Reformed Resources.

Grab a seat in Rust Auditorium at Westminster Theological Seminary where the MoS crew talk with Dr. Kent Hughes at the annual preaching conference. Dr. Hughes has a long track-record of faithfulness behind the pulpit and the pen. He answers on a topic he knows much about: preaching. You'll hear anything from how to preach through pain to how to cultivate humility amidst success. Hughes' answers will both bless and challenge.If you have benefited from this episode of Mortification of Spin then you will enjoy The Glory of Christ in the Proclamation of the Gospel by Kent Hughes, a free audio-download from the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals! You can recieve your free gift from Reformed Resources.

Jonathan & David of the Old Testament… were they homosexual or was it just a bromance? Not a new question to a culture tending to attribute sexuality to deep, rewarding relationships… but why is that so? The Gang addresses the need to reinstate friendships to a non-sexual category and what implications this could have on how we think about relationships in the Church. It's a conversation on intimacy, and judging by the way things are headed, Carl may break his Brit-code to hug Todd, marking the best day in Todd's life.If you enjoyed this week's Bully Pulpit on friendship then you will like Feast or Famine by Phil Ryken as a free audio download from The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals. You can redeem your free gift at Reformed Resources.

This week, the Gang loiters outside a mega-church conference, enticed by the big-band jams vibrating through the concrete to their high-tops. They've decided to forego the meeting this time because they've gotten "swept away" in conversation about the experience they could be having in there. They raise important questions about the content of today's evangelical Christian praise music: What is it teaching us? Should sound theology stop when we sing? Do we shut our minds off in praise, or should the words encourage active engagement with the word of God? Does Todd think the whole point is to make us feel happy? Seems today's trend is sentimentalism. But what of liturgy and proclaiming biblical truths and actual Scripture? Our hosts have plenty to say about it! Plus, find out if Carl is a Closet Psalmist, when the last time Todd wore a choir robe, and if Aimee has looked upon the wine lately.If you have enjoyed this week's Mortification of Spin then you will like this free audio download, Singing Psalms - An Aid to Preaching by Terry Johnson from The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals. You can redeem your free gift at Reformed Resources.

How high should standards be for a pastor and his ministry? Do we rate his success in congregation size, fame, or by how white his teeth are? Standards can be unrealistic and unbiblical when a new pastor comes on the scene, and comparisons can foster a culture of critique and criticism. Bad pastors are a reality. However, the church has a common crisis at hand: are we firing, disrespecting, even "bullying" otherwise competent men who don't live up to our superficial standards? But what if there is a real problem with your pastor? How do you deal with it? If you are on either side of this scenario, tune in as our in-house reverends, Carl and Todd, share helpful resources and advice for both congregant and pastor. As for Aimee, she's packin' heat to keep these boys in their place – one nun-chuck for Todd and one for Carl. If you have enjoyed this weeks Bully Pulpit then you will like this free audio download God's Sovereignty and the Call of the Pastor by Eric Redmond from The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals. You can redeem your free gift at Reformed Resources.Todd Pruitt's series of posts entitled "Battered Pastors":1. http://mortificationofspin.org/mos/1517/battered-pastors-1#.VJGV6cZJFWd2. http://mortificationofspin.org/mos/1517/battered-pastors-2#.VJGV8cZJFWd3. http://mortificationofspin.org/mos/1517/battered-pastors-3-0#.VJGV-8ZJFWd4. http://mortificationofspin.org/mos/1517/battered-pastors-4-0#.VJGWA8ZJFWd5. http://mortificationofspin.org/mos/1517/battered-pastors-5-0#.VJGWC8ZJFWd

Join us at The Dripping Blade Pub, where Paul Levy sips a Welsh cider awaiting the MoS Crew. Levy is the minister of International Presbyterian Church in West London, and he is also Carl Trueman's only friend. Once at the bar, they discuss Francis Schaeffer, L’Abri, and how “a God of love could allow the Welsh.” Levy gets right down to it: he discusses the denominational differences and obstacles of the Church across "The Pond" and why Americans are so enthralled by accents. The Crew talks strategy for pastoral ministry, sermon prep, and pastoral care that spans a variety of nationalities and geographical locales. The big question of the hour: What does Paul think of men who leave the UK to preach in America?If you have enjoyed this weeks Mortification of Spin then you will like this free audio download Church Discipline vs. Evangelism? by Mark Dever from The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals. You can redeem your free gift at Reformed Resources.

We live in a culture of "no regrets"… but shouldn't we have some? Even one? The Spinners certainly do and are willing to air out their scarlet letters for a little confession of Spin. Truth is, we've all made mistakes, but could the ones most recently made on the evangelical stage have been prevented? What does today's Church lack that it would embrace false teachers and follow misguided doctrine so blindly? No doubt, Carl, Aimee, & Todd have some ideas. Tune in as they ponder recent events and where the Church needs to pay closer attention to its associations.If you have enjoyed this week's Bully Pulpit then you will like this free audio download Faith and Repentance by Sinclair Ferguson from The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals. You can redeem your free gift at Reformed Resources.

What do zip lines, blonde hair, and free-range chickens have in common with pastoral ministry? Is Carl going to be next year's super-star pastor after his latest tome, Your Worst Life Now? Pastors have a high and difficult calling in their ministry, and whether you pastor 8 or 8,000, congregants have expectations and you have biblical duties. So how do you discern which to prioritize and what boundaries to guard jealously? Does going bald and staying bitter really improve preaching? Grab a front-row seat to a day in the life of Carl & Todd. And per usual, Aimee's sharp-edged questions keep the boys on their toes and you guessing!If you enjoyed this week's Mortification of Spin you will like this free audio download, Faithful and Relevant Pastoral Ministry by Terry Johnson, from the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals. You can find your free gift at Reformed Resources.

Addressing the resignation of high-profile pastor Mark Driscoll, the team discusses a relevant question: Can a pastor be restored to ministry? They offer biblical options to a dismal scenario churches face all too often. As usual, they don't hold back from exposing the underlying issues at hand and the ultimate hope amidst them. What if a pastor seemingly values his reputation over protecting the flock? Hear the gang answer how they'd deal with "bad-boy" pastors and their thoughts on what forgiveness looks like for them.For listening to this Mortification of Spin: Bully Pulpit, the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals would like to give you a free MP3 from Ed Welch entitled, "Peer Pressure and Pastoring." Go to ReformedResources.org to download your free MP3!

Aimee's outnumbered in the city that never sleeps… and it keeps getting balder! But wait, it seems Carl and Todd aren't the only balding stars of this show. Come along as they hit the streets with pastor and author Tim Keller to discuss his new book, Center Church: Doing Balanced, Gospel-Centered Ministry in Your City. How are Christians to engage their cultural surroundings and make a true, lasting impact for Christ? If you're a pilot, how do you go about your high-in-the-sky vocation to the glory of God? Do you pass out tracks to passengers ushered off your plane? It's that unceasing question of Christ and Culture. Listen in as the gang talks to Tim to see if the Transformationalist approach is the answer. By the way, what does Keller, (the bald but not-so-bitter), mean by a "wisdom-contest-counter-contrast community"? More importantly, can Aimee hold her own amongst so much baldness? Let's hope her street-smarts are up to snuff!This week the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals would like to offer Tim Keller's Walking with God Through Pain and Suffering as a free giveaway. Just enter here to win.

What do humanism and creedless Christianity have in common? And what's the need for a creed anyway? The gang throw out their two cents and discuss an article about Bart Campolo, who recently renounced his Christian faith and declared himself an agnostic humanist. Serious blind spots and weaknesses in luke-warm, doctrine-lite theology are exposed on this week's episode, where we find that ethics without doctrine and without Christ simply cannot answer the question of evil, among other universal dilemmas. It's a touchy topic, but thankfully our sensitive, smooth-talking Todd "Barry White" Pruitt sets the tone and keeps it cool.If you have enjoyed this Bully Pulpit, then you will benefit from Creeds, Confessions, and Catechisms by Kenneth Jones. Visit Reformed Resources for your free audio download! Barry & Todd: Separated at Birth?

Dr. David VanDrunen, professor of systematic theology and Christian ethics at Westminster Seminary Calfornia, is outside Georgetown Tobacco where Carl, Aimee, and Todd are wondering what all the fuss is about with two kingdoms theology. The way Christians relate to the culture is an increasingly relevant topic during today's tumultuous political milieu, and the smoke is rising! Aside from how we vote, this doctrine determines how we answer questions like: Should a minister of the gospel stand in protest outside an abortion clinic? Is the Church responsible for shaping civil law or developing political strategies? And most importantly: Should Aimee go to Christian yoga and Todd join a Christian pipe-smoking club? Hear David's astute answers on these questions while sharing his thoughts on our role as Christian citizens amidst a culture turned against God. You can enter to win a free copy of David VanDrunen's book Living in God's Two Kingdoms here. You can also purchase the book on ReformedResource.org!

Martin Luther - a man of mystery and many talents. Aside from writing lists, he was quite the letter writer, too, and with Reformation season around the corner, the Gang's discussion of Luther's woeing and woes is timely. Listen in as they share of his influence on their own lives and suggest which of Luther's works you should add to your shelf. If you have enjoyed this week's Bully Pulpit you might enjoy Luther's Theology of the Cross by Michael Horton as a free audio-download. You can get your gift at Reformed Resources.

Pull up a chair, light some candles, and prepare to be authentic and vulnerable. We have a spot at the table for you and Carl, Todd, and Aimee are here to teach us about discipleship. Join the “movement” today to hear about the ordinary means of grace, the importance of the church vs. the parachurch, and what to do about church discipline. Grab your utensils and let’s dig in. The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals would like to thank you for listening to Mortification of Spin. Enjoy this FREE MP3 DOWNLOAD from ReformedResources.org, "God's Word and Christian Discipleship" by Jerry Bridges.

This week, the gang flips through the pages of Daniel Block's book, For the Glory of God: Recovering a Biblical Theology of Worship. The team concurs: Block's ideas on today's fundamental elements of worship, such as singing and prayer, are thought-provoking and worth a read. The gang discusses what true worship is - does Old Testament ritual practice have a place in worship or are we just spinning our wheels? In usual fashion, they offer their two cents on today's catchy contemporary jingles juxtaposed to the rich psalms and hymns of old. If you have enjoyed this weeks Bully Pulpit you will benefit from For the Glory of God by Daniel Block, a free book giveaway. Enter to win here.You can also purchase the book on Reformed Resources.

This week the gang's in deep water discussing the holy sacrament of baptism - How should we treat it? Who should administer it? Why does it even matter? They reveal key exegetical defenses, share helpful resources for those on the fence, and tell what convinced them to hang up their own credobaptist views for paedobaptist ones. Come on down to the river... the water’s fine! If you have benefited from this week's Mortification of Spin you will enjoy The Westminster Doctrine of Baptism and Current Reformed Trajectories by Sinclair Ferguson, a free audio-download from The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals.

Join a provocative conversation with Rachel Miller, News Editor for The Aquila Report and blogger, as she enlightens us about the patriarchy movement, its driving forces, and its many dangers that have gone under the radar in reformed circles. It's all talk about headship, gender roles, and the Duggars. Listen to the team tackle sinister elements of the movement and how to approach it from a pastoral perspective. They laugh, they pry, they get serious. If you have enjoyed this week's Bully Pulpit you will like the free audio download Loving Husbands, Happy Wives by James Boice from The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals. You can recieve your free gift at Reformed Resources.

Gallantly riding in from the White Horse Inn, our guest, Michael Horton -- author and fellow podcaster -- shares his thoughts on reformed theology and how he came upon it garbed in silk and laden with puka shells. Join the usual Spin Team as they discuss some of the nuts and bolts of the reformed faith, ponder how to "get the Gospel right" and discover Dr. James Boice's fascinating role in Horton's 'journey' to reformed theology. This week the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals would like to offer Michael Horton's new book Calvin on the Christian Life as a free giveaway.. Enter to win!

Dating? Courtship? What do those words mean? Do they even matter in today's hook-up culture? What is the best option? Always ready to ruffle some feathers, the gang takes this subject head-on and, in usual Spin fashion, doesn't pull any punches. Their discussion centers around the Duggar family's world of courting rules and regulations. Though Aimee & Todd are the only hosts with daughters, Carl tries hard to throw in his two cents: "Just have sons." Listen in to this casual conversation as the crew destroys the spin once again.If you have enjoyed this week's Bully Pulpit then you will benefit from The First Great Christian Insitution by James Boice, a free audio download from The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals.

This just in: "Polite Society" has banished Carl, Aimee, and Todd to live on Leper Island! While exploring the island they found another outcast, one who was marooned long ago - Phil Johnson. Phil, of the self-proclaimed Pyromaniacs, chats with the gang about starting fires with Frank "The Turk" and "Dispy" Dan Phillips, Charles Spurgeon's prolific preaching, the cult of celebrity pastors, and proper forms of worship. The conversation moves from levity to depth, with all the pomp, circumstance, and pizazz you've come to expect from the spinners. Listen as the crew mortify the spin as only they can. This week The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals would like to give away a free audio-download, Spurgeon the Warrior by Phil Johnson. You can get your free gift at Reformed Resources.

Today our Reformed trifecta considers hopping on the ol' evangelical bandwagon. The gang highlights some understated dangers of churches whose leadership present an alluring faux intimacy and show lack of integrity. They also give loyalty to said leaders and their man-made standards over loyalty to God's standards. With the continued kerfuffle surrounding some well-known pastors, the gang raises an important question: Why don't we speak up before things blow up? Join today's conversation to heed what well-known pastor, blogger, professor, and all-around big-time Christian celebrity, Carl Trueman, and two other people, have to say on this hot topic.If you have benefit from this weeks Bully Pulpit you will enjoy Seven Elements of Successful Shepherding by Timothy Witmer as a free digital download from The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals. Find your free gift at Reformed Resources

Everyone's favorite Welsh theologian returns, and Pelagius has nothing on Derek Thomas! Drop in to hear the Spinners talk with Derek about a whole slew of topics. Principally, they ask him about sin in the lives of pastors. Is it truly "authentic" to be vaguely vulnerable from the pulpit? How do pastor's keep themselves accountable? Hear some of Derek's wisdom on these concerns, and experience the musical delights of karaoke, Welsh style. This week's free MP3 download is a sermon by Derek Thomas entitled, "The Word of God and Sanctification," from the 2013 Princeton Conference on Reformed Theology.

This installment of Mortification of Spin: Bully Pulpit sees the crew discussing a pervasive cultural sensation - The Fifty Shades of Grey book series. Since the release of the movie's first trailer, the Internet is abuzz with talk of the series; some of the hype is even streaming from Christians. The hosts cut to the chase: this is not harmless entertainment, it is pornography, and its effects alter a person's attitude and behavior towards sexuality, ourselves, and others on a fundamental level. As Christians, we must flee from sexual immorality, whether it comes in images or the written word. Listen in to hear what all the spin is about… maybe the issue isn't so grey after all.Don't forget about your free MP3 download, "Pagan Sexuality" by Peter Jones!

Crisis! Todd's past comes back to bite him. This Promise Keepers-sweatshirt-wearing hooligan and the rest of the gang discuss a continually important pastoral subject: leadership. Much of what passes for "leadership training" in the evangelical church is profoundly unhelpful. It has more in common with secular leadership theory than it has with anything found in Scripture. This becomes especially troubling when it comes to pastoral leadership. What qualities should a good leader have? How can pastors improve their leadership capabilities to better serve their churches? Listen in!The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals would like to give you a free MP3 of Dr. James Boice's message from the set Nehemiah: Learning to Lead titled "The Leader and God."

"If you will agree to tithe your income for 90 days and you don't receive a blessing from God, you'll get your money back, guaranteed!" This sort of spiritual mumbo jumbo is, as Carl nicely sums up, bonkers. Those who propose these gimmicks are treating God as a pagan deity, and wrapping it all in vaguely orthodox theology. We can't stand by and accept this "prosperity gospel lite." Tune in to the latest Bully Pulpit and you'll receive a blessing or your wasted time back, guaranteed!Visit Reformed Resources and download the free MP3 by James Boice, "Robbers! Robbers of God."

Dubbed the reformed Harry Styles, William Shatner, and Cruella De Vil, Carl, Todd, and Aimee set out on another spinning adventure. The MoS posse toss around ideas about the biblical concept of finding strength in the midst of weakness. As Christians, we must draw our strength from our brokenness, sinfulness, and weakness. How can pastors shepherd their flocks of weak, broken people as weak, broken people themselves? On a different note, how is Carl similar to Harry Styles? Will he be able to compete for some of Harry's fan girls? Enter the giveaway for your chance to win the audio series "Overcoming Adversity" by James Boice!This study from the book of Genesis focuses on the early life of Joseph. As a young man, Joseph experiences hardships of all kinds, from betrayal and rejection to temptation and loneliness. Through these dark years, Joseph kept his eyes on God, and his faith was strengthened. From studying Joseph’s life, you can learn how God is working in your own difficulties. You’ll see why God allows his people to suffer at times, and what he is doing through our pain. This six-part series is taken from Dr. Boice’s study on the 39th chapter of Genesis.Enter our giveaway now!

Broadcasting from deep within the bowels of a college's frathouse, the wandering band of misfits address campus ministry. Bouncing off of an article published on First Things by Robert Gregory, the gang talks about campus ministry on secular colleges, some of which are making Christian groups hire non-Christian leaders. How should churches respond to this? Should they look toward starting their own on-campus ministries? How can they partner with solid, Bible-beliving, Reformed campus ministries already established? If you have enjoyed this weeks Bully Pulpit, the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals would like to offer you The Cost of Discipleship by James Boice as a free digital download from Reformed Resources.

Quilting needles in hand (just listen, you'll get it), the Spin Team get to a controversial topic once again - this time discussing racial diversity with author Trillia Newbell. Trillia's perspective is a unique and helpful one, as she gets into issues not yet talked about on Mortification of Spin. Especially as Christians, we need to remember to treat other humans beings, created in the image of God, as brothers and sisters. What are practical steps that we can take to help create racially diverse churches? Can Aimee really quilt with nunchuck needles? What will Mrs. Trueman think of Carl's "feminine side?" If you enjoyed todays Mortification of Spin then you might enjoy a free copy of Trillia Newell's book United: Captured by God's Vision for Diversity.WinnersJason D., Haltom City, TXBeth H., Laceys Spring, ALRenee B., Oklahoma City, OKCharles B., Hattiesburg, MSAndrew F., Ben Lomond, CA