Is the world a meaningless churning of random intersecting events or a beautiful place of genius that reveals the reality of God as the ultimate Genius? Dr. Jonathan Witt joins The Denison Forum Podcast to discuss this central question of his book, A Meaningful World: How the Arts and Sciences Reveal the Genius of Nature When we encounter, discover, or help to create things in our world that express the unmistakable qualities of depth, harmony, clarity, and elegance, how do we explain them? What...
Jul 09, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Season 4Ep. 29
In this special episode of The Denison Forum Podcast , Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Mark Turman respond to the devastating floods in Kerrville, Texas, and the surrounding area. Offering both pastoral wisdom and biblical insight, they wrestle with the hard questions that arise in moments of suffering: Why does God allow disasters like this? How can we respond with faith, compassion, and hope? Whether you’re grieving personally or looking for ways to support others, this conversation offers clarity, co...
Jul 07, 2025•54 min•Season 4Ep. 30
On this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Mark Turman welcomes theologian and scientist Dr. Alister McGrath for a thought-provoking conversation on the relationship between science, faith, and the rise of New Atheism. Together, they examine the influence of voices like Richard Dawkins and Christopher Hitchens, and how their arguments have ironically led some to consider the Christian faith more seriously. Drawing from Dr. McGrath’s book Coming to Faith Through Dawkins , the discussion hi...
Jul 02, 2025•1 hr•Season 4Ep. 28
Dr. Tom Rudelius shares his remarkable journey from scientific skepticism to Christianity, guided by his twin brother, challenged by a polygraph test, and ultimately compelled by the story of Jesus. In this thoughtful conversation, he explores how science and faith are not at odds but offer complementary ways of understanding reality. In this conversation with Denison Forum Executive Director Dr. Mark Turman, Dr. Rudelius discusses: 1:51 How his twin brother led him to Christ 5:37 The myth of th...
Jun 25, 2025•50 min•Season 26Ep. 4
Dr. Mark Turman sits down with Dr. Stephen Meyer, director of the Center for Science and Culture at Discovery Institute and author of Return of the God Hypothesis , Darwin’s Doubt , and Signature in the Cell . Together, they explore how recent scientific discoveries—from the origin of the universe to the fine-tuning of the cosmos and the digital code found in DNA—point to the reality of an intelligent designer. Dr. Meyer also reflects on his own journey of faith and reason, offering insight into...
Jun 18, 2025•1 hr 18 min•Season 4Ep. 26
In this special Father's Day episode, Mark Turman, executive director of Denison Forum, sits down with Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Ryan Denison to explore the meaning and calling of fatherhood through a biblical lens. They discuss why Scripture’s view of fathers matters, the surprising history behind Father’s Day, and what it means that Christians call God “Father.” With personal stories and theological reflection, the conversation also looks at today’s challenges—from single parenting to declining ...
Jun 11, 2025•1 hr 9 min•Season 4Ep. 25
Join Mark Turman, Executive Director of Denison Forum, as he sits down with Jason Pieratt, President of Children's Relief International (CRI). In this episode, they discuss the mission and work of CRI, which focuses on meeting both physical and spiritual needs in some of the world's poorest regions. Learn about Jason's personal journey from reluctant teacher to dedicated missionary, and the incredible impact of CRI's programs in areas like child nutrition, education, shelter, and more. Discover ...
Jun 04, 2025•46 min•Season 4Ep. 24
On this special Q&A episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, host Mark Turman is joined by Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Ryan Denison to answer your questions on some of today’s most pressing faith topics. They explore the role of the Pope, Christian nationalism, and the popular Chosen TV series and offer practical insights on what it means to live redemptively in today’s world. You’ll also hear thoughtful discussion on the government’s role in social responsibility, Christian beliefs about communion...
May 28, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Season 4Ep. 23
On this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast , Dr. Mark Turman sits down with Dr. Hormoz Shariat for a thought-provoking conversation at the crossroads of artificial intelligence and Christian faith. With a PhD in AI and a heart for gospel ministry in Iran, Dr. Shariat brings a rare and insightful perspective to the digital revolution shaping our world. Together, they explore how AI has developed over time, what it means for the future of the church, and how Christians can respond with both wisd...
May 21, 2025•54 min•Season 4Ep. 22
On this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast , Dr. Mark Turman welcomes Leigh Scarborough, founder and CEO of Shield of the Children, for a sobering yet vital conversation about the global crisis of child sex trafficking. Drawing from his firsthand work in Southeast Asia and beyond, Leigh shares the harsh realities of trafficking, including the distinction between “soft” and “hard” rescues, the long-term harm caused by pornography, and why major public events like the Super Bowl often become cen...
May 14, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Season 4Ep. 21
In this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast , Dr. Mark Turman is joined by Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Ryan Denison for a thoughtful conversation on the history and diversity within the Christian faith. Together, they explore the key moments that shaped the church, including the Great Schism, the Protestant Reformation, and Vatican II. They also discuss the rise of non-denominational churches and what it looks like to find a faithful church home in today’s landscape. This conversation offers both c...
May 07, 2025•1 hr 12 min•Season 4Ep. 20
On this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast , Dr. Mark Turman is joined by Dr. Glenn Packiam for a timely and thoughtful conversation about the enduring significance of the Nicene Creed. In a cultural moment marked by confusion and instability, they explore how this ancient declaration of faith offers clarity, grounding, and hope. Dr. Packiam—a pastor, theologian, and author—unpacks the creed’s rich theology, the role of the Holy Spirit in our daily lives, and why the communal nature of belief ...
Apr 30, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Season 1Ep. 19
In this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, host Dr. Mark Turman and cultural theologian Dr. Jim Denison reflect on the passing of Pope Francis and what it means for the future of the Catholic Church. Together, they consider the leadership legacy Pope Francis leaves behind and the lessons all Christians can draw from his example. Their conversation touches on the theological and cultural influence of his papacy, the shared convictions and key differences between Catholic and Protestant traditi...
Apr 23, 2025•1 hr 10 min•Season 4Ep. 18
In this special Easter episode of the Denison Forum Podcast , Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Jim Denison reflect on the profound mystery of Jesus’ dual nature—fully God and fully man. Drawing from a unique Easter devotional by Dr. Denison, they explore how Jesus’ humanity invites us into deeper empathy, and how his divinity calls us to deeper faith. From Maundy Thursday to Good Friday and beyond, this conversation considers what it means to follow a Savior who knows our suffering and redeems it. Join u...
Apr 17, 2025•36 min•Season 4Ep. 17
In this special Easter episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, Dr. Mark Turman joins Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Ryan Denison to explore the powerful themes of identity, redemption, and the depth of God’s love. Rooted in Colossians 4, their conversation weaves together biblical insight with historical reflection—from the stories of Mary and Pontius Pilate to the legacy of Winston Churchill. Together, they consider what Easter reveals about who God is and who we are in light of his grace. They also int...
Apr 16, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Season 4Ep. 16
In this episode of The Denison Forum Podcast , Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Ryan Denison continue their conversation around their new book, Who Am I? What the Bible Says About Identity and Why it Matters . Together, they examine the deep cultural confusion surrounding identity and the consequences of building our sense of self on shifting foundations. From race and gender to worldview and insecurity, they explore the powerful influences shaping how people define themselves—and why those definitions o...
Apr 09, 2025•34 min•Season 4Ep. 19
In this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast , Dr. Mark Turman sits down with Dr. Ryan Denison, Senior Editor for Theology at Denison Forum and co-author of their new resource, Who Am I? What the Bible Says About Identity and Why it Matters . Together, they explore what Scripture teaches about identity, how sin distorts our understanding of ourselves, and why recognizing both personal and collective identity in Christ is vital in today’s culture. In a world that prioritizes individualism, they o...
Apr 02, 2025•53 min•Season 4Ep. 14
Join the Denison Forum podcast with host Mark as he discusses the complexities of Artificial Intelligence with Dr. Katie Frugé, the director of the Center for Cultural Engagement with Texas Baptist. This episode examines AI’s potential as both a tool and a risk in our daily lives, the ethical concerns it raises, and its possible benefits in ministry and Bible translation. Explore how AI has evolved, its current applications, and how Christians can thoughtfully integrate and regulate this technol...
Mar 26, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Season 4Ep. 13
Join Mark as he hosts an insightful discussion on the Denison Forum podcast about living a faith-guided life amidst the tragedies of our world. This episode features Laura Hughes and Arica Henry, who share their compelling journeys of recovery and restoration after abortion through God's grace. They introduce their new resource, Redemptive Love, A Journey of Restoration after Abortion , which combines biblical truth and therapeutic tools to help post-abortive women and men find healing. Hear ins...
Mar 19, 2025•55 min•Season 4Ep. 12
Join Mark Turman on the Denison Forum Podcast as he sits down with theologian, apologist, and author Melissa Dougherty to examine the rise of counterfeit Christianity. Melissa shares her insights on the New Thought movement, revealing its deceptive influence on Christian theology and culture. They explore her personal journey from New Thought beliefs to authentic Christianity, the impact of prosperity gospel teachings, and the importance of critical thinking in faith. Explore how New Thought mis...
Mar 12, 2025•58 min•Season 4Ep. 11
Denison Forum is excited to introduce you to our newest podcast, Culture Brief! Join Conner Jones and Micah Tomasella as they unpack the week’s biggest cultural stories, briefing you on trending stories in entertainment, politics, sports, technology, and other topics dominating our culture—all from a Christian perspective. Episodes release every Thursday. Make sure to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode! Culture Brief Channel Culture Brief Trailer...
Mar 07, 2025•43 min
On this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast , Dr. Mark Turman sits down with author and speaker Mary DeMuth to talk about what it means to feel overlooked—both in Scripture and in daily life. They explore the challenges of being unnoticed, the biblical truth of Imago Dei, and how these experiences shape our relationships. Mary shares her own story of wrestling with being overlooked and offers practical wisdom on finding healing through community, prayer, and hospitality. They also look at how J...
Mar 05, 2025•44 min•Season 4Ep. 9
Join Dr. Mark Turman, Executive Director of Denison Forum, for a dynamic roundtable discussion with Dr. Ryan Denison and Josh Miller. Together, they explore a range of timely topics, from the impact of the Gather25 Conference and the growing unity among Christians worldwide to the groundbreaking possibilities of quantum computing. The conversation also highlights the rise in Bible sales, innovative ministries like the ACTS 17 Collective , and movements such as the Alliance for Responsible Citize...
Feb 26, 2025•52 min•Season 4Ep. 8
Join Denison Forum’s podcast host, Dr. Mark Turman, as he engages with Dr. Steve Bezner, pastor of Houston Northwest Church, in an insightful conversation on how Christians can faithfully navigate modern culture. They discuss the tension between biblical and cultural values, the importance of community and racial reconciliation, and what it means to maintain a distinctly Christian identity. Drawing from his ministry experience and his book Your Jesus Is Too American , Dr. Bezner challenges belie...
Feb 19, 2025•54 min•Season 4Ep. 7
Join Denison Forum’s podcast host, Mark Turman, as he engages with author, pastor, and speaker Skye Jethani in a profound discussion about justice, faith, and the teachings of Jesus. They explore the theme of taking Jesus seriously, particularly in the context of the Sermon on the Mount. Skye shares insights from his book, What If Jesus Was Serious About Justice? , highlighting the biblical principles of justice and righteousness. The conversation covers the historical and cultural influences on...
Feb 12, 2025•54 min•Season 4Ep. 6
Join host Mark Turman and Dr. Ryan Denison on the Denison Forum Podcast for a compelling conversation with Ross Douthat, New York Times opinion columnist and bestselling author. In this special episode, they dive into Douthat’s latest book, Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious . Explore the dynamic relationship between faith and reason, the impact of secularization, and the crucial role of communal and institutional religious practices. Gain insight into Douthat’s personal faith journey, hi...
Feb 05, 2025•56 min•Season 4Ep. 5
In this podcast episode, Mark Turman discusses the importance of serving in the Christian faith, highlighting the work of Mercy Ships, an international ministry that provides surgical care to the world's forgotten poor. Raeanne Newquist shares her personal journey with Mercy Ships, detailing the transformative impact of their work on patients and the community. The conversation emphasizes the significance of restoring dignity and humanity to those in need, as well as the personal growth experien...
Jan 29, 2025•56 min•Season 4Ep. 4
Join Dr. Mark Turman, executive director of Denison Forum, as he interviews Pedro Reyes about his extraordinary journey from Cuba to the United States, his battle with sexual addiction, and his ultimate redemption through faith. Pedro shares his heartfelt story of dealing with childhood abuse, the struggles of addiction, and how he found freedom and healing. Learn about the transformative power of grace, the importance of accountability, and how Pedro now ministers as a chaplain for the Texas Ra...
Jan 22, 2025•48 min•Season 4Ep. 3
In this episode, Dr. Mark Turman sits down with Dr. Jim Denison and Dr. Ryan Denison to explore topics ranging from biblical leadership principles, modern temptations, faith, and rationality to the geopolitical implications of Islamic eschatology. They discuss how to balance shepherding and equipping within the church, the importance of rational faith, and how temptation works in our lives today. Listen as they provide thought-provoking insights on how to foster a flourishing community rooted in...
Jan 15, 2025•56 min•Season 4Ep. 2
In this episode of the Denison Forum Podcast, host Mark Turman kicks off 2025 by introducing listeners to the new Culture Brief podcast. Joined by Connor Jones and Micah Tomasella , the discussion covers the objectives and format of Culture Brief, highlighting its focus on news, sports, entertainment, and technology from a biblical perspective. The trio dives into current topics like the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, the tragic murder of a healthcare CEO, and the excitement surrounding NFL ...
Jan 08, 2025•56 min•Season 4Ep. 1
