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/
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36:40
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36:40
Forgive & Forget?
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 are pleased to offer three listeners a copy of Chris Brauns’ book, Unpacking Forgiveness: Biblical Answers for Complex Questions and Deep Wounds, courtesy of Crossway Publishing. Enter here for the opportunity to win.
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25:48
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25:48
Religious Freedom
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 are pleased to offer three listeners a copy of John Wilsey’s book, Religious Freedom: A Conservative Primer, courtesy of Eerdman’s Publishing. Enter here for the opportunity to win.
Show Notes:
Democracy in America by Alexis de Tocqueville
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31:25
Dealing with Criticism
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.
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31:02
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31:02
The Tech Exit
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/
Mortification of Spin is a casual conversation about things that count. Todd Pruitt and Carl Trueman deliver a humorous, informal podcast with bite. Listen for engaging and thought-provoking conversations on the challenges facing the Church and the Christian, and decide for yourself if words spoken in a British accent truly carry more weight…
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