Thinking Christian: Clear Theology for a Confusing World

Are you feeling stuck in patterns of hurt, shame, or relational brokenness? In this episode of  Thinking Christian , Dr. James Spencer is joined by Justin and Trish Davis, authors of One Choice Away from Change and founders of RefineUs Ministries. Together, they explore how small, intentional choices can lead to lasting transformation in our faith, relationships, and personal growth. Key topi...

In this episode of  Thinking Christian , Dr. James Spencer is joined by Angie Velasquez Thornton to discuss the challenges of handling criticism, fostering accountability, and maintaining unity in Christian public ministry. As an experienced writer, podcaster, and ministry leader, Angie shares her insights on navigating online discourse, the importance of local church accountability, and how...

In this special announcement, Dr. James Spencer shares details about the upcoming German Reformation Tour , running from October 30 to November 9, 2025. Explore the theological and political heritage of Germany with stops in Wittenberg, Munich, Nuremberg, and beyond. From the legacy of Martin Luther to the resistance of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, this unique tour blends biblical insight, historical dept...

In this episode of Thinking Christian , Dr. James Spencer sits down with authors Linson Daniel, Jon Hietbrink, and Eric Rafferty to discuss their new book, Reviving Mission: Awakening to the Everyday Movement of God . Together, they explore how mission and revival are inseparable, why cynicism hinders spiritual growth, and how to recognize and join God’s work in the ordinary moments of life....

How should Christians think about race and justice five years after George Floyd? In this episode of  Thinking Christian , Dr. James Spencer welcomes back Ed Uszynski, author of Untangling Critical Race Theory , to explore the nuanced realities of race, politics, and faith. They discuss the pendulum swings of political ideologies, the role of the church in fostering biblical justice, and how...

Deconstruction is often misunderstood—some see it as a step toward renewal, while others fear it as a path to apostasy. But what if we’re missing the deeper reality? In this episode of Thinking Christian , Dr. James Spencer talks with Ian Harber, author of Walking Through Deconstruction: How to Be a Companion in a Crisis of Faith . Together, they explore the personal and cultural force...

In this episode of  Thinking Christian , James Spencer and Nate Giarratano take a deep dive into the complexities of meritocracy, systemic sin, and hiring practices. Using personal stories and broader cultural conversations—sparked by a recent presidential speech—they examine whether hiring is ever truly based on merit alone. They explore how networks, relationships, and instituti...

Can Christians faithfully engage in politics without compromising their convictions? In this episode of Thinking Christian , Dr. James Spencer is joined by Dr. Jesse Covington, Dr. Brian T. McGraw, and Dr. Micah Watson, co-authors of Hopeful Realism: Evangelical Natural Law and Democratic Politics . Together, they explore how natural law provides a foundation for engaging in the public square whil...

In this episode of Thinking Christian , James and Nate explore the razor-thin line Christian journalism walks between accountability and bearing false witness. Prompted by a controversy at the NRB convention, they discuss the tension between exposing sin and rushing to judgment, the biblical framework for justice and accountability, and the consequences of premature or biased reporting. How should...

he church is at a crossroads. With rising disaffiliation and declining trust, how can we re-engage the next generation? How do we stop the drift and disciple effectively in today's world? In this episode of Thinking Christian , Dr. James Spencer welcomes Raymond Chang , Executive Director of 10x10 Collaboration at Fuller Seminary and co-author of Future Focused Church . They explore: 📌 Key Topics...

Is your work-life balance out of sync? Do you struggle with burnout, workaholism, or feeling like your job defines you? In this episode of Thinking Christian , Dr. James Spencer sits down with Ariana Malloy , communication professor at Biola University and author of Healthy Calling: From Toxic Burnout to Sustainable Work , to unpack the dangers of job idolatry, the power of Sabbath, and how humili...

As AI and digital technology become more embedded in our daily lives, what does it really mean to be human? Are we losing our sense of identity, community, and embodied faith? In this episode of Thinking Christian , Dr. James Spencer sits down with Dr. Shane Wood , New Testament professor at Ozark Christian College , to explore how technology is shaping our understanding of humanity, relationships...

Will artificial intelligence shape the future of Christian discipleship, ministry, and outreach? Chase Capo , leader in AI relationship development for Glue , joins Dr. James Spencer on Thinking Christian to explore how faith-based AI is offering a powerful alternative to mainstream models like ChatGPT. 📌 Key Discussion Topics: ✅ What makes Christian AI different from secular AI? ✅ How AI can h...

s technology shaping us more than we realize ? Are we losing our ability to rest, reflect, and be present ? In this episode of Thinking Christian , Dr. James Spencer sits down with Dr. Felicia Wu Song , sociologist and author of Restless Devices: Recovering Personhood, Presence, and Place in the Digital Age (InterVarsity Press). They explore how digital technology influences our sense of self , wh...

Technology is shaping our world at an unprecedented rate —but how should Christians respond? Are we thoughtfully engaging with the digital world, or are we being shaped by it in ways we don’t even realize? In this episode of Thinking Christian , Dr. James Spencer sits down with Dr. Derek Schuurman , Professor of Computer Science at Calvin University and author of Shaping a Digital Worl...

William Wilberforce wasn’t just a politician—he was a man of deep faith who leveraged his influence to fight for abolition, social reform, and gospel-driven cultural transformation. In this episode of  Thinking Christian , Dr. James Spencer is joined by Michael Morgan, president of William Tennant Seminary, to explore the life and legacy of Wilberforce. How did Wilberforce’s...

In this episode of  Thinking Christian , James sits down with Dr. Chris Rappazzini, professor of leadership at Anderson University, author of Moving Forward After Messing Up , and founder of Faithful Steps Forward. James and Chris discuss how leadership serves as a specialized form of discipleship, the tension between cultural adaptation and biblical foundations in leadership theories, and th...

In this episode of  Thinking Christian , Dr. James Spencer sits down with Mark Hancock, CEO of Trail Life USA, to discuss the unique challenges of raising boys in today’s culture. Mark shares how Trail Life USA is equipping the next generation of godly men through Christ-centered, boy-focused outdoor experiences. Together, they explore topics like the importance of adversity, the transf...

In this episode, James and Nate welcom Sean McNamara, Chief Sports Officer for FCA. They discuss the ministry of FCA and the expanding arena of sports ministry. Sean talks about the changes he is seeing in the mission field, as well as offering insight into the ongoing importance of Christian coaches and players in taking Christ to the world.  If you are interested in supporting the Thinking...

What does Job teach us about suffering, trauma, and faith? In this episode of Thinking Christian , Dr. James Spencer welcomes Dr. Michelle Keener , Associate Research Fellow at the Kirby Laing Center for Public Theology and Director of Discipleship at her church in Las Vegas. Dr. Keener is the author of Comfort in the Ashes: Explorations in the Book of Job to Support Trauma Survivors , and togethe...

In this episode of Thinking Christian , Dr. James Spencer welcomes back Dr. May Young, Associate Professor and Department Chair of Biblical Studies at Taylor University, to discuss her newly published book, Walking with God Through the Valley: Rediscovering the Purpose of Biblical Lament . Together, they explore the ancient Near Eastern context of lament, its unique role in Scripture, and its rele...

In this episode, James welome Joe Beckler, Vice President of Development, Marketing, and Communications for Christian Business Men's Connection (CBMC). James and Joe discuss the unique work that Chrisitan executives and business men do, as well as the ongoing need for discipleship. They also consider the nature and process of discipleship as they think about how the body of Christ can be a light f...

In this episode of Thinking Christian , James and Nate reflect on their deep dive into the intersection of faith and politics throughout 2024 as we look ahead to the presidential inauguration. They explore how Christians can engage in politics while brining politcs under the authority of Christ. From insights on civil religion and Christian nationalism to the problem of making baseless theological...

In this episode, James welcomes Brandon Robbins. Brandon is a pastor and YouTube content creator. James and Brandon discuss his forthcoming book titled The Forgotten Teachings of Jesus , the TV series The Chosen , and the way he thinks about pastoral ministry. Brandon offers encouragement for those who might be "on the fence" about The Chosen noting that he is seeing the show uncover a hunger for...

Show Description: In this episode of Thinking Christian , we explore the deeper purpose behind New Year's resolutions from a Christian perspective. Should Christians make resolutions? How can we align our goals with biblical wisdom and cultivate lasting transformation in the new year? Join host Dr. James Spencer as we dive into scripture, unpack common cultural views on resolutions, and discover h...