Mortification Of Spin

Emily Zinos visits the bunker. Her Twitter description reads: “Woman, Wife, Mother, Catholic. I've given birth seven times; you don't scare me”. Emily has written an article addressing the latest transgender movement titled "Sex Is Better than Gender"; and the trio wants to dig into the topic a little deeper. Mrs. Zinos tells about how she got involved in the fight against gender identity ideology in the public school system, and why language plays a vital part in forwarding this social issue. The word "gender" is being used in different ways by different groups of people, but Emily breaks down the most frequent uses and offers a much better option to eliminate the gender confusion.You must listen to find out if a woman can still be a woman if she drives a truck and smokes cigars!The Paideia Center for Theological Writing, RTS Orlando, is giving away a number of free registrations for this coming Fall reading groups. Sign up to read the classics along with people all over the country!Show NotesHands Across th

The Spin Squad strikes again! The current mission is to put the kibosh on the latest trend in evangelicalism: the dreaded “personality tests.”What are the origins of the Enneagram? Can people really be defined and perfectly fit into one of its nine categories? Should Christians rely on such tests, like the Myers-Briggs, for direction in life and ministry?  Since all nine Enneagram categories are pretty positive, you’ll discover just how great you really are, and how much awesomeness you can offer to your local church and beyond! Carl swears that this is very much an “American thing;” he’s taken the test, and didn’t fit any of the categories. Even John Paul II has something to say about such fads. Listen in!Show Notes· George GurdjieffWe’re pleased to give away a resource mentioned in this episode. Register for the opportunity to win a copy of The Personality Brokers by Merve Emre.

Kevin Vanhoozer joins the team for a conversation about his latest book Hearers and Doers: A Pastor’s Guide to Making Disciples through Scripture and Doctrine. Kevin is the Research Professor of Systematic Theology at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and a prolific author. In Hearers and Doers, Kevin draws the connection between doctrine, discipleship and pastoral ministry for spiritual wholeness.Is discipleship an optional part of Christianity? Tune in for this fascinating conversation about the cultural secularization of the idea of wellness (as opposed to the biblical definition), and its relationship to discipleship.Show NotesC.S. Lewis institute - http://www.cslewisinstitute.org/Is There a Meaning in This Text? By Kevin VanhoozerBiblical Authority After Babel by Kevin VanhoozerThanks to our friends of Lexham Press, we’re giving away copies of Hearers and Doers. Register for the opportunity to win one!

While Todd is having some Tex-Mex with friends at the PCA General Assembly, Carl and Aimee take a look at the latest resolutions and issues happening there, and at the Southern Baptist Convention, because—frankly—nothing interesting ever happens in the OPC!The stalwart duo discusses the structure of ecclesiastical bodies, the function of committee reports, and how much binding power they have. C & A also assess the power of parachurch organizations, and all the hubbub among celebrity pastors on Twitter. Who needs reality shows, with all the Christian drama on social media! We’re pleased to give away a few copies of D. G. Hart’s book Between the Times, which is a publication of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. Register for the opportunity to win one.

Despite Carl’s incessant prayers, the Lord has not granted the desires of his heart concerning his co-hosts! Nevertheless, he’s learning to be content with Todd and Aimee. Does God always listen to the prayers of His people? If so, why don’t we always get a positive outcome? What, then, is the purpose of praying?Along with their thoughts on prayer, the trio reflects on the spin that death has taken on in these modern days. Are there lessons to be learned as we stand in the presence of a dead or dying loved one?We are giving away a few copies of Remember Death: The Surprising Path to Living Hope. Register for an opportunity to win one. The books are a courtesy of our friends at Crossway.

Who would have thought a few years ago that today, blogging would be considered a great intellectual exercise…in comparison to the complex ideas we now try to discuss in 280 characters or less?The ugliness of Christians belittling other Christians on social media can be disheartening, indeed. But is there any salvageable reason for keeping a Twitter or Facebook account? The trio comes out to discuss the topic, among others. Our spin-killers touch on the self-promotion of failed ministers who left wreckage behind them, and are now capitalizing on their comeback stories of “grace and redemption.” How have Christians come to ignore the biblical qualifications of church leaders where a ‘Christian celebrity’ is concerned?Show NotesNeil Shenvi on TwitterRobert GeorgeThe book of James talks much about what the Christian speech should and should not be like, so we’re giving away The Message of James—part of The Bible Speaks Today series by Alec Motyer. Register for the opportunity to win a copy. They’re a generous gi

Are Christians promised a life free from suffering? If not, how should we respond when trouble comes our way?The team considers suffering and the place of lament in the life of the Christian. Is it wrong or sinful to lament? What should one say to God when going through the valley of the shadow?Scripture has the answer! The Psalms especially are full of instruction on how to praise God in our lament, and offer hope in the “vale of tears” that life on earth can be.Settle in for a deep conversation, and take note of the place the Lord has provided for His suffering children, and the witness they bring to other members of the body. Show Notes·Todd Billings’ Interview - When You Know You’re DyingWe recommend, and are happy to give away a few copies of, J.Todd Billings’ book Rejoicing in Lament.Register for the opportunity to win one! The books are a generous gift from our friends at Brazos Press.

It seems like a never-ending story, but there’s more disturbing news about the saga of a certain celebrity pastor. The crew finds cover in the bunker, and “takes a shot” at commenting on the allegations that this high-profile reverend tried to hire…a hit man. You can’t make this stuff up!Who is immune to excesses and abuse of power in ministry? Could congregants be enabling the abusive behavior of their leaders? The trio shines a light on the total depravity of the human heart, and reviews the temptations that haunt the leaders of churches from 12 to 12,000.Show Notes7 Reasons Not to Send Nude SelfiesGoodFellasWe’re giving away a great resource on the topic! Register for the opportunity to win a copy of Liberating Ministry From the Success Syndrome by Kent and Barbara Hughes. The copies are a complimentary gift of our friends at Crossway.

It’s widely known that Carl and Todd are the Presbyterian symbols of natural good looks, and rumor has it that they’re working on a line of male grooming products. People are noticing how Carl has sloughed off a few decades of decay since starting to use Kiehl's Age Defender Moisturizer.(Disclaimers: No endorsement implied, no compensation offered. Speak to your doctor before starting any skin regimen. Results may not be typical. Member FDIC)What does this have to do with today’s topic? Absolutely nothing! The real conversation is about a recent article interview with Dr. Dru Johnson on personal devotional time. Is there a right or wrong way to do daily devotionals? Must one have a set time for it? Is it sinful to miss these “quiet times?” How essential are devotionals for the Christian? The crew reviews Dr. Dru’s answers, and recommends some additional resources to enhance your spiritual life.Show Notes·A Scholar’s Devotion with Dru Johnson·Daily Readings - The Early Church Fathers·On God and Man - The Theol

While Aimee is away, Todd and Carl are feeling pretty empowered to have a free conversation in their “safe space.”In light of the abhorrent shooting at a Poway, CA synagogue some weeks ago, the guys are pondering the extent of responsibility inherent upon church officers and members to “police” the behavior of other congregants. They also discuss the new areas of concern that social media has created for pastors.At what point can it be determined that a congregant is crossing the line on social media, requiring some pastoral intervention? Don’t miss this unique opportunity to hear Carl actually complimenting Todd. This may never happen again!Show Notes·Who’s to Blame When the Shooter is One of Our Own? by Carl Trueman·Kinism 

The trio meets at the VA bunker, and—even without their morning coffee—they manage to answer a few listener questions. Aimee brings up the “bad book” box, as Carl tries to offer an eco-friendly disposal solution for hazardous theological material.What’s the difference between error and heresy? Up to what age can the behavior of the child of a church office bearer disqualify him for leadership? What does it mean to manage the household well? And, last but not least, are Christian camps and conferences an appendix of the Church, or might they become an obstacle to regular attendance at the Sunday gathering? You don’t want to miss all the wisdom offered in this episode!

John V. Fesko is the current Academic Dean and professor of Systematic and Historical Theology at Westminster Seminary California…but, he’s packing up and getting ready to move to Jackson, MS where he’ll be teaching at Reformed Theological Seminary. The team rolls up its proverbial sleeves and gives Fesko a hand with the boxes, while carrying out a conversation about his latest, “Reforming Apologetics”.The professor addresses his exploration of classical reformed theology, and some of the views held by Cornelius Van Til that distanced him from the confessional tradition. Is God the starting point for all knowledge? How do the Reformed confessions approach the topic? Is Fesko going back to the “vomit of Rome”, as some would say, or is the light of nature an important truth to be considered?Register for an opportunity to win a free copy of Reforming Apologetics: Retrieving the Classic Approach to Defending the Faith. The books are a complimentary gift of Baker Academics.

Simonetta Carr makes her return to the bunker. She’s written a number of Christian books (including some wonderful children’s biographies) and she’s also a contributor of Place for Truth, another Alliance website.This time around, Simonetta joins the team to talk about a very different kind of book she’s written lately: Broken Pieces, and the God Who Mends Them. It’s a memoir of her son, where she addresses mental illness from a very personal and painful experience.Simonetta’s story doesn’t end there, as the second part of the book’s title suggests. She also shares the encouragement found in the weekly preaching of God’s Word, and all the ways in which the Lord has blessed her through suffering. Pull up a chair, and join in the discussion.We are pleased to give away some copies of Simonetta’s book Broken Pieces and the God Who Mends Them. Register for the opportunity to win one. The copies are a complimentary gift from our friends at P&R Publishing.

Matthew Barrett is the associate professor of Christian Theology at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas, MO. Matthew joins in to chat about his latest work, None Greater: The Undomesticated Attributes of God.If you’re wondering what Matthew means by the word “undomesticated,” you’re not alone! Could it be that—because of our fallen, limited abilities to apprehend the infinite attributes of God—we tend to try and “tame” Him, or “pull Him down” to our level? Are those immutable attributes what make Him worthy of worship? Don’t miss this thoughtful conversation about the relationship between the doctrine of God and His divine attributes.Show Notes· David Bentley Hart· Stephen Charnock· Herman BavinckWe are pleased to give away a few copies of None Greater. Register for the opportunity to win. The copies are a complimentary gift of Baker Books.

Carl and Aimee travel to a much nicer bunker this week, enjoying the comfort of Todd’s fully renovated quarters in VA. Joining them is Tim Geiger, president of Harvest USA, to chat about his sessions on Gender, Sexuality, and What it Means to be Human, the theme of this year’s Blue Ridge Bible Conference.Tim tells us how Harvest USA began, and how its focus has expanded as the needs of the church and the surrounding communities have broadened. As an attendee of the recent Revoice conference, Tim shares his perspective on the event, and its approach to the nature of identity and personhood.Is it right for one to consider himself a “gay Christian?” What does that say about one’s identity and calling? Tune in for this critical and timely conversation.Show Notes·Harvest USA·Hide or Seek by John Freeman·When Your Husband is Addicted to Pornography by Vicki TiedeThanks to our friends of New Growth Press, we can offer our listeners a few copies of Hide or Seek by John Freeman. Register for the opportunity to win one

After the announcement that the physical Lifeway stores are closing down, the crew reflects on the nostalgic feeling of browsing through books in a brick and mortar bookstore, and the happiness derived from those “accidental findings” on the shelves. The three weigh the pros and cons of purchasing books from local businesses vs. online shopping. Later, our peerless podcasters discuss the neglect of Matthew 18, and how it is sometimes poorly applied. What are the biblical steps to be followed when conflict arises among members of the body? Is Matthew 18 applicable to those who commit public error? The trio remember instances where correction for the purpose of restoration takes a different form than Matthew 18. And—as an episode bonus—Todd shares some useful tips on what to ask when booking a hotel for a weekend getaway. It’s un-“fur”-gettable!

Along with the preached word, there’s another important aspect central to the life of a church: how the members of the body interact throughout the week.Tony Payne heads the Center for Christian Living at Moore College in Sydney, Australia. He’s also a director at Matthias Media. One of Tony’s most well-known books is The Trellis and the Vine, but today he’s been summoned to the bunker to chat up his work in progress, addressing speech in the Christian community.How does speech—outside of the formal worship service—shape, inform, and impact the Christian community? In his work, Tony considers how members of the body should minister to one another for the purpose of edification by considering how several passages in the New Testament apply to today’s church.Show Notes·The Trellis and the Vine by Tony PayneThanks to our friends at Matthias Media we’re giving away The Small Group and the Vine Bundle, a 5-week course for training small group leaders. Register for the opportunity to win. 

The crew huddles in the bunker to discuss a two-volume work that has gotten a lot of attention since its publication last summer. The Devil’s Redemption by Michael McClymond is a thorough, scholarly work and honest critique of Universalism in all its forms.Is Universalism the same as Christian Universalism? It’s important to observe how popular evangelicalism has been affected by strands of seemly incomparable traditions, producing an almost unnoticeable Universalism in Christian churches today.The discomfort that comes with the idea of hell, coupled with the notion that Jesus will eventually save everyone, brings serious compromise to a biblical understanding of God’s grace.Show Notes·Karl Rahner

At first glance, drinking coffee or watching birds on a telephone wire might not inspire a sense of wonder. But can we find more in these ordinary moments? Pierce Taylor Hibbs is the associate director of the Theological English Department at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, and he’s joined the conversation to help us recognize the sacred in that which may seem mundane. Pierce has written Finding God in the Ordinary, offering reflections on (re)training the mind to see creation through the lens of Scripture, in all its awesomeness. Is it possible to see God’s hand in this fallen world when dealing with things like anxiety and death? Hibbs provides a helpful and nuanced perspective.Show NotesAbout Pierce Find Pierce hereKarl Ove KnausgardKenneth Lee PikeThe Speaking Trinity and His Worded World by Pierce T. HibbsStruck Down but not DestroyedRegister for the opportunity to win a free copy of Finding God in the Ordinary. The copies are a complimentary gift from our friends at Wipf & Stock.

The lines of battle are drawn early in this debate, as Todd accuses Carl and Aimee of being too “inclusive,” and Carl and Todd indict Aimee for being, well…female. Sounds like a typical day in the bunker!More importantly, the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals, along with Covenant Presbyterian and P&R Publishing, are joining forces to host Gender, Sexuality, and What it Means to be Human—the Blue Ridge Bible Conference in Harrisonburg, VA on March 29th and 30th. Tim Geiger, president of Harvest USA, is the special guest speaker, while Carl and Todd are just along for the ride.How are we to think of ourselves as persons? How does one consider gender and the moral status of sexual attraction in light of Scripture? Society’s views on sexuality have been changing rapidly, but the roots of such changes are certainly old and deep. Plan to attend, and meet the crew at the conference!We’re happy to offer you the opportunity to win a free registration for the Blue Ridge Bible Conference. Register now!