Mortification Of Spin

Much to Carl’s relief, Todd dresses up this week for a serious conversation about the controversial issue of Satan and demons. When is Satan introduced in the Bible, and how are we to understand his power? And how are we to view the demonic realm and its influence in our daily lives?  Crossway has provided a few giveaway copies of Against the Darkness by Graham Cole for our listeners. Register here for the opportunity to win. Show Notes: Evil and the Cross: An Analytical Look at the Problem of Pain, by Henri Blocher

Carl and Todd sit down with long-time friend and Theology on the Go podcast host, Jonathan Master, to discuss his latest book, Reformed Theology. In this practical book, Jonathan provides a helpful primer for church leaders, study groups, and anyone who wants a well-rounded and concise overview of Reformed theology. Now what was it that Carl said that had Jonathan so concerned? Tune in and find out. Thank you to our friends at P&R Publishing for providing three copies of Jonathan's book for giveaway. The winners of the drawing are Tiffany C. from Poncha Springs, CO, John P. from Chickamauga, GA, and Chip B. from Baltimore, MD.  

Abraham Kuyper and Herman Bavinck sparked a theological tradition in the Netherlands that came to be known as Neo-Calvinism. While studies in neo-Calvinism have focused primarily on its political and philosophical insights, its theology has received less attention. Carl and Todd welcome Cory Brock and Gray Sutanto to discuss their new book, by the same name as this podcast, which provides a thoroughly theological introduction to neo-Calvinism, which many consider much needed. We were provided three copies of their book for giveaway, courtesy of Lexham Press, and the winners are Chris C. from Weyers Cave, VA, Michael Y. from Rolling Hills Estates, CA, and Austin V. from Mount Jackson, VA. Congratulations!

The recent horrific murders at a Nashville Christian school compel Carl and Todd to discuss how believers should respond in the face of such inexplicable tragedy. It’s safe to say that most people—believers included—don’t consider in advance what they might say or do when answers are few. Our hosts offer precious biblical insight and pastoral experience to help us understand how we might represent Christ to others in such painful circumstances. Recent guest Mark Talbot knows well what it means to suffer loss. Crossway provided a copy of Mark’s landmark book When the Stars Disappear as a giveaway, and the winner was Melody P. from Matthews, NC. Congratulations!

“Citizen Carl” Trueman flies without a co-pilot as he interviews author Leah Savas. She joins the legendary Marvin Olasky in writing The Story of Abortion in America: A Street-Level History, 1652-2022. The book offers a unique historical perspective that digs deep between the milestones of the abortion journey in the US and the laws that shaped it to provide insight into the cultural aspects of the story. Crossway Publishers graciously provided a number of copies of the book for a giveaway. Congratulations to the winners: Mark H. from Hampton, VA, Kevin G. from Harbeson, DE, and Kim D. from Knoxville, TN.

As international best-selling author Carl Trueman enjoys a few days among the “jet set” in Rome, faithful pastor and co-host Todd Pruitt sits down with guest Michael Allen. Dr. Allen serves as professor of systematic theology and academic dean at Reformed Theological Seminary Orlando. Despite his better judgment, Allen returns to the podcast to chat about his two newest books, released concurrently. Today’s conversation touches on themes guiding each book, including how the fear of the Lord should influence theological method and how the knowledge of God is communicated through the Word of God.  Thanks to T&T Clark Publishers for providing two copies of Dr. Allen’s The Fear of the Lord: Essays on Theological Method for giveaway, and congratulations to our winners: Diane S. from Franklin, TN and Jakub N. from Knoxville, TN.

Carl is flying solo as host for today's podcast and—after a few moments of linguistic snobbery—finds time in his "shed-jule" to interview Abigail Favale. She's a professor at the University of Notre Dame and author of The Genesis of Gender: A Christian Theory. Dr. Favale explains that current "gender theory" finds its roots in feminist and postmodern thought, and is now reshaping language, law—perhaps even our own self-perceptions. Today's guest dares to define such words as "woman" and "man" and reminds us that biblical paradigms should lead Christians in how to live beyond cultural notions of gender identity.  Ignatius Press provided three giveaway copies of Abigail's book, The Genesis of Gender. Our winners were Jason P. from Hudson, OH, Michael H. from Monterey, CA, and Jeffrey S. from Cary, NC. Congratulations!

After reminding listeners of the great public service they provide through this podcast, the beneficent Messrs. Pruitt and Trueman welcome a special guest. Mark Jones is a PCA pastor serving in British Columbia, CA, and the author of numerous books. His most recent work is a two-volume set updating and explaining Stephen Charnock’s classic Discourses upon the Existence and Attributes of God. Jones’ unabridged presentation is designed to encourage and instruct theologians and laypersons alike with a greater understanding of Charnock’s insights and Bible exegesis and—in turn—provide an enhanced appreciation of who God truly is. Crossway Publishing provided a pair of giveaway copies of Mark’s book, The Existence and Attributes of God. Our winners were: *Brandi H. from Fort Morgan, CO  *Ken S. from Murrysville, PA

You’re familiar with non-Christian teachings that simply reject traditional Bible truth. Perhaps just as dangerous are Christian teachings that distort the Gospel, twist Scripture, and introduce New Age and mystical thinking into the faith. Authors Holly Pivec and R. Douglas Geivett expose one such set of fringe teachings that have quickly become mainstream in their new book, Counterfeit Kingdom: The Dangers of New Revelation, New Prophets, and New Age Practices in the Church. Carl and Todd welcome Holly and Doug for a discussion of the New Apostolic Reformation, or NAR, offering practical suggestions for those who are influenced by the movement or suspect its presence in their own churches. As always, the best way to spot a counterfeit faith is to be intimately familiar with the genuine article! We congratulate the winners of a copy of the book, courtesy of B&H Publishing:  *Charles S. from Philadelphia, PA    *Jerod H. from Newcastle, WA  *Howard Q. from Asheville, NC

Christian understanding of the Holy Spirit ranges from calling Him an “it,” to claiming the Spirit is a mere independent force operating in the universe. Systematic and historical theology professor Robert Letham reminds us that the Holy Spirit is holy God, a person of the triune Godhead operating in perfect harmony and inseparably with the Father and Son. In his latest book, Dr. Letham skillfully addresses disputed beliefs about, and perceptions of, The Holy Spirit. Congratulations to our winners of Dr. Letham's book, courtesy of P&R Publishing: *Isaiah H. in Colorado Springs, CO *Caleb K. from Lynchburg, VA *Reed D. of Montgomery, AL

Our intrepid podcasters set out to answer one of life’s most pressing questions: Mello Yello® or Mountain Dew®? This specific gastronomic dilemma should quickly identify today’s special guest. Kevin DeYoung’s dietary list may read like the kid’s menu at Denny’s®, but his theological scholarship is unparalleled. The famed pastor, professor, and author once again places his reputation at risk to visit with Spin-Meisters Carl and Todd. Dr. DeYoung is one of the speakers for the 2023 Philadelphia Conference on Reformed Theology (PCRT) in East Lansing, MI, and Bryn Mawr, PA. On today’s episode, Kevin discusses this year’s theme—Here We Stand: The Five Solas of the Reformation—as he deftly avoids questions about fine cigars and chicken nuggets. Alliance Publishing congratulates our winners of copies of the book Our Sovereign God, edited by James Montgomery Boice: *Daniel B. from Winfield, IL  *Brian R. from Greenville, SC  *William L. from Auburn, AL

Many churches have men in the pulpit who care for the flock, remembering they are "shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood." Their ministries can be a resource for unity, healing, and growth for a congregant. But in recent years, several high-profile cases of abuse have been reported—and there are many more we don't hear about. Often, the victims of such abuse are compelled to suffer in silence. Michael Kruger serves as a professor and president at the Charlotte campus of Reformed Theological Seminary, and he—once again—places his reputation in jeopardy by appearing on this podcast. With his new book, Michael seeks to help leaders and laypersons identify and deal with the problems that may be caused by spiritual abuse in their church. All as Todd continues to proselytize for your conversion to Presbyterianism. Congrats to our winners of a copy of Michael's book, Bully Pulpit: Confronting the Problem of Spiritual Abuse in the Church, courtesy Zondervan Reflective: *John H. from Rio

How swiftly things change. Signed into law in 1996, the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) refused to codify same-sex “marriage” federally, as it preserved the rights of each state to choose to recognize such unions. Recently, President Biden signed the Respect for Marriage Act (RFMA), repealing DOMA and requiring the federal government and every US state and territory to recognize homosexual matrimony.   So what is marriage if it can be redefined in less than 30 years? Carl and Todd analyze statements made by the president and others as they discuss whether religious liberties will truly be preserved. Could RFMA provide an entree for polygamy or other challenges to the Christian definition of marriage? Are traditional mores still relevant? Congratulations to our winners of copies of What is Marriage? Man and Woman: A Defense: . *Joe G. of Meridien, ID *Donald T. from Omaha, NE *Brian M. of Annapolis, MD

Brad Littlejohn reminds us of the powerful influence of Protestant social teaching throughout the millennia. In his roles as president of the Davenant Institute, professor, author, and researcher, our guest has spoken of the radically anti-human concepts now creeping into the national dialogue as the leavening influence of Christian moral teachings is redefined or forgotten. Dr. Littlejohn‘s essays are an essential contribution to the book Protestant Social Teaching: An Introduction, where the reader will come to appreciate that the tradition of Protestant moral theology still offers concrete guidance for political, social, medical, and judicial leaders on subjects like marriage, sexuality, life, death, and more. We'd like to congratulate our winners of a copy of Protestant Social Teaching, courtesy of the Davenant Press: *Collin W. from Beaufort, SC  *Andrew B. from Ruston, LA  *Stacy C. from Akron, OH

Alisa Childers knows the difference between “live the truth” and “live your truth.” In her new book, the former ZOEgirl singer/songwriter explains how modern lies disguised as truth in today’s culture have taken hold in many churches. Does Scripture call Christians to “follow their hearts” and “make their dreams a reality?” Alisa points the way to freedom and relief from popular deceptions that can leave us anxious, exhausted, and self-obsessed.  Congratulations to our winners of a copy of Alisa's book, Live Your Truth and Other Lies, courtesy of Tyndale Elevate: *Freddy F. from Jacksonville, AR  *D. Lee G. from Friday Harbor, WA  *Kenny L. from Spokane, WA  

One of our guests encourages parents listening in to enforce a “PG-13” content label on today’s show, but—remembering some disturbing stories Todd has shared on the podcast—we confidently move forward with today’s topic. On the table: a frank discussion of the ongoing fallout from the Revoice conference and other sexually-charged issues challenging the Church.  Joining Carl and Todd are author, speaker, former professor, and current sock maker Rosaria Butterfield, along with Joshua Gielow. Joshua is from truthXchange, an organization that helps the next Christian generation think clearly and live virtuously in a culture antagonistic to their faith. You’ll learn to discern the subtle shifts in language used to normalize certain behaviors making their way into the Church and the attitude of victimhood used to silence any criticism.  Congrats to our winners of copies of The New Reformation Catechism on Human Sexuality by Christopher Gordon: *Karlie B. from Deltona, FL (who also won a pair of socks hand-knitted b

Few of us will forget the hot summer of 2020. The COVID pandemic closed schools and businesses, and—as many Americans were shuttered in their homes—angry mobs took to the empty streets protesting police brutality, perceived inequities, and other burning issues. Some sense of order has since returned, but can we afford to move forward without a careful evaluation of what brought fire to our streets? Our returning guest, Christian philosopher and apologist Dr. Douglas Groothuis, is a prolific author and professor of Philosophy at Denver Seminary. His latest release considers what Jesus followers bring to the current debate about race and gender in America, offering insight into the origins and dangers of critical theory. Carl and Todd’s evocative questions foster a conversation you won’t want to miss. Thanks to Salem Books we have our winners of copies of Fire in the Streets: How You Can Confidently Respond to Incendiary Cultural Topics by Douglas Groothuis: *Scott T. from Tomball, TX  *Mark S. of Rochester, M

From the EIP (Excellence in Podcasting) Studios, it’s David Limbaugh! The brother of the late talk radio icon is an attorney and distinguished author in his own right. David joins us today to discuss his latest book and discern whether Carl’s accent is authentic, wholly contrived, or simply unnecessary.   The goal of The Resurrected Jesus: The Church in the New Testament, co-authored with daughter Christen Limbaugh Bloom, is to draw readers closer to Jesus by focusing on the Savior’s intimate friends and their epistles to the Church. In the process, we learn that many of the struggles of the early Church are similar to those Christians encounter today.   Congrats to Mike N. in Wooster, OH, the winner of a copy of The Resurrected Jesus courtesy of Regnery Publishing.   

Carl and Todd are, for the first time in quite a while, recording their podcast face-to-face within the Alliance compound. Careful to remain socially distanced—not because of COVID, but to prevent any regrettable chance of human contact whatsoever—the pair welcomes Dr. Neil Shenvi to the mix. He’s a former Yale and Duke University researcher turned homeschooling father with a passion for Christian apologetics. Of course, every new generation brings with it a fresh set of challenges for the apologist. The “new atheist” may find Christianity to be, for example, oppressive of women or impossibly judgmental. Is the Bible true, or even morally good? Our guest engages with the best contemporary arguments against the faith and provides a clear and compelling case to embrace Christ and Christianity. Congrats to our winners of a copy of Shenvi’s Why Believe? A Reasoned Approach to Christianity: *Annette K. of Speculator, NY    *Brant K. from Sygnet, OH    *Tyler H. of Colorado Springs, CO

After a few moments of whining about their generous Alliance salaries, our pouty podcasters welcome a return guest—a "repeat offender," as Carl sees it—to the Spin. In the second installment from his series Suffering and the Christian Life, Mark Talbot encourages readers to place their suffering within the arc of the entire biblical story. In doing so, we better understand our suffering and can take courage and find comfort in God as we walk through it. We'll understand why Christians suffer and how we can rest in knowing that our suffering will someday come to an end.  Crossway Books congratulates our winners of Talbot's Give Me Understanding That I May Live: Situating Our Suffering within God's Redemptive Plan: *Samuelis L. from Montpelier, VT *Brad K. from Goshen, IN *Todd K. from McBain, MI