In a culture obsessed with self-optimization and curated spirituality, Joshua S. Porter offers a counterintuitive call: come and die. In this episode, James Spencer sits down with the punk-rocker-turned-pastor to discuss Porter’s new book, How to Die: Chaos, Morality, and the Scandal of Christian Discipleship. Together, they unpack what it means to reject a domesticated God, embrace an untamable Savior, and walk a path shaped not by personal branding but by the cross. Drawing from Flannery O’Connor, Bonhoeffer, monastic writings, and gritty pastoral experience, this conversation invites listeners into a disruptive, deeply human, and refreshingly orthodox vision of Christian faithfulness.

Whether you’re deconstructing, reconstructing, or just trying to figure out what dying to self actually looks like, this is a must-listen.

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In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer explores what it means to live faithfully in increasingly secular spaces—from youth sports and public education to workplace dynamics and political culture.

Drawing from personal reflection and current cultural trends, Dr. Spencer challenges listeners to reconsider what Christian influence really looks like in a pluralistic society. Rather than grasping for control, he calls believers to embrace a posture of witness—anchored in Scripture, driven by discernment, and shaped by hope in Christ.

Whether you’re a parent navigating public schools, a coach facing ethical tensions in youth sports, or a believer feeling squeezed by culture wars, this episode offers a thoughtful framework for living out the gospel with clarity and grace.

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What makes temptation so compelling? In this episode of Thinking Christian's Prepped Series, Dr. James Spencer takes us deep into one of Scripture's most foundational passages—the fall narrative in Genesis 3:1-7. Far from a simple story of disobedience, James reveals the sophisticated dynamics at play: the serpent's calculated ambiguity, the woman's thoughtful but tragic reasoning, and the recurring biblical pattern of "seeing good and taking." Exploring the Hebrew nuances often lost in translation, he shows how the serpent systematically undermines God's sovereignty, wisdom, and benevolence—turning paradise into perceived prison. But James doesn't stop with ancient history. He challenges listeners to recognize these same patterns of doubt and self-determination in their own lives, while pointing to Christ as the one who reverses the tragic cycle of seeing, declaring, and taking through trusting, obeying, and giving.

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In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer and Nate dive into the recent Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) vote addressing Christian nationalism. They explore what makes Christian nationalism problematic from a biblical perspective, distinguishing it from both healthy political engagement and American civil religion. With examples ranging from Ten Commandments in classrooms to Doug Wilson’s patriotic theology, they challenge lazy uses of the term "Christian" and advocate for theological precision. The conversation closes with reflections on how believers can engage faithfully in politics without confusing the kingdom of God with the kingdoms of this world.

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What does it truly mean to be a "helper"? In this episode of Thinking Christian's Prepped Series, Dr. James Spencer challenges common misconceptions surrounding the Hebrew word ezer, often translated as "helper" in Genesis 2:18. Moving beyond traditional hierarchical interpretations, James explores how ezer is used throughout the Old Testament, revealing its profound connection to strength, support, and indispensable aid—qualities that describe God Himself. He delves into various scholarly views, ultimately presenting a compelling case for ezer as a co-equal, mutual partner in God's mission. This episode will reshape your understanding of the male-female relationship, highlight the dignity and responsibility inherent in the ezer role, and point to the hope of restoration in Christ, even in the face of post-fall brokenness.

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What does it actually mean to be made in the image of God? In this episode of Thinking Christian's Prepped Series, Dr. James Spencer dives deep into one of the Bible’s most profound claims about humanity. Exploring five major views—the substantive, functional, relational, filial, and Christological—James traces how each contributes to our understanding of human worth, purpose, and calling. But he doesn’t stop with theology. He challenges how modern culture often weaponizes the “image of God” language, embracing its benefits while ignoring its demands. This episode offers a robust, multi-faceted take on the Imago Dei—and it will reshape how you think about human dignity, personal responsibility, and discipleship in a world eager to affirm identity without submitting to the One who defines it.

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What if the tabernacle, the Garden of Eden, and the Great Commission are all telling the same story? In this episode of Thinking Christian's Prepped Series, Dr. James Spencer uncovers the theological thread that weaves from Genesis to Revelation—a sacred space built not of bricks and curtains, but of God’s presence dwelling among His people. Moving through Eden, the Israelite temple system, Jesus’ incarnation, and into the Church, this episode explores how the beatific vision—the promise of seeing God face to face—isn't just the end goal of redemption, but the story being told all along. Discover how sacred space reshapes your view of discipleship, worship, and the mission of the Church. And yes, we even find echoes of the Great Commission in the decree of a Persian king.

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In today’s episode of Thinking Christian, host Dr. James Spencer welcomes sports ministry veterans Ed Uszynski and Brian Smith to discuss their new book, Away Game: A Christian Parent's Guide to Navigating Youth Sports.

As youth sports evolve into a high-stakes, billion-dollar industry, Christian parents are faced with a unique challenge: how do we stay engaged in sports culture without compromising our spiritual priorities? From weekend tournaments to college recruitment pressure, Ed and Brian explore how youth sports are shaping not just our kids’ schedules — but their souls.

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