Melissa Kruger on Hopeful Parenting in a Secular Age

In this episode of Gospelbound, Collin Hansen interviews David Brooks about his new book, How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen. They explore what it means to be an "illuminator" who helps people feel seen and significant and the need to cultivate a societal value for kindness and respect. They also discuss how personal suffering can foster empathy and strengthen our human connections.

In this episode of Gospelbound, Collin Hansen and Dr. Allen Guelzo discuss Guelzo's book, Our Ancient Faith: Lincoln, Democracy, and the American Experiment. As they examine the historical parallels between the challenges facing democracy during Abraham Lincoln's presidency and today, they emphasize the importance of understanding historical contexts to better appreciate and uphold democratic values in modern times.

In this episode of Gospelbound, Collin Hansen talks to Steve Preston about how Preston's Christian faith has influenced his leadership and community service, particularly at Goodwill Industries where he serves as President and CEO. Preston is committed to addressing poverty and providing opportunities to strengthen communities through social enterprise, and his experience demonstrates how faith can impact significant, positive change and human flourishing.

In this episode of Gospelbound, Collin Hansen and George Marsden discuss Marsden's book, An Infinite Fountain of Light: Jonathan Edwards for the 21st Century. They highlight the relevance of Edwards's theology for modern times, exploring his view of the universe as an expression of God's love and the beauty of Christ's sacrificial love. They also discuss Edwards's greatest sermons, changes in his studies, and the contrast between Edwards's spiritual perspective and Benjamin Franklin's more materialistic view. Marsden reflects on how Edwards's insights have been personally transformative, underscoring the lasting impact of Edwards's spiritual perspective.

In this episode of Gospelbound, Collin Hansen and Claude Atcho discuss the relevance of the Samaritan woman's encounter with Jesus (John 4) for Christian witness in contemporary society. Atcho emphasizes the power of personal transformation through Jesus Christ as foundational to effective apologetics, advocating for sharing one's genuine experiences with Christ as a bridge to engaging a skeptical world. Hansen and Atcho discuss the need for Christians to maintain authenticity and relational integrity in their witness, reflecting Jesus's engagement with those on the margins. You can read Claude Atcho's chapter in Faithful Exiles. 

In this episode of Gospelbound, Collin Hansen and Melissa Kruger offer hope and encouragement to parents as they discuss the challenges of Christian parenting in a secular age. They explore the importance of grounding parenting in the gospel, emphasizing the need for hope, trust in God's purposes, and the application of grace. The conversation also covers the role of community and the impact of digital technology on parenting. Melissa Kruger shares insights from her book, Parenting with Hope, highlighting practical advice for raising teens and the distinction between authoritative and authoritarian parenting styles.

Collin Hansen and Irwyn Ince discuss Ince's book, Hope Ain't a Hustle, exploring how our hope in Christ impacts faithful living amid cultural and societal challenges, suffering, and injustice. They delve into the critical roles of Scripture, gathered worship, and community in sustaining our hope, and they highlight the importance of daily disciplines in cultivating our anticipation of God's victory over sin and injustice.

In this episode of Gospelbound, Collin Hansen and Samuel James examine the profound ways smartphones have reshaped our culture and devotional practices. They discuss James's new book, Digital Liturgies: Rediscovering Christian Wisdom in an Online Age, and the necessity of biblical wisdom in an era dominated by digital narratives. Hansen and James also explore the influence of technology on identity and societal norms, particularly concerning the transgender revolution. Their discussion helps unpack how to navigate modern challenges with wisdom and discernment.

In this episode of Gospelbound, Collin Hansen and Jeremy Treat discuss Treat's new book, The Atonement: An Introduction, exploring how the cross of Christ defies worldly expectations and fulfills humanity's deepest desires. They discuss the inseparable link between the cross and the kingdom, the dynamics of the Trinity in the work of salvation, and how Christ's crucifixion addresses both our guilt and shame. They end their conversation on the transformative power of Christ's atonement and how it equips Christians to suffer well.

Collin Hansen and Jonathan Leeman discuss the complex nature of authority within both the church and broader society, highlighting its significance for protection and flourishing, while also addressing the challenges it presents in today's world. They draw on Leeman's book, Authority: How Godly Rule Protects the Vulnerable, Strengthens Communities, and Promotes Human Flourishing, to discuss how godly leadership, exemplified by Jesus, can lead to strengthened communities and serve as a beacon of hope and guidance.