The Thinklings Podcast

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 273 TALQ 9: Questions on Discipleship, Evangelism, Coffee, Anglican News, and Ezekiel Welcome to Episode 273 of The Thinklings Podcast! In this episode, the Thinklings spend the entire show interacting with listener questions — theological, practical, humorous, and everything in between. From discipleship and evangelism to Anglican denominational shifts, Ezekiel’s prophecies, and even the pressing matter of whether coffee counts as vegetable juice, this TALQ episode offers insight, fun, and thoughtful biblical reflection. We also continue our seasonal reminder: Booxing Day is just a few weeks away! Remember: you can get 25% off at the FBBC Bookstore if you mention that you're a Thinklings listener buying books for Booxing Day! Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation! 📚 Books & Business Thinkling Tim: The Shack Thinkling Josh: Reflections on the Revolution in France Thinkling Andy: The Weight of Glory (teaser for the spring read-a-long) Thinkling Charlie: A Short History of the Baptists 📖 Main Content TALQ 9 — Summary of Questions Why make a distinction between passions and the mind when discussing internal transformation? Should Christians pray for evangelism opportunities or for boldness to use the opportunities already present? Is drinking coffee essentially the same as drinking vegetable juice? What should we think about the recent split within the Anglican Church? How should we understand the destruction of Tyre in Ezekiel? And finally… what are the favorite colors of the Thinklings? 🌿 Final Meditation Thinkling Stearns concludes with part 3 of his series on prayer, reflecting on Jesus’ example in Luke 22:39–46. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Follow The Thinklings Podcast for weekly conversations on books, theology, and the Christian life!

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 282 The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 282 Huswifery and Holy Imagination Welcome to Episode 282 of The Thinklings Podcast! In this episode, the Thinklings begin with Books & Business before Josh leads a discussion on “Huswifery” by Edward Taylor. Together, they explore how Taylor’s poetic imagery helps shape a biblical imagination—drawing connections between craftsmanship, sanctification, and the Christian life. Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation! 📚 Books & Business Thinkling Josh: Huswifery Thinkling Andy: Left Field Thinkling Charlie: The Company We Keep Thinkling Tim: “In the Beginning” (Hebrew Article) 📖 Main Content Josh guides the Thinklings through Edward Taylor’s Huswifery, unpacking its metaphors and theological depth. The conversation reflects on how poetry can illuminate spiritual formation and the work of God in shaping His people. 🌿 Final Meditation A closing meditation from Ephesians, grounding the discussion in Scripture and the ongoing work of God in the believer’s life. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Follow The Thinklings Podcast for weekly conversations on books, theology, and the Christian life!

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 281 The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 281 Welcome to Episode 281 of The Thinklings Podcast! In this episode, the Thinklings begin with Books & Business before turning their attention to Jesus’ calling of the twelve disciples and how that calling connects to the Great Commission. Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation! 📚 Books & Business Thinkling Charlie: The Company We Keep Thinkling Tim: Biblical Hebrew Syntax Manual Thinkling Josh: Beyond Biblical Integration Thinkling Stearns: If I Built a Town (Shack Stack!) 📖 Main Content A discussion of Jesus’ calling of the twelve disciples, considering their backgrounds, Christ’s purpose in choosing them, and how their formation prepares the way for the Great Commission. The Thinklings reflect on discipleship as both a call to follow and a call to go. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Follow The Thinklings Podcast for weekly conversations on books, theology, and the Christian life!

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 280 Legacy and The Weight of Glory Welcome to Episode 280 of The Thinklings Podcast! In this episode, the Thinklings begin with Books & Business before Andy introduces C.S. Lewis’s The Weight of Glory. From there, the conversation turns to questions of legacy—how we think about being remembered, what truly lasts, and how a Christian understanding of glory reshapes our priorities and hopes. Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation! 📚 Books & Business Thinkling Andy: The Weight of Glory Thinkling Charlie: The Silmarillion Thinkling Tim: The Clay Pot Conspiracy Thinkling Josh: God in the Dock 📖 Main Content Andy introduces The Weight of Glory, setting the stage for a discussion about legacy, remembrance, and what it means to live in light of eternal glory rather than temporary recognition. The Thinklings reflect on how Scripture and Lewis’s insights challenge common ideas about success and significance. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Follow The Thinklings Podcast for weekly conversations on books, theology, and the Christian life!

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 279 Genders in Genesis Welcome to Episode 279 of The Thinklings Podcast! Before we dive in, a quick reminder: we’ll be reading through C.S. Lewis’s The Weight of Glory together this spring. If you don’t already have a copy, now is a great time to pick one up and read along with us! In this episode, the Thinklings begin with Books & Business before turning to a thoughtful discussion of Genesis 2, focusing on what Scripture teaches about gender, creation order, and the goodness of God’s design. Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation! 📚 Books & Business Thinkling Little: Ball and the Cross Thinkling Josh: Narnia: The Horse and His Boy Thinkling Andy: Top 5 Books of 2025 Thinkling Charlie: 12 Ordinary Men 📖 Main Content A discussion of gender in Genesis 2, examining the creation of man and woman, the complementary nature of their design, and the theological implications of God’s purposes in creation. The Thinklings reflect on how careful reading of the text helps ground contemporary conversations in biblical clarity and wisdom. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Follow The Thinklings Podcast for weekly conversations on books, theology, and the Christian life!

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 278 The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 278 Epiphany, New Beginnings, and Looking Ahead Welcome to Episode 278 of The Thinklings Podcast! In this episode, the Thinklings mark Epiphany (January 6)—the close of the Twelve Days of Christmas—with a thoughtful and forward-looking conversation. Alongside seasonal reflection, the Thinklings also talk about goals for 2026, considering how intention, wisdom, and faith shape the year ahead. Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation! 📚 Books & Business Thinkling Charlie: Raft of Stars Thinkling Tim: Lumen & Twelve Tide Thinkling Josh: The Anxious Generation Thinkling Stearns: The Language of the Rivers and the Stars 📖 Main Content A celebration of Epiphany, reflecting on Christ’s revelation to the nations and what it means to live attentively in light of that truth. The Thinklings also discuss personal and communal goals for 2026, thinking carefully about growth, discipline, and hope in the Christian life. 🌿 Final Meditation A closing meditation from Matthew 2, drawing our hearts back to the Magi, the revelation of Christ, and the call to seek and worship the true King. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Follow The Thinklings Podcast for weekly conversations on books, theology, and the Christian life!

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 277 On the Incarnation Welcome to Episode 277 of The Thinklings Podcast! In this episode, the Thinklings begin with Books & Business before turning their attention to On the Incarnation by Athanasius. The main discussion centers on the rich metaphors and similes Athanasius employs to explain the work of Christ — images that help communicate profound theological truths with clarity, beauty, and force. Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation! 📚 Books & Business Thinkling Charlie: On the Incarnation Thinkling Tim: The Vanishing Hebrew Harlot Thinkling Josh: Do More Better Thinkling Andy: The Drowned Vault 📖 Main Content A focused discussion on On the Incarnation, paying particular attention to Athanasius’s use of metaphor and illustration. The Thinklings explore how these images illuminate the nature of Christ’s incarnation, redemption, and victory over corruption and death — and why careful attention to language matters in theology. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Follow The Thinklings Podcast for weekly conversations on books, theology, and the Christian life!

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 276 Booxing Day Welcome to Episode 276 of The Thinklings Podcast! Why settle for boring Boxing Day when you could celebrate Booxing Day instead? In this special post-Christmas episode, the Thinklings exchange books with one another to read on December 26...turning the day after Christmas into a celebration of reading, friendship, and absolutely no boxes. Add an “O” to your boxing and join the Thinklings as they share book recommendations, surprise exchanges, and plenty of literary cheer. Thanks for tuning in to this festive conversation! 📖 Main Content A Booxing Day book exchange Each Thinkling gifts a book to another for reading after Christmas Discussion of why Booxing Day is better than Boxing Day Reflections on reading as a gift worth savoring And at the end of the episode, one Thinkling receives a unique gift — but what could it be? You’ll have to listen to find out! 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Follow The Thinklings Podcast for weekly conversations on books, theology, and the joyful life of the Christian reader!

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 275 Christmas Reads: Books We’re Excited to Read Welcome to Episode 275 of The Thinklings Podcast! In this episode, the Thinklings share the books they’re looking forward to reading now, over Christmas, and in the near future. It’s a forward-looking conversation about anticipation, curiosity, and the joy of planning good reading — whether for rest, growth, or simple delight. Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation! 📖 Main Content Each Thinkling shares upcoming reading plans, reflecting on why certain books are worth picking up and how seasons like Christmas often provide space for deeper, more intentional reading. 🌿 Final Meditation Thinkling Stearns closes the episode with a devotional reflection from Ecclesiastes, reminding us to receive God’s gifts with gratitude and wisdom. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Follow The Thinklings Podcast for weekly conversations on books, theology, and the Christian life!

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 274 It’s Always Christmas and Never Winter Welcome to Episode 274 of The Thinklings Podcast! In this winter-themed episode, the Thinklings lean into the spirit of the season with a mix of books, reflection, and festive frivolity. Drawing inspiration from C.S. Lewis’s famous line about Narnia, the conversation ranges from Christmas literature to seasonal questions — all loosely tethered to good books, good thoughts, and good cheer. Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation! 📚 Books & Business Thinkling Tim: Hidden Critique of Solomon Thinkling Charlie: On the Incarnation Thinkling Andy: Quotable Lewis Thinkling Josh: A Christmas Carol 📖 Main Content A lighthearted discussion of Christmas-themed questions and reflections, including: Favorite Christmas movies Seasonal reading and traditions Festive fun and thoughtful conversation 🌿 Final Meditation A closing meditation from Luke 1, drawing our attention to the wonder of the Incarnation and the hope of Christ’s coming. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Follow The Thinklings Podcast for weekly conversations on books, theology, and the Christian life — even when it’s always Christmas and never winter!

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 272 Some Thinklings Thoughts on Luke 8 Welcome to Episode 272 of The Thinklings Podcast! In this episode, the Thinklings turn their attention to Luke 8, exploring several of Jesus’ parables and the rich theological and practical lessons they offer. From hearing the Word to responding in faith, the Thinklings reflect on how these teachings shape Christian living and spiritual growth. And don’t forget — Booxing Day is just a few weeks away! Now is the perfect time to pick up some books to give to your friends. If you mention Booxing Day or that you listen to The Thinklings Podcast at the FBBC bookstore, you can get 25% off your book purchase for Booxing Day gifts! Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation! 📚 Books & Business Thinkling Little: Fountains of Wisdom Thinkling Boyd: How to Read a Book Thinkling Stearns: Introducing Christian Doctrine Thinkling Carter: Luke 8 Study/Commentaries 📖 Main Content A discussion of the parables in Luke 8, focusing on: What these parables reveal about hearing and obeying the Word How Jesus uses story to expose the heart The disciples’ response and the call to genuine faith The enduring relevance of these teachings for believers today 🌿 Final Meditation None this week — the main content is rooted directly in Scripture! 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Follow The Thinklings Podcast for weekly conversations on books, theology, and the Christian life!

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 270 The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 270 Thanksgivlings 6 Welcome to Episode 270 of The Thinklings Podcast! It’s that time of year again — our annual Thanksgivlings episode! Now in its sixth installment, this special tradition is all about celebration, laughter, and gratitude. Each Thinkling brings “a dish to share” — not food, but a topic, activity, story, or bit of delightful nonsense they want to serve to the table. It’s Thanksgiving frivolity at its finest. Thanks for joining us for this year’s festive and lighthearted conversation! 📖 Main Content A collection of “dishes” from each Thinkling — stories, ideas, curiosities, and fun — all offered in the spirit of friendship, gratitude, and good cheer. 🌿 Final Meditation Thinkling Tim closes the episode with a meditation on giving thanks — reflecting on God’s goodness and encouraging us to cultivate grateful hearts for what the Lord has done. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Follow The Thinklings Podcast for weekly conversations on books, theology, and the joyful, curious life of the Christian thinker!

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 269 Frankenstein, Part 4 Welcome to Episode 269 of The Thinklings Podcast!! In this episode, the Thinklings continue their journey through Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, turning their attention to the growing tension between Victor and the creature. As motives deepen and consequences rise, the Thinklings explore the moral, emotional, and spiritual dynamics at the heart of the novel. Thanks for joining us for another thoughtful conversation! 📖 Main Content A closer look at the fractured relationship between creator and creation. Discussion on justice, vengeance, and the desire to belong. How Shelley’s narrative exposes the cost of pride, secrecy, and neglected responsibility. Reflections on how guilt, grief, and longing shape the story’s momentum. 🌿 Final Meditation The episode closes with a meditation from Scripture! 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Follow The Thinklings Podcast for weekly discussions on books, theology, and culture!

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 268 The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 268 TALQ at IRBC: Thinklings Answer Listener Questions Welcome to Episode 268 of The Thinklings Podcast! This week’s episode is a special TALQ (Thinklings Answer Listener Questions) recorded live at the IRBC Young Adult Retreat in Ventura, Iowa! Surrounded by good coffee, great company, and thoughtful questions, the Thinklings take time to engage with listeners and explore real-life applications of faith, theology, and literature. Thanks for joining us for this live edition of the podcast! 🎙️ Main Content Recorded live at Iowa Regular Baptist Camp. Listener-submitted questions on Scripture, Christian living, and the life of the mind. Discussions filled with humor, wisdom, and grounded theological reflection. Insights on how faith shapes thought, relationships, and creativity. 🌿 Final Meditation The Thinklings close the live episode with a brief reflection on the joy of community and the shared pursuit of knowing Christ more deeply together. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Follow The Thinklings Podcast for weekly discussions on books, theology, and life — now in its 11th season!

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 267 Frankenstein, Part 3 Welcome to Episode 267 of The Thinklings Podcast! In this episode, the Thinklings continue their exploration of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, delving deeper into the creature’s story and the moral complexity that unfolds as creator and creation confront one another. Themes of justice, empathy, and alienation intertwine as the Thinklings reflect on how Shelley’s narrative raises timeless questions about what it means to be human. Thanks for joining us for this week’s thoughtful discussion! 📖 Main Content Examining the creature’s perspective and the longing for companionship. Discussing Victor’s moral responsibility and the consequences of isolation. Exploring how Shelley’s story bridges science, morality, and theology. 🌿 Final Meditation Thinkling Boyd closes with a reflection from 2 Cor 1! 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Follow The Thinklings Podcast for engaging discussions on books, theology, and culture each week!

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 266 Boyd — “The Collar” Welcome to Episode 266 of The Thinklings Podcast! In this episode, Dr. Boyd leads the Thinklings through a poetic and theological reflection on “The Collar” by George Herbert — a powerful exploration of rebellion, restlessness, and the return to submission under God’s call. Together, the Thinklings unpack Herbert’s imagery and emotion, considering how poetry can shape our understanding of faith, struggle, and surrender. Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation! 📚 Books & Business Thinkling Little: Worship and Song Thinkling Boyd: How to Read a Book Thinkling Stearns: To the Far Blue Mountains Thinkling Carter: Milton’s Sonnets 📖 Main Content Dr. Boyd walks through George Herbert’s poem The Collar! 🌿 Final Meditation Thinkling Carter closes the episode with a reflection from 2 Corinthians 4, encouraging endurance and hope in the midst of life’s challenges. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Follow The Thinklings Podcast on your favorite platform for weekly discussions on books, theology, poetry, and the Christian life.

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 265 Frankenstein, Part 2 Welcome to Episode 265 of The Thinklings Podcast! In this episode, the Thinklings continue their journey through Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, picking up where Victor’s story begins to unfold in full. They reflect on how ambition, creation, and alienation shape both Victor and the creature — and what Shelley’s writing reveals about humanity, responsibility, and the moral weight of knowledge. Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation! 📖 Main Content A deeper dive into Frankenstein as Victor’s obsession grows and consequences emerge. Reflections on themes of ambition, alienation, and the human condition. 🌿 Final Meditation Thinkling Stearns shares a final meditation from 2 Chronicles 33. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Follow The Thinklings Podcast for thoughtful conversations on books, theology, and culture every week!

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 264 Psalm 68 in Ephesians 4 Welcome to Episode 264 of The Thinklings Podcast! In this episode, the Thinklings survey different views on the use of Psalm 68 in Ephesians 4. The conversation explores interpretive perspectives, theological implications, and how this passage fits into Paul’s larger message to the church. Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation! 📚 Books & Business Thinkling Little: Becoming the Pastor’s Wife Thinkling Boyd: The Faerie Queene Thinkling Stearns: To the Far Blue Mountains Thinkling Carter: Ephesians commentaries 📖 Main Content The Thinklings examine different interpretations of Psalm 68 as it is used in Ephesians 4, discussing how Paul draws on Old Testament imagery to reveal the victorious work of Christ and its implications for the church today. This episode offers a thoughtful look at textual meaning, context, and application. 🌿 Final Meditation The episode closes with a meditation on Ephesians 4, focusing on unity, Christ’s victory, and the gifts He gives to His people. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Follow The Thinklings Podcast on your favorite platform for weekly discussions on books, theology, and the Christian life.

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 263 Frankenstein, Chapters 1–5 Welcome to Episode 263 of The Thinklings Podcast! In this episode, the Thinklings begin their discussion of Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, covering Chapters 1–5. Together, they explore themes of ambition, grief, and longing woven through Victor Frankenstein’s story — and how Shelley’s work still speaks to questions of humanity, wisdom, and responsibility. Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation! 📖 Main Content Opening Discussion Points An introduction to Mary Shelley and her life context. A look at the narrative structure through the letters of Robert Walton. A free-flowing discussion about the early chapters and how they set the stage for Victor’s obsession and isolation. 🌿 Final Meditation Thinkling Carter closes with a meditation from 1 Corinthians 15, reflecting on life, resurrection, and true hope beyond human achievement. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Follow The Thinklings Podcast for thoughtful discussions on books, theology, and the Christian life every week!

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 262 The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 262 Good Mornings, Harry Potter, and Hand-Raising Welcome to this week’s episode of The Thinklings Podcast! We begin with our regular Books & Business discussion, then move into a lively set of listener questions and literary reflections—from Gandalf and Bilbo’s “Good Morning” exchange in The Hobbit, to whether Harry Potter belongs in the same category as Tolkien and Lewis, to thoughtful questions about worship practices, laughter, and the Christian life. Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation! 📚 Books & Business Thinkling Tim: Current State of OT Studies Thinkling Josh: Sir Gawain & the Green Knight Thinkling Andy: Sackett’s Land, Louis L’Amour (Strong 6) Thinkling Charlie: A Farewell to Arms 📖 Main Content Jeremiah Simpson’s Question (via Charlie): Why does Gandalf press Bilbo on the meaning of “good morning” in The Hobbit? What does this reveal about Tolkien’s view of language, and how should we think about Bilbo’s response? Bethany Snell’s Question (via Josh): How should Christians think about Harry Potter compared to Narnia or The Lord of the Rings? What value might the series have, and where do Christians differ? Dakota Holaday & Taylor Jarmon’s Questions (via Little): How do studies on worship apply to camp songs with actions? Is there a biblical connection between hand-raising and Sabbath observance? Josiah Little’s Question (via Stearns): What is the correlation between humor, laughter, and spirituality? Why do we laugh, and what does it reveal about our hearts? 🌿 Final Meditation Thinkling Stearns closes with a meditation on prayer, reflecting on the example of Manasseh. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Follow The Thinklings Podcast on your favorite platform and join the conversation each week!