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Wretched Radio with Todd Friel
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Wretched Radio with Todd Friel

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Wretched Radio is hosted by Todd Friel. On the show, you will hear live witnessing encounters, discussions of tough theological issues, and various topics in the Christian community. You might even have a laugh.
482 Episodes
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It’s Mailbag Friday! You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers. Segment 1 • Does scripture give parents any guidance on what they should use as an instrument of discipline for their children? - Anonymous • Last year, a woman came to our church and got saved. The pastor told her that, before she could be baptized or take communion, she needed to become a member of the church. Is this order of events correct, biblically speaking? - Joanie Segment 2 • I am a mom to 4 kids, and my parents and one of my sisters are people who constantly enjoy stirring the pot. So much so, that they will lie and manipulate anything and anyone. How do I protect my kids as they are getting older? - Sara • The hospital I work for has a female Chaplain that comes and talks to us once or twice a month. I don't feel comfortable with her "teaching" or leading. Am I being overly judgmental, or are my concerns biblical? - Ruth • My family and I will soon have some new neighbors: two homosexual men with a toddler. Do you have any advice on how we can best witness to them? - Charlie Segment 3 • The everyday discipline of opening my Bible and reading it has always been a struggle for me. I have tried everything: different translations, different Bibles, devotionals, reading plans, everything. Can you help? -Bill • How is God telling His people in the OT to kill people of other nations, who aren't His people and haven't repented, different than “Allah” commanding similar things in the Quran? - James Segment 4 • I am in my 20’s and desire to follow Christ. My parents have told me that if I leave them without their approval, I'm dishonoring them, dishonoring God, outside of God's will, sinning, and condemned. Is it a sin to leave? - Anonymous • I know a brother in Christ who has completely abandoned the local church because he says that he’s frustrated with “pew-sitters” who come to church for an hour, don’t follow the Lord at any other time, and never grow in grace. How can I talk to him about his frustrations and encourage him to return to the church? -Anonymous • I struggle to understand why unbelievers can be kind and generous in ways I would expect only believers to be. Could you explain this? - Anonymous ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!
Segment 1 • The push to abandon church buildings for “first-century house churches”: admirable or misguided? • Did the early church reject formal worship spaces, like church buildings? • Old Testament and synagogue patterns challenge the modern church narratives. Segment 2 • The popular image of early Christian churches: casual gatherings with no leaders or structure. • Historical evidence shows early worship was organized and liturgical. • The “pure house church” idea may be a modern projection. Segment 3 • Two major historical events forced believers out of synagogues and public worship. • As time went on, Christians increasingly faced expulsion and persecution from their governments. • Change of pace: how much has parenting really changed since the 80’s and 90’s? Segment 4 • What does modern-day church gathering and discipleship look like? • Though parenting is never easy, parents today face difficulties that they didn’t 20 or 30 years ago. • How can churches and communities come together, gather around families, and love and support children together? ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!
It’s Witness Wednesday! Todd stops by the University of Georgia to talk with - and evangelize to - a number of students. From talking with a psychology student about the reality of the soul, to investigating the claims of a member of the Ethiopian Orthodox church, Todd clearly presents the hope of the gospel to everyone he meets. Be encouraged and edified as you see biblical evangelism in action. Segment 1 • Todd prods psych student Alex about the mind, the soul, and whether humans are merely biological machines. • Alex argues that morality is a result of evolution, but struggles to explain why things like murder are recognized cross-culturally as wrong. • Todd presents the Christian worldview as the only framework that explains conscience, justice, guilt, and humanity’s need for forgiveness through Christ. Segment 2 • Todd uses a student’s necklace and T-shirt to discuss Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity and what the cross actually means. • The student claims to be on the “right path” but admits he has lied and struggles to define what salvation really requires. • Todd walks him through the Ten Commandments, exposing the seriousness of sin and explaining the gospel: Christ paying the penalty so guilty sinners can be forgiven. Segment 3 • Todd meets Julia, who blends Roman Catholic background with nihilism, insisting that morality is ultimately subjective and that no absolute truth exists. • When pressed, Julia cannot say that horrific acts—like killing a child—are objectively wrong. • Todd bypasses philosophical debate and appeals to her conscience, showing how our sense of guilt and justice points to a moral Lawgiver. Segment 4 • Todd asks Julia to imagine standing before God’s courtroom: if we’re guilty of breaking God’s laws, how could anyone escape judgment? • Attempts at good deeds, apologies, or religious rituals collapse under scrutiny, exposing humanity’s need for a true substitute. • Todd explains the gospel—Jesus satisfying God’s justice on the cross—and challenges Julia to consider where she stands. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!
Segment 1 • Many progressive politicians quote the Bible while promoting theology that contradicts it. • There is a growing divide between “nice” public Christianity and actual biblical faithfulness. • When we evaluate leaders by personality instead of doctrine, we get into trouble. Segment 2 • Why a parental rights bill failed in South Dakota—and what it reveals about cultural authority over children. • The increasing push for schools and state systems to guide children’s moral and sexual formation. • The unsettling question: who really decides what your kids are taught? Segment 3 • A Michigan lawmaker leaves her political party, claiming she cannot reconcile it with Scripture. • The abortion pill is quietly expanding abortion access—even in pro-life states. • Why the abortion debate may be shifting in ways many Christians haven’t noticed. Segment 4 • Radical Islamic rhetoric is openly celebrated in an American mosque. • How just war theory helps Christians evaluate modern military conflicts. • Why spiritual warfare, ideology, and global conflict may be more connected than you think. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!
Segment 1 • A Methodist “minister” quotes Matthew 25 completely out of context in a government hearing, and is called on it. • Scripture is often used as a political slogan instead of being read consistently. Context matters more than ever. • If someone throws Bible verses into political debates, learn the simple way to test whether the verse actually means what they claim. Segment 2 • Congressman Michael Cloud presses her on charity vs. taxation, asking whether government redistribution is really the same thing as biblical generosity. • The discussion exposes a deeper issue: what does true, Christian charity actually look like? • Todd shows why misunderstanding biblical charity can reshape entire political and social arguments. Segment 3 • Barack Obama warns of “science denial” and division in America - but who is actually denying the science? • A striking statistic reveals the true percentage of Americans that hold to a biblical worldview. • Are Christians expending energy for the wrong kingdom altogether? Segment 4 • Todd explains that an ordinary Christian life—raising kids, loving family, serving quietly—is a powerful witness. • A deep dive into 1 Peter 3:15 reveals why people should ask about the hope inside believers. • What does true, Christlike love require believers to do? ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!
It’s Mailbag Friday! You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers. Segment 1 • Does scripture give us any specific details about the timeline of Christ’s return? - Dylan • We rightly hear a lot about the demonic influence upon the world - but what about the angelic influence upon the world? - Kyle Segment 2 • Fasting is a topic that isn’t taught on very frequently in many churches. What decides the duration of one’s fasting? -Steven • Is it sinful if we are sad if we lose a lot of money? Why should we be sad if we know that God is in control of all things, even things like losing one’s 401(k)? -Vinnie Segment 3 • I struggle with overthinking. How should I go about overcoming this? - Anonymous • If a couple divorces due to adultery, is the offending spouse able to remarry according to Scripture? - Anonymous • A friend of mine has become attached to deliverance ministries, which are oriented towards “delivering” Christians from demonic possession/influence. I don’t think Christians can be possessed by demonic spirits. How can I help her see through this? - Anonymous Segment 4 • Does the Bible predict current events? Can you give me an example? - Douglas • I run a small ministry that clothes homeless individuals. Are ministries that help homeless people in this manner simply enabling them, or are they answering Christ’s call to feed and clothe the needy? - Devon ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!
Segment 1 • Todd Friel steps into the heated divide between pro-lifers and abolitionists, asking why two groups who both want abortion abolished are so adversarial. • The controversy in Tennessee legislation raises a provocative question: if abortion is murder, should women who obtain abortions be prosecuted? • A deeper biblical discussion emerges about justice, culpability, and knowledge. Segment 2 • A challenging syllogism from abolitionists forces the debate: if abortion intentionally takes innocent life, must every participant face murder charges? • Todd explores difficult factors often ignored in the abolitionist vs. incrementalist debate. • The conversation pushes listeners to wrestle with difficult questions of moral clarity and justice. Segment 3 • Todd proposes a unqiue “peace plan” to unite pro-lifers and abolitionists without convictions. • Make abortion illegal first—then launch a nationwide education campaign so no one can claim ignorance. • Once everyone clearly understands abortion is taking a human life, should criminal accountability extend to every participant? Segment 4 • A rising Texas political candidate claims the Bible says nothing about abortion, while quoting Scripture to justify progressive policies. • Todd exposes the irony: the media condemns “Christian nationalism”—except when progressive politicians use the Bible. • The candidate made startling theological claims - leaving many wondering if he’s using biblical language in a contextually appropriate way. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!
It’s Witness Wednesday! Join Todd Friel on campus at Kennesaw State University to discuss Jesus Christ, His gospel and THE truth - not my truth, or your truth, but the truth - Jesus Christ himself. Prepare to be challenged and encouraged as real, every day beliefs are put to the test of biblical truth. Segment 1 • Luke says truth is “whatever works for you.” Todd presses the logic: if truth is personal, could someone justify harming children if it benefits them? • The conversation exposes the collapse of moral relativism—without an objective authority, right and wrong become mere preferences. • Todd asks the ultimate courtroom question: If Luke stood before God today, why should he be forgiven? Segment 2 • Luke wrestles with a common college dilemma: If people grow up in different religions, how can anyone claim Christianity is the truth? • Todd argues that truth ends the search—if Jesus truly rose from the dead, competing worldviews are eliminated. • Luke admits he’s still searching, prompting Todd to explain why the gospel uniquely answers life’s biggest questions. Segment 3 • Malcolm confidently says he believes in God and purpose—but struggles to explain why someone else should believe the gospel. • Todd walks him through a simple apologetic: complex design points to a Creator and a moral lawgiver. • The conversation pivots to the core issue: if we are guilty before a holy God, how can justice be satisfied? Segment 4 • Kenya believes good people go to God by doing right and asking forgiveness—but Todd presses the problem: would a just judge simply overlook crimes? • Through careful questions, Todd helps Kenya see why Jesus’ death is necessary for God to forgive sinners without ignoring justice. • The conversation ends with the most urgent question: If someone were about to die, what must they do right now to be saved? ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!
Segment 1 • A coalition of liberal theologians claims democracy is collapsing and urges Christians to “resist”. • Todd unpacks the irony of condemning “Christian nationalism” while using faith to pressure government policy. • The emotional language sounds righteous on the surface—but once you slow it down, does it actually hold up? Segment 2 • “Every person bears God’s image”—but does that automatically determine public policy? • Todd challenges the logic of using biblical truths to justify specific political outcomes without defining terms. • A powerful persuasion tactic is exposed: overwhelm your opponent so disagreement makes you look cruel. Segment 3 • A prominent conservative Baptist leader converts to Roman Catholicism—how does someone go from “grace alone” to a works-based system? • The deep psychological pull of tradition, history, and apostolic lineage. • Why parents must ground their children in the doctrine of the true, invisible Church before someone else defines their heritage for them. Segment 4 • A growing number of Christians now trust AI for spiritual advice more than their pastors. • Todd explains why AI doesn’t give you truth—it often gives you what you want to hear. • Massive layoffs, sermon prep shortcuts, and the quiet erosion of pastoral authority—are we outsourcing discernment? ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!
Segment 1 • The Bible is sufficient to build a “theology of eating” even without modern labels like anorexia. • Eating disorders are less “body problems” and more heart + identity problems. • A young woman’s, Katie’s, diary is introduced to expose what’s really driving the struggle. Segment 2 • She admits she “hated God” because she believed a false version of Him. • Todd spotlights how biblical counseling targets wrong theology before behavior change can last. • “Radical amputation” shows up as practical wisdom: removing triggers, not worshiping mirrors. Segment 3 • A “sanctification plan” includes a failure plan so setbacks don’t become spiritual collapse. • Katie’s progress includes accountability, routines, and letting others into what used to be secret. • The danger of denial: “I don’t have a problem” → no safeguards → isolation → despair. Segment 4 • A tiny booklet on “the quest for thinness” reframes eating disorders as God-excluding self-rule. • Todd challenges the secret-keeping and “control language” behind starving, binging, or purging • Practical next steps: confess honestly, learn who God is, ask for help, speak truth, prepare for failure—because you have an Advocate. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!
It’s Mailbag Friday! You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers. Segment 1 • I’ve been to several weddings where the groom and bride alone partake in communion. Is this appropriate? - Anonymous • Does the Bible speak to Christians taking non-Christians to court? - Ryan • How was EPiC, the Elvis Presley in Concert movie? - Tristan Segment 2 • Does the Bible teach that if someone does not desire to join a church, they do not belong to Christ? - Gloria • It seems that most Christians do not see the potential dangers in viewing shows like House of David or The Chosen. How can we communicate our concerns? - Cathy • Should churches advertise online? - Anonymous Segment 3 • Just how tall is Todd “Freakishly Tall” Friel really? - Jonathan • Are there any resources for spouses who want to help their husbands or wives who are struggling with addiction to porn? - Anonymous • What does it look like to counsel someone biblically who deals with anorexia? - Anonymous Segment 4 • Even though I am filled with the Spirit, I have a hard time living by the Spirit and demonstrating the fruits of the Spirit when something evil happens in front of me. How should I think about this? - Anonymous ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!
Segment 1 • A new TV series promises a “fresh take” on biblical women—what happens when imagination fills in what God didn’t reveal? • Why dramatizing Sarah and Hagar’s “inner journeys” may subtly rewrite sin, surrogacy, and obedience. • The hidden danger: once fiction enters your memory, can you separate it from Scripture? Segment 2 • A coming documentary frames simple Christians as radicals. • The cultural clash over liberty, persecution, and who really gets labeled “extreme.” • Why the relationship between Christianity and government is harder to define than most admit. Segment 3 • A high-profile conversion story highlights joy and transformation—but where was sin and repentance? • How a vague gospel presentation may leave churches filled with doubting—or false converts. • The costly confusion between the gospel itself and the benefits it produces. Segment 4 • A sermon illustration goes painfully wrong—do we trust the Word, or do we need props? • When (if ever) is distancing from toxic parents biblically justified? • A chilling warning about an online exploitation network targeting children—what parents must know now. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!
It’s Witness Wednesday! Students at Georgia Tech have their worldviews tested as Todd Friel brings the biblical Christian faith to bear on issues like the afterlife, morality, our conscience, and our ultimate hope. Have you ever wondered how you’d approach someone on the street with the truth of the gospel? Wonder no longer - join Todd to learn how you can evangelize lovingly, truthfully, and effectively. Segment 1 • Orrin says he’s a Christian—but struggles to define his purpose in life beyond career success. • He claims he’s a “good person,” then wrestles with Scripture’s claim that no one is good. • Orrin is forced to examine whether he’s truly born again—or just culturally Christian. Segment 2 • French student rejects organized religion—but concedes design may imply a Designer. • Confronted with the moral law: Are you good by God’s standard—or just by your own? • Hears the gospel clearly contrasted with every other religion: “Do” vs. “Done.” Segment 3 • Professing Christian claims Jesus is the “tipping point”—but hesitates when truth becomes exclusive. • Todd presses to explain why Christianity alone is true—and why other faiths are wrong. • The gospel is made painstakingly clear: We go to heaven by faith—not because we’re “good.” Segment 4 • Georgia Tech student accepts design logic—but questions who designed the Designer. • Claims to be “generally good”—until conscience is examined under God’s law. • Hears a direct appeal: justice demands payment—but mercy offers substitution. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!
Segment 1 • Are we re-labeling Genesis because we’re embarrassed in front of “the smart people”? • If miracles after Genesis 11 are literal, then creation and the flood can be too. • Is “mytho-history” careful scholarship—or circular reasoning dressed up as philosophy? Segment 2 • Some professing Christians think they can be solid believers while still supporting abortion. • Disagreement isn’t a sign of hatred or even dislike - but simple, biblical conviction. • Some progressive “faith-leaders” are utilizing radical subjectivity to approve of things that God hates. Segment 3 • If you’ve truly seen the cross, how can you flirt with sin? • Evangelism can either be fueled by gospel-shaped gratitude… or a begrudging sense of duty. • Gospel knowledge must be moved from head to heart. Segment 4 • What transformed Joseph of Arimathea from fearful to fearless? • Have you actually considered what it meant to remove Christ’s body from the cross? • If the crucifixion doesn’t move you to gratitude and obedience, nothing will. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!
Segment 1 • Why Peter’s command to “be holy” feels crushing—and why that reaction might expose a deeper misunderstanding. • Holiness reframed: not a killjoy command, but the pathway to joy, assurance, and deep fellowship with God. • The real choice behind every temptation: fleeting pleasure… or lasting peace? Segment 2 • Sin’s marketing strategy: it whispers fulfillment but delivers regret, secrecy, and spiritual paralysis. • Practical holiness: the direct connection between obedience and clear conscience, bold prayer, and usefulness. • Want discernment, victory over temptation, and spiritual confidence? There’s only one route. Segment 3 • Troubled by sermons on “signs you’re not saved”? Why that anxiety may actually be evidence of life. • The better diagnostic question: not “Am I perfect?” but “Do I desire to obey?” • Identity in Christ: why remembering who you are matters more than grading your performance. Segment 4 • $750,000 fines for saying there are two genders—what’s really happening beneath the headlines? • When depraved thinking becomes law: why the real crisis isn’t political but spiritual. • The only lasting solution to moral chaos isn’t outrage—it’s regeneration. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!
It’s Mailbag Friday! You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers. Segment 1 • Todd receives a small correction on the population of Chattanooga. • What advice would you give me, a teenager, who is trying to help a friend through depression? - Moses Segment 2 • What resources would you recommend for someone looking to gain a biblical understanding of fasting? - David • I’m disturbed by my church’s silence on the issue of abortion. How should I go about addressing this? - Jenee • I want to avoid the apathy and numbness that can develop as believers continue on in their faith. How can I keep awe and wonder towards God alive in my walk? -Anonymous Segment 3 • Since our culture is so intent on reaching our children with secular values, should we actually have our best, most qualified pastors teaching children instead of adults? - Derrick • As a new pastor in your church, how did you determine the vision for the church? - Adrian • Is it a Christian's job to report someone to the law or a supervisor in a corporate setting? - Anonymous Segment 4 • If I was saved and baptized years ago, but have started having doubts, is it ok to ask God to save me over and over again? -Anonymous ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!
Segment 1 • A popular teaching claims Christians become “little gods”—but what does Scripture actually say? • Todd exposes how modern theology elevates man while diminishing God’s exclusive glory. • Why confusing your created nature with God’s uncreated, divine nature leads to catastrophic spiritual consequences. Segment 2 • A shocking confrontation reveals how moral outrage is now directed at the wrong targets. • Todd explains how Romans 1 warns us of the collapse of moral reasoning—and why we’re seeing it so frequently today. • The real question: How do you reach people whose thinking is fundamentally broken by sin? Segment 3 • Why modern political outrage often ignores genuine evil while obsessing over symbolism and seemingly insignificant details. • Todd exposes the inconsistency between public virtue signaling and true moral contradictions on a deeper level. • What happens when cultural compassion and morality lose their grounding in God’s truth? Segment 4 • Most gospel presentations today may be missing a critical—and biblical—element. • Paul Washer’s prison sermon reveals what people must understand before grace makes sense. • Todd confronts a sobering possibility: Have Christians softened the gospel too much? ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!
It’s Witness Wednesday! Join Todd as he goes back to his home-state of Minnesota to conduct real-life, on-the-street interviews and have gospel conversations with a number of people coming from different backgrounds and worldviews. From important theological realities like sin, judgment, and the gospel to the real-world implications of our beliefs, like human rights, abortion, and evangelism, God’s truth is brought to bear. Segment 1 • A chemistry grad student claims he lives to glorify God, but Todd’s clarifying question reveals confusion. • Todd’s parachute analogy exposes a massive divide: are you following Jesus to improve your life—or to escape judgment? • The student affirms grace is essential but struggles to articulate how someone is actually saved. Segment 2 • Julie, a self-identified Catholic, confidently says she’s good enough to go to heaven, but an examination by way of the ten commandments says otherwise. • When Todd compares God to a courtroom judge, Julie faces a devastating dilemma: if God is just, how can guilty people escape punishment? • Julie knows Jesus died for sins—but can’t explain how to receive forgiveness. Segment 3 • A group of graduate students overwhelmingly choose to save a stranger over their own dog—but struggle to explain why human life has greater value. • Several students admit they “hope” they’re good people, while others openly say morality is relative or self-defined, exposing the instability of subjective ethics. • One student invents his own religion, another rejects absolutes, and others admit uncertainty about the afterlife. Segment 4 • A thoughtful student chooses to save school children over 500 strangers—raising uncomfortable implications for abortion, aging, and human worth. • When confronted with death, she can only suggest making peace with “whoever or whatever you believe in”. • Todd challenges listeners directly: if someone had seconds to live, could you clearly explain how to be saved—or would you struggle like most? ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!
Segment 1 • What would your approach be if you were invited into a secular philosophy class? • A real-world evangelism encounter reveals the unexpected “prerequisite” for understanding truth. • Focusing on cultural debates might feel productive—but actually misses the only message that transforms minds. Segment 2 • Why modern cultural confusion isn’t just social decline—but rooted in something deeper than behavior. • The hidden philosophical shift that convinced millions to “create their own truth.” • One 18th-century thinker’s ideas now shape everything from identity to morality. Segment 3 • Christianity has more academic depth than critics realize—and most skeptics haven’t even scratched the surface. • The shocking scale of scholarly research behind just a single biblical word—and what that reveals about your faith. • Why intellectual arguments alone never convert anyone—and what actually breaks through spiritual blindness. Segment 4 • A massive study reveals a surprising alternative to antidepressants—and almost nobody talks about it. • Modern mental health solutions may overlook a simpler, more effective path. • The overlooked biblical pattern that improves mental, emotional, and spiritual strength simultaneously. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!
Segment 1 • How Oprah has contributed to the disintegration of the family. • A bestselling self-help movement is convincing millions to cut off their parents in the name of “freedom”—and it’s reshaping families everywhere. • The explosive rise of “ghosting your parents” isn’t random, but a consequence of a predominant worldview. Segment 2 • A shocking study reveals 67 million Americans are estranged from family, with many saying it’s for the sake of their mental health. • Social media and therapeutic language are redefining normal disagreements as “toxic abuse”. • The Bible offers a radically different framework: the people who frustrate you the most may be God’s primary tool to sanctify you. Segment 3 • The painful question every ghosted parent asks: should you fight for the relationship—or let them walk away? • The hidden parenting mistake that unintentionally pushes adult children further away. • Gen Z’s disturbing reinterpretation of Jesus reveals how cultural programming is reshaping how the next generation sees Christ. Segment 4 • A governor’s executive order banning “conversion therapy” could criminalize basic biblical counseling and gospel conversations. • Legal definitions are expanding so broadly that simply calling sin “sin” could be labeled harmful or illegal. • The American Medical Association quietly reverses course on gender procedures for minors—raising urgent questions about truth, authority, and agenda. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn’t be more thankful for you if we tried!
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Comments (60)

Libby Daddy

It seems to me the so-called serenity prayer is something that touches the idea of God sovereignty but puts man's works ahead of it.

Nov 1st
Reply

Ethan B

THE CHURCH IS ISREAL! Jesus is the NEW COVENANT! Jews HATE Christ and are OF THEIR FATHER THE DEVIL! They are the SYNAGOGUE OF SATAN. They are EVIL INCARNATE! You stand with Isreal than yoy support evil.

Jun 10th
Reply

David Mickey

Pray impossible things.... I AM listening!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sep 12th
Reply

Jerry Hannasch

loved the sarcasm!

Apr 21st
Reply

Joshua Edward Bejado

Todd Z. Friel ("Z." for "Zaxby's")

Jul 15th
Reply

Dapper D

"He explains that his previous teaching weren’t biblical." huh? Work on your English.

Jul 11th
Reply

Jesse Casto

i

Jun 17th
Reply

Wesley & Anita

bummer, Todd's audio didn't pick up at all on this one. only Jimmy and commercials. :(

Oct 15th
Reply

Ash

Is the audio quality off for anyone else?

Oct 14th
Reply

Kevin

Man, first there were no episode descriptions, then there were great bulleted descriptions, and now they are waaaay too long. It would be best to get a short description again to get a quick idea of what the episode covers. Now it just takes too long to read :-(

Sep 24th
Reply

Jennifer Lyon

wait, the ribs, if certain ribs are removed, they grow back.

Aug 23rd
Reply

Joshua Edward Bejado

I hope this comment gets to Todd's never-before-nicotine-stained-hands

Jul 13th
Reply

Ethan B

you're so kind at not telling Jimmy how loud he has the smackeys.

Jun 30th
Reply

sweet dee is azor ahai

*pastors, not "pastors", because that's what they are

Jun 30th
Reply

Jennifer Lyon

I have OCD and was slowly improving but it wasn't until a deep dive into the bible and a biblical support group that I finally quit performing rituals just over 2 years ago. Phillipians 4:6-7 was extremely helpful. Knowing that God's peace could replace my anxiety was life changing.

May 24th
Reply

Foley Anderson

Good job, Todd. keep it up!

Apr 15th
Reply

Wesley & Anita

yes! another helpful one, Todd! I have been recently looking for dedicated books on disagreeing with your bro or sis in Christ in a biblical way. know if any? maybe you can write a book on the subject...and add thoughts from Phil Johnson :-))

Jan 11th
Reply

Ethan Charles

can I have a link to that sermon by rc Sproul? thanks!

Dec 17th
Reply

Nathan Fowler

The election is not over Todd

Nov 13th
Reply

Nelsonomics Runs

It's not a vaccine it's an injection of modified RNA and Luciferase. It's not a killed virus, it's going to be an injection of all sorts of evil things And you're going to be required to take the quantum dot tattoo which is going to be the mark, the quantum dot tattoo is what contains luciferase

Sep 4th
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