Claim OwnershipThinking Out Loud
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© Nathan Rittenhouse & Cameron McAllister
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For those interested in thoughtful cultural analysis without all the apocalyptic forecasts, Thinking Out Loud is a podcast about current events and Christian hope. Hosted by Nathan Rittenhouse and Cameron McAllister, co-founders of Thinking Out Loud, a ministry that seeks to bridge the gap between discipleship and apologetics, this is a show that seeks to connect the dots on the subject of Christian realism.
412 Episodes
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In this episode of Thinking Out Loud, Nathan Rittenhouse sits down in Kona, Hawaii with Lindsey from the YWAM Countercultural School of Apologetics to unpack one of the biggest questions facing the modern church: how should Christians navigate influencer culture, online discipleship, and the tension between digital convenience and real spiritual formation? Lindsey and Nathan explore the rise of untrained “Christian influencers,” the responsibility of discernment, the longing for embodied community, the need for multi-generational mentorship, and the subtle dangers of intellectual shortcuts in the age of AI and endless content. Their conversation invites believers into deeper thinking, meaningful connection, and a return to slow, faithful discipleship rooted in the local church. Perfect for Christians hungry for thoughtful apologetics, theology, and wisdom for following Jesus in a digital world.DONATE LINK: https://toltogether.com/donate BOOK A SPEAKER: https://toltogether.com/book-a-speakerJOIN TOL CONNECT: https://toltogether.com/tol-connect TOL Connect is an online forum where TOL listeners can continue the conversation begun on the podcast.
In this episode, Nathan and Cameron dive into a thought-provoking conversation on how modern media, Hollywood, and even the church have reshaped our attention spans, communication styles, and expectations for depth. In this episode of Thinking Out Loud, they explore why today’s films and sermons feel “dumbed down,” how smartphones have changed the way we engage with story and truth, and what Christians should recover from past eras of richer, more thoughtful communication. With cultural analysis, historical insight, and theological reflection, Nathan and Cameron challenge believers to rethink entertainment, discipleship, and the habits shaping our spiritual lives.DONATE LINK: https://toltogether.com/donate BOOK A SPEAKER: https://toltogether.com/book-a-speakerJOIN TOL CONNECT: https://toltogether.com/tol-connect TOL Connect is an online forum where TOL listeners can continue the conversation begun on the podcast.
In this episode of Thinking Out Loud, Nathan and Cameron dive deep into the “junkification” of modern culture, using Christmas consumerism, cheap mass-produced goods, and the exhaustion of holiday commercialism as a launchpad for a thoughtful theological discussion. They explore whether our growing weariness with stuff is simply aging—or a sign of the times—while unpacking themes of relational poverty, cultural decadence, the loss of craftsmanship, and the ways economic values subtly replace biblical ones. Through humorous stories, honest cultural critique, and rich Christian reflection, Nathan and Cameron challenge believers to resist empty consumerism, rediscover meaningful presence over presents, and pursue a kingdom-shaped understanding of value, relationships, and holiday traditions.DONATE LINK: https://toltogether.com/donate BOOK A SPEAKER: https://toltogether.com/book-a-speakerJOIN TOL CONNECT: https://toltogether.com/tol-connect TOL Connect is an online forum where TOL listeners can continue the conversation begun on the podcast.
In this thought-provoking Thanksgiving episode, Nathan and Cameron dive into the surprising cultural rise of Black Friday, Green Wednesday, and the “cousin walk,” using these trends as a springboard for a deeper Christian examination of family tension, modern fragmentation, and the loss of shared spiritual continuity. Drawing on theology, literature, and pastoral experience, they unpack why holidays have become so difficult for many believers, how radical individualism fuels division, and why the historic Christian practices of feasting, gratitude, and communal life matter more than ever. Nathan and Cameron explore the difference between guilt, gloating, and true thanksgiving; the mystery of receiving God’s blessings in a suffering world; and the uniquely Christian capacity to feast with integrity while acknowledging global pain. For Christians craving rich theological discussion, cultural analysis, and practical wisdom for navigating family dynamics during the holidays, this conversation offers a grounded, hopeful vision for recovering gratitude, community, and spiritual depth in a distracted age.DONATE LINK: https://toltogether.com/donate BOOK A SPEAKER: https://toltogether.com/book-a-speakerJOIN TOL CONNECT: https://toltogether.com/tol-connect TOL Connect is an online forum where TOL listeners can continue the conversation begun on the podcast.
In this episode, Nathan and Cameron dive deep into the theological roots of radical individualism in this thought-provoking episode of Thinking Out Loud, unpacking why the cultural forces shaping the trans movement are best understood through the lens of Western hyper-individualism rather than Marxism. Drawing from Scripture, church history, political philosophy, and personal stories, they challenge Christians to examine the subtle ways individualism forms all of us—and to rediscover a biblical, relational vision of identity rooted in Christ and community. This rich, accessible conversation is ideal for Christians seeking serious theological reflection on current events, cultural tensions, and the church’s witness in a fragmented age.DONATE LINK: https://toltogether.com/donate BOOK A SPEAKER: https://toltogether.com/book-a-speakerJOIN TOL CONNECT: https://toltogether.com/tol-connect TOL Connect is an online forum where TOL listeners can continue the conversation begun on the podcast.
In this episode, Nathan and Cameron dive into why so many believers today feel embarrassed to publicly identify as Christians, exploring how cultural polarization, political co-optation, and widespread biblical illiteracy shape modern perceptions of the church. Drawing on real experiences—from awkward airplane conversations to navigating headlines about scandals, televangelists, and politicized “Christian” figures—they unpack the tension between the beauty of the Gospel and the distorted versions of Christianity that dominate the public square. Nathan and Cameron offer thoughtful theological insight on hypocrisy, deconstruction, cultural Christianity, and what it means to articulate the way of Jesus in clear, non-insider language for a post-Christian society. This deep, compassionate conversation equips Christians who want to engage honestly, missionally, and intelligently with the world while keeping Christ—not cultural caricatures—at the center.DONATE LINK: https://toltogether.com/donate BOOK A SPEAKER: https://toltogether.com/book-a-speakerJOIN TOL CONNECT: https://toltogether.com/tol-connect
In this episode of Thinking Out Loud, Nathan Rittenhouse and Cameron McAllister tackle the phenomenon of fake outrage in Christian culture—using the reaction to Taylor Swift’s Life of a Showgirl as a jumping-off point. With deep theological reflection and cultural insight, Nathan and Cameron explore why outrage has become a form of identity-building within the church and beyond, how scapegoating and virtue signaling distort genuine moral concern, and what it means for Christians to live wisely in a world shaped by Babylon and Vanity Fair. This thoughtful conversation challenges believers to pursue discernment, truth, and humility rather than reactionary culture wars. Perfect for Christians seeking intelligent, biblical discussions on faith, culture, and current events.DONATE LINK: https://toltogether.com/donate BOOK A SPEAKER: https://toltogether.com/book-a-speakerJOIN TOL CONNECT: https://toltogether.com/tol-connect TOL Connect is an online forum where TOL listeners can continue the conversation begun on the podcast.
In this episode of Thinking Out Loud, Nathan Rittenhouse and Cameron McAllister explore whether culture has truly reached “peak trans” — or if the real issue runs much deeper. Through a thoughtful and theological lens, they examine the rise and supposed decline of gender identity politics, uncovering how the modern obsession with self-definition and hyper-individualism reflects a broader spiritual crisis in Western culture. Nathan and Cameron discuss how this cultural moment exposes our longing for meaning, community, and truth, and why followers of Jesus must think beyond headlines to engage with deep cultural currents shaping our world. Perfect for Christians seeking intelligent, biblically grounded conversations about faith, culture, and current events.DONATE LINK: https://toltogether.com/donate BOOK A SPEAKER: https://toltogether.com/book-a-speakerJOIN TOL CONNECT: https://toltogether.com/tol-connect TOL Connect is an online forum where TOL listeners can continue the conversation begun on the podcast.
In Part 2 of Thinking Out Loud’s exploration of “crypto-religious” art, Nathan and Cameron dive deep into the complex relationship between Christianity, culture, and creativity in a post-secular age. Building on their earlier conversation, they examine how artists like David Foster Wallace, Flannery O’Connor, and Walker Percy wrestle with spiritual truth, beauty, and brokenness in ways that challenge both secular and Christian audiences. With thoughtful analysis and honest reflection, Nathan and Cameron ask whether authentic Christian art must always be explicit—or whether ambiguity can reveal deeper theological insight. Perfect for Christians seeking serious, theologically rich discussion on faith, art, and current culture.DONATE LINK: https://toltogether.com/donate BOOK A SPEAKER: https://toltogether.com/book-a-speakerJOIN TOL CONNECT: https://toltogether.com/tol-connect TOL Connect is an online forum where TOL listeners can continue the conversation begun on the podcast.
In this two-part episode of Thinking Out Loud, Nathan Rittenhouse and Cameron McAllister dive deep into the fascinating idea of being “crypto-religious”—a term coined by Polish poet Czesław Miłosz and revived in Paul Elie’s new book The Last Supper. Together, Nathan and Cameron explore how artists like Bob Dylan, Madonna, Prince, Bono, and Andy Warhol used religious imagery while keeping their personal beliefs ambiguous, inviting audiences to wrestle with questions of faith in a post-Christian world. Through thoughtful theological and cultural analysis, they examine whether “crypto-religiosity” can still exist today amid political polarization and spiritual confusion. This rich, intellectually honest discussion invites Christians to think deeply about hidden belief, creative expression, and how faith continues to shape modern culture.DONATE LINK: https://toltogether.com/donate BOOK A SPEAKER: https://toltogether.com/book-a-speakerJOIN TOL CONNECT: https://toltogether.com/tol-connect TOL Connect is an online forum where TOL listeners can continue the conversation begun on the podcast.
In this special Halloween episode of Thinking Out Loud, Nathan and Cameron dive deep into It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown—exploring how wishful thinking, childlike faith, and imagination reveal profound theological truths about human desire and divine hope. Known for their thoughtful Christian analysis of culture, Nathan and Cameron unpack C.S. Lewis’s argument from desire, the role of fantasy in spiritual formation, and the controversial idea that belief in figures like Santa Claus or the Great Pumpkin can be formative tutors of faith. Drawing connections between pop culture, philosophy, and Christian theology, they invite listeners to rediscover how imagination and longing point to the ultimate fulfillment found in Christ. Perfect for Christians seeking rich theological reflection on Halloween, faith, and the deeper meaning behind our stories.DONATE LINK: https://toltogether.com/donate BOOK A SPEAKER: https://toltogether.com/book-a-speakerJOIN TOL CONNECT: https://toltogether.com/tol-connect TOL Connect is an online forum where TOL listeners can continue the conversation begun on the podcast.
In this episode, Nathan and Cameron dive deep into the theological and cultural earthquakes shaking the global church, beginning with the dramatic shift in the Anglican Communion as the Church of England appoints Dame Sarah Mullally as Archbishop of Canterbury—a move many global Anglicans see as proof that the English church has abandoned biblical authority. With sharp insight and theological nuance, they unpack the growing divide between progressive Western Anglicanism and the vibrant, Scripture-centered Global South, drawing powerful parallels to the recent Methodist split. The conversation explores not only gender and sexuality debates but the deeper issue of biblical authority, orthodoxy, and faithfulness to historic Christianity. Nathan and Cameron also react to Canon Press’s $10 million offer to buy Christianity Today, analyzing what these events reveal about the realignment of authority, mission, and truth in the modern church. Perfect for Christians seeking thoughtful, Reformed, and intellectually rigorous discussion on current events in theology and the church.DONATE LINK: https://toltogether.com/donate BOOK A SPEAKER: https://toltogether.com/book-a-speakerJOIN TOL CONNECT: https://toltogether.com/tol-connect TOL Connect is an online forum where TOL listeners can continue the conversation begun on the podcast.
In this episode of Thinking Out Loud, Nathan and Cameron dive deep into a rich theological discussion on globalization, nationalism, and the Christian’s calling in a hyper-connected yet fractured world. Through the lens of American farm policy, overproduction, and the global soybean market, they explore how shifting trade dynamics, political realignments, and cultural homogenization reveal both the power and fragility of modern systems. Drawing on biblical wisdom and thinkers like Wendell Berry and Marshall McLuhan, Nathan and Cameron challenge Christians to discern where their true responsibilities lie—between interest, concern, and focus—and to reclaim a distinctly Christian vision of diversity, culture, and stewardship amid global uncertainty. This conversation is perfect for believers seeking thoughtful, gospel-centered insight into current events and how faith shapes our engagement with economics, culture, and identity.DONATE LINK: https://toltogether.com/donate BOOK A SPEAKER: https://toltogether.com/book-a-speakerJOIN TOL CONNECT: https://toltogether.com/tol-connect TOL Connect is an online forum where TOL listeners can continue the conversation begun on the podcast.
In this thought-provoking episode of Thinking Out Loud, Nathan and Cameron dive deep into what it means to be Christian "people of the Book" in a society rapidly drifting into post-literacy. Drawing from James Marriott’s article The Dawn of the Post-Literate Society, they explore the cultural, spiritual, and intellectual consequences of our screen-saturated age — and what it means for Christians committed to truth, Scripture, and careful thinking. From the decline in reading comprehension to the passive consumption of endless digital content, they examine how smartphones, edutainment, and modern distractions are shaping our minds and our theology. With references to thinkers like Neil Postman, Kant, and Matthew Arnold, this episode is for Christians who crave rich theological discussion, cultural critique, and a challenge to reclaim deep literacy in a distracted world. Subscribe for more Christian commentary on current events, media, and philosophy.LINK TO ARTICLE: https://jmarriott.substack.com/p/the-dawn-of-the-post-literate-society-aa1DONATE LINK: https://toltogether.com/donate BOOK A SPEAKER: https://toltogether.com/book-a-speakerJOIN TOL CONNECT: https://toltogether.com/tol-connect TOL Connect is an online forum where TOL listeners can continue the conversation begun on the podcast.
In this episode, Nathan and Cameron dive deep into the rising influence of Doug Wilson and the growing interest in Christian nationalism among evangelicals. Sparked by Wilson’s recent high-profile interview with Ross Douthat on The Interesting Times podcast and growing media coverage—including CNN—this conversation critically examines Wilson’s theological vision, his version of Christendom 2.0, and the historical Reformed roots of his political theology. With thoughtful nuance, Nathan and Cameron explore the appeal of Wilson’s message to disillusioned Christian men, the implications of his post-secular, patriarchal worldview, and the overlap and tension between theocracy, Calvinism, and modern conservative movements. This episode is essential for Christians seeking serious, biblically grounded analysis of current theological trends shaping the church and society today.DONATE LINK: https://toltogether.com/donate BOOK A SPEAKER: https://toltogether.com/book-a-speakerJOIN TOL CONNECT: https://toltogether.com/tol-connect TOL Connect is an online forum where TOL listeners can continue the conversation begun on the podcast.
In this episode of Thinking Out Loud, Nathan and Cameron dive into one of the most provocative questions facing the modern church: could — or should — we ever accept an AI pastor? Drawing from a Substack article by Tony Kritz titled “You Want an AI Pastor (and You Just Don’t Know It Yet),” they unpack a fictional yet eerily realistic scenario where artificial intelligence takes over spiritual leadership. The two explore the theological, ethical, and philosophical implications of AI-generated sermons, digital discipleship, and the replacement of human embodiment with machine precision. In classic Thinking Out Loud style, Nathan and Cameron push beyond fearmongering to ask deep questions about truth, incarnation, and what it really means to be human in an increasingly artificial age. Perfect for Christians hungry for thoughtful theological discussion on technology, faith, and the future of the Church.Article Link: https://tonykriz.substack.com/p/you-want-an-ai-pastor-you-just-dont?r=53syi&utm_medium=ios&triedRedirect=trueDONATE LINK: https://toltogether.com/donate BOOK A SPEAKER: https://toltogether.com/book-a-speakerJOIN TOL CONNECT: https://toltogether.com/tol-connect TOL Connect is an online forum where TOL listeners can continue the conversation begun on the podcast.
In this thought-provoking episode of Thinking Out Loud, Nathan and Cameron tackle the complex and emotionally charged topic of martyrdom, using the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk as a lens to examine how Christians should think about suffering, political identity, and gospel witness. Drawing from theological tradition and historical parallels like Dietrich Bonhoeffer, they explore three possible frameworks for understanding Kirk's death—Christian martyr, political martyr, or a hybrid of both. With careful attention to language, biblical definitions, and the cultural moment, this deep-dive invites Christians to move beyond knee-jerk reactions and reflect theologically on the meaning of true sacrifice and public faith. Whether you’re wrestling with the term “martyr” in light of recent events or seeking clarity in how Christians engage with political power, this episode offers nuanced, faithful insight grounded in Scripture and church history. Perfect for believers seeking serious Christian analysis of current events, especially where faith and politics intersect.DONATE LINK: https://toltogether.com/donate BOOK A SPEAKER: https://toltogether.com/book-a-speakerJOIN TOL CONNECT: https://toltogether.com/tol-connect TOL Connect is an online forum where TOL listeners can continue the conversation begun on the podcast.
In this episode of Thinking Out Loud, Nathan and Cameron unpack the recent conversation between Ross Douthat and Ezra Klein, diving deep into the question: What is the guiding story of progressive politics today? With insight, wit, and theological reflection, they explore the cultural crisis of meaning, the limits of techno-utopianism, and why modern narratives—both secular and spiritual—are failing to satisfy the human soul. Drawing from Joan Didion, Charles Taylor, and American pop culture, they challenge Christians to consider how the gospel offers a fuller, more coherent vision of life, purpose, and hope. If you're a believer wrestling with the intersection of faith, politics, and culture, this thoughtful analysis will sharpen your mind and deepen your understanding of the stories shaping our time.DONATE LINK: https://toltogether.com/donate BOOK A SPEAKER: https://toltogether.com/book-a-speakerJOIN TOL CONNECT: https://toltogether.com/tol-connect TOL Connect is an online forum where TOL listeners can continue the conversation begun on the podcast.
In this episode of Thinking Out Loud, Nathan and Cameron respond to critiques that their political and cultural commentary lacks conviction, clarifying their distinctly Christian approach to public discourse. Drawing on virtue ethics, New Testament theology, and the wisdom of thinkers like James Davison Hunter, they explore why a posture of humility, nuance, and spiritual discernment is not weakness—but faithfulness. With cultural distrust rising and Christians worldwide grappling with political polarization, Nathan and Cameron ask: Are we living in Israel or Babylon? What does it mean to think Christianly in an age of fear, outrage, and existential threats? This episode offers thoughtful, theologically rich insight for believers seeking to navigate the complexities of modern life without compromising the Gospel. Perfect for Christians craving depth, nuance, and Christ-centered clarity in today’s chaotic world.DONATE LINK: https://toltogether.com/donate BOOK A SPEAKER: https://toltogether.com/book-a-speakerJOIN TOL CONNECT: https://toltogether.com/tol-connect TOL Connect is an online forum where TOL listeners can continue the conversation begun on the podcast.
In this thought-provoking episode of Thinking Out Loud, Nathan Rittenhouse is joined by Pastor Mike Gehry of Communitas Church to explore the rising interest in Christianity—particularly among young adults—and the theological challenges and opportunities that come with it. Drawing from their seminary days and Mike’s expertise in spiritual formation and direction, Nathan and Mike engage in a rich, biblically grounded discussion about pragmatic conversions, cultural Christianity, spiritual disciplines, and the dangers of reducing the Gospel to mere self-help. With insights into the tension between tradition and modern evangelicalism, this episode offers deep encouragement for Christians who crave substance, nuance, and clarity in their walk with Christ. Whether you're a pastor, church leader, or just someone seeking authentic spiritual growth, this conversation will challenge and inspire you to pursue Christlikeness through the power of the Holy Spirit, within the life of the Church, and grounded in Scripture.DONATE LINK: https://toltogether.com/donate BOOK A SPEAKER: https://toltogether.com/book-a-speakerJOIN TOL CONNECT: https://toltogether.com/tol-connect TOL Connect is an online forum where TOL listeners can continue the conversation begun on the podcast.
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John Stuart Mill is the person who said "The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing." in case you wondered.
Jesus would agree with your conclusion in this matter. He said in John 18:36 that His kingdom is not of this world. We do not achieve a godly end by employing a worldly means. Our witness and impact are better served by being the hands and feet of Christ.
Excellent framing of the issues facing America today. Progressives seeking a cause versus conservatives seeking a people very helpful. Rugged individualism will be the death of America if it continues unabated.