This week, we’re breaking down the recent Trump-Putin summit in Alaska, European leaders visiting the White House, and the next steps in bringing peace to Ukraine and Israel/Gaza. But what does it mean for US foreign policy and Europe’s stability? And how should Christians think biblically about peace and power on the world stage…and in our own personal lives? We share our own stories of finding peace in life’s very difficult moments.

Then we dive into the summer box office – which movies flopped and which ones were blockbuster hits? Plus, who won our box office prediction game, Bust the Block?? Tune in to find out! You’ll even hear our go-to movie theater snacks. And of course, we have thoughts on the Texas Democrats coming back home and Scottie Scheffler’s insane win this past weekend. 

Get caught up on culture this week—with clarity, context, and a Christian perspective.

Topics

• (01:05 ): Alaska summit: High hopes and disappointments
• (03:33 ): European leaders and the path to peace
• (07:45 ): Ceasefire talks in Gaza
• (10:08 ): Spiritual reflections on global conflicts
• (12:27 ): Personal conflicts and seeking peace
• (23:02 ): Personal testimonies of peace
• (29:48 ): Summer movie box office results
• (36:16 ): Texas House Democrats return
• (41:09 ): Scottie Scheffler's stunning victory
• (42:26 ): Conclusion and farewell

Resources

• Mailbag: culturebrief@denisonforum.org
• Culture Brief Instagram
• Sign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribe

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Ending the war in Ukraine and a ceasefire in Gaza? -Denison Forum

Other articles on this week’s top headlines:

• Was the Alaska summit a success? - Denison Forum
• Politico Playbook: How Trump and Zelenskyy hit reset
• Hamas accepts latest Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal proposal
• Hamas says it agrees to latest ceasefire proposal; Netanyahu sounds dismissive
• Pro golfer Ben Griffin rebounds after “creatine overdose” - Denison Forum

About Conner Jones

Conner Jones is the Director of Performance Marketing at Denison Ministries and Co-Hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2019 with a degree in Business Management. Conner passionately follows politics, sports, pop-culture, entertainment, and current events. He enjoys fishing, movie-going, and traveling the world with his wife and son.

About Micah Tomasella

Micah Tomasella is the Senior Advancement Officer at Denison Ministries and co-hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. A graduate of Dallas Baptist University, Micah is married to Emily, and together they are the proud parents of two daughters. With an extensive background in nonprofit work, finance, and real estate, Micah also brings experience from his years in pastoral church ministry.

About Denison Forum

Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.