James Spencer professional photo

Speaking. A calm, thoughtful,
theological voice challenging God's people to be Christian first.  

Topics I Cover
4
Christian First: Discipleship and Discernment
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In a self-help world, we are often encouraged to find balance or to prioritize. We are told that we can have it all and that having it all is the key to happiness. Dr. Spencer disagrees. Rooted in biblical teachings, Dr. Spencer explores what it means to live Christian First—a life of uncompromising faithfulness to the Triune God—by challenging cultural narratives about priorities, progress, manhood, and leadership while equipping God’s people to think and act theologically.
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Christians and Politics
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American Civil Religion and Christian Nationalism tempt churches to conflate faith and politics—pressing the Bible and theology into the service of political agendas. I address political engagement, policy, and rhetoric, from a distinctly theological perspective, challenging God's people to make pointing to and glorifying God non-negotiable, even when faithfulness means suffering political losses.
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Christians, Technology, and the Media
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Media and technology shape how we think, relate, and worship in ways that often conflict with biblical patterns. Examining artificial intelligence, social media, digital journalism, content creation, and philosophies like transhumanism, I offer biblical and theological frameworks to help God's people live as Christian First in today's digital world.
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Biblical Exposition and Christian Thought
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Sound biblical exposition forms the foundation for living as Christian First in every area of life. I preach and teach through major biblical texts—including Genesis, Romans, Revelation, Job, Exodus, 1 Corinthians, and the Old Testament historical books—helping congregations understand how Scripture shapes our theological disposition and practical discipleship. I also address challenging theological topics such as God and evil, systemic sin, and biblical manhood, demonstrating how careful biblical study equips believers to think theologically about complex issues while maintaining uncompromising faith.
Select Appearances
“I learned a lot from talking to different guests. Dr. James Spencer...is one great example. He gave this really measured...exposition really on what Christian nationalism is, what it isn't, how the church should be responding.
— Ian Giatti, Host of Politics in the Pews Podcast
James challenged my preconceived ideas of the material and stretched my understanding, forcing me to view Scripture in a way that allowed the text to form tangible, practical application.
— Joe W., Former Student
“Dr. Spencer articulated some things for me that I have been unable to adequately express to others. I listened to the program twice, downloaded the transcript and ordered his book...Thank you for introducing me to Dr. Spencer. His work will help me as I seek to fulfill the purpose God has given me.”
— Don, Stand in the Gap Today Listener
James's way of analyzing culture and framing it biblically and theologically is compelling and convicting all at the same time. His comments were measured and he has challenged me to rethink the way I engage in politics.
— S. West, Politics in the Pews Attendee
While others chase clicks with sensational takes, I provide thoughtful theological analysis that equips the church for faithful engagement. My approach to speaking and media appearances flows from the Christian First framework—helping believers develop the theological disposition, reasoning, context, and discernment needed to bear witness faithfully in a broken world.

As I address topics such as politics, technology, media, and cultural narratives, I challenge Christians to think theologically rather than simply reacting to cultural pressures. My talks encourage believers to ground themselves in a theological understanding of how reality actually works, enabling them to engage complex issues with both conviction and wisdom.

Instead of quick takes or inflammatory reactions, I help Christians develop the deliberate, nuanced thinking that comes from being truly Christian first. My goal is to equip Christians to be thoughtful witnesses who can engage the world's distortions with calm confidence, remaining humble and patient as we watch and wait for God to act.