James Spencer professional photo

Speaking & Media. A theological voice for the questions the church needs to be asking.

James Spencer helps Christians develop the mature, uncompromising faith that serious engagement with the world demands. As a theologian, author, and the founder of the Thinking Christian platform, he brings rigorous biblical thinking to the church's important conversations. James writes and speaks on the intersection of faith and politics, technology and human formation, and Christian identity in relation to cultural trends. He is the author of Serpents and Doves and the forthcoming Discipleship and Discernment in a Digital Age (InterVarsity Press, Fall 2026), a theology of human formation for the digital age.
Topics I Cover
1
Discipleship and Discernment
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What does it look like to live under the authority of Scripture in a world that presses Christians toward accommodation or reaction? Spencer challenges audiences to develop the theological depth that makes genuine discernment possible — not a set of answers, but a way of seeing.
2
Christians and Politics
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American Civil Religion and Christian Nationalism tempt churches to press faith into the service of political agendas. Spencer addresses political engagement from a distinctly theological perspective, challenging Christians to make faithfulness non-negotiable even when it means accepting political losses.
3
Christians, Technology, and the Media
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Media and technology reshape how we think, relate, and worship in ways that often conflict with biblical patterns. Drawing on his forthcoming IVP book, Spencer offers a theological framework for human formation in the digital age — grounded, practical, and genuinely Christian.
4
Biblical Exposition and Christian Thought
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Sound biblical exposition is the foundation for living faithfully in every area of life. Spencer preaches and teaches through major biblical texts, helping congregations develop the theological imagination that complex times require.
Select Appearances
Also Appeared On: The Eric Metaxas Show (Salem Media) · Relatable with Allie Beth Stuckey (Blaze Media) · Dr. James Dobson's Family Talk · Equipped with Chris Brooks (Moody Radio) · Newsmax American Agenda · SRN News (Salem Radio Network) · Stand in the Gap Today — recurring guest (American Pastors Network) · The Christian Worldview with David Wheaton · The Drive Home with Greg Seltz (Lutheran Hour Ministries) · The Georgene Rice Show · Providence Forum · Higher Ground with Billy Hallowell (Washington Times) · VCY TV — "Who Was D.L. Moody" · Brad Stine Has Issues (LifeAudio) · The Man Within Podcast with Sathiya Sam (forthcoming)

Expert Source: The Telegraph (UK) · Fox News

Reular Contributor: Christianity.com
"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
BeYOND A SINGLE EVENT
A speaking engagement or interview is one way to engage James's work. For churches, leadership teams, and organizations that want something more sustained, he offers a range of courses and workshops built directly from the Thinking Christian Framework and his published books.

Available Courses:
Knowing Jesus: A Walk through the Gospels
By examining key events, messages, and themes in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, you will gain deeper insight into who Jesus is and how his ministry transforms and informs the Christian life.
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Christian Resistance: Learning to Defy the World and Follow Christ
Explore biblical texts and theological concepts related to Christian resistance of spiritual forces of evil and worldly influences contrary to God's desires.
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On Discipleship: 
Develop a stronger understanding of discipleship through the discussion of theological frameworks and biblical texts that clarify what it means to live under the authority of Jesus Christ.
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Workshops
Workshops
Intensive Program
Deep-dive intensive workshop providing biblical and theological perspectives and facilitating discussion about issues crucial to your ministry.
  • Your Church an Discipleship: Assessing Organizational Capacity for Disciple Making
  • Christian First Manhood: Being a Man, Being a Disciple
  • Unbalanced Living: Reordering Loves, Reorienting Attention, and Responding to God
  • Church and Culture: A Christian First Strategy for Influencing the World
Contact James