The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 277
On the Incarnation
Welcome to Episode 277 of The Thinklings Podcast!

In this episode, the Thinklings begin with Books & Business before turning their attention to On the Incarnation by Athanasius. The main discussion centers on the rich metaphors and similes Athanasius employs to explain the work of Christ — images that help communicate profound theological truths with clarity, beauty, and force.

Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation!
📚 Books & Business

Thinkling Charlie: On the Incarnation
Thinkling Tim: The Vanishing Hebrew Harlot
Thinkling Josh: Do More Better
Thinkling Andy: The Drowned Vault

📖 Main Content
A focused discussion on On the Incarnation, paying particular attention to Athanasius’s use of metaphor and illustration. The Thinklings explore how these images illuminate the nature of Christ’s incarnation, redemption, and victory over corruption and death — and why careful attention to language matters in theology.



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The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 276
Booxing Day
Welcome to Episode 276 of The Thinklings Podcast!

Why settle for boring Boxing Day when you could celebrate Booxing Day instead? In this special post-Christmas episode, the Thinklings exchange books with one another to read on December 26...turning the day after Christmas into a celebration of reading, friendship, and absolutely no boxes.

Add an “O” to your boxing and join the Thinklings as they share book recommendations, surprise exchanges, and plenty of literary cheer.

Thanks for tuning in to this festive conversation!
📖 Main Content

A Booxing Day book exchange
Each Thinkling gifts a book to another for reading after Christmas
Discussion of why Booxing Day is better than Boxing Day
Reflections on reading as a gift worth savoring
And at the end of the episode, one Thinkling receives a unique gift — but what could it be? You’ll have to listen to find out!




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The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 275
Christmas Reads: Books We’re Excited to Read
Welcome to Episode 275 of The Thinklings Podcast!

In this episode, the Thinklings share the books they’re looking forward to reading now, over Christmas, and in the near future. It’s a forward-looking conversation about anticipation, curiosity, and the joy of planning good reading — whether for rest, growth, or simple delight.

Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation!
📖 Main Content
Each Thinkling shares upcoming reading plans, reflecting on why certain books are worth picking up and how seasons like Christmas often provide space for deeper, more intentional reading.
🌿 Final Meditation
Thinkling Stearns closes the episode with a devotional reflection from Ecclesiastes, reminding us to receive God’s gifts with gratitude and wisdom.



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The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 274
It’s Always Christmas and Never Winter
Welcome to Episode 274 of The Thinklings Podcast!

In this winter-themed episode, the Thinklings lean into the spirit of the season with a mix of books, reflection, and festive frivolity. Drawing inspiration from C.S. Lewis’s famous line about Narnia, the conversation ranges from Christmas literature to seasonal questions — all loosely tethered to good books, good thoughts, and good cheer.

Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation!
📚 Books & Business

Thinkling Tim: Hidden Critique of Solomon
Thinkling Charlie: On the Incarnation
Thinkling Andy: Quotable Lewis
Thinkling Josh: A Christmas Carol

📖 Main Content
A lighthearted discussion of Christmas-themed questions and reflections, including:

Favorite Christmas movies
Seasonal reading and traditions
Festive fun and thoughtful conversation

🌿 Final Meditation
A closing meditation from Luke 1, drawing our attention to the wonder of the Incarnation and the hope of Christ’s coming.



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The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 273
TALQ 9: Questions on Discipleship, Evangelism, Coffee, Anglican News, and Ezekiel
Welcome to Episode 273 of The Thinklings Podcast!

In this episode, the Thinklings spend the entire show interacting with listener questions — theological, practical, humorous, and everything in between. From discipleship and evangelism to Anglican denominational shifts, Ezekiel’s prophecies, and even the pressing matter of whether coffee counts as vegetable juice, this TALQ episode offers insight, fun, and thoughtful biblical reflection.

We also continue our seasonal reminder: Booxing Day is just a few weeks away! Remember: you can get 25% off at the FBBC Bookstore if you mention that you're a Thinklings listener buying books for Booxing Day!

Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation!
📚 Books & Business

Thinkling Tim: The Shack
Thinkling Josh: Reflections on the Revolution in France
Thinkling Andy: The Weight of Glory (teaser for the spring read-a-long)
Thinkling Charlie: A Short History of the Baptists

📖 Main Content
TALQ 9 — Summary of Questions

Why make a distinction between passions and the mind when discussing internal transformation?
Should Christians pray for evangelism opportunities or for boldness to use the opportunities already present?
Is drinking coffee essentially the same as drinking vegetable juice?
What should we think about the recent split within the Anglican Church?
How should we understand the destruction of Tyre in Ezekiel?
And finally… what are the favorite colors of the Thinklings?

🌿 Final Meditation
Thinkling Stearns concludes with part 3 of his series on prayer, reflecting on Jesus’ example in Luke 22:39–46.



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The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 272
Some Thinklings Thoughts on Luke 8
Welcome to Episode 272 of The Thinklings Podcast!

In this episode, the Thinklings turn their attention to Luke 8, exploring several of Jesus’ parables and the rich theological and practical lessons they offer. From hearing the Word to responding in faith, the Thinklings reflect on how these teachings shape Christian living and spiritual growth.

And don’t forget — Booxing Day is just a few weeks away! Now is the perfect time to pick up some books to give to your friends. If you mention Booxing Day or that you listen to The Thinklings Podcast at the FBBC bookstore, you can get 25% off your book purchase for Booxing Day gifts!

Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation!
📚 Books & Business

Thinkling Little: Fountains of Wisdom
Thinkling Boyd: How to Read a Book
Thinkling Stearns: Introducing Christian Doctrine
Thinkling Carter: Luke 8 Study/Commentaries

📖 Main Content
A discussion of the parables in Luke 8, focusing on:

What these parables reveal about hearing and obeying the Word
How Jesus uses story to expose the heart
The disciples’ response and the call to genuine faith
The enduring relevance of these teachings for believers today

🌿 Final Meditation
None this week — the main content is rooted directly in Scripture!



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The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 270


The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 270
Thanksgivlings 6

Welcome to Episode 270 of The Thinklings Podcast!

It’s that time of year again — our annual Thanksgivlings episode! Now in its sixth installment, this special tradition is all about celebration, laughter, and gratitude. Each Thinkling brings “a dish to share” — not food, but a topic, activity, story, or bit of delightful nonsense they want to serve to the table.

It’s Thanksgiving frivolity at its finest.

Thanks for joining us for this year’s festive and lighthearted conversation!

📖 Main Content
A collection of “dishes” from each Thinkling — stories, ideas, curiosities, and fun — all offered in the spirit of friendship, gratitude, and good cheer.

🌿 Final Meditation
Thinkling Tim closes the episode with a meditation on giving thanks — reflecting on God’s goodness and encouraging us to cultivate grateful hearts for what the Lord has done.



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The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 269
Frankenstein, Part 4
Welcome to Episode 269 of The Thinklings Podcast!

In this episode, the Thinklings continue their journey through Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, turning their attention to the growing tension between Victor and the creature. As motives deepen and consequences rise, the Thinklings explore the moral, emotional, and spiritual dynamics at the heart of the novel.

Thanks for joining us for another thoughtful conversation!
📖 Main Content

A closer look at the fractured relationship between creator and creation.
Discussion on justice, vengeance, and the desire to belong.
How Shelley’s narrative exposes the cost of pride, secrecy, and neglected responsibility.
Reflections on how guilt, grief, and longing shape the story’s momentum.

🌿 Final Meditation
The episode closes with a meditation from Scripture!



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The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 268


The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 268
TALQ at IRBC: Thinklings Answer Listener Questions

Welcome to Episode 268 of The Thinklings Podcast!

This week’s episode is a special TALQ (Thinklings Answer Listener Questions) recorded live at the IRBC Young Adult Retreat in Ventura, Iowa! Surrounded by good coffee, great company, and thoughtful questions, the Thinklings take time to engage with listeners and explore real-life applications of faith, theology, and literature.

Thanks for joining us for this live edition of the podcast!

🎙️ Main Content

Recorded live at Iowa Regular Baptist Camp.
Listener-submitted questions on Scripture, Christian living, and the life of the mind.
Discussions filled with humor, wisdom, and grounded theological reflection.
Insights on how faith shapes thought, relationships, and creativity.


🌿 Final Meditation
The Thinklings close the live episode with a brief reflection on the joy of community and the shared pursuit of knowing Christ more deeply together.



🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Follow The Thinklings Podcast for weekly discussions on books, theology, and life — now in its 11th season!

The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 267
Frankenstein, Part 3
Welcome to Episode 267 of The Thinklings Podcast!

In this episode, the Thinklings continue their exploration of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, delving deeper into the creature’s story and the moral complexity that unfolds as creator and creation confront one another. Themes of justice, empathy, and alienation intertwine as the Thinklings reflect on how Shelley’s narrative raises timeless questions about what it means to be human.

Thanks for joining us for this week’s thoughtful discussion!
📖 Main Content

Examining the creature’s perspective and the longing for companionship.
Discussing Victor’s moral responsibility and the consequences of isolation.
Exploring how Shelley’s story bridges science, morality, and theology.

🌿 Final Meditation
Thinkling Boyd closes with a reflection from 2 Cor 1!



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The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 266
Boyd — “The Collar”
Welcome to Episode 266 of The Thinklings Podcast!

In this episode, Dr. Boyd leads the Thinklings through a poetic and theological reflection on “The Collar” by George Herbert — a powerful exploration of rebellion, restlessness, and the return to submission under God’s call. Together, the Thinklings unpack Herbert’s imagery and emotion, considering how poetry can shape our understanding of faith, struggle, and surrender.

Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation!
📚 Books & Business

Thinkling Little: Worship and Song
Thinkling Boyd: How to Read a Book
Thinkling Stearns: To the Far Blue Mountains
Thinkling Carter: Milton’s Sonnets

📖 Main Content
Dr. Boyd walks through George Herbert’s poem The Collar!
🌿 Final Meditation
Thinkling Carter closes the episode with a reflection from 2 Corinthians 4, encouraging endurance and hope in the midst of life’s challenges.



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The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 265
Frankenstein, Part 2
Welcome to Episode 265 of The Thinklings Podcast!

In this episode, the Thinklings continue their journey through Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, picking up where Victor’s story begins to unfold in full. They reflect on how ambition, creation, and alienation shape both Victor and the creature — and what Shelley’s writing reveals about humanity, responsibility, and the moral weight of knowledge.

Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation!
📖 Main Content

A deeper dive into Frankenstein as Victor’s obsession grows and consequences emerge.
Reflections on themes of ambition, alienation, and the human condition.

🌿 Final Meditation
Thinkling Stearns shares a final meditation from 2 Chronicles 33.



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The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 264
Psalm 68 in Ephesians 4
Welcome to Episode 264 of The Thinklings Podcast!

In this episode, the Thinklings survey different views on the use of Psalm 68 in Ephesians 4. The conversation explores interpretive perspectives, theological implications, and how this passage fits into Paul’s larger message to the church.

Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation!
📚 Books & Business

Thinkling Little: Becoming the Pastor’s Wife
Thinkling Boyd: The Faerie Queene
Thinkling Stearns: To the Far Blue Mountains
Thinkling Carter: Ephesians commentaries

📖 Main Content
The Thinklings examine different interpretations of Psalm 68 as it is used in Ephesians 4, discussing how Paul draws on Old Testament imagery to reveal the victorious work of Christ and its implications for the church today. This episode offers a thoughtful look at textual meaning, context, and application.
🌿 Final Meditation
The episode closes with a meditation on Ephesians 4, focusing on unity, Christ’s victory, and the gifts He gives to His people.



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The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 263
Frankenstein, Chapters 1–5
Welcome to Episode 263 of The Thinklings Podcast!

In this episode, the Thinklings begin their discussion of Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, covering Chapters 1–5. Together, they explore themes of ambition, grief, and longing woven through Victor Frankenstein’s story — and how Shelley’s work still speaks to questions of humanity, wisdom, and responsibility.

Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation!
📖 Main Content
Opening Discussion Points

An introduction to Mary Shelley and her life context.
A look at the narrative structure through the letters of Robert Walton.
A free-flowing discussion about the early chapters and how they set the stage for Victor’s obsession and isolation.

🌿 Final Meditation
Thinkling Carter closes with a meditation from 1 Corinthians 15, reflecting on life, resurrection, and true hope beyond human achievement.



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The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 262


The Thinklings Podcast — Episode 262
Good Mornings, Harry Potter, and Hand-Raising

Welcome to this week’s episode of The Thinklings Podcast!

We begin with our regular Books & Business discussion, then move into a lively set of listener questions and literary reflections—from Gandalf and Bilbo’s “Good Morning” exchange in The Hobbit, to whether Harry Potter belongs in the same category as Tolkien and Lewis, to thoughtful questions about worship practices, laughter, and the Christian life.

Thanks for tuning in to this week’s conversation!

📚 Books & Business

Thinkling Tim: Current State of OT Studies
Thinkling Josh: Sir Gawain & the Green Knight
Thinkling Andy: Sackett’s Land, Louis L’Amour (Strong 6)
Thinkling Charlie: A Farewell to Arms


📖 Main Content

Jeremiah Simpson’s Question (via Charlie): Why does Gandalf press Bilbo on the meaning of “good morning” in The Hobbit? What does this reveal about Tolkien’s view of language, and how should we think about Bilbo’s response?
Bethany Snell’s Question (via Josh): How should Christians think about Harry Potter compared to Narnia or The Lord of the Rings? What value might the series have, and where do Christians differ?
Dakota Holaday & Taylor Jarmon’s Questions (via Little): How do studies on worship apply to camp songs with actions? Is there a biblical connection between hand-raising and Sabbath observance?
Josiah Little’s Question (via Stearns): What is the correlation between humor, laughter, and spirituality? Why do we laugh, and what does it reveal about our hearts?


🌿 Final Meditation
Thinkling Stearns closes with a meditation on prayer, reflecting on the example of Manasseh.



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Welcome to Episode 261 of The Thinklings Podcast!
This is Episode 6 of Season 11! 🎉

We kick off with our usual Books & Business discussion, then move into the main content: Thinkling Little explores the topic of so-called “failed” Old Testament prophecies — digging into context, meaning, and application for today.

Tune in for thoughtful dialogue, biblical insight, and a bit of fun-nonsense along the way!
📚 Books & Business & Meditation

Stearns: Otherworld
Little: The Men We Need
Boyd: City of God
Carter: Piranesi

📖 Main Content: “Failed” OT Prophecies
Thinkling Little takes us through a careful look at so-called “failed” Old Testament prophecies, examining the historical context, literary form, and theological meaning behind them. This episode invites listeners to see how God’s Word remains trustworthy and relevant.
🌿 Final Meditation
Throughout the episode, Thinkling Little walks us through several passages of Scripture, so there’s no single final text this week — the whole conversation serves as our meditation in the Word. 📖



🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Stay connected with The Thinklings Podcast for more books, theology, and engaging conversation every week in Season 11!

Episode 260 - The Thinklings Podcast


Welcome to Episode 260 of The Thinklings Podcast!

This is Episode 5 of Season 11! 🎉

We start with our usual Books & Business segment before moving to the main content: Thinkling Stearns walks us through A Little Theology of Exercise, exploring how physical discipline and theology intersect.

Thinkling Little wraps up the episode with a closing thought from Psalm 103.

📚 Books & Business & Meditation

Stearns: A Little Theology of Exercise
Little: Sin of Empathy (Quote)
Boyd: Euthyphro
Carter: Frankenstein


📖 Main Content: A Little Theology of Exercise
Thinkling Stearns leads an engaging discussion on the book A Little Theology of Exercise. Together, we consider how the rhythms of physical training can point us toward deeper spiritual truths.

🌿 Final Meditation
Thinkling Little concludes the episode with reflections from Psalm 103, helping us end the conversation grounded in Scripture. 📖



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Episode 259 - The Thinklings Podcast


Welcome to Episode 259 of The Thinklings Podcast!

This is Episode 4 of Season 11! 🎉

We kick things off with our regular Books & Business discussion before diving into the main content: Thinkling Boyd guides us through John Donne’s classic poem, A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning.

📚 Books & Business & Meditation

Stearns: Thoughts Worth Thinking Blog – A Lot Can Change in Four Years
Little: Sing Hymnal
Boyd: Main Content – A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning
Carter: Phantastes


📖 Main Content: John Donne’s Poetry
Thinkling Boyd takes us on a literary journey through John Donne’s A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning, exploring its imagery, meaning, and significance. This classic poem opens up a conversation on love, parting, and deeper theological insights.

🌿 Final Meditation
Thinkling Carter concludes the episode with a meditation on Psalm 103, bringing us back to Scripture for encouragement and reflection. 📖



🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Stay tuned to The Thinklings Podcast for more from Season 11—where books, poetry, and theology come together each week!

Episode 258 - The Thinklings Podcast


Welcome to Episode 258 of The Thinklings Podcast!

This is Episode 3 of Season 11! 🎉

We begin with our regular Books & Business discussion, followed by the main content where Thinkling Carter starts a conversation in Ephesians 4, aimed at unpacking the theme of Christian maturity.

Tune in to hear our thoughts and reflections!

📚 Books & Business & Meditation

Stearns: Ploductivity
Little: The Messiah in the OT
Boyd: Federalist 51
Carter: Wuthering Heights


📖 Main Content: Ephesians 4 & Maturity
Thinkling Carter leads the way in a thoughtful discussion on Ephesians 4, examining what biblical maturity looks like and how believers are called to grow together in Christ.

🌿 Final Meditation
Thinkling Carter guides us through multiple passages, and that serves as our meditation in the Word for this episode. 📖



🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Don’t miss an episode of The Thinklings Podcast—Season 11 is underway with books, theology, and fun-nonsense every week!