Summer is a time for reading. Work slows down a bit, at least for some. I’m not traveling as much to speak and teach. School’s out. I spend more time at the lake. In fact, I have probably spent more time reading on a couch next to a lake than any other place. I’ve read everything from history to fiction to theology on that couch that helps put my mind in the right place to relax then concentrate.One of my favorite guests is back on Gospelbound to talk about summer reading as we close out the spring 2025 season. Melissa Kruger is the vice president for discipleship programming at TGC and co-host of the hit new podcast, The Deep Dish. We talked about why we love reading, and why reading still matters with social media and AI. And we offered dozens of book recommendations in many different genres. Summer Reading RecommendationsCollin's Summer Reading List:Godric by Frederick BuechnerThe Fate of the Day by Rick AtkinsonThe Space Trilogy by C. S. LewisMelissa's Summer Reading List:Homecoming by Kate MortonThe Lord's Work in the Lord's Way and No Little People by Francis A. SchaefferThe Expulsive Power of a New Affection by Thomas ChalmersFor the full list of book recommendations mentioned in this episode, visit our website.
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1:12:42
Obergefell: 10 Years Later
In this episode of Gospelbound, Collin Hansen looks back on the decade since the U.S. Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage in the 2015 Obergefell decision. He explores why support for same-sex marriage is now declining and why transgender activism hasn't followed the same trajectory. Hansen also reflects on how the church responded to this cultural upheaval and why many ministries didn’t cave under pressure.
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1:01:21
How Charisma Reveals Our Idols
In this episode of Gospelbound, Collin Hansen talks with Molly Worthen about her new book Spellbound, which explores how charisma has shaped American history. Worthen explains charisma not just as charm, but as a powerful story that invites followers into something morally meaningful. She traces its roots from the New Testament to modern politics and culture, showing how our desire for control—and to give it up—reveals the stories and idols that shape us.
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38:23
Meditations on the World to Come for Life in the Meantime
Collin Hansen speaks with Matt McCullough about his book Remember Heaven, exploring the themes of vulnerability in our future, the relevance of heaven in Christian life, and the motivations behind our longing for heaven. They discuss the disconnect many Christians feel towards heaven, the role of suffering, and the significance of Judgment Day. McCullough emphasizes the importance of understanding heaven not just as a distant hope but as a central aspect of Christian faith that shapes our lives today.
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31:19
Tim Keller’s Overlooked Teaching that Will Endure for Generations
In this episode of Gospelbound, Collin Hansen and Matt Smethurst reflect on the lasting impact of Tim Keller’s gospel-centered teaching and legacy. Smethurst shares insights from his new book, Tim Keller on the Christian Life: The Transforming Power of the Gospel, which distills Keller’s most influential content on Christian living, emphasizing Keller’s ability to engage both heart and mind with grace-filled clarity. Hansen and Smethurst explore Keller’s unique communication style, his evolving focus on topics like idolatry, suffering, and friendship, and the deep theological roots that shaped his ministry.Â
Gospelbound, hosted by Collin Hansen for The Gospel Coalition, is a podcast for those searching for firm faith in an anxious age. Each week, Collin talks with insightful guests about books, ideas, and how to navigate life by the gospel of Jesus Christ in a post-Christian culture.
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