This week on the CBF Podcast Conversation, we’re joined by Mark Matlock, Principal Founder at WisdomWorks, senior fellow at the Barna Group, and author of Faith for the Curious. In his latest book, Mark examines how the current era of spiritual openness challenges and inspires us to live differently and help others follow Jesus. He writes, “We are leaving the shore, and the waters may get a little choppy. All I ask is that you tune your own sense of curiosity as you read.” Mark calls on Christians to engage with people where they are on their journey, leaning into curiosity instead of defensiveness or presumption.
In this conversation, we dive into the pressing questions raised by Mark’s book and Barna’s research, including the rise of “curious skeptics” and the spiritually curious, the exodus of young people from both church and faith, and the evolving cultural dynamics shaped by what he and David Kinnaman call “digital Babylon.” Mark challenges us to reconsider our approach, moving from a place of “rightness” to respectful engagement that prioritizes Christlike humility and genuine curiosity. He reminds us that many who are spiritually curious have been hurt by the church, and enhancing our reputation by embodying Christ in our neighborhoods is vital to reaching them. Tune in for this timely and thought-provoking conversation!
Check out Mark’s book, Faith for the Curious, and stay connected with his work at markmatlock.com.
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Andy Hale is the creator and host of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship Podcast. Hale is the Associate Executive Coordinator of CBF North Carolina. He’s also served as CBF’s Church Start Specialist, the founding pastor of Mosaic Church of Clayton, and the senior pastor of University Baptist Church of Baton Rouge. Follow on Twitter @haleandy.