Faith for Exiles

Mark Matlock is one of the most interesting men I’ve ever met. For decades, he has lived at the intersection of faith, culture, research, and the next generation. He doesn’t just study where culture has been—he pays attention to where it is moving. His groundbreaking work, including *Faith for Exiles*, has become a trusted sounding board for leaders across the spectrum of Christian ministry. Today on *BraveMen*, Mark brings that depth of insight into a powerful conversation about discipleship, culture, and what it means to build resilient faith in a rapidly changing world. Mark serves as a Senior Fellow at Barna and was Executive Director of Urbana 2025 for InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. He is a strategist, researcher, and facilitator who helps leaders turn information into action. Mark understands something every leader must understand: data can tell you where the river is flowing—but wisdom tells you how to cross it. He is also the founder of WisdomWorks, a consultancy helping churches and faith-based organizations uncover the wisdom already present in their people and turn it into innovation, clarity, and impact. His books include *Digital Babylon*, *Faith for Exiles*, and *Faith for the Curious*. This conversation is thoughtful, challenging, practical, and deeply hopeful. *BraveMen* is hosted by Paul Louis Cole, president of Christian Men’s Network. CMN is a global movement of men discipling men, serving on the ground in more than 100 nations. We believe strong men build strong families, strong churches, and strong communities. We are men on a mission—and that mission is Jesus. For resources to disciple men and strengthen families, visit CMN.men. ### Chapters - **00:00:00** Introduction: Mark Matlock on Faith and Culture - **00:02:22** Technology Has Outpaced Theology - **00:06:38** Digital Babylon: Living as Exiles - **00:11:11** The Discipleship Crisis in the Church - **00:14:12** The Spirit of a Father: Discipleship Through Relationship - **00:17:53** Creating Trust Through Challenge - **00:19:53** The Power of Small Groups and Havruta - **00:24:23** Urbana and the Global Missions Movement - **00:29:12** From Everyone to Everywhere: Modern Missions - **00:35:42** Faith for the Curious: The 64 Percent - **00:36:55** The Image of God in Broken Pieces - **00:38:43** Christians Need to Experience More Too - **00:44:02** The Best and Worst Time to Be Alive - **00:51:33** Revival-Minded America: 80 Million Strong - **00:53:43** Talking to Strangers: Opening Spiritual Conversations - **01:06:13** Dunbar's Number and Your Mission Field - **01:08:53** The Age of Amplification: Learning to Listen - **01:09:50** Closing: Technology Serves the Gospel