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A theological journey of becoming. Deconstruction/Reconstruction. Evolution of faith.
The podcast Rethinking Faith is created by (Re)thinking Faith. The podcast and the artwork on this page are embedded on this page using the public podcast feed (RSS).
This week I had the joy of being in conversation with Dr. Catherine Keller to discuss her latest book, "No Matter What: Crisis and the Spirit of Planetary Possibility". Hope is not simple optimism, but a participation in the Spirit of Possibility. Dr. Keller and I discuss what it means to cultivate hope during the time of crisis we find ourselves in. We engage eco-theology, feminism, process theology, and radical theology. This is a deep and profound conversation calling us to both be deeply realistic in our assessments of the world and defiantly hopeful... no matter what! Enjoy.
RESOURCES:
No Matter What: Crisis and the Spirit of Planetary Possibility (Book)
On the Mystery: Discerning Divinity in Process (Book)
The Face of the Deep: A Theology of Becoming (Book)
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3*
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This week I was joined by Dr. Lina Langby to discuss her dissertation, "God and the World: Pragmatic and Epistemic Arguments For Panentheistic and Pantheistic Conceptions of the God-World Relationship". Langby takes us on a journey searching for a God worthy of worship assessing the impacts of Classical Theism, Panentheism, and Pantheism on gender equality, environmental concerns, science, and the problem of evil. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
God and the World (Dissertation)
Process-Panentheism and the "Only-Way" Argument (Article)
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3*
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This week I was joined by Jeremy Hunt for a fun conversation around his lates book, "From Chaos to Ambiguity: A Theology of Noise Rock". It is not often that I get to nerd out about my love for music and my love for theology in the same conversation! We take a deep dive into the history of Punk to No Wave to Noise Rock. We discuss the power of music and sound and Jeremy weaves in a deep theology of presence and creativity. Radical Theology & Process Theology also find their way into the conversation as always... Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
From Chaos to Ambiguity: A Theology of Noise Rock (Book)
QOHELETH (Band Camp)
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3*
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This week I was joined by Gastroenterologist and Theologian Dr. John F. Pohl for a deep exploration of the intersection of Science, Medicine, and Theology. We talked about his recent book, "A Theology of the Microbiome: An Intersection of Divinity and the Microbial Life Within Us". In this conversation Dr. Pohl gives us a rundown of the microbial life that lives inside of us. The microbiome is then explored from the perspective of Process-Relational perspective. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
A Theology of the Microbiome (Book)
Open and Relational Theology Conference: Get Your Tickets Here!
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3*
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This week I was joined by my friends Nicky Pizaña and Dr. Adam Clark for a challenging but important conversation. In 1973 Dr. William R. Jones published a book titled, "Is God A White Racist: A Preamble to Black Theology". In this book, Jones concluded that if the God of classical theism is true, then God is indeed a White Racist. Is the claim that God is the liberator of the oppressed empirically verifiable? Jones concludes that it is not... and if God is all powerful, then why is there so much oppression? I think Open & Relational Theology could offer a different perspective that takes Jones argument seriously, but could ultimately could allow us to say, "No! God is not a White Racist". Often times however, Black Theology and Liberation Theology have been hesitant to engage with the Open and Relational or Process Relational tradition. In this conversation Nicky and Adam engage with Jone's strong claims and challenge me on the adequacy of my Process-Relational approach. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Is God A White Racist: A Preamble to Black Theology (Book)
Making a Way Out of No Way (Book)
THEOLOGY BEER CAMP 2025:
Early Bird tickets are on sale now! Snag your tickets HERE.
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3*
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This week Rabbi Shai Held joins the podcast to discuss his latest book "Judaism is About Love: Recovering the Heart of Jewish Life". It goes without saying that there are A LOT of misconceptions about Judaism within the Christian tradition. To say it even more bluntly, there are a lot of Anti-Semitic and Anti-Jewish teachings and doctrines plaguing the Christian tradition today. In this conversation Rabbi Held explores how love isn't just a sentiment but a theological and ethical imperative deeply rooted in the Jewish tradition. We discuss the radical nature of love in the Hebrew Bible and address many of the misconceptions and false teaching about the Jewish tradition. This is a thought provoking conversation that only just scrapped the surface of Rabbi Held's book. Enjoy the conversation and snag a copy of his book!
RESOURCES:
Judaism is About Love: Recovering the Heart of Jewish Life (Book)
Join the Patreon
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3*
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This week I was joined by Peter Rollins to play another round of 20ish Q's. We cover A LOT of ground in this fan-favorite episode format... The Death of God, Pyro Theology, Psycho Analysis, Radical Theology, Religionless Religion, Politics, Leprechauns, and more! Enjoy.
RESOURCES:
Join the Patreon.
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3*
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This week I had the privilege of sitting down with Philosopher Dr. Philip Goff to discuss his most recent book, "Why?: The Purpose of the Universe". We took a deep dive into his work asking questions like, "Does science point towards purpose?", "Does consciousness point toward purpose?", and "Can there be inherent purpose without a God concept?". This was a great conversation that I am very excited to share. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Why? The Purpose of the Universe (Book)
Support my work and Join the Patreon for $5 /month.
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3*
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This week I had the privilege of being joined by Khristi Adams to talk about her new book "Womanish Theology: Discovering God Through the Lens of Black Girlhood". Khristi reflects on her experiences growing up as a black girl and invites us into the experience of black girls to learn from a their perspective. We take a deep dive into Khristi's book, her experience, and the experience of the young black girls that she interviewed for the book. We talk about our relationship to prayer, scripture, the problem of evil, and a variety of other important theological topics. The Womanist tradition is deep, rich and expansive... but what does the Womanish tradition have to offer us a new? Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Womanish Theology (Book)
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3*
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This week my friend Jared Morningstar joined me to continue my series exploring Process-Relational thought across various religious traditions. Jared is a practicing Muslim and we had a great conversation exploring how Process has influenced his understanding of Islam, and how Islam has impacted his understanding of Process thought. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
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This week on the podcast I am joined by my friend Ryan Canty to talk about his new book, "Deweaponize: Re-examining how we read the Bible in pursuit of a more Christlike interpretation". We take a deep dive into this wonderfully accessible book that covers a wide range of important topics. What does it look like to allow Jesus to inform how we think about things like Inspiration, Creation, Gender Hierarchy, Violence, Hell, and the Afterlife? This was a fun conversation that provides both clarity and depth to some of our biggest questions. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Deweaponize: Re-examining how we read the Bible in pursuit of a more Christlike interpretation (Book)
Get your tickets to ORTCON25 here!
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3*
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This week, I was joined by Dr. Anthony Pinn to discuss his latest book, "The Black Practice of Disbelief: An Introduction to the Principles, History, and Communities of Black Nonbelievers". Dr. Pinn is a former Baptist Minister who no longer identifies as a Christian or believer. Now, Pinn identifies as a Black Humanist and argues that Black Humanism is inherently Religious. We discuss the reason for his shift and some pretty sharp critiques that he has off the Church. Dr. Pinn walks me through his 6 pirnciples of Black Humanism then connects them to our everyday lives and the constant struggle for justice and human flouring. This was a deeply informative and moving conversation that has a lot to offer regardless of your religious identification or lack there of. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3*
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What better way to kick off the new year than with Rabbi Bradley Artson! This week I had a wonderful conversation with Rabbi Artson to discuss both his Jewish heritage and his love for Process Philosophy and Theology. Rabbi Artson walks me through how Process thought has informed his Jewish theology, ethics, and spirituality, offering a zesty perspective on tradition and the Divine. This episode also serves as a constructive example of a Deep Religious Pluralism. Whether you are familiar with Process Theology and Judaism, or you are new to both, this conversation is sure to inspire curiosity and deep reflection. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
God of Becoming and Relationship: The Dynamic Nature of Process Theology (Book)
Renewing the Process of Creation: A Jewish Integration of Science and Spirit (Book)
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch for their love and support. Love you guys!*
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Merry Christmas friends! To celebrate Christmas we recorded an episode of the Emogelicals for the main feed! Please enjoy this Emogelicals Christmas speicial with our friend Mason Mennenga. Typically Emogelical episodes are reserved for the Patreon feed, but since its Christmas we figured we would share with everybody. Enjoy!
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This week I was joined by my good friend Nick Polk to talk all things Tolkien & Pop Culture. To be blunt... Nick is a Tolkien nerd! His new book "Tolkien & Pop Culture" just came out and it's wonderful. This inaugural volume collects essays that were once only available online that explores the intersection of Tolkien and aspects of pop culture. We talk about a few of his favorite essays from the new book and I get educated on all things Tolkien. If you aren't a Tolkien fan yet, you will be at the end of this conversation. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Tolkien & Pop Culture (Book)
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3*
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This week, Dr. Sheri Kling joined me to discuss her Process Spirituality and an upcoming online conference called "Renewing Faith". Kling has done a lot of work integrating the work of Alfred North Whitehead and Carl Jung. How does Process Theology/Philosophy speak to, challenge, and make better Jungian Psychology? How does Jungian Psychology speak to, challenge, and make better Process Theology/Philosophy?
We also discuss the ongoing process of renewing our faith and discuss some of the themes of the Renewing Faith online conference. Snag your ticket today and we will see you there. Enjoy!
Renewing Faith Online Conference, January 23-25, 2025
Are you feeling burnt out and disconnected from your ministry or spiritual life? The Renewing Faith Conference is designed specifically for forward-looking Christian pastors, staff members, lay leaders, spiritual directors, chaplains, and those outside traditional church settings - whether you consider yourself a progressive mainliner, a quiet contemplative, a spiritual seeker, or a “deconstructing” post-evangelical - who are seeking to reignite their passion and find life-giving purpose in their faith journeys.
At the Renewing Faith Conference, you will:
Imagine leaving the conference with a renewed sense of purpose, a refreshed spirit, and practical tools to sustain your faith and your ministry for years to come. This isn’t just another conference; it's a life-changing experience designed to help you thrive in your calling and spirituality. Early bird pricing for regular registration will only be available until Dec. 31, and there’s even a special discount for students.
Don't let burnout or boredom define your ministry or faith life. Take the first step towards renewal and transformation.
Learn more at this link: Renewing Faith/(Re)Thinking
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3*
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This week, Michael Anthony Abril joined me to explore the field of Evolutionary Theology, which seeks to harmonize the science of evolution with theological concepts of God, humanity, suffering, and the natural world. We take a deep dive into how evolutionary thinking has shaped theological discussions over the last century and continue to influence contemporary views on faith and religion. This episode provides an accessible introduction to evolutionary theology, examining the intersection of scientific, philosophical, and theological perspectives. Whether you’re a student, scholar, or simply curious, this conversation offers fresh insights into the important and ongoing dialogue between science and faith. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Evolutionary Theology: A Critical Introduction (Book)
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch! Love you guys <3*
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This week I had the honor and privilege of sitting down with Dr. John Caputo. The Advent season is here and what better way to celebrate then with some Radical Theology? In this conversation we take a deep dive into Radical Theology and see what it has to teach us about this season of waiting known as Advent. If you have never encountered Radical Theology before, consider this a gift from me to you... If Radical Theology is already your jam, so to is this a gift. (I mean its John Caputo!!!) Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
*A special thanks to Marty Fredrick, Josh Gilbert, and Dan Koch! Love you guys <3*
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This week I was joined by my good friend Gabriel Gordon to discuss his new book, "The Fundamentals of a Recovering Fundamentalist". Gabe tells us his story of deconstructing his Evangelical upbringing, embracing his Jewishness, and discovering the depths of the Christian Tradition. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
The Fundamentals of a Recovering Fundamentalist (Book)
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3*
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Surprise! Here is a Patreon exclusive episode for you to enjoy! I am joined by my friends Josh and Emily for the November edition of Happy Hour(s). We discuss our time at Theology Beer Camp and a conversation we had around our agnosticism, skepticism, and doubts. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Join the Patreon! Click HERE.
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This week my friend Dr. Taylor Thomas joins me to discuss your new favorite theologian... Paul Tillich. This episode is a crash course in all things Tillich! Whether you are a Tillich expert or have no idea who the hell Paul Tillich is, this episode is for you. Dr. Thomas takes us through the life and theology of Tillich in a way that is fun and accessible... she also throws some of her own hot takes in there so Tillich nerds look out! We discuss Tillich's notion of faith as ultimate concern, the role of doubt in faith, existentialism, God as the ground of being, the importance of symbol, a theology of culture, and so much more. This was such a fun conversation to have with Dr. Thomas. I hope you find it as helpful as I did!
RESOURCES:
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch for your continue support of the podcast. Love you guys <3*
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This week I am joined by Aizaiah Yong to discuss his fantastic book, 'Multiracial Cosmotheandrism: A Practical Theology of Multiracial Experiences'. Aizaiah critically considers how his expereince as a multi-racial person and the lives and spiritual experiences of mixed-race people can transform efforts for racial justice across the planet. Yong is inspired by the life and philosophy of Raimon Panikkar, an interreligious spiritual leader whose own experiences of the world were shaped by his life as a mixed-race person. In our conversation, Aizaiah focuses on the experiences of mixed-race people and challenges practical theology to broaden its own attention to practices of spirituality beyond mono-racial paradigms. Mixed-race people have profound resources for confronting and healing from racism and racial oppression within their lives and their stories, and Aizaiah calls for strengthened collective efforts to tend to the beautiful depths of spiritual formation for mixed-race people. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Multiracial Cosmotheandrism: A Practical Theology of Multiracial Experiences (Book)
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch for their support of the podcast. Love you guys <3*
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This week I am joined by Dr. Kutter Callaway for a special spooky edition of the podcast. Kutter recently released a high-quality podcast called "Be Afraid". His podcast takes you on a journey into the heart of one of the most popular genres of contemporary film and television: horror. Each episode discusses the nature of our fears and why we just can’t seem to look away from the things that terrify us. The show features interviews with major Hollywood filmmakers, well-known film critics, leading psychologists, and even a few exorcists. This podcast isn’t about how to avoid fear, how to leverage it, or even whether it’s okay to be afraid. Instead, it’s an exercise in learning how to fear rightly.
Kutter and I take a deep dive into the show, discuss our own fears, wrestle with our own demons, and attempt to learn how to fear well. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch for their continued support of the pod. <3*
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This week I am very excited to share my recent conversation with Mary-Jane Rubenstein. We take a deep dive into her wonderful book, "Pantheologies: Gods, Worlds, Monsters". Pantheism has been demonized often by the Western Tradition for a wide variety of reasons. In this episode, we discuss why pantheism has been demonized and why we should think again. We cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time... turns out Pantheism is really cool and worth considering. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Worlds Without End: the Many Lives of the Multiverse (Book)
Pantheologies: Gods, Worlds, Monsters (Book)
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This week Keegan Osinski joins me to discuss Queer Theory, Theology, and the Church. Keegan wrote an amazing book called "Queering Wesley, Queering the Church" that we used as the foundation of our conversation. What exactly is Queer Theory? What does it mean to Queer our theology? Is Queer theology only good news for Queer folks? What lessons does the Church need to learn from the Queer community? We talk about all of these questions and many more in this conversation. I really had a great time talking with Keegan and learned a lot from our time together. Not only did she bring the theological goods, but she also brought tons of laughter and joy as well. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Queering Wesley, Queering the Church (Book)
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch for their behind the scenes work and support of the show. Love you guys <3*
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This week we are back with another edition of 20ish Q's. Last time Jennifer Garcia Bashaw nominated Aaron Higashi and he agreed to play my silly game. I continue to enjoy recording this fun episode format and Aaron continued the tradition well. We cover a lot of your favorite questions from past editions, and we cover some new ground as well! What role does philosophy play in Biblical Scholarship? Can Philosophical Deconstruction make us better readers of the Bible? Is there a hermenuetical crisis in religion today? What would Aaron do if Ken Ham invited him to dinner? We discuss all of this and more in our 10th edition of 20ish Q's. Give it a listen and find out who Aaron nominated to go next... Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
1 & 2 Samuel for Normal People
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch for their continued support of the podcast. Love you guys <3*
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This week I had the pleasure of being joined by Dr. Daryl Van Tongeren to discuss his latest book "Done: How to Flourish After Leaving Religion". It is no secret that Americans today are deconstructing and leaving religion in record numbers. This shift comes with a high price as people's entire meaning making system is being taken away from them. How can people who are done with religion find meaning and purpose in the world? How can they process the grief that plagues these religious changes? Daryl draws from extensive research and psychological theories to examine the emotional and social processes involved with religious change and offers science-based guidance for building a new life after religion. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Done: How to Flourish After Leaving Religion
THEOLOGY BEER CAMP 2024:
It's not too late to snag your tickets to Theology Beer Camp in Denver! Click HERE and use the code RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $50 off!
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This week I am joined once again by my friend Dr. Tripp Fuller for a fun, introductory conversation about Panpsychism. For those who don't know, Tripp did his post-doc work in philosophy of mind. This is a subject that I have been very interested in, and Tripp has been gracious enough to talk to me about it offline as I have been reading and learning. At the time of this recording, I am pretty convinced that Panpsychism, or Panexperientialism, is the best way to think about Consciousness and Philosophy of Mind. I wanted to have Tripp on to do an introductory conversation on Panpsychism to see if you dear listener would be as intrigued as me and feel the lure to not only join the #ProcessParty but also swim around in the cosmic pool of Panpsychism... come on in, the water is fine! Enjoy.
RESOURCES:
Homebrewed Christianity Podcast
Galileo's Error: Foundations for a New Science of Consciousness (Book)
THEOLOGY BEER CAMP 2024:
Get your tickets to Theology Beer Camp HERE. Use code RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $50 off!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week my friend Jory Pryor joins me to discuss his new book "Becoming All Light: the Non-Dual Heart of Christianity". After deconstruction, or the demythologizing of the Christian story, many spirituality minded people find themselves alienated, not just from other traditions, but from their own. In his book and in this conversation, Jory invites us to realize that we are not just observers of a divine spectacle, but rather active participants in a cosmic dance. In this cosmic dance, every moment provides the opportunity for awakening to our true luminous and divine nature. Jory contends that this realization is not an endpoint but a beginning, marking our entry into a life of boundless freedom, creativity, and compassion, embodying the light of awareness that illuminates all. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Becoming All Light: the Non-Dual Heart of Christianity (Book)
Methods of Contemplation (Instagram)
THEOLOGY BEER CAMP 2024:
Get your tickets to Theology Beer Camp HERE. Use code RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $50 off.
*Special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch for their support of (Re)thinking Faith. Love you guys!*
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This week I had the privilege of hanging out with Jordan Morris to discuss his new Graphic Novel "Youth Group". I stumbled upon Jordan's book by accident and I LOVED it. Jordan is a great writer and the artwork in the book is simply stunning. We had a great conversation about some of the themes of the book, the creative process, Jordan's own youth group experience, and more. This was a fun conversation, with a super fun and creative person. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Youth Group (Book)
THEOLOGY BEER CAMP 2024:
Get your ticket HERE. Use code RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $50 off.
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and Dan Koch for providing music for the podcast. Love you guys <3*
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This week I got to hang out with my friend Annie DeRolf for a really fun conversation. Annie introduced me to the concept of anti-theodicy and I just had to have her on to talk about it. Theodicy for me has been a HUGE part of my theological development and one of the main reasons I have come to embrace Process-Relational thinking. The conversation we had pokes holes in my beloved philosophical / theological positions in all the right ways. Even though this is a darker topic, we share a lot of laughter and have an honest conversation wrestling through the problems of evil and suffering. Enjoy!
THEOLOGY BEER CAMP 2024:
Get your tickets for Theology Beer Camp HERE. Use code RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $50 off!
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the pod, Marty Fredrick for producing the pod, and Dan Koch for providing the music for the pod. Love you guys! <3*
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This week Jonny Morrison joins the podcast to talk about his new book "Prodigal Gospel: Getting Lost and Found Again in the Good News". Too often the Gospel is presented in ways that doesn't really sound like good news... Our gospel has become too small, looks nothing like Jesus, and for good reasons people are leaving the so called good news behind. Is there a better way to talk about the Gospel that passes the vibe check of love? How do we recover the Gospel so it rings true and good today? Johnny turns to the story of the Prodigal Son, but not in ways you might think, to address this issue at hand. Not going to lie, I was nervous for this one but I had a lot of fun with Jonny. Enjoy.
Resources:
Prodigal Gospel: Getting Lost and Found Again in the Good News (Book)
Bonhoeffer's Black Jesus (Book)
The Fundamentals of a Recovering Fundamentalist (Book)
THEOLOGY BEER CAMP 2024:
Ticket prices will be increasing soon! Grab your tickets HERE and use code RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $50 off.
*As always thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3*
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This week we are back at it again with another rendition of 20ish Q's. This time I was excited to have Jennifer Garcia Bashaw return to the podcast to play my silly game. We had a BLAST and Jennifer brought the fire. I wonder who she nominated to go next? Give it a listen and find out. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
John for Normal People (Book)
Scapegoats: The Gospel through the Eyes of Victims (Book)
THEOLOGY BEER CAMP 2024:
Snag your tickets for Theology Beer Camp HERE. Use code RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $50 off.
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the show, Marty Fredrick for producing the show, & Dan Koch for providing music. Love you guys! <3*
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week Dr. James F. McGrath returns to the podcast to discuss his latest book, "Christmaker: A Life of John the Baptist". Typically John the Baptist is treated as a mere footnote in the gospels... but what would happen if we took a closer look? James did just that, reconstructed the life of the Historical John the Baptist and it turns out he was a fascinating and influential religious leader in his own right. We take a deep dive into the life of John the Baptist, learn about his massive influence on Jesus, discover a religious group that still follows John today, and more. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Christmaker: A Life of John the Baptist
John of History, Baptist of Faith
THEOLOGY BEER CAMP 2024:
Get your tickets HERE and use code RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $50 off!
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3*
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This week I was joined by not one, not two, but three guests to discuss their edited volume "Preaching the Uncontrolling Love of God". Nichole Torbitzky, Vikki Randall, & Jeff Wells join the show to get pragmatic and put Open & Relational Theology to work. What would it look like to apply Open & Relational thought to our Leadership, Preaching, and Pastoral care? Is it possible to find a church that is Open and Relational? This was a fun conversation getting three different perspectives on these kinds of questions. The volume they edited together, along with Thomas Jay Oord, has over 75 essays including sermons and worship elements from within an Open and Relational framework. It is a great resources for clergy and lay members alike. Enjoy!
RESOSURCES:
THEOLOGY BEER CAMP:
Get your tickets from Theology Beer Camp 2024 HERE. Use code RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $50 off your cost of admission.
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and Dan Koch for providing the music for the podcast. Love you guys <3*
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Happy Friday! Today I'm dropping a bonus episode for you all. Happy Hour(s) is a monthly Patreon exclusive episode format that is a lot of fun! This month I had a super fun talk with Sarey Martin Concepcion & Kristen Tideman. We initially set out to talk about Theology Beer Camp 2024... and we got there eventually, but we took a road much less traveled. Enjoy this edition of Happy Hour(s), join the Patreon, and get your tickets to Theology Beer Camp!
RESOURCES:
THEOLOGY BEER CAMP 2024
Get your tickets HERE and use code RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $50 off!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week I had the privilege of being joined by Diarmuid O'Murchu to discuss his newest book, "Ecological Spirituality". The changes that we must make to address the complex ecological crises today are unlikely to happen if we do not experience a spiritual revolution. In our conversation Diarmuid invites us to the revolutionary work of a life-promoting spirituality for our modern day. We discuss moving beyond understandings of holiness that emphasize detachment from our world in favor of something beyond.
O’Murchu reintroduces us to the long history of humanity’s relationship with the creative Spirit of God, including and transcending religious traditions in a growing horizon of faith. As we rediscover the sacred here on Earth, we are called to connect spirit with Spirit, discerning and living an ecologically-focused spirituality for the well-being of creatures and ecosystems around the planet. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Ecological Spiritually (Book)
Join the Patreon Community for bonus episodes and an add-free listening experience!
THEOLOGY BEER CAMP:
Get your tickets HERE and use code RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $50 off!
*A special thanks to Josh Giblert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch for their work behind the scenes. Love you guys <3*
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week my friend, mentor, and overall awesome human being Dr. Thomas Jay Oord is back on the podcast. Tom has been handed charges by his denomination and faces trial for being fully LGBTQ+ affirming. We break down what the trial is, how its going to work, Tom's overall goals for the trial, and Tom's defense of the LGBTQ+ community. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
My Defense: Responding to Charges that I Fully Affirm LGBTQ+ People (Book)
THEOLOGY BEER CAMP:
Get your tickets HERE! Use code RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $50 off!
*Special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the show, Marty Fredrick for producing the show, and Dan Koch for providing music for the show. Love you guys <3*
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This week I was joined by my new friend Liz Cooledge Jenkins to discuss her new book "Nice Churchy Patriarchy: Reclaiming Women's Humanity from Evangelicalism". Even in the warmest and most welcoming evangelical churches, patriarchy looms as an ever-present force... Patriarchy isn't always in your face and Liz helps us take an unflinching look at the ways misogyny's subtler forms impact every aspect of women's experience in church. Liz shares lots of stories from her own church experiences where Patriarchy reared its ugly head and put Liz in some less than stellar situations. I really enjoyed this conversation with Liz and I enjoyed reading her book overall. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Nice Church Patriarchy: Reclaiming Women's Humanity from Evangelicalism (Book)
Join the Patreon for 2 monthly bonus episodes and an Add-Free listening experience.
THEOLOGY BEER CAMP:
Come hang out at Theology Beer Camp October 17-19 in Denver! Use code RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $50 off!
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and Dan Koch for providing music for the podcast. Love you guys <3*
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This week I was joined by my new friend Kate Common to discuss her new book "Undoing Conquest: Ancient Israel, the Bible and the Future of Christianity". We had a great conversation discussing a new understanding of the origins of the Hebrew people and how that can help churches recognize and take responsibility for a history of violence and conquest, make reparations, and seek reconciliation. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Undoing Conquest: Ancient Israel, the Bible, and the Future of Christianity (Book)
Join the Patreon for 2 monthly bonus episodes and an Add-Free listening experience.
THEOLOGY BEER CAMP:
Get your tickets HERE and used code RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $50 off!
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and Dan Koch for providing music for the podcast. Love you guys <3*
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This week my friend Kenneth McIntosh is back on the podcast to discuss his new book "The Secret of the Green Man's Soul". This is a fun conversation where Kenneth invites us into the mysteries of the Green Man, something I knew very little about. We have a wide ranging conversation discussing the history of the Green Man, spirituality, the importance of symbols, nature, religious pluralism, and more. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
The Secret of the Green Man's Soul (Book)
Join the Patreon for 2 monthly bonus episodes + add-free listening!
THEOLOGY BEER CAMP 2024
Use code RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $50 off your ticket!
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, to Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and Dan Koch for providing music for the podcast. Love you guys <3*
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This week Jared Byas returns to the podcast to play a little game I like to call 20ish Q's. We had a great time, covered a lot of topics, and shared a lot of laughter! Enjoy.
RESOURCES:
THEOLOGY BEER CAMP:
Come hang out with Jared Byas, Pete Enns, and myself at Theology Beer Camp! Use promo code RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $50 off!
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and Dan Koch for providing music for the podcast. Love you guys <3 *
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This week Dr. Bradford McCall sat down with me to discuss his newest book, "Macroevolution, Contingency, and Divine Activity: Divine Involvement through Uncontrolling, Amorepotent Love in an Evolutionary World". How is the contingentist amorepotent and uncontrolling love of God understood as purposeful? If there is a laundry list of things an uncontrolling God CAN'T do... what CAN and uncontrolling God do? McCall insists that God amorepotently loves the population of the natural world into greater forms of complexity, relationally, and beauty in varied and multifarious forms, along with the extension of diversity. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Macroevolution, Contingency, and Divine Action (Book)
Join the Patreon for bonus content & an Add-Free listening experience.
THEOLOGY BEER CAMP
Come hang out at this years Theology Beer Camp October 17-19. Use code RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $50 off!
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and Dan Koch for providing music for the podcast. Love you guys <3*
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This week Tony Jones sat down with me to have an honest and vulnerable conversation about his new book "The God of Wild Places: Rediscovering the Divine in the Untamed Outdoors". Tony's book was both challenging and moving. I genuinely wrestled through some of the content and came out on the other side better for it. We discuss Tony's journey out of the church and into the woods, online controversy, narcissism, insecurity, hunting, friendship, our love for dogs, death, and what it means to embrace our finitude. I hope you enjoy this conversation with Tony as much as I did.
RESOURCES:
The God of Wild Places: Rediscovering the Divine in the Untamed Outdoors (Book)
Join the Patreon for Bonus Content and an Add-Free Listening Experience
THEOLOGY BEER CAMP 2024
Come hang out at Theology Beer Camp October 17-19! Use code RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $50 off!
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and Dan Koch for providing the music for the podcast. Love you guys. <3"
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This week Hebrew Bible Scholar Dr. John H. Walton joins the show to discuss his new book, "The Lost World of the Prophets: Old Testament Prophecy and Apocalyptic Literature in Ancient Context". Walton claims that being responsive to God is at the heart of prophecy, but average readers of ancient prophecies and apocalyptic literature often come away thoroughly perplexed. Are the prophets speaking about their own times, about our present, or about some still-unrealized future?
It's common to study prophecy with a focus on the sole question of prediction and fulfillment, either for the sake of apologetics or for understanding the end times, but such an approach fails to track with the original intent of the authors. We need to shake loose both from a paradigm of reading prophecy as an offer of mysterious divination as well as from the habit of constructing eschatological timelines of any sort. Walton helps us answer the question, "How do we read prophecy and apocalyptic literature like responsible adults?". Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
The Lost World of the Prophets (Book)
THEOLOGY BEER CAMP 2024: Use code RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $25 off!
Join the Patreon for bonus episodes and an Add-Free listening Experience.
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and Dank Koch for providing music for the podcast. Love you guys <3*
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Happy Friday! Today I have a surprise episode for you all that almost fell through the cracks! Many apologies to my friends over at Almost Heretical for the delay this episode experienced. This was a fun conversation both Nate and Shelby from the Almost Heretical Podcast. They were nominated by Kristen and Sarey to come on and play my 20ish Q's game and they did a great job! Enjoy.
RESOURCES:
Join the Patreon for bonus material and an Add-Free listening experience!
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, to Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and Dan Koch for providing the music for the podcast. Love you guys <3*
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This week Dr. Kristy Whaley is back on the podcast to talk about her new book, "Wounded Images: Revisioning the Imago Dei through a Reading of Jean Rhys's Interwar Novels". Kristy walks us through deconstructing traditional models of the Imago Dei in search of a more inclusive understanding. She brings literature into conversation with Theology to help shine light on some important questions. She also brings in the critiques of both Feminist and Womanist scholars. This ultimately leads to a reconstructing of the Imago Dei that centers trauma, wounds, and a non-contrastive transcendence. Could it be that it is not how we are perfect, but rather through our risks, wounds, and grief that we connect with the Divine? Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Wounded Images: Revisioning the Imago Dei through a Reading of Jean Rhys's Interwar Novels (Book)
Join the Patreon for bonus content and an add-free listening experience.
Come hang out with Dr. Kristy Whaley at Theology Beer Camp! October 17-19 at St. Andrew UMC in Denver Colorado. Use code RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $25 off your ticket price.
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This week I step out of my comfort zone a bit for a fun conversation with Scott M. Coley. Coley's new book, "Ministers of Propaganda: Truth, Power, and the Ideology of the Religious Right" takes a deep dive into the fusion of Evangelicalism and Right-Wing Politics. We take a look at the rhetoric and proof-texting that support Christo-authoritarianism and presses Christian theology into the service of authoritarian politics. The Christian message is being distorted by propaganda together with motivated reasoning and a perceived self-interest. I had a good time talking with Scott and I really enjoyed reading his book. Enjoy.
RESOURCES:
Ministers of Propaganda: Truth, Power, and the Ideology of the Religious Right (Book)
Join the Patreon for bonus content and add free listening.
THEOLOGY BEER CAMP 2024
Snag your tickets today for Theology Beer Camp! This year we will be hanging out in Denver, October 17-19. Tickets are on sale now and go up in price June 1. Use code: RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $25 off. Hope to see you there!
*Thank you to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and Dan Koch for providing the music. Love you guys <3*
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This week Dr. Andre Rabe joins the podcast to discuss his latest book, "Processing Mimetic Reality: Harmonizing Alfred North Whitehead and Rene Girard". What, if anything, does Process Philosophy have in common with Mimetic theory? Rabe seeks to answer this question, not by collapsing the two schools of thought into one, but rather seeking to harmonize them. Dr. Rabe demonstrates that deep, broad, and significant harmonies exist between process philosophy and mimetic theory. Girard enriches Whitehead through exemplification, and Whitehead enriches Girard through an expansion of the overall narrative and deeper ontological insights into the processes that made us human. The result is an illuminating unveiling of the biases we developed in becoming human and a proposal for how we may access the more creative and beneficial aspects of desire that lie latent within these processes. I really enjoyed this conversation and even got emotional at the end! Enjoy.
RESOURCES:
Processing Mimetic Reality: Harmonizing Alfred North Whitehead and Rene Girard (Book)
Join the Patreon Feed for and ADD-FREE listening experience and 2 bonus episodes / month.
THEOLOGY BEER CAMP 2024
(Re)thinking Faith will be returning to Theology Beer Camp this year in Denver October 17-19. This year camp is back bigger and better than ever! Be sure to snag your tickets today. Use promo code: RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $25 off at check out.
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, to Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and Dan Koch for providing the music for the podcast. I love you guys.*
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This week (Re)thinking Faith takes a quick trip to Denmark as Ulrick Dam joins show. We had a wonderful conversation around Dam's new book, "Building the Basileia: Moving the Church into the 22nd Century". What might it look like to apply an Open and Relational framework to our understanding of the Church? What might it look like to breathe new life into the Church that is shaped and focused not on hierarchy and power, but on Love. It is no secret that Church attendance is declining rapidly, and for good reasons. Richard Rohr has often said, "The best critique of the bad, is practice of the better.". Could Open and Relational Theology provide a helpful and much needed critique to the Church and offer it something better? Ulrick Dam says and enthusiastic, "YES"! Enjoy.
RESOURCES:
Building the Basileia: Moving the Church into the 22nd Century (Book)
Join me at Theology Beer Camp! Get your tickets HERE and use code: RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $25 off.
Join the Patreon Community for 2 bonus shows, "Happy Hour(s)" & "The Emogelicals" along with and Add-Free listening experience.
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, to Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and to Dan Koch for providing the music for the podcast. I love you guys!*
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This week I was very excited to be in conversation with Dr. John J. Thatamanil. In this conversation we discuss Dr. Thatamanil's book "Circling the Elephant: A Comparative Theology of Religious Diversity". Thatamanil builds a compelling case for Religious Pluralism that is deeply shaped by humility, hospitality, and mutual transformation. Christians do not have a monopoly on encounters with the Divine or Ultimate Reality and other Religious Traditions do in fact have access to both Truth and transformation. It is more than time that we stop just learning ABOUT other religious traditions, and start learning FROM them. Thatamanil demonstrates that religious diversity should be seen as a promise and not a problem and proposes a theology of religious diversity that opens the door to robust interreligious learning and transformation through encountering the other. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Circling the Elephant: A Comparative Theology of Religious Diversity (Book)
Theology Beer Camp 2024 (Use code RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $25 off)
Join the Patreon for Bonus Content & Add-Free listening
*A Special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, to Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and Dan Koch for providing the music for the podcast. Love you guys.*
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ARE YOU LISTENING?!?!?!?! Thats right! I have teamed up with my good friend Jed Payne of "Church and Other Drugs" for a brand new, Patreon-Exclusive show called "The Emogelicals" This first episode is FREE, but after that, it'll all be on Patreon. You can listen to it on either of our Patreons... so if you like Jed better, throw the guy a few bones. If you still love me after hearing the beautiful voice of the one they call Jed, join the (Re)thinking Faith patreon and have some fun with us!
We are working on special graphics, t-shirts, and some cool merch! We hope you enjoy.
Patreon Links:
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This week I had the privilege of being joined by Susan M. Shaw & Grace Ji-Sun Kim to discuss their new book "Surviving God: A New Vision of God Through the Eyes of Sexual Abuse Survivors". It is no secret that Sexual Abuse is a HUGE problem; not just in society as a whole, but within the doors of the Church as well. Grace and Susan both share their own experiences and the experiences of other survivors to help call out the systems and ideologies that are at play that lend themselves to sexual violence and abuse. Our theology is called into question as well as Grace and Susan invite us to look at our understanding of God through the eyes of sexual abuse survivors. I hope this conversation is both challenging and rewarding. Enjoy.
RESOURCES:
Surviving God: A New Vision of God Through the Eyes of Sexual Abuse Survivors (Book)
Join the Patreon for bonus episodes and an ADD FREE listening experience.
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and Dan Koch for providing the music for the podcast. Love you guys!*
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This week I got to hang out with my favorite internet friend Jed Payne. Jed is an Addiction Councilor and hosts a podcast called "Church and Other Drugs". We had a fun time together as we both chased our ADHD train of thoughts. We discussed Jed's Philosophy class, certainty, past versions of our selves, never going full Rob Bell, the nature of addiction, time spent in prison, I taught Jed a new word, and we even coined our own... WE ARE THE EMOGELICALS™. This was a great conversation that covers a lot of ground and explores a variety of topics. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Join the Patreon for Bonus Episodes & Add-Free Listening Experience
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Yes, it is true... (Re)thinking Faith does in fact have a Patreon. For as little as $5 / month, you get access to fun exclusive episodes like this monthly Happy Hour(s) episode that I have with my friends. You also get access to all of the episodes form the main feed, but ADD FREE! If (Re)thinking Faith has been helpful or meaningful to you, would you consider becoming a monthly supporter? Thank you in advance! Enjoy.
Be Cool and Join the Patreon: CLICK HERE TO JOIN.
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This week Brian Zahnd returns to the podcast to discuss his new book, "The Wood Between Worlds: A Poetic Theology of the Cross". Let's be honest... after deconstruction talking about the cross can be very difficult! In fact a lot of stuff we have been taught about the cross should be thrown out, but do we have to ditch the cross all together? Brian thinks not!
Instead, Brian offers us a Theopoetics of the cross. He contends that the cross is BIGGER than any atonement theory and to reduce the cross to atonement is to do an injustice to the cross. Instead, Brian offers us image after image to expand and make deeper our understanding of whatever the hell happened on the cross. Enjoy!
THEOLOGY BEER CAMP 2024:
(Re)thinking Faith is returning to Theology Beer Camp! This year we will be gathering in Denver from October 17-19 and I would love to see you there! Get your tickets HERE and use my code 'RETHINKINGBAGGINS' for $25 off!
RESOURCES:
The Wood Between Worlds: A Poetic Theology of the Cross (Book)
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and Dan Koch for providing the music for the podcast. I Love you guys.*
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This week our favorite Canadian Mennonite Philosopher and Friend Myron A. Penner is back on the show. He was brave enough to volunteer for an episode of 20ish Q's. I recycled some old questions and wrote some new ones just for Myron. This was a fun and wide-ranging conversation and I loved hearing Myron's answers. Enjoy!
Resources:
Join the Patreon for an Add-Free Listening Experience
*Special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and Dan Koch for providing music for the podcast. I love you guys.*
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This week I was joined by Dr. Brian G. Henning to discuss his new book, "Value, Beauty & Nature: The Philosophy of Organism and the Metaphysical Foundations of Environmental Ethics". "Grounded in an organicist process worldview, Brian G. Henning shows that it is possible to make progress in key debates within environmental philosophy, including those concerning the nature of intrinsic value; anthropocentrism; hierarchy; the moral significance of beauty; the nature of individuality; teleology and the naturalistic fallacy; and worldview reconstruction. A Whiteheadian fallibilistic, naturalistic, event ontology allows for the recovery of systematic, speculative metaphysical thought without a revanchist movement toward a necessitarian philosophia perennis. Thus, in contrast to the claims of environmental pragmatists, Value, Beauty, and Nature demonstrates that environmental ethics would greatly benefit from an adequate metaphysical foundation and, of the candidate metaphysical systems, Alfred North Whitehead's philosophy of organism is the most adequate." Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, to Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and to Dan Koch for providing the music for the podcast."
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This week, New Testament Scholar James F. McGrath joins me to talk about his latest book, "The A to Z of the New Testament: Things Experts Know That Everyone Else Should Too". Many of us grew up with notions and understandings of the New Testament that were unhelpful to say the least. James introduces us to the normative conversations taking place within the academic world of Biblical Scholarship. What if we were to engage the New Testament on its own terms? What if the New Testament is a lot cooler, more weird, and significantly more interesting than just some innerrant document that fell out of the sky? Well friends... it's time to start reading the New Testament like adults. Enjoy!
Resources:
The A to Z of the New Testament: Things Experts Know That Everyone Else Should Too (Book)
Join the Patreon for an Add-Free Listening Experience
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and Dan Koch for providing the music for the podcast.*
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This week I am joined by T.C. Moore to discuss his new book, "Forged: Following Jesus into New Kind of Family". Is the nuclear family really biblical? Has the image of the nuclear family been co-opted and turned into an idol? Is there a better way to forge a family? T.C. says yes and offers us a better way forward by following the way of Jesus into a new kind of family forged from kinship, authenticity, and inclusivity. Enjoy!
Resources:
Forged: Following Jesus into a New Kind of Family (Book)
Join the Patreon for an Add-Free Listening Experience
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and Dan Koch for providing music for the podcast.*
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This week Lenny Duncan joins the show to talk about their new book "Psalms of My People: A Story of Black Liberation as Told through Hip-Hop". Lenny contends that if you want to understand the Black experience in the US, you must understand hip-hop. In this new book, Lenny treats Hip-Hop songs like sacred scripture and writes reflections and meditations based on important hip-hop tracks. We trace the history and story of Black Liberation reflecting on Lenny's new sacred Psalms for today. Enjoy!
Resources:
Psalms of My People: A Story of Black Liberation as Told through Hip-Hop (Book)
Join the Patreon for Add-Free Episodes & Bonus Content
*Special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, to Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and to Dan Koch for providing music for the podcast.*
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This week I am joined by Kevin Garcia for a lovely conversation around their latest book, "What Makes You Bloom: Cultivating A Practice for Connecting With Your Divine Self". Kevin is a Spiritual Coach, Mystical Theologian, Writer, Podcaster, and Human.
Many of us who have deconstructed and stepped away from the Church still feel some kind of spiritual connection. Some of us even still feel a genuine connection to Jesus the Christ. Kevin offers us a spirituality and a practice where we can continue to foster a relationship with the Divine, even the Divine within. This conversation was a lot of fun and we covered a lot of ground. We go both deep and wide sharing our own stories and spiritual practices. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did!
Resources:
What Makes You Bloom (Book)
Join the Patreon for Bonus Content and Add Free Episodes
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and Dan Koch for providing the music for the podcast.*
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This week Kazi Adi Shakti joins me to discuss her essay "Emptiness, Creativity, & Feminist Ecology: An Introduction to Process Buddhism." Kazi is an artist and independent researcher studying and theorizing on the intersections of Process Philosophy, Madhyamaka Buddhism, Western Marxism and Ecofeminism, with a special focus on the unique role each might play in a holistic soteriology that includes them all.
This was a fun conversation exploring Process thought in the flavor of Madhyamaka Buddhism. On the surface, the world of Process thought and Buddhism could appear to be at odds. Kazi proposes, that when held together, they actually inform each other and can create something beautiful.
In her own words, Kazi believes that "Process Buddhism is able to more consistently fulfill the concept of Madhyamaka as freedom from views since the Buddhist dialectical component never supplies a view or perspective of its own, but only functions to eliminate inconsistencies and assumptions of the intrinsic nature from the one creatively advancing perspective in -process."
Enjoy!
Resources:
Join the Patreon for an Add-Free listening experience.
*A Special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and Dan Koch for providing the music for the podcast.*
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This week Kathleen Bonnette joins the podcast to discuss her new book, "(R)evolutionary HOPE: A Spirituality of Encounter and Engagement in an Evolving World." Kathleen explores her evolving faith from the Evangelical tradition into the Catholic Tradition and walks us through a series of conversions she has had along the way. We focus on the question posed by Augustine, "What do I love when I love my God?" This question guides us through conversions around our understandings of women in the church, cosmology, consciousness, and those marginalized in both the Church and society. This was a deep and enjoyable conversation that I enjoyed greatly. I hope you enjoy it as well.
RESOURCES:
(R)evolutionary HOPE: A Spirituality of Encounter and Engagement in an Evolving World (Book)
Kathleen Bonnette - Georgetown University
Join the Patreon for an Add-Free Listening Experience
*Special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and Dan Koch for providing the music.*
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This week, Nia & Katie Chiaramonte join the podcast to have a conversation about their new book, "Embracing Queer Family: Learning to Live Authentically in Our Families and Communities". Nia invites us into her story of coming out as a Trans Woman to her wife Katie and the impact that had on their relationship and family. Drawing on the deep wisdom of their experience, Psychology, Spirituality, and Family Systems Nia & Katie offer us the tools they wish they had on their own journey.
Whether you are a Queer person yourself, on the journey of self-awareness, an ally looking for resources, or a family member seeking advice for navigating a loved one's coming-out process, Nia and Katie are here to help. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Embracing Queer Family: Learning to Live Authentically in Our Families and Communities (Book)
We Live Here: The Midwest (Documentary)
Love in the Face: Embracing Queer Family (Podcast)
Join the PATREON for an Add-Free listening experience.
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the Podcast, to Marty Fredrick for Producing the Podcast, and to Dan Koch for providing the music.*
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This week I am joined once again by my friend and mentor Dr. Thomas Jay Oord. We take a deep dive into questions sent in by you, the listeners!
The Center for Open and Relational Theology and Homebrewed Christianity are hosting a few events coming up called "God After Deconstruction".
Many are walking away from church and/or God... for good reasons. The old ways of thinking make little sense. The hurt is real. This conference proposes better ways to think about God. A sensible view oriented around open and relational theology is possible after we deconstruct the irrational and harmful views so many are offered.
We discuss the overall project that involves live events, a forthcoming book, and an online class. We also dig into the "why" behind deconstruction and have a meaningful conversation exploring what faith could look like afterward. Enjoy.
RESOURCES:
God After Deconstruction Tickets
Join the Patreon for an Add Free Listening Experience
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the Podcast and to Dan Koch for providing the music.*
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This week Dr. Adam Clark returns to the (Re)thinking Faith Podcast. The last time Adam was on the podcast he was part of a panel discussion on post-penal substitutionary atonement but this time he is here to talk about Black Theology and Mysticism. I really enjoyed this conversation as we explored Black Theology, Liberation Theology and their connection to the more contemplative aspects of faith. How can contemplative practice and mysticism inform our work for social justice and equality? We explore this question and much more in our conversation together. Enjoy!
Resources:
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This week Ilia Delio joins me to discuss her new book "The Not-Yet God: Carl Jung, Teilhard de Chardin, and the Relational Whole". Delio proposes the new myth of relational holism; that is, the search for a new connection to divinity in an age of quantum physics, evolution, and pluralism. The idea of relational holism is one that is rooted in the God-world relationship, beginning with the Book of Genesis, but finds its real meaning in quantum physics and the renewed relationship between mind and matter. Our story, therefore, will traverse across the fields of science, scripture, theology, history, culture and psychology. Enjoy!
Resources:
The Not Yet God (Book)
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To start the new year I am joined once again by Rob Bell. Rob recently released a new book that is somehow nothing like anything he has ever done before, but at the same time, it feels familiar and very much like Rob. This conversation is fun, wide-ranging, and a bit difficult to capture. His new book is called "Where'd You Park Your Spaceship" and was a lot of fun to read. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did.
Resources:
Where'd You Park Your Spaceship (Book)
Join the Patreon for Add Free Listening
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To close out 2023, I am joined by Daniel G. Hummel to discuss his new book, "The Rise and Fall of Dispensationalism: How the Evangelical Battle Over the End Times Shaped A Nation". We discuss the history of Dispensationalism and the influence it has had on pop culture, politics, and religion. This theology has had a massive impact on the West and Western culture and is a perfect example of just how much our theology matters. Enjoy.
Resources:
The Rise and Fall of Dispensationalism (Book)
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It's Christmas and that means it's time for our annual Christmas Special! This year Tripp Fuller joins me to celebrate the incarnation. We get pretty nerdy in this one and don't actually talk about what we planned on talking about... but it was a lot of fun! Join the Patreon for part 2. Enjoy1
Resources:
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This week I am joined by my friend Pastor Will Rose for a fun and wide-ranging conversation. At the heart of our conversation is the rejection of black and white, this or that, thinking and the embrace of a both/and approach to spirituality. Enjoy!
Resources:
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This week I have another edition of 20ish Q's for you, this time featuring my friend Sarah Heath. As always with this episode format, we cover a lot of ground sometimes with laughter and sometimes going deep into our own stories. I hope you enjoy listening to this conversation with Sarah as much as I enjoyed having it.
Resources:
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This week my friend Jonathan Foster returns to the podcast to talk about grief. Grief is something we are all familiar with, and Jonathan dives deep into his own story of grief sharing the wisdom he has picked up along the way. Foster also has a new book out that we used as a catalyst for our conversation; the book is titled "ingido: the color of grief". Enjoy.
Resources:
indigo: the color of grief (Book)
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This week Philip Clayton returns to the podcast for a fun conversation about the season of Advent and the Cosmic Christ. We discuss what Advent means to both of us and how we each understand the Cosmic Christ. If you enjoy this conversation, be sure to check out the Advent class hosted by Homebrewed Christianity.
RESOURCES:
The Cosmic Christ - Advent and the Coming of God (Class)
Institute for Ecological Civilization
The Predicament of Belief: Science, Philosophy, and Faith (Book)
Adventures in the Spirit (Book)
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This week I was joined by Matthew S. LoPresti to discuss a genuine and deep religious pluralism. LoPresti recently released his new book "Religious Pluralism: Toward a Comparative Metaphysics of Religion" and we used it as a jumping-off point for our conversation.
Together we seek out a genuine religious pluralism that does not result in relativism or religious inclusivism. This was a fun conversation that offered the possibility of a genuine religious pluralism that has the power to transform our interfaith dialogue. Enjoy.
Resources:
Contact Matt: [email protected]
Buy Matt's Book HERE
30% Off Discount Code: LXFANDF30
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This week Andrew M. Davis returns to the podcast to discuss his new book, "Metaphysics of Exo-Life: Toward a Constructive Whiteheadian Cosmotheology". We take a deep dive into the Cosmos that we find ourselves in and take a serious look at the possibility of extraterrestrial life. Are there aliens out there? What does that do to our theology? What does that do to our conception of the Divine? We ask all these questions and more. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Metaphysics of Exo-Life (Book)
The Center for Process Studies
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This week I am joined by my friend Fr. Derek Miller to discuss what we perceive to be a very real phenomenon... the Evangelical to Episcopal Pipeline. Fr. Derek shares his own story and experience and invites us to take a deeper look at the Episcopal tradition. Enjoy!
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This week I am joined by Dr. Laura E. Anderson to discuss religious trauma and the impact of high-control religion. Dr. Anderson has a new book called "When Religion Hurts You: Healing from Religious Trauma and the Impact of High-Control Religion".
We hear a bit of Dr. Anderson's story, discuss trauma, religious trauma, adverse religious experiences and how we can begin to heal from such things. Religious trauma is trauma and Dr. Anderson provides helpful tools and resources to do the difficult work of healing. Enjoy!
Resources:
When Religion Hurts You (Book)
Center for Trauma Resolution and Recovery
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This week, on (Over)thinking Faith I have another edition of 20ish Q's. I invited my friends Kristen & Sarey of TidyCo Creative to come hang out on the show and tag-team my 20ish questions. We had a lot of fun and I hope you have as much fun listening as we did hanging out and recording. Enjoy!
Resources:
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The understanding of God that many Christians insist is so clear in the Bible makes faith seem like an all-or-nothing proposition. When much of that rigid projection seems in doubt, it’s not surprising that many people leave behind this take-it-or-leave-it religion.
This week I am joined by Mark Feldmeir to discuss his new book "Life After God: Finding Faith When You Can't Believe Anymore". What do we do when our image of God is no longer viable? Mark asks all the big theological questions and provides a beautiful, constructive way forward. Life after God offers glimpses of the ineffable God, who can emerge when we forget what we think we’re supposed to believe about God and open us up to the mystery, wonder, and compelling love we crave.
This was easily one of my favorite books I have read in a long time. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did.
Resources:
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This week I had the pleasure of being joined by Kenneth McIntosh to discuss his new book, "Oak and Lotus: Celtic Christian Spirituality in the Light of Eastern Wisdom". In this conversation, Kenneth takes us on an adventure through Celtic Christian Spirituality in conversation with the great wisdom and spiritualities of the East; Buddhism, Hinduism, and Taoism. Enjoy!
Resources:
Oak and Lotus (Book)
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This week I am joined by J. Aaron Simmons to discuss and celebrate his new book "Camping With Kierkegaard: Faithfulness as a Way of Life". No, this book is not about camping! Aaron helps us think through the ever-haunting question, "What is worthy of your finitude?". We cover a lot of ground in this deeply existential, personal, and pragmatic conversation. Enjoy!
Resources:
Camping with Kierkegaard (Book)
Philosophy For Where We Find Ourselves
Living on A Prayer Baseball Game
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This week I am joined by Matthias Roberts to discuss his new book "Holy Runaways: Rediscovering Faith After Being Burned by Religion". This is a book for anybody who is feeling ignored, oppressed, or rejected by their religious community or the church.
Matthias is a psychotherapist who has brought together his own story, research on religious trauma, and new interpretations of popular Christian parables to offer a book that is deeply empathetic and compassionate.
I had a great time hanging out with Matthias and really enjoyed our conversation. I hope you find it as helpful as I did! Enjoy.
Resources:
Holy Run Aways (Book)
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This week, I am joined by Deanna M. Young to discuss her new book "Umblaming God: Interpreting the Old Testament Through the Lens of Jesus Christ."
The Old Testament is filled with stories that depict God as one who demands and even commits horrifying acts of violence. The New Testament tells us that when we’ve seen Jesus, we’ve seen God—and yet Jesus never demands or commits acts of violence. How do we make sense of this?
Using Open and Relational Theology, Deanna presents alternative in- interpretations to four Old Testament stories—Noah and the Flood, God “telling” Abraham to sacrifice Isaac, Canaanite genocide, and the book of Job. These new interpretations better reflect God as love, not as a God of control. Enjoy!
Resources:
Unblaming God (book)
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This week Jared Morningstar joins me for some metaphysical musings... Oh yeah, it's nerdy all right! What would happen if a process philosopher walked into a bar with a Neoplatonist? I'm not entirely sure, to be honest... but maybe it could look something like this? Enjoy!
Resources:
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This week, Tripp Fuller joined me for a 'surprise' conversation... I literally had no idea what we were going to talk about or what Tripp wanted to tell me. Turns out, he wanted to reveal the top 8 most frequently asked "God" questions from a survey of 3,500 non-theologically trained people. We had a blast! Enjoy.
Resources:
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This week Dr. Bruce Epperly joins the podcast once again for a fun and wide-ranging conversation about Jesus. Bruce offers a beautiful vision of Jesus of Nazareth the mystic, healer, and prophet who is always more than we can imagine. This Jesus embraces all times, places, and people with his mystical union with God, his healing presence, and his transforming prophetic witness. Enjoy!
Resources:
Jesus: Mystic, Healer, Prophet
Reiki Healing Touch: And the Way of Jesus
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This week I was joined by Benjamin Perry to discuss ideas from his new book, "Cry, Baby: Why Our Tears Matter". We take a deep dive into the transformative power of tears, explore how crying is an act of resistance, and ask how can our tears build a more beautiful world. Enjoy!
Resources:
Cry, Baby: Why Our Tears Matter (Book)
Theology Beer Camp Tickets and Info
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This week I am joined by my new friend Dr. Royce Fitts to discuss his new book, "The Geography of the Soul: Dreams, Reality, and the Journey of a Life Time.". Royce shares his own spiritual journey, his own stravage, and invites us to join him. Enjoy!
Resources:
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This week Grace Ji-Sun Kim joins the show to talk about the Holy Spirit. This was a fun conversation and we approached the Holy Spirit a bit differently than your average Sunday School teacher. Enjoy!
Don't forget to use code "RETHINKINGGODPOD" for $25 off Theology Beer Camp!
Resources:
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This week, I had the pleasure of being joined by Rabbi Wayne Allen to discuss his book "Thinking about Good and Evil: Jewish Views from Antiquity to Modernity". What have been some of the approaches to the problem of evil from within the Jewish tradition? Rabbi Allen's book offers 35 different answers to the problem of evil... we discuss a few of them. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Thinking About Good and Evil (Book)
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This week, Jason Micheli from the Crackers and Grape Juice Podcast joins me for 20ish Q's. We had a fun time playing my silly game and I hope you enjoy listening as much as we enjoyed talking. Enjoy!
Resources:
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This week I am joined by Daniel A. Downbrowski to discuss mystical and spiritual experiences through the lens of Process philosophy. Can Classical Theism account for such experiences? Dan thinks not! We walk through a few critiques of Classical Theism and introduce so different ways of thinking about God. Enjoy.
Resources:
Process Mysticism (Book)
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This week I am joined by Dr. Roberto Che Espinoza to have a conversation centered around their book "Body Becoming: A Path to Our Liberation". We ask the seemingly simple question, "What is a body", and then discuss how we have been cut off from our bodies and what the implications of that have been. We talk about our own journies of becoming embodied and how the hard work of becoming can help us create a more beautiful world where every-body counts. Enjoy!
Resources:
Body Becoming: A Path to Our Liberation (Book)
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This week Terence Lester returns to the podcast to discuss his latest book "All God's Children: How Confronting Buriend History Can Build Racial Solidarity". We have a deep and engaging conversation sharing stories and experiences in regard to racism. We dream of a better world where every-body counts. Enjoy!
Resources:
All God's Children (Book)
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This week I am joined by Myron Penner for an intro of sorts to Cognitive Science of Religion. What happens when we apply the helpful tools of CSR to the study of Religion and Theology? Does CSR explain away God, Religion, or our Theology? Have a listen and decide for yourself. Enjoy!
Resources:
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This week, Lyndsey Medford joins the podcast to discuss her latest book "My Body and Other Crumbling Empires: Lessons for Healing in a World That Is Sick". What wisdom can we learn from our bodies and how can healing our bodies help us heal a world that is sick? Enjoy!
Resources:
My Body and Other Crumbling Empires (Book)
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This week I am joined by returning guest and friend of the podcast Thomas Jay Oord. Tom also brought another special guest to the show, his daughter Alexa!
Tom and Alexa have recently released an edited volume called "Why the Church of the Nazarene Should Be Fully LGBTQ+ Affirming". With over 90 essays written by members of the LGBTQ+ community, Allys, and Scholars, this new volume is deeply moving and builds a solid case for the full inclusion of LGBTQ+ folks. Enjoy!
Resources:
Why the Church of the Nazarene Should Be Fully LGBTQ+ Affirming (Book)
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This week I was joined by Dr. Jeffrey Pugh. Pugh is a Bonhoeffer scholar and we had a beautiful conversation about Bonhoeffer and what he may have to say to us today.
Dr. Pugh will be cohosting a class with Dr. Tripp Fuller on Bonhoeffer and the future of the faith. The class will feature both Pugh and Fuller along with 5 other Bonhoeffer scholars.
Resources:
Dietrich Bonhoeffer Works Readers Eddition
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This week we have the second edition of our new series 20ish Q's. Tripp Fuller was the previous guest and Todd Littleton is who Tripp nominated. Enjoy.
Resources:
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This week I am joined by Heather Hamilton to discuss her new book "Returning to Eden: A Field Guide for the Spiritual Journey". We had an awesome conversation reimaging familiar bible stories, talking about mystical experiences, and engaging our spiritual journies. Enjoy!
Resources:
Returning to Eden (Book)
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This week Philip Clayton joins the podcast to discuss the wonders of Panentheism. Panentheism has played a major role in the faith journies of both of us and we wanted to share it with you. Enjoy!
Resources:
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This week Josh was joined by Sarah Lane Ritchie to discuss Spiritual Technologies... you know, smells, bells, and psychedelics. This was a fun conversation that covered a lot of ground. Josh even shares a story that he has not shared publicly before. Enjoy!
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This week we are starting a new series on the podcast! Once / a month or so I will be joined by a podcaster who will have to answer my 20ish Q's. Each podcaster will then have to nominate a new podcaster to come on and play the game. If you are a patron of the show, you can send in new possible questions to be added/subbed into the list. Enjoy!
Resources:
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This week Mason Mennenga joins the podcast to discuss some fun ideas from his thesis. This was a fun conversation and we covered a lot of ground including embodiment, emergence, panpsychism, God and much more! Enjoy.
Resources:
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This week Sarey Martin Concepción hangs out for an awesome episode! We talk about the interminglings of Creativity and spirituality. This episode gets deep and personal pretty quickly but is also filled with laughter and joy. Enjoy!
Resources:
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This week, Josh hung out on the "Church and Other Drugs" podcast and had a fun talk with Jed and Dan Koch. This is a rebroadcast of that conversation. Enjoy. and go check out "Church and Other Drugs".
Resources:
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This week, Bradley Onishi joins the podcast to discuss his book "Preparing for War: The Extremist History of White Christian Nationalism -- And What Comes Next". Enjoy.
Resources:
Preparing for War (book)
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This week, Andrew Davis joins the show to discuss his work "Mind, Value, and Cosmos: On the Relational Nature of Ultimacy". Davis offers a beautiful and compelling case for the relationality and ultimacy of mind, value, and cosmos. Instead of focusing on a singular, individual philosophical question and arguing for its ultimacy, Davis instead asks, what if mind, value, and the cosmos all need to be considered from within their relationality to one another? Enjoy!
Resources:
Mind, Value, and Cosmos (Book)
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This week I am joined by Bethany N. Sollereder to ask the difficult question, why is there suffering? Bethany has recently put out a 'choose your own theological adventure' book looking at diverse answers to this difficult question. Enjoy!
Resources:
Why Is There Suffering? (Book)
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Resources:
What Is Ecological Civilization (Book)
Institute For Ecological Civilization
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This week, Phenomenological Philosopher and Kierkegaard Scholar Aaron Simmons came back to the show to hang out. This time around Josh and Aaron discuss aging and death in light of the question, 'what will you do with your finitude?'. Enjoy!
Resources:
Philosophy For Where We Find Ourselves
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This week we have the privilege of sharing a conversation that Josh had at Theology Beer Camp about the Atonement. Josh hosted a live podcast featuring a panel of amazing scholars from a diverse spectrum of backgrounds. Enjoy!
Resources:
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For our final episode of 2022, we are joined by our good friend Dr. Thomas Jay Oord to discuss Amipotence, the power of love. Oord is currently working on a new book, "The Death of Omnipotence... and the Birth of Amipotence". We take a look at the downfalls of the doctrine of Omnipotence and seek to replace it with the power of love, Amipotence. Enjoy!
Resources:
Pluriform Love (Book)
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This week we are joined by J.R. Daniel Kirk to discuss the most misused, problematic, and proof-texted letter in the Bible... Romans. Daniel has a new book out "Romans For Normal People" and it's fantastic! We had a great conversation. Enjoy.
Resources:
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This week, Jonathan Foster joins us to discuss his new book "Theology of Consent: Mimetic Theory in an Open and Relational Universe". Foster has made the first published attempt at bringing these two powerful ideas together! This conversation only scratched the surface... be sure to pick up a copy of his new book. Enjoy.
Resources:
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This week we were joined by Tim Whitaker of The New Evangelicals. We hear a bit about Tim's story, and then jump into what Tim believes to be the biggest issue facing the Church in America today... Christian Nationalism. Enjoy!
Resources:
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This week, Josh and Greg sit down together to discuss Soteriology aka the Doctrine of Salvation. What does it mean to be saved? Who is saved? What are we saved from? All that kind of stuff... Enjoy!
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This week, Dan Koch joins us to give us the "why" behind his new podcast "Pretty Good Vibrations". We get to hear some of Dan's story and have a lot of fun talking about music. This was a fun episode, we hope you enjoy it!
Resources:
Pretty Good Vibrations Podcast
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This week, Greg and Josh were joined by their friends Tina Olsen and Trace Bell to talk about Wholeness. Tina and Trace also recently launched a new website where they are doing amazing things! Enjoy.
Resources:
Open Aware (Website)
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This week Dr. Angela Parker joins the podcast to discuss her book "If God Still Breathes, Why Can't I: Black Lives Matter and Biblical Authority". We break down and discuss the ways that the Bible has been used as a tool of White Supremacy. Enjoy!
Resources:
If God Still Breathes, Why Can't I? (Book)
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This week, Greg and Josh sat down with Timothy Beal to talk about his latest book "When Time Is Short: Finding Our Way In The Anthropocene". When time is short is a meditation on what may be a finite human future. How did we get into the climate crisis we find ourselves in? How does that impact our theology? Can we imagine a new relationship with creation and the natural world? Enjoy!
Resources:
When Time Is Short (Book)
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Theology Beer Camp is only a few days away! Tripp Fuller joins us to discuss a process atonement and plug Beer Camp. Enjoy!
Resources:
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This week Greg and Josh had the privilege of hanging out with Dr. Alma Zaragoza-Petty to discuss her new book Chingona. We had a great conversation about owning our inner badass and seeking spiritual healing. Enjoy!
Resources:
Chingona: Owning Your Inner Badass for Healing and Justice (Book)
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This week, Greg interviewed Josh and took a deep dive into Josh's story. We start at the beginning of Josh's faith journey when he first started going to church and end with where he is at today. We discuss his time as a pastor, his transition into brewing, and his spiritual journey as a whole. Random parts of Josh's story have been shared on the podcast in the past, but never in this long-form format and all in one place. Enjoy!
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This week Dr. Bruce Epperly joins us to have a fun conversation about Process Theology and Religious Pluralism. This was a wide-ranging conversation covering a lot of ground! Bruce was fun to talk too and we had a blast. Enjoy!
Resources:
The Elephant is Running (Book)
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This week, we were joined by Brittany Muller to discuss her use of Tarot Cards as a contemplative prayer practice. Brittany helped dispel some of the myths and mysteries around the Tarot and we had a beautiful conversation about inner work, prayer, and connecting with God. Enjoy!
Resources:
The Contemplative Tarot: A Christian Guide to the Cards (Book)
Blessed.Vigil (Brittany's Instagram)
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This week Greg and Josh are joined by their new friend Ben Sternke and Matt Tebbe to discuss what it means to have the mind of Christ. In their new book, "Having the Mind of Christ" Ben and Matt offer 8 axioms for a more robust and holistic faith. Enjoy!
Resources:
Having the Mind of Christ (Book)
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This week we Josh and Greg were joined by Dr. Carmen Acevedo Butcher to discuss her new translation of "Practice of the Presence" by Brother Lawrence. Carmen's translation is fantastic! She brings a lot to the table with her new translation and to this conversation. Enjoy!
Resources:
Practice of the Presence (Book)
The Cloud of Unknowing (Book)
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This week Josh and Greg are joined by Jennifer Garcia Bashaw to discuss ideas from her new book Scapegoats: The Gospel Through the Eyes of the Victims. Enjoy!
Resources:
Scapegoats: The Gospel Through the Eyes of the Victims (Book)
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This week, Josh and Greg were joined by Nelson Boschman to talk about spiritual growth and fine wine. Nelson took a sabbatical and spent time working in a vineyard... then he wrote a book about wine and spiritual growth. We had a wonderful conversation grounded in the metaphor of wine. Enjoy!
Resources:
The Growing Season: Contemplations on Wine and the Soul (book)
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This week, Josh & Greg tackle our three centers of knowing: Body, Heart and Mind. Learning to trust all three of these infinitely wise centers and having them in alignment is a key aspect of the spiritual journey. Enjoy!
Resources:
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That's right folks, (Re)thinking Faith is back! This week we introduce our new cohost Greg Farrand. We take a deep dive into his story and also discuss the vision and future for (Re)thinking Faith. We are both very excited to share with you all what we have been working on. Enjoy!
Resources:
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Josh recently did some podcasting for the first time in months! He was a guest on Church and Other Drugs with our good friend Jedd. Enjoy!
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This week, friend of the podcast Brian McLaren returns to ask an important question with me... do I stay Christian? Enjoy.
Resources:
Center for Action and Contemplation
Do I Stay Christian (Book)
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This week, long-time friend Thomas Jay Oord returns to the podcast. Tom has a new book and it is fantastic! We sat down and had a great conversation around some of the main themes and points. Enjoy!
Resources:
Pluriform Love (Book)
Center For Open and Relational Theology
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This week I hung out with my friend Ariel aka Trans Regret Snoopy to discuss Colossians 1:15-20. Things get very Cosmic very fast! I had a ton of fun with this conversation and hope you enjoy it!
Resources:
Trans Regret Snoopy Presents the Bible Podcast
Is Your God Big Enough? Close Enough? You Enough? (Book)
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Why do we talk so much about love, but often fail to be loving? This is the question behind Molly LaCroix's new book "Restoring Relationship: Transforming Fear into Love Through Connection". Molly is a licensed marriage and family therapist who specializes in the Internal Family Systems model.
Resources:
Restoring Relationship (Book)
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This week I got to hang out with Tripp Fuller. I invited Tripp on to discuss the historic Jesus with me, and to ask some questions I had been sitting on but was too afraid to ask. The conversation was awesome and we had a blast! Enjoy.
Resources:
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This week I was joined by John Mabry to discuss the importance of interfaith dialogue. Seeking and finding wisdom within other faith traditions has been helpful to both John and myself in our own journies as Christians. Enjoy.
Resources:
Soul Journeys (Book)
A Christian Walks in the Footsteps of the Buddha (Book)
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This week my friend Greg Farrand joins me to do another deep dive into our spiritual journies. Buddhism has become a surprising and very helpful friend to both Greg and I and we wanted to introduce you all to that friend. Buddhism has made us both better Christians and we know it will help you too! Enjoy.
Resources:
Second Breath Center Website
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This week my good friend Dr. Jace Broadhurst returns to the podcast. We had a fun conversation trying to trace the development of Satan throughout the Bible. So who or what is the Satan? Let's find out together. Enjoy.
RESOURCES:
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This week I had the privilege of being joined by one of my former professors, Dr. Eric A. Seibert. It's no secret that the Old Testament is a difficult section of Scripture to read and it causes a variety of issues to many. Seibert wrote a compelling guide to enjoying the Old Testament that takes seriously the concerns of many. Enjoy!
Resources:
Enjoying the Old Testament (book)
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This week I had the joy of hanging out with Trace Bell once again. We discuss our spiritual journies and the areas of growth we have been experiencing over the past year. Trace introduced me to Rupert Spira and his work has been so helpful to me, so we decided to do an episode discussing some of Spira's main points. Come hang out and experience the nature of consciousness with us. Enjoy!
Resources:
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This week I had the privilege of sharing conversation with John Philip Newell. John is an internationally acclaimed spiritual teacher and speaker who helped show me the beautiful tradition of Celtic Christianity. The Celtic wisdom tradition can enable us to rediscover the natural rhythms of life and deepen our spiritual connection with God, each other, and the earth. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Sacred Earth Sacred Soul (Book)
EarthAndSoul.Org (John's Website)
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This week, J. Aaron Simmons joins me to discuss philosopher/theologian Soren Kierkegaard. Although Kierkegaard died in 1855, his message has deep resonance and relevance today. Enjoy!
Resources:
Philosophy For Where We Find Ourselves (Youtube)
Walking with Kierkegaard (Online Class)
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This week, I was joined by Catherine Keller to discuss the wonder of Process Theology. What is Process Theology? Why do I find it so appealing? Listen, find out and enjoy!
RESOURCES:
On The Mystery (Book)
Facing Apocalypse (Book)
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This week, I invited Dan Koch and Matt Carter to join me for a very interesting conversation. What does it mean to all yourself a Christian? In what meaningful way can we still call ourselves Christians? Who gets to decide if we are Christians or not? Enjoy!
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This week my friends Chad & Steve join me to discuss and reflect on the Netflix film "Pray Away". This is a film by Ryan Murphy that engages Ex-leaders and a survivor of the so-called "conversion therapy" movement as they speak out about its harm to the LGBTQ+ community and its devastating persistence.
The episode was the idea of my friend Chad, a survivor of "conversion therapy". Chad offered us new insights and perspectives into the film and the lives of those directly affected by "conversion therapy". Enjoy.
RESOURCES:
Pray Away (film)
Outlove: A Queer Christian Survival Story
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There are qualities we all yearn to experience in our lives - peace, simplicity, grace, connection, clarity. Yet these qualities evade us, because each of them arises from an experience of wholeness, and we live in a culture that enforces divisions within each of us.
This week, Philip Shepherd joins me in conversation to discuss the countless ways in which we are persuaded to separate from the body and live in the head. Disconnected from the body's intelligence, we also disconnect from the wholeness of the present. This schism within us is the primary source of stress not just in our personal lives, but for the systems of the planet.
I really enjoyed this conversation and am excited to share it with you all. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
New Self New World (Book)
Radical Wholeness (Book)
Deep Fitness (Book)
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This week Terry Wildman joins the podcast to talk about a brand new Bible translation, 'The First Nations Version: An Indigenous Translation of the New Testament'.
The FNV is a dynamic equivalence translation of the New Testament that captures the simplicity, clarity, and beauty of Native storytellers in English, while remaining faithful to the original language of the Bible. Whether you are Native or not, you will experience the Scriptures in a fresh and new way. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
The First Nations Version: An Indigenous Translation of the New Testament
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This week I was joined by my friend Greg Farrand for a conversation you will not want to miss. Greg is the Executive Director of Second Breath an organization committed to 'teach spiritual practice and ancient Christian wisdom, and together, to celebrate as these learnings transform lives and the world.'
Greg and I have a very deep, raw and honest conversation about our spiritual journies. We are both former pastors with very similar stories. Our hope is to invite you into our stories and into our spiritual journies in hopes that you will find yourself there as well. Enjoy!
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The Scriptures are an essential aspect of the Christian faith. But often they are equated with the living Word Himself (Jesus), even elevating them above the One to whom they point. This has distorted their central message—and fractured our view of God. Tragically, this has caused multitudes of people unnecessary doubt, confusion, and pain in their encounters with the Scriptures.
Many of us understand God as being truly loving and good. But what do we do with depictions of God in Scripture as wrathful, violent, and genocidal. These “toxic texts” have caused some to set aside their Bibles and have led others to completely reject their faith.
Author and theologian Bradley Jersak has wrestled deeply with such passages over many years. He has experienced the same questions, doubt, and pain. In A More Christlike Word, he offers a clarifying and freeing path forward. Brad calls this path the “Emmaus Way” because it demonstrates how Jesus regarded all Scripture as fulfilled in himself, the final Word of God who reveals the true nature of the Father. Enjou!
RESOURCES:
A More Christlike Word: Reading Scripture the Emmaus Way (Book)
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This week I invited my friend Joey Lantz on the show to have a deep and very personal conversation. Stealing the idea from my buddy Dan koch, I invited Joey on to discuss the god he no longer believes in and to find out if I believe in that god either.
Joey grew up a Christian and now identifies as an atheist. I wanted to have Joey on to hear his story and find some common ground. Enjoy!
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This week, Dr. Thomas Jay Oord returns to the podcast for the fourth time. We had an awesome conversation focused around Tom's latest book "Open and Relational Theology: An Introduction to Life-Changing Ideas".
Open and Relational Theology has been a steady theme on the show, however, we never did a proper episode just on Open and Relational Theology. So this week, Tom and I sat down for an introductory, and sometimes nerdy, conversation that we hope you find helpful. Enjoy!
Resources:
Open and Relational Theology (Book)
Center for Open and Relational Theology
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All good things must come to an end, and unfortunately, today is Marty's last week on the show. We talk about his experience and celebrate all that Marty has done. Best of luck Marty! Peace and love bro.
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Guess who's back, back again... Prop is back! Tell yo' friends.
In Propaganda's latest book, "Terraform", he looks at the ways in which our world is broken. Using the metaphor of terraforming—creating a livable world out of an inhospitable one—he shows how we can begin to reshape our homes, friendships, communities, and politics.
In this transformative time—when we are redefining what a truly just and equitable world looks like, and reflecting on the work that needs to be done both in our spiritual and secular lives—Propaganda rallies us to create that just world. He sheds light on how nefarious origin stories have skewed our views of ourselves and others and allowed gross injustices, and demonstrates how great storytelling and excellent art can create and shape new perspectives of the world and make all of us better. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Terraform: Building a Better World (book)
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When Rachel Pieh Jones moved from Minnesota to rural Somalia with her husband and twin toddlers eighteen years ago, she was secure in a faith that defined who was right and who was wrong, who was saved and who needed saving. She had been taught that Islam was evil, full of lies and darkness, and that the world would be better without it.
Luckily, locals show compassion for Jones who can’t keep her headscarf on or her toddlers from tripping over AK-47s. After the murder of several foreigners forces them to evacuate, the Joneses resettle in nearby Djibouti.
Jones recounts the personal encounters and growing friendships that gradually dismantle her unspoken fears and prejudices and deepen her appreciation for Islam. Unexpectedly, along the way she also gains a far richer understanding of her own Christian faith. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Pillars: How Muslim Friends Led Me Closer to Jesus (book)
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This week, Terence Lester joins the show for the second time! It's easy to feel overwhelmed by all of the injustices that we see in the world. We don't know what to do and might think that we don't have anything to offer. But by using our gifts in collaboration with others, we can do more together than we ever could on our own.
Mobilizing and acting together empowers us to do what we can't do as isolated individuals. Lester looks at the obstacles that prevent us from getting involved, and he offers practical ways that we can accomplish things together as groups, families, churches, and communities. Togetherness and community give visible testimony of the power of the gospel. In this broken world, the body of Christ can transform society―when we stand together. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
When We Stand: The Power of Seeking Justice Together (Book)
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This week, Ben Kirby joined us to discuss the ideas in his new book "PreachersNSneakers: Authenticity in an Age of For-Profit Faith and (Wannabe) Celebrities".
What started as a joke account on Instagram has turned into a movement. Through this provocative project, the Ben is helping thousands of Jesus followers wrestle with the inevitable dilemmas created by a culture obsessed with image and entertainment: pastors wearing Gucci sneakers and carrying Louis Vuitton bags while their churches grow more and more obsessed with celebrity and fame. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
PreacnersNSneakers (Book)
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This week, Gabriel Gordon helps us to (re)think our ideas around biblical inspiration.
We explore a number of problematic issues facing popular notions of Inspiration today. Gordon applies the idea of Essential Kenosis to the inspiration of scripture and reveals how it provides a better theological basis for developing a doctrine of Biblical Inspiration. If God cannot control the biblical authors, then what they produce as the biblical text is not revelation in and of itself, but a contextualized human response to that revelation.
With the rising popularity of Essential Kenosis, the dismantling of popular notions of inspiration through historical criticism, and a reclaiming of the interpretative methods of the early church, God Speaks puts forth a doctrine of inspiration and revelation that better accounts for these realities while more faithfully securing our allegiance to Christ. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
God Speaks: A Participatory Theology of Biblical Inspiration (Book)
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This week we were joined by our friend Fr. Nebojsa Pantic. Fr. Nebojsa is a Greek Orthodox priest and he joined us to share about his faith tradition. What is the history of the Orthodox Church? What does it even mean to be Orthodox? What are some of the theological distinctions?
Our hope is that this episode will help to widen your perspective on the Christian Faith and help you to celebrate the beautiful diversity present within the tradition. Enjoy!
Resources:
Email Fr. Nebo: [email protected]
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This week we had the opportunity to sit down with JC Groves from the Recovering Fundamentalist Podcast. We had a really fun conversation about JC's time growing up in the Independent Fundamentalist Baptist tradition and what it has looked like for him to (re)think his faith and move away from that denomination. Enjoy!
Resources:
The Recovering Fundamentalist Podcast
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This week we had the privilege of being joined by our new friend Meghan Tschanz. We had a really great conversation around the ideas present in Meghan's new book "Women Rising".
Women Rising is Meghan Tschanz's personal journey of transformation. But it's also a Christian blueprint for anyone wanting to confront injustice against women while pointing to a biblical standard for gender equality. With humility and grit, Meghan calls Christian women to amplify their voices for righteousness—and she calls the church to listen.
Enjoy!
Resources:
Women Rising: Learning to Listen, Reclaiming Our Voice
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This week we had the privilege of being joined by bible scholar and theologian, Scot McKnight. McKnight recently released a new book, "A Church Called Tov: Forming A Goodness Culture That Resists Abuses of Power and Promotes Healing."
Tragically, in recent years, Christians have gotten used to revelations of abuses of many kinds in our most respected churches―from Willow Creek to Harvest, from Southern Baptist pastors to Sovereign Grace churches. We need a better way. The sad truth is that churches of all shapes and sizes are susceptible to abuses of power, sexual abuse, and spiritual abuse. Abuses occur most frequently when Christians neglect to create a culture that resists abuse and promotes healing, safety, and spiritual growth.
McKnight offers us a way forward and helps us to (re)think what a Church called Tov could look like in the future. Enjoy!
Resources:
Scot McKnight Northern Seminary
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This week Julien Smith helps us to (re)think Paul’s vision for the life of human flourishing under the reign of Jesus. Smith places Paul’s letters in conversation with both ancient virtue ethics and kingship discourse, Smith outlines the Apostle’s christologically shaped understanding of the good life.
Salvation and human flourishing―a life marked by fulfillment and well-being―have often been divorced in the thinking and practice of the church. For the apostle Paul, however, the two were inseparable in the vision for the good life. Paul’s conviction of Jesus’ universal Lordship emboldened him to imagine not just another world, but this world as it might be when transformed. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Paul and the Good Life (book)
Celebration of Discipline (book)
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This week Trace Bell joins the show for an awesome conversation. We talk about a really helpful tool called Spiral Dynamics. The evolution of human consciousness is fascinating, and this tool when applied can help aid us in our spiritual journey and growth. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
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This week Diana Butler Bass joined the show to help us rediscover Jesus. As you know, many people wrestle with disappointment and disillusionment in their church and its leadership when they try and fit Jesus into a box.
Many Christians have left their churches but find that they cannot leave Jesus or their faith behind. Diana helps free us to embrace Jesus in his prismatic nature, and renew your hope in the Jesus you have known, the one you know now, and the one who will meet you on the road ahead. Enjoy!
Resources:
Freeing Jesus (Book)
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It's not every day that you get to sit down and talk with a living legend. This week Josh had the privilege of being joined by Dr. John B. Cobb. John Cobb is a theologian, philosopher, and environmentalist. Cobb is often regarded as the preeminent scholar in the field of process philosophy and theology.
We cover a variety of things from interfaith studies to the journey of faith to the process theology and philosophy. This was a fascinating conversation with a living legend of the faith. Enjoy.
RESOURCES:
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This week Dr. John Haught joins us for a fun conversation about his book "The New Cosmic Story: Inside Our Awakening Universe".
Over the past two centuries, scientific advances have made it clear that the universe is a story still unfolding. He contends that many have overlooked a crucial aspect of cosmic history: the drama of life’s awakening to interiority and religious awareness. Science may illuminate the outside story of the universe, but a full telling of the cosmic story cannot ignore the inside development that interiority represents.
Haught addresses two primary questions: what does the arrival of religion tell us about the universe, and what does our understanding of the cosmos as an unfinished drama tell us about religion? Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
The New Cosmic Story (book)
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This week R.T. Mullins joined the show to help us (re)think what it means to say that God has emotions. In this conversation, we cover some important issues around the emotional life of God as they relate to happiness, empathy, love, and moral judgments. We also take a deep dive into the impassibility/passibility debate. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
God and Emotion (book)
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This week we were joined by Shane Claiborne to discuss the dismantling of the death penalty. Today it is not uncommon for Christians to say they are "pro-life" and at the same time be the biggest supporters of the death penalty. Is this the way of Jesus? We think not! Enjoy this conversation as we hang out with our friend Shane Claiborne.
Resources:
Executing Grace (book)
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This week we had the privilege of being joined by Bible Scholar Tim Mackie. Tim Mackie is the founder of BibleProject and the host of the Bible Project Podcast.
We had an awesome conversation about this sacred book we call the Bible. We threw a wide variety of questions at Tim in regards to the Bible and what are we supposed to do with it. Enjoy!
Resources:
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This week, Christiana Peterson joins us to discuss her latest book, 'Awakened by Death'. Christiana helps us (re)think death and challenges to embrace death's mysteries to live a richer, fuller life. Enjoy.
Resources:
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This week, we were joined by our friends Sarey and Dan to discuss their new website project, SoYoureDeconstructing.com.
"Most people who find themselves in a crisis of faith start by asking good (but tough) questions. These questions can make people around them uneasy, and are often met with only one “acceptable” answer. Often, what comes next is a difficult experience of insecurity as we doubt our commitments to our deepest held beliefs and values. But this doesn’t have to be the end of your faith journey."
Dan and Sarey hope to provide people with resources to transform this crisis into an experience of healing, renewal and learning. Enjoy!
RESOURCECS:
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This week Stina Kielsmeier-Cook joins us to discuss something very important and very personal. Stina's husband left Christianity several years into their marriage, and Stina was left "spiritually single". She was struggling to live the Christian life on her own, taking her kids to church by herself, and wrestling with her own questions and doubts.
Stina shares her story of finding community in an unexpected place: an order of Catholic nuns in her neighborhood. As she spent time with them and learned about female Catholic saints, she began to see that she was not "spiritually single" after all―and that no one really is. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Blessed are the Nones: Mixed Faith Marriage and My Search for Spiritual Community (Book)
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This week, Josh and Marty are joined by two of their friend for an important conversation. After spending time together working in the same toxic church environment we wanted to ask the question, "is this church redeemable"?
We hope that this will be a conversation that will shine some light into a dark situation. Perhaps you too have experienced something similar. We want to let you know that you are not alone. Enjoy.
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This week Josh was joined by Robert P. Jones to discuss his latest book 'White Too Long: The Legacy of White supremacy in American Christianity.
Drawing on history, public opinion surveys, and personal experience, Rob delivers a provocative examination of the unholy relationship between American Christianity and white supremacy, and issues an urgent call for white Christians to reckon with this legacy for the sake of themselves and the nation.
RESOURCES:
White Too Long (book)
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This week we were joined by Jemar Tisby to have a practical conversation about his latest book, 'How To Fight Racism'. Racism is pervasive in today's world, and many are complicit in the failure to confront its evils. Jemar believes we need to move beyond mere discussions about racism and begin equipping people with the practical tools to fight against it.
Resources:
How To Fight Racism (book)
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This conversation almost didn't happen... This week, Hip-Hop artist Propaganda joins us to discuss an important topic. Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality are two important concepts that we need to understand if we are going to move forward with racial reconciliation. By why have they been demonized?
Join us as we discuss these things with Prop as he shines a light on a very real issue both in the Church and in this Country. Enjoy!
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This week, Brian McLaren joins the podcast once again to help us (re)think what it means to have faith following our deep doubts.
Sixty-five million adults in the U.S. have dropped out of active church attendance and about 2.7 million more are leaving every year. Faith After Doubt is for the millions of people around the world who feel that their faith is falling apart.
Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Faith After Doubt (Book)
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This week, we were joined By Rod Tucker to help us (re)think our ideas around Church. Rod says there is a better way, and it's time to start questions and rethinking our ideas. This turned out to be a great conversation, and we are excited to share it with you. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
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If you are anything like we are, you know what it's like to feel overlooked, disconnected, and ashamed. Sure we might believe in God's love in the abstract, but we often live our lives without experiencing it in any deep or lasting way. This week Geoff and Cyd Holsclaw join the conversation asking the question "Does God Really Like Me?"
The Holsclaws apply the good news of the gospel to the shame and disconnection that we all experience in our everyday lives. The truth is, God wants to be with us and we belong in God's presence. And from that place of belonging, we can bless the whole world with the message of God's love.
Enjoy!
Resources:
Does God Really Like Me? (Book)
GeoffreyHolsclaw.net
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This week we had the opportunity to hang out with Matt Carter and Toby Morrell of Emery and The BadChristian Podcast. We reached out to them and asked if they would be willing to trace their faith journey with us, from growing up to where they are today.
We cover all sorts of stuff from childhood to the starts of Emery; from Mars Hill to BadChristian. We even get down to ask the question, "where do you find yourself today?". Enjoy
RESOURCES:
Emery
BadChristian
Marriage Supply
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It is no secret that the Church has done a very bad job loving the LGBTQ+ community. Churches in America are experiencing massive splits and mass exoduses due to their belief and attitude towards the LGBTQ+ community.
This week, Colby Martin joins us once again to help others (re)think their stance on the LGBTQ+ community. Colby wrote a book called "Unclobber" where he reexamines what the Bible says (and does not say) about homosexuality in such a way that breathes fresh life into outdated and inaccurate assumptions and interpretations.
We used that book as a jumping-off point to have a beautiful conversation with our friend Cheyenne. Cheyenne identifies as gay and she opens up and shares her story with us. She offers helpful insights and helps us learn how to be true allies of the LGBTQ+ community. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
The Trevor Project - Saving Young LGBTQ Lives
Q Christian Fellowship
Good Fruit Project
Unclobber (book)
ColbyMartinOnline
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A building crescendo of developments, culminating in evangelical support for the Trump presidency, has led many evangelicals to question the faith they inherited. If being Christian means rejecting LGBTQ persons and supporting systemic racism, perhaps their Christian journey is over.
This week, David Gushee joins us to help us (re)thinking Evangelicalism. Gushee offers a new way forward for disillusioned post-evangelicals and proposes new ways of Christian believing, belonging, and behaving, helping post-evangelicals from where they are to a living relationship with Christ and an intellectually cogent and morally robust post-evangelical faith. We hope our conversation together shows that it is possible to follow Jesus out of evangelical Christianity, and more than that, it's a necessary journey. Enjoy.
Resources:
After Evangelicalism: The Path to a New Christianity (Book)
Changing Our Mind (Book)
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Have you ever wondered why some people you know hold theological and political views that blow your mind but they find quite reasonable? This week John Sanders joins us to discuss two social science models, Nurturant and Authoritative, to explain this divide.
Values are at the heart of our disagreements. Dr. Sanders explains the divide and makes the case that Jesus embodied the Nurturant way of life. He modeled empathy, grace, forgiveness, and care for those beyond his own tribe. The Nurturant and Authoritative approaches have competed for thousands of years but contemporary research shows that the Nurturant way of life produces better mental and spiritual health as well as superior communities in which to live. Enjoy
RESOURCES:
Embracing Prodigals: Overcoming Authoritative Religion by Embodying Jesus' Nurturing Grace (Book)
The God Who Risks (Book)
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If we were to ask you to name some of the things you love the most... how long would it take you to say yourself? If you’re anything like us, you’ve tried to love God and love others without thinking too much about yourself. Wanting to avoid self-centeredness, perhaps you have doubted yourself and condemned yourself— maybe even hated yourself.
This week, Jonathan Puddle joins the conversation to help us (re)think how we view ourselves. Drawing from Scripture, trauma-informed therapy, Christian inner-healing, breathing and embodiment exercises, and silent prayer & contemplative spirituality, You Are Enough is a holistic healing journey towards abundant life. Our hope is that you would embrace the truth of your beloved-ness in every part of your mind, body, soul and spirit.
RESOURCES:
You Are Enough: Learning to Love Yourself the Way God Loves You
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This week Tripp Fuller joins the show to help us (re)think our Christology. Tripp offers a robust constructive open and relational Christology. He offers us a three-pronged constructive Christology that engages historical Jesus studies and seeks to speak in both an existential and metaphysical register. Ultimately, Tripp offers a centering Christological metaphor for an open and relational vision: the self-investment of God. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Divine Self-Investment: An Open and Relational Constructive Christology
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This week we were joined by Scott Erickson to help us (re)think Advent this year.
"For too many of us, Christmas has lost its wonder. Maybe for you, the joy of the season is painfully dissonant with the hard edges of life right now. Or maybe you feel wearied by the way Christmas has become a polished, predictable brand. Or maybe this sacred story feels too far removed from our world today, a world that's hard to make sense of.
But what if the Christmas story is not just something that happened a long time ago . . . but a story that is still happening today?" Enjoy.
RESOURCES:
Honest Advent (Book)
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Wow! 100 episodes! Thank you to everybody who has supported the show thus far. This week, Josh and Marty reflect back over the past 100 episodes. They discuss what elements they have rethought in their own faith, and where they hope to be after another 100 episodes. Enjoy!
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This week we were joined by Juanita Campbell Rasmus to help us (re)think how to BE.
"It felt as though every nerve in my body was popping. Imagine large strong hands slowly applying pressure while breaking a family-size package of uncooked, dry spaghetti. I was the spaghetti. Breaking down one piece at a time."
This is how Juanita begins the wise, frank, and witty account of what she later called "The Crash" and what her counselor labeled "a major depressive episode." This experience landed Juanita, a busy pastor, mother, and community leader, in bed. In addition to exhaustion and depression, on the spiritual front she experienced a dark night of the soul. When everything in her life finally came to a stop, she found that she had to learn to be―with herself and with God―all over again.
This was a wonderful conversation filled with spiritual wisdom and guidance. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Learning to Be: Finding Your Center After the Bottom Falls Out (Book)
Healing Our Beginning (Book)
You Can Heal Your Life (Book)
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This week we were joined by Biblical Scholar/Theologian/Former Bishop of Durham, NT Wright. Wright contends that there are a few 'signposts' that are inherent to humanity: justice, spirituality, relationships, beauty, freedom, truth and power.
If we do not live up to these ideals, our societies and individual lives become unbalanced, creating anger and frustration—negative emotions that divide us from ourselves and from God, he contends. Using the Gospel of John as his source, Wright shows how Christianity defines each signpost and illuminates why we so often see them as being "broken" and unattainable.
Drawing on the wisdom of the Gospels, Wright explains why these signposts are fractured and damaged and how Christianity provides the vision, guidance, and hope for making them whole once again, ultimately healing ourselves and our world. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Broken Signposts: How Christianity Makes Sense of the World
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We’ve caused a turning point in the Earth’s natural history. Everybody Now is a podcast about what it means to be human on the threshold of a global climate emergency, in a time of systemic injustice and runaway pandemics. Scientists, activists, farmers, poets, and theologians talk bravely and frankly about how our biosphere is changing, about grief and hope in an age of social collapse and mass extinction, and about taking action against all the odds.
During the week of October 19th 2020, Everybody Now is being released by podcasters all over the world as a collective call for awareness, grief and loving action.
With contributions from:
Dr. Gail Bradbrook - scientist and co-founder of Extinction Rebellion
Prof. Kevin Anderson - Professor of Energy and Climate Change at the University of Manchester
Dámaris Albuquerque - works with agricultural communities in Nicaragua
Dr. Rowan Williams - theologian and poet, and a former Archbishop of Canterbury
Pádraig Ó Tuama - poet, theologian and conflict mediator
Rachel Mander - environmental activist with Hope for the Future
John Swales - priest and activist, and part of a community for marginalised people
Zena Kazeme - Persian-Iraqi poet who draws on her experiences as a former refugee to create poetry that explores themes of exile, home, war and heritage
Flo Brady - singer and theatre maker
Hannah Malcolm - Anglican ordinand, climate writer and organiser
Alastair McIntosh - writer, academic and land rights activist
David Benjamin Blower - musician, poet and podcaster
Funding and Production:
This podcast was crowdfunded by a handful of good souls, and produced by Tim Nash and David Benjamin Blower
Permissions:
The song Happily by Flo Brady is used with permission.
The song The Soil, from We Really Existed and We Really Did This by David Benjamin Blower, used with permission.
The Poem The Tree of Knowledge by Pádraig Ó Tuama used with permission.
The Poem Atlas by Zena Kazeme used with permission.
The Poem What is Man? by Rowan Williams from the book The Other Mountain, used with permission from Carcanet Press.
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Why does our theology of salvation focus on forgiving sinners, but not on healing those wounded by sin?
Much of Western Christianity has subdued the narrative of Jesus as a Palestinian Jewish healer and liberator who served the sick and oppressed. But the Jesus of the Gospels is a revolutionary who stands with the sinned against, the wounded, and the marginalized. This week we are joined by Phuc Luu who re-narrates the life of Jesus to show how he made it his work to topple systems that privileged the few and disregarded the many, especially the poor and lowest.
Luu offers a counter-narrative to Western Christianity, which for centuries has legitimized colonization and violence to prop up the powerful at the expense of the masses. Pulling from the tradition of the early Eastern church, the present work of theologians of the oppressed, and his own experiences as a Vietnamese immigrant, Luu offers a transformative vision of healing for the world.
For those living in the land between pain and hope, Luu's prophetic words will renew our imaginations and draw us closer to the heart of God.
RESOURCES:
Jesus of the East: Reclaiming the Gospel for the Wounded (Book)
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This week, Dr. Drew Hart joins us once again to discuss his latest book 'Who Will Be A Witness'.
Who Will Be a Witness offers a vision for communities of faith to organize for deliverance and justice in their neighborhoods, states, and nation as an essential part of living out the call of Jesus.
Drew provides incisive insights into Scripture and history, along with illuminating personal stories, to help us identify how the witness of the church has become mangled by Christendom, white supremacy, and religious nationalism. Hart provides a wide range of options for congregations seeking to give witness to Jesus' ethic of love for and solidarity with the vulnerable.
At a time when many feel disillusioned and distressed, Hart calls the church to action, offering a way forward that is deeply rooted in the life and witness of Jesus. Dr. Hart's testimony is powerful, personal, and profound, serving as a compass that points the church to the future and offers us a path toward meaningful social change and a more faithful witness to the way of Jesus.
RESOURCES:
Who Will Be A Witness (Book)
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This week, Bonnie Lewis joins us once again to take a deep dive into her Idiomatic translation of the Bible, 'Timshel'. Bonnie was on the show over a year ago when this project was still underway. Now, you can get a soft or hardback copy to hold in your hands and enjoy.
This was a fun and informative conversation. If you find yourself having a hard time reading the Bible because it has been weaponized against you in the past, give Timeshel a try. Enjoy.
RESOURCES:
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This week Rob Bell joins the conversation to help us awaken to the reality that everything is spiritual... Josh tried to write an outline for the interview but quickly realized how silly of a thing that was to do. Outline an interview with Rob Bell? Yeah right! Enjoy.
RESOURCES:
Everything is Spiritual (Book)
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"I'm just speaking the truth in love..." How many times have you head that common refrain? For years, Christians have argued, debated, and fought one another while "speaking the truth in love," yet we are no closer to the grace-filled life Jesus modeled.
This week, Biblical scholar and popular podcast host of The Bible for Normal People, Jared Byas joins us and casts a new vision for the Christian life that's built not on certainty, but on the risk of love.
Jared contends that a biblically-based Christian life is not grounded in having all the answers but in a living relationship. This ultimately shifts our focus from collecting the "right" answers to loving others deeply and authentically. Jared calls us back to the heart of the Bible: that truth is only true when it's lived out in love.
He makes a compelling case for how what we believe is less important than how we believe it and that, more than anything else, telling the truth in love is about following Jesus. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Love Matters More (Book)
The Bible For Normal People Podcast
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This week, our good friend Dr. Thomas Jay Oord returns to the show once again. Previously he has been on to 'The Uncontrolling Love of God' and 'God Can't'. Tom is an open and relational theologian, and his work has helped so many.
As he returns this week, he fields some questions about his 'God Can't' thesis. If you have not listened to the previous two episodes with Tom, we would highly recommend that you do that.
If God can't control, why pray?
If God's love is uncontrolling, how do we explain miracles?
How does Jesus fit into a theology of uncontrolling love?
What hope do we have if God's love is noncontrolling?
Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Questions and Answers for God Can't
Center for Open & Relational Theology
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This week, Dr. Dennis R. Edwards joins the conversation making the powerful claim that the power of the Gospel is often most visible among those who are on the margins. God has empowered marginalized Christians to transform the church.
The power of the gospel is often most visible among those who have been the least respected, including racial or ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, women, and people who have been displaced from their homeland. Yet in many faith communities, these are the same people whose leadership gifts are least likely to be recognized.
Edwards brings forth a strong affirmation of the power already present among marginalized Christians and a call to recognize and embrace this power for the sake of helping the church become more like Christ. Marginalized Christians are already changing the face of the church. Will we embrace their power to change the church's heart?
RESOURCES:
Might From the Margins: The Gospel's Power to Turn the Tables on Injustice
1 Peter (The Story of God Bible Commentary)
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Is caring for the environment just a liberal, political concern? Dr. Sandra Richter says that environmental care is actually a Biblical mandate.
Dr. Richter is an expert in ancient Israelite society and economy as well as biblical theology. She walks us through various passages, showing how significant environmental theology is to the Bible's witness. She then helps us to apply that message to today's environmental concerns.
Well informed on present-day environmental challenges, Richter shares case studies that connect the biblical mandates to current issues. Though modern political alliances may tempt readers to sever Christian faith from environmental stewardship, Richter helps us to rethink our environmental concerns and be driven by God's values instead.
RESOURCES:
Stewards of Eden: What Scripture Says About the Environment and Why it Matters (Book)
The Epic of Eden: A Christian Entry into the Old Testament (Book)
Dr. Sandra Richter Westmont College
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The United States has more people locked up in Jails, Prisons, and Detention centers than any other country in the history of the world. This week we are joined by Dominique DuBois Gilliard to help us rethink incarceration.
Mass incarceration has become a lucrative industry, and the criminal justice system is plagued with bias and unjust practices. And the church has unwittingly contributed to the problem.
Dominique helps us explore the history and foundation of mass incarceration, examining Christianity’s role in its evolution and expansion. The church has the power to help transform our criminal justice system and Dominique helped us to discover how we can participate in the restorative justice needed to bring authentic rehabilitation, lasting transformation, and healthy reintegration to this broken system. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Rethinking Incarceration: Advocating for Justice That Restores (Book)
Rethinking Incarceration Video Curriculum
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This week Dan Koch returns to the show to discuss the overlap of Psychology and Theology. Dan is the host of the 'You Have Permission' podcast, and is currently working towards his doctorate of clinical psychology.
In some streams of the Christian faith, psychology is frowned upon, but Dan contends that psychology can be a great tool in the world of theology. This was a fun and helpful conversation, enjoy!
Resources:
The Righteous Mind (Book)
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This week, Kevin Makins joins the conversation to ask the question... why would anyone go to church? When Kevin was 23 and didn't know any better, he founded Eucharist Church with some of his friends.
There are plenty of reasons to criticize, judge, and even walk away from the church. Many of us have been hurt and rejected. We may see church as insular and irrelevant. Despite this, Kevin Makins believes that the church still matters--perhaps more than ever.
If you've been burned or burned out by the church, if you've been silenced or misunderstood, if you've left or never even joined in the first place, this conversation is your invitation to consider what you miss out on when you give up on church--and what the church misses out on when it gives up on you. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Why Would Anyone Go To Church (Book)
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Hurt by the church. Healed by the journey.
Questioning our faith and spiritual beliefs, while leaving the familiarity of our religious homeland, can be very painful. Loneliness, isolation, and fear of rejection--from God and others--can give rise to shame, guilt, anger, and sadness. Yet, paradoxically, this uncomfortable process can be a powerful catalyst that leads to tremendous emotional, mental, and spiritual growth.
This week, theologian, therapist, and ordained pastor, Mark Karris joined the conversation. Mark is no stranger to the deconstruction/reconstruction process.
In Religious Refugees, he explores this disorienting faith-shift through the lens of psychological research, theology, philosophy, and, most importantly, the real-world experiences of those who are going through--and have gone through--this arduous and confusing journey. You don't have to walk this path alone. Join the legion of others on the road to healing and self-discovery.
RESOURCES:
Religious Refugees: (De)constructing Toward Spiritual and Emotional Healing
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This week, Colby Martin discusses his latest work "The Shift: Surviving and Thriving after Moving from Conservative to Progressive Christianity."
When Christians are kicked out of their conservative churches or leave because they no longer feel at home, they embark on a journey of freedom and fear, love and loneliness, empowerment and pain. The movement from conservative to progressive Christianity is a serious shift. Colby Martin has traversed this treacherous territory, survived its hardships, and is now turning around to share what he's learned.
Colby has created a survival guide to help followers of Jesus navigate the strange and confusing landscape when shifting from conservative to progressive Christianity. His book will prepare progressive Christians (from long-time progressives to those just starting out) for the pitfalls awaiting them as they shift out of their conservative world, and it will equip them for a more abundant, thriving, and peace-filled spiritual life.
RESOURCES:
The Shift: Surviving and Thriving after Moving from Conservative to Progressive Christianity (Book)
Unclobber: Rethinking our Misuse of the Bible on Homosexuality (Book)
Sojourn Grace Collective: Colby's Church
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This week, we were joined by filmmaker and author Kevin Miller to discuss his latest film, J.E.S.U.S.A.
His film is an in-depth exploration of the relationship between Christianity and American nationalism and the violence that can often emerge from it. Far from a new phenomenon, this documentary traces the co-opting of Christianity by the state all the way back to when the Christian faith became the official religion of the Roman Empire.
Through interviews with a diverse group of scholars, pastors, historians, and activists, this film shows how specific readings of the Bible have led many Christians to confuse their devotion to Jesus with their dedication to the state. The film helps viewers rediscover and restore long-held Christian beliefs regarding nonviolence, inspiring Christians to become purveyors of peace rather than enablers of conflict and violence.
Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
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This week Kelley Nikondeha joined us to help us (re)think how we view the women of Exodus. In Kelley's most recent book, "Defiant: What the Women of Exodus Teach Us About Freedom", Kelley brings to light the overwhelming importance of the women of Exodus.
If it weren't for the women in Exodus, there would be no Moses, no crossing the Red Sea, and no story of breaking the chains of slavery. Women exhibited a subversive strength to defy Pharaoh and lead an entire people to freedom.
Kelley helps us to reflect on how the story of Exodus speaks to women's resistance against injustice today and highlights the biblical mandate of working toward liberation at all times and places. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Defiant: What the Women of Exodus Teach Us About Freedom (Book)
Adopted: The Sacrament of Belonging in a Fractured World (Book)
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Have you ever wondered what the Old Testament or the Old Testament Law has anything to do with your life? Have you ever thought about just ditching the Old Testament all together? You are not alone!
This week, Carmen Imes (PhD) joins us to help us rethink our views of the Old Testament. Carmen argues that the Old Testament is very important and that we can't understand our calling as Christians without it. Specifically, she argues that we have misunderstood the command about taking the Lord's name in vain. This is an important thing to get right... joins us in rethinking how we view the Old Testament.
RESOURCES:
Bearing God's Name: Why Sinai Still Matters (book)
Bearing Yhwh's Name at Sinai (published dissertation)
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We live in an extremely polarized society, especially when it comes to our political climate. This week, Pastor and founder of One Day's Wages (ODW) joins the conversation to help us (re)think how we engage with politics.
Seek first the Kingdom of God... not the Kingdom of a Political Party. We don't need any more "jerks for Jesus". Eugene helps us think through finding points of agreement to work towards the common good. He helps us listen to each other, especially those amongst us who are most vulnerable. This episode is timely, and Eugene helps us to see how we can be a light into the darkness and divided culture of today. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Thou Shalt Not Be A Jerk: A Christian's Guide to Engaging Politics (Book)
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This week, Josh and Marty spend some time reflecting together on the topic of racism. We both have been doing a lot of listening and learning from people of color during these crazy times. One thing we have been told a lot is that white people need to start having these conversations amongst ourselves.
This is an attempt to do just that. Josh and Marty reflect and share some of their thoughts on everything that has been going on. Is it perfect? Probably not... do we have it all figure out... NO! We will continue to learn and listen and grow. We will continue to work towards racial reconciliation. We are committed to being anti-racist. Enjoy.
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Story is a powerful thing. This week Josh & Marty were joined by 3 friends of theirs for an important conversation. Christine, Keith, and Ronny have something in common... they are all Black Pastors in predominately White Spaces. With this comes tension. Again, story is powerful and important and the story of these 3 individuals need to be heard.
Please join us in (re)thinking racism. Enjoy.
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We've all seen the news stories and heard the rumors. Maybe you have been hurt by a narcissistic church leader. It's easy to throw the term around and diagnose others from afar. But what is narcissism, really? And how does it infiltrate the church?
This week, Chuck DeGroat joins the conversation. Chuck has been counseling pastors with Narcissistic Personality Disorder, as well as those wounded by narcissistic leaders and systems, for over twenty years. He knows firsthand the devastation narcissism leaves in its wake and how insidious and painful it is.
DeGroat helps us to take a close look at narcissism, not only in ministry leaders but also in church systems. He offers compassion and hope for those affected by its destructive power and imparts wise counsel for churches looking to heal from its systemic effects. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
When Narcissism Comes to Church: Healing Your Community From Emotional and Spiritual Abuse (Book)
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This week Drew Hart joined the conversation to help us (re)think how the church views racism. In this deep and challenging episode, Drew helps us to see the racial hierarchy of not only our world, but also in the Church. He contends that racism is not just a sociological but also a theological issue as well. Will you join us in (re)thinking how we view racism? Enjoy.
RESOURCES:
Trouble I've Seen: Changing the Way the Church Views Racism (Book)
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This is the 3rd and final episode in our mini-series on atonement. This week we were joined by Dr. Tony Jones to discuss the atonement ideas he put forth in his book, "Did God Kill Jesus?"
A lot of Christians believe that God the Father demanded his only Son die a cruel, gruesome death to appease His wrath, since humanity is so irredeemably sinful and therefore repugnant to God. Tony Jones, argues that this understanding is actually a medieval invention and not what the Bible really teaches.
Christians today must transcend the shame and guilt that have shaped conceptions of the human soul and made us fearful of God, and replace them with love, grace, and joyfulness, which better expresses what the cross is really about.
Jones argues that how we understand the cross reflects directly what kind of God we worship. By letting go of the wrathful God who cannot stand to be in our presence unless he pretends to see Jesus in our place, we discover the biblical God who reaches out to love and embrace us while "we were yet sinners." Enjoy.
RESOURCES:
Did God Kill Jesus?: Searching for Love in History's Most Famous Execution (Book)
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This week we are joined by Josh McNall for part 2 of our Atonement series. Josh recently released a new book called "The Mosaic of Atonement".
Modern debates of this doctrine have tended toward either a defensive hierarchy, (one model is singled out as most important), or a disconnected plurality, (multiple images are affirmed but with no order of arrangement). McNall pushes back against both of these approaches and argues for a reintegration of four famous "pieces" of atonement doctrine through the governing image of a Christ-shaped mosaic.
While no one model is set above or against the others, Josh notes particular ways in which the "pieces"--the feet, heart, head, and hands--mutually support one another to form a more holistic vision of Christ's work. "This is my body," Jesus said to his followers, and by reintegrating these oft-dismembered aspects of atonement, we will note fresh ways in which it was given for us. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
The Mosaic of Atonement: An Integrated Approach to Christ's Work (Book)
Outpost Theology (Podcast)
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This week we are kicking off our 4 Part mini-series on the Atonement. During this series, we will be approaching the atonement from a variety of angles and perspectives. For part one, we were joined by JD Myers. We discussed some of his ideas from his book, "Nothing but the Blood of Jesus". Enjoy!
Resources:
Nothing but the Blood of Jesus: How the Sacrifice of Jesus Saves the World From Sin (Book)
The Meaning of the Pentateuch: Revelation, Compassion, and Interpretation (Book)
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This week we are joined by rapper Nehemiah. Nehemiah has heard the 9 and seen the grind of the crime trap... but the good news is that he survived that! We had an awesome conversation detailing some of the songs of off Nehemiah's latest album, "Survivor". Nehemiah speaks truth and shares his story in his music... we were lucky enough for him to share some of his story with us this week. Enjoy!
Resources:
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Of the world’s three major religions, only Christianity holds to a doctrine of original sin. The fact that many Christians believe there is something in human nature that is, and will always be, contrary to God, is not just a problem but a tragedy.
This week, Danielle Shroyer joined the conversation to help us (re)think the doctrine of Original Sin. Why does the doctrine’s assumptions of human nature so infiltrate our sermons and theological bookshelves? How is it so misconstrued in times of grief, pastoral care, and personal shame? How did we fall so far from God’s original blessing in the garden to this pervasive belief in humanity’s innate inability to do good?
During this conversation, Danielle Shroyer walks us through an overview of the historical development of the doctrine and brings the primary claims of original sin to their untenable (and unbiblical) conclusions. Danielle shows us not only how we got this doctrine wrong, but how we can put sin back in its rightful place: in a broader context of redemption and the blessing of humanity’s creation in the image of God. Enjoy!
Resources:
Original Blessing: Putting Sin in Its Rightful Place (Book)
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We are for sure in a crazy time amongst the COVID-19 pandemic. Many people are claiming that God is behind COVID-19... Many believe that COVID-19 is the wrath of God or in some way a test or judgment from God. Many are calling forth biblical prophecies and making claims about the end times. So what up with COVID-19? Is this the wrath of God? Are we living in the end times?
This week we are joined once again by New Testament Scholar, and Revelation expert Dr. Rob Dalrymple. Rob unpacks these questions and helps us to understand what the Bible and specifically the book of Revelation have to say about these times. Enjoy.
RESOURCES:
Articles:
COVID-19 and the Love of God: Is COVID-19 and Act of God's Judgement?
Are the Seven Seals of the Book of Revelation Unfolding Today?
Books:
Understanding the New Testament and the End Times
Follow the Lamb: A Guide to Reading, Understanding, and Applying the Book of Revelation
Previous Episode With Rob:
Revelation and Why It Matters - With Rob Dalrymple
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We all carry sexual shame to some extent. Whether you grew up in the midst of purity culture or not, all of us have been taught that sex, outside of a very specific context, is taboo. This week, Psychotherapist Matthais Roberts joins the conversation to help us rethink what it means to have healthy sex, helping us to overcome our shame in the process.
Roberts is a licensed mental health counselor associate and the host of Queerology: A Podcast on Belief and Being. He holds two master's degrees, one in theology and culture and one in counseling psychology. In his psychotherapy practice, he specializes in helping LGBTQ+ teens and adults live confident and fulfilling lives.
Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Beyond Shame: Creating A Healthy Sex Life on Your Own Terms
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This week, Meggie Lee Calvin joined us to discuss some of the ideas from her latest book, 'I Am My Own Sanctuary'. Meg is gifted at helping spiritually-attuned go-getters heal past wounds and reclaim their personal power so that they can have a life they love.
In this fun, humorous, helpful and sometimes irreverent episode, Meg shares with us some of her helpful ideas to aid us in spiritual, emotional and personal growth. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
I Am My Own Sanctuary: How A Recovering Holy-Roller Found Healing And Power (Book)
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What does it mean to say that the Bible is inspired? Conservative scholars and pastors have struggled for years to prove that the Bible is without errors... our guest this week thinks this is a fool's errand.
This week, Dr. Greg Boyd joins the conversation to help us rethink what it means to say the Bible is inspired. What if God inspired the Bible's contradictions to function as assets and not problems? Perhaps we should embrace the mistakes and contradictions in Scripture, because they show that God chose to use fallible humans to communicate timeless truth... enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Inspired Imperfection: How the Bible's Problems Enhance Its Divine Authority (book)
Cross Vision: How the Crucifixion of Jesus Makes Sense of Old Testament Violence (book)
The Crucifixion of the Warrior God: Volumes 1 & 2 (book)
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This week Dr. Eric Seibert joins the conversation to discuss divine violence. It's no secret that one can find some troubling images of God in the Old Testament. It is also no secret that the Old Testament has a troubling legacy to many. So... Did God really command the complete genocide of men, women, children and animals in the Old Testament?
For 2,000 years Bible Scholars and Theologians have wrestled with the violent images of God and the seeming sharp contrast between those images and the image of God we find in Jesus. Seibert joins the conversation and helps us to think through the various ways people have talked about the issue of divine violence. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Disturbing Divine Behavior: Troubling Old Testament Images of God (book)
The Violence of Scripture: Overcoming the Old Testament's Troubling Legacy (book)
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Does God really plan everything that happens? Bonnie Kristian returns to the podcast, this time to discuss God's providence and foreknowledge. Does God choose everything that happens? Does God choose who will be saved and who will be damned? Does God know the future? Is there even a future to be known? Kristian breaks down 4 different positions regarding these kinds of questions including Calvinism, Molinism, Arminianism and Open Theism. Enjoy
RESOURCES:
A Flexible Faith: Rethinking What it Means to Follow Jesus Today (Book)
The Next Christendom: The Coming of Global Christianity (Book)
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The idea of hell has haunted many dreams and disturbed much sleep. Many wonder at the justice (or injustice) of it all, feeling confounded by a God who deems it necessary to send the majority of humanity to burn there forever.
This week, Sharon Putt (Formerly Sharon Baker) joins the show and offers a safe space to contemplate tough issues and rethink traditional views of hell. Enjoy.
RESOURCES:
Razing Hell: Rethinking Everything You've Been Taught about God's Wrath and Judgement (book)
Executing God: Rethinking Everything You've Been Taught about Salvation and the Cross (book)
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This week, Aimee Byrd joins the conversation calling us to rethink 'biblical' manhood and womanhood. Do men and women benefit equally from reading the Bible? Are they equally responsible for sharpening one another and passing down the faith to the next generation?
Aimee contends that until both men and women grow in their understanding of their relationship to the Bible, there will continue to be tension between the sexes in the church. Church leaders must be engaged in thoughtful critique of the biblical manhood and womanhood movement, and the effects it is having on their congregations.
Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Recovering From Biblical Manhood and Womanhood: How the Church Needs to Rediscover Her Purpose. (Book)
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The religious Right has taught America to misread the Bible. Christians have misused Scripture to build power, provoke fear, and defend against enemies. But those who have been hurt by the attacks of Christian nationalism can help us rediscover God's vision for faith in public life.
This week Jonathan Wilson-Hartgrove joins the conversation to help us rethink our political values and understanding of scripture. Wilson-Hartgrove shows us how religious culture wars have misrepresented Christianity at the expense of the poor, and how listening to marginalized communities can help us hear God's call to love and justice in the world.
Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Revolution of Values: Reclaiming Public Faith for the Common Good (Book)
Reconstructing the Gospel: Finding Freedom From Slaveholder Religion (Book)
JonathanWilsonHartgrove.com (Website)
PoorPeoplesCampaign.org (Website)
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*Content Warning* (This episode contains conversations around heavy topics including sexual abuse and assault. If you have small children around, please be advised. Also, if you are a survivor and this episode brings up past memories please seek help. We stand with and for survivors of sexual abuse and assault.)
The #MeToo movement has revealed sexual abuse and assault in every sphere of society... including the Church. Far too often, churches have been complicit in protecting abusers, reinforcing patriarchal power dynamics, and creating cultures of secrecy, shame, and silence.
This week, Pastor and survivor Ruth Everhart joins us to shine some light on the prevalence of sexual abuse and misconduct within faith communities. Ruth offers hope to survivors as she declares that God is present with the violated and stands in solidarity with victims. God is at work in the midst of the #MeToo movement to call the church to repentance and deliver us from violence against the vulnerable.
This is a very important conversation, we hope that it shines light in the dark and gives voice to the voiceless. Please join us in working against the injustice of sexual abuse and misconduct.
RESOURCES:
The #MeToo Reckoning: Facing the Church's Complicity in Sexual Abuse and Misconduct
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This week, Josh and Marty were joined by WM. Curtis Holtzen (DTh, University of South Africa). Holtlzen joined the boys to discuss the ideas in his latest book, 'The God Who Trusts: A Relational Theology of Divine Faith, Hope, and Love."
The Bible affirms the faithfulness and trustworthiness of God. But might God also exhibit faith and trust?
Standing in tradition with theologians like John Sanders, who argued that God is one who risks, Holtzen contends that not only is God trustworthy and faithful, but God is also one who trusts and has faith. According to Holtzen, because God is a being of relational love and exists in relationship with humans, who can freely choose to follow God, then God is a God who trusts.
Perhaps this argument challenges your notion of who God is, however... Holtzen argues that understanding the relationship between divine trust and human faith can give us a fuller, truer and more beautiful picture of who God is, and who we are. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
The God Who Trusts: A Relational Theology of Divine Faith, Hope and Love (Book)
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The book of Revelation is perhaps the most misunderstood and abused book in the Bible. Is Revelation a prophetic warning about the end of the world? Is Revelation teaching us about Armageddon? Is the rapture really a thing? What the heck is eschatology? Why does any of this matter?
This week, Josh and Marty were joined by Revelation scholar, Dr. Rob Dalrymple. Rob shines some light onto the book of Revelation. He breaks down the overall narrative and message of Revelation (hint: it's about Jesus) and he talks about eschatology and why it matters.
If you have ever wondered what the heck is going on in the book of Revelation, this episode is for you! If you have suffered from anxiety and/or depression because of bad end-times theology, then this episode is for you. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
A Peacemaker's Pilgrimage With Rob Dalrymple (trip to Isreal)
Follow the Lamb: A Guide to Reading, Understanding, and Applying the book of Revelation(book)
Understanding the New Testament and the End Times (book)
twitter: @RobDalrymple Facebook: Rob Dalrymple@DetermineTruth
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Saying no to God... is that even a thing? Matthew J. Korpman sure thinks so! He joins Josh this week for a conversation about his latest book 'Saying No To God: A Radical Approach to Reading the Bible Faithfully'.
Korpman proposes that the Bible itself reveals that just because 'God says it,' does not, in fact, mean 'that settles it.' Instead, a closer reading of scripture shows that God does not want us to just blindly obey him, but rather, invites us to 'lock hands' with him.
Could it be that readers are not asked to just accept what God says, but on the contrary: to say no to it? Not because they merely want to, but because the God of the Bible actually requires it.
Resources:
Saying No To God: A Radical Approach to Reading the Bible Faithfully (book)
Big thanks to Dan Koch for our new intro/outro music! For inquiries, check him out at:
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This week, Josh and Marty discuss the name change and the things that have lead up to it. They discuss why they believe that change is important and necessary. Marty and Josh both share how they have been rethinking their own faiths, and talk about what is ahead for the show here in 2020... spoiler alert... it's going to be dope!
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Hey everybody, this is just a brief announcement about our recent name change and what to look forward to in 2020. Don't worry... it will still be the same great podcast... just a new name :) Thanks for your support!
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This week, Keith Giles joins the conversation and asks... What if the Bible is actually keeping us from hearing the word of God?
Keith believes that many Christians, think the Bible is the only way to know anything about God. But according to that same Bible, everybody can know God directly through an actual relationship with Jesus. Keith has an urgent call for the followers of Jesus to know Him intimately because the Gospel is not mere information about God, but a transformational experience with a Christ who is closer to us than our own heartbeat. Enjoy.
RESOURCES:
Jesus Unbound: Liberating the Word of God from the Bible (Book)
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So all theology is contextual... Our theology is shaped by our context and our environment would be another way to say it. Brian McLaren recently went on a trip he will never forget... a trip to the Galapagos Islands. There, he paid close attention to everything around him but also to what was happening within his heart. The good and beautiful natural world awakened his soul in a way that organized religion could not. During this trip, Brian kept a journal, and recently released a new book, a spiritual memoir about his experience.
Join us as Brian takes us to the beautiful Galapagos Islands, sharing a few really helpful spiritual insights on the way.
RESOURCES:
The Galapagos Islands: A Spiritual Journey (On Location) [book]
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This week, Dr. Matthew Bates joined the conversation to discuss his latest book, 'Gospel Allegiance: What Faith in Jesus Misses for Salvation in Christ.'
The truth is... we are missing pieces of the gospel. Now, the biblical gospel can never change... Yet our understanding of the gospel must change! The church needs an allegiance shift. Tons of popular pastoral resources on the gospel are causing widespread confusion. Bates shows that the biblical gospel is different, fuller, and more beautiful than we have been led to believe. There is only one true gospel and one required response: allegiance. Enjoy!
RESOURCES:
Gospel Allegiance: What Faith in Jesus Misses for Salvation in Christ. (Book)
Salvation by Allegiance Alone: Rethinking Faith, Works, and the Gospel of Jesus the King (Book)
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This week Josh & Marty were joined by Dr. Jace Broadhurst. Dr. Broadhurst has a PhD in Hermeneutics with a concentration in Old Testament Torah. He came on to discuss the idea of doubt in faith, and the role it has played in his life. You won't want to miss this one! Check it out.
Resources on Doubt:
The Certainty of Uncertainty (Book)
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This week, popular author and sought-after speaker Sarah Bessey joins Josh and Marty to discuss her latest book, 'Miracles and Other Reasonable Things: A Story of Unlearning and Relearning God'.
This book is a deeply moving and life-affirming account of wrestling with God and finding miracles in the most unexpected places. Sarah opens herself in a very vulnerable way as she wrestles with pain and loss. Join us in unbecoming and rebecoming people of faith.
RESOURCES:
https://sarahbessey.com/ (website)
Miracles and Other Reasonable things (Book)
Jesus Feminist (Book)
Out of Sorts (Book)
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This week, Shane J. Wood (Ph.D.) joins the conversation to discuss his latest book, 'Between Two Trees: Our Transformation From Death to Life'. Shane contends that the problem of Eden is much worse than we thought... but there is hope! Shane also contends that the solution is much better than we could have ever imagined!
The truth is... Life is not lived under Eden's tree of life nor beneath the healing leaves of the tree in new Jerusalem. We live between those two trees... and between those two trees, life is hard! In spite of this, however, Shane challenges us to embrace hope, love, and the beauty of reconciliation at the true tree of life... the Cross of Calvary.
This was an amazing conversation that you will not want to miss!
RESOURCES:
Between Two Trees: Our Transformation From Death to Life (Book)
ShaneJWood.com (Shane's Website)
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This week, Chris Date joins the podcast to discuss a rather hot topic... Hell! (See what we did there).
Chris is a well-known evangelical Christian author, editor, blogger, podcaster, debater, and speaker. Representing a global movement known as Rethinking Hell, he specializes in the areas of Hell and Conditional Immortality.
As an expert on these topics, Chris has been interviewed in such secular media outlets as the New York Times, National Geographic, and NPR. He has debated no less than the president of the Southern Baptist Convention, Dr. Albert Mohler, and been interviewed for the popular ‘One Minute Apologist’ video series.
RESOURCES:
Rethinking Hell Youtube Channel
Four Views on Hell: Second Edition (Book)
Four Views on Hell: Zondervan (Book)
Be Sure to Follow Chris on Facebook!
https://www.facebook.com/chrisdate
Email Chris:
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This week Pastor Josh Trombley joins the boys to discuss his latest book, 'Hidden Faces: Discovering Our Identity in Christ'.
Hidden Faces is a book about discovering the true you. Have you ever taken a good hard look at how you define yourself? Are you allowing your past, your emotions, or even the blessings from God to become your identity? How do you think it would change your life if you began to define yourself through the lens of Christ and lay aside the different faces we put on each day?
Hidden Faces explores how Jesus has come to give us a new identity. It is not one that is determined by all the things we fill our lives with, and not by the circumstances by all the things we fill our lives with, and not by the circumstance we find ourselves in, but to whom we belong. Hidden Faces delves deep into the many areas where we try and compensate for the brokenness we carry.
Buy Josh's Book:
Hidden Faces: Discovering Our Identity in Christ
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This week, the boys are joined by Terence Lester. Terence is the founder of Love Beyond Walls, a non-profit organization focused on poverty awareness and community mobilization. He joins Josh and Marty to discuss his latest book, 'I See You: How Love Opens Our Eyes to Invisible People'.
We overlook the poor and homeless and hold misconceptions about who is deserving and who is not. Terence calls us to see the invisible people around us. He challenges us with his personal encounters and real-life stories to see the poor as Jesus does. When we see people through God's eyes and hear their stories, we restore their dignity and help them flourish.
I See You Book:
Follow Terence Lester on Social Media:
@imterencelester
@lovebeyondwalls
@dignitymuseum
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This week, Josh and Marty sit down with David E. Fitch to discuss his latest book 'The Church of Us vs. Them: Freedom from a Faith That Feeds on Making Enemies.' David (PhD, Northwestern University) is the B. R. Linder Chair of Evangelical Theology at Northern Seminary and the cofounder of Missio Alliance.
David leads the boys in a very timely and important conversation about his book. The Church is in danger, and Fitch gives a way for the church to be true to itself, breaking down the antagonisms of today and making space for Christ's reconciling presence in our daily lives. He offers new patterns and practices that move the Church beyond the 'enemy-making machine' to being the presence of Christ in the world. Join the conversation and lets work together to free ourselves from a faith that feeds on division.
You don't want to miss this one!
Get the Book Here: The Church of Us Vs Them
Theology on Mission Podcast: CLICK HERE
Follow David on Twitter: @fitchest
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This week, Dr. Thomas Jay Oord joins us again for a conversation about his book, 'God Can't'. This is Tom's second time joining us on the show, and he had an awesome conversation with Josh! Tom breaks down 5 propositions that he makes in his book, he shares stories about how it has helped people and also shares his heart behind his work. Enjoy.
Tom's Book:
Tom's Website:
Center for Open & Relational Theology:
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Shane Claiborne joined the boys this week for an awesome conversation! The new book 'Beating Guns' is the topic, and some really great conversation is had. Shane breaks down some of the statistics and myths about gun violence in the U.S. He brings to light some untalked about issues regarding gun violence and he talks to the boys about what it means to be a Champion of life.
Regardless if you are a gun-owner, gun-lover, hunter, police officer or have never touched a gun in your life... this episode is for you! Enjoy.
Books:
Beating Guns: Hope For People Who Are Weary of Violence
The Early Church on Killing: A Comprehensive Sourcebook on War, Abortion, and Capital Punishment.
Executing Grace: How the Death Penalty Killed Jesus and Why It's Killing Us
Websites:
http://www.shaneclaiborne.com/
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This week we do something a little different. Josh and Marty decided to share some of their story... both of them have had similar experiences where they have considered walking away from ministry. Since this seems to be a prevalent theme today, they decided to share their story and do their best to offer some hope... and yes, they might get a bit preachy... #SorryNotSorry
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In this week's episode... Josh and Marty had the privilege of sitting down with Pastor Brian Zahnd. Brian is the founder and lead pastor of Word of Life Church, a Christian congregation located in St. Joseph Missouri. In his own words, Brian is a full-time pastor, occasional writer, and would-be mountaineer.
Brian joined the guys to discuss his latest book, Postcards From Babylon: The Church in American Exile. They had an urgent conversation about an urgent book with an urgent and important message. We hope you enjoy.
Brian's Website:
Books:
Postcards From Babylon: The Church in American Exile
A Farewell to Mars: An Evangelical Pastor's Journey Towards the Biblical Gospel of Peace
Sinners in the Hands of a Loving God: The Scandalous Truth of the Very Good News
Reading Revelation Responsibly: Uncivil Worship and Witness: Following the Lamb into New Creation
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This week, Josh sat down with Author and Pastor, Derek Vreeland, to discuss his latest book 'By The Way: Getting Serious About Following Jesus'. They had a great conversation about salvation, discipleship, and the Christian life. Enjoy :)
Resources:
Books:
By The Way: Getting Serious About Following Jesus
Through the Eyes of N.T. Wright: A Readers Guide to Paul and the Faithfulness of God
N.T. Wright and the Revolutionary Cross: A Reader's Guide to The Day the Revolution Began.
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This week, Josh and Marty had the opportunity to sit down with two former Mormons. They discuss their roughly 40 years of experience in the Mormon Church and why they decided to leave.
Recommended Reading:
Unveiling Grace: The Story of How We Found Our Way out of the Mormon Church
Leaving Mormonism: Why Four Scholars Changed Their Minds
Podcasts To Check Out:
Unbelievable? Why We Left Mormonism
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This week Josh and Marty have a conversation about D&D... No, not the game... but Doctrine and Dogma. This conversation was brought on by an experience Josh and Marty had after being contacted by an individual who had some interesting things to say to the guys. Hopefully, you enjoy!
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This week, Josh and Marty had the pleasure of sitting down with C. Christopher Smith to discuss his latest book, 'How the Body of Christ Talks.' Conversation is important, and doing it well within the Church is key!
Be sure to pick up a copy of C. Christopher Smith's book here:
Also, please check out this great book by Chris as well:
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Concluding our Missions Mini-Series, we hear from Patrick Linnell who started Grace Bomb!
Check out www.gracebomb.org for more info, to order cards, and to read stories of those who have been blessed by being Grace Bombed!
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Josh and Marty were joined by a very special guest, the Executive Director of 'Ends of the Earth Cycling', Justin Hanneken. Justin is doing some pretty awesome things for global youth ministry and in embracing his call as a missionary in a very unique way. We hope you enjoy!
Be sure to visit the website: https://www.endscycling.com/
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This week the boys sat down to talk about missions. Marty makes some bold claims about Christians and their relations to missions (Josh agrees). This episode is also a kick-off to a 3 part mini-series around the idea of Missions in the Church. We hope you enjoy.
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This week Dr. Thomas Jay Oord sat down to have a great conversation with the guys. They discuss his book 'The Uncontrolling Love of God'. They talk about the Sovereignty of God, Divine Providence, Love, Miracles and a few other things just for good measure. We hope you enjoy the conversation.
Check out Tom's website here: http://thomasjayoord.com/
Books by Tom that we referenced:
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This week the boys sit down for a less dense, but more practical conversation. We hope that you GENUINELY enjoy the episode... haha... puns... Anyways, we hope you enjoy. Thanks for listening.
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Well... should they? (You can vote by listening to this podcast) Both Josh and Marty think the answer to that question is a bit more complex than just a simple yes or no (as are most important things in life). Give it a listen with an open mind, and see where the conversation takes you.
Here is the book by Bonnie Kristian:
A Flexible Faith: Rethinking What it Means To Follow Jesus Today
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This week please help us welcome our newest host, Marty Fredrick. In this episode, you will find out all you need to know about Marty (including his favorite hockey team) AND you can learn about all the ways he enjoys making fun of Josh.
Then, just for fun... Josh and Marty discuss Game of Thrones.
Enjoy!
Marty mentions his band in the episode... you can find them here:
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This week Josh and Andy had the opportunity to sit down with Zack Hunt to talk about his new book, 'Unraptured: How End Times Theology Gets It Wrong'. Break out your maps and charts... you won't want to get left behind!
Be sure to Get Zack's Book Here!
Resource Suggestions from Zack:
Pocket Guide To The Apocalypse
Find us online at theologydoesntsuck.com
If you haven't done so, please rate and review the podcast! (Or else you WILL be left behind)
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This week we got to talk with Joey Svendsen of the Bad Christian podcast about the concept of deconstruction. What is deconstruction? Is there any value in "deconstructing"? Check it out and let us know what you think!
Check out the Bad Christian website here
Join the discussion in our Facebook group! You can also find us on Instagram and Twitter.
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This week Josh was joined by our producer Matt and guest Bonnie Lewis to talk about a project Bonnie is working on, called the "Timshel Translation". This is an intriguing endeavor that is sure to provoke some interesting conversation, so check it out!
Get more info and support Bonnie's work here
Find us online at theologydoesntsuck.com
If you haven't yet, please rate and review the podcast!
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This week Josh and Andy got the chance to talk with Pete Enns about his newest book, "How the Bible Actually Works". Josh was excited, Andy was scared, the conversation was interesting. Check it out!
You can get Pete's book here
You can find more Pete Enns on his website, peteenns.com
As always, find us online on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or our website theologydoesntsuck.com
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This week we had the chance to talk with writer Bonnie Kristian on the question of violence and Christianity. This is a complicated question, and as we discovered, it connects to many areas of our theology. We hope that this episode will help you think well about this issue.
You can check out Bonnie's book, "Flexible Faith" here.
You can also check out more of Bonnie's work on her website, http://bonniekristian.com/
Visit us on the web at theologydoesntsuck.com
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This week Josh and Andy got a chance to talk about the movie "American Gospel: Christ Alone". The movie is focused on contrasting the biblical gospel with the prosperity gospel in all its forms. It was a good movie that sparked some great conversation!
Rent/Buy American gospel here
Visit us online at theologydoesntsuck.com
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This week we got to talk about universalism with none other than Dan Koch! Dan is well-known for his time with the band Sherwood, and is involved with hosting several podcasts including Depolarize!, Reconstruct, and You Have Permission.
Here's a link to Dan's website: https://www.dankochwords.com/
As always, find us online at theologydoesntsuck.com
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This week we got to talk with Chortles Weakly (of the podcast Presbycast) about church polity, why the way we govern our churches matters, and why Presbyterian polity is so great! Andy had a lot of fun.
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This week Matt filled in for Josh, and we had Ben Hein join us! We had a great conversation about how Christians should relate to the culture around us. If this has ever been an issue you've wrestled with, this episode is for you!
You can check out Ben's blog here; http://benhein.us/
If you have any questions, comments, or episode suggestions, contact us through our website, theologydoesntsuck.com, and don't forget to join our Facebook discussion group!
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This week we are celebrating our 20th episode and introducing you to a special new member of the team. Enjoy!
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This week Josh and Andy had a chance to sit down with Josh's friend and coworker Chad, to talk about and reflect on his experience as a same-sex attracted man in the church. We got into a little bit of a discussion about our own views, but this was primarily about hearing what Chad had to say.
Here are some of the resources mentioned in the episode:
Flexible Faith, Bonnie Kristian: https://www.amazon.com/Flexible-Faith-Rethinking-Means-Follow/dp/1478992093/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1550123935&sr=8-1&keywords=flexible+faith
What Does the Bible Really Teach About Homosexuality?, Kevin Deyoung: https://www.amazon.com/Bible-Really-Teach-about-Homosexuality/dp/1433549379/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1550123988&sr=8-1&keywords=homosexuality+kevin+deyoung
God and the Gay Christian, Max Vines: https://www.amazon.com/God-Gay-Christian-Biblical-Relationships/dp/160142518X/ref=pd_sim_14_2/137-8374754-1244461?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=160142518X&pd_rd_r=bebbe347-301d-11e9-a2a5-f7b1fe51f851&pd_rd_w=ayf63&pd_rd_wg=a88cm&pf_rd_p=90485860-83e9-4fd9-b838-b28a9b7fda30&pf_rd_r=FVTEGM3R8XFBTMSHH3JR&psc=1&refRID=FVTEGM3R8XFBTMSHH3JR
Visit us online at theologydoesntsuck.com
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This week we are talking about the book "The Sin of Certainty" by Pete Enns. Andy was unable to record, so Justin from the podcast "Push the Narrative" joined Josh for the discussion! It was a lot of fun, so enjoy!
Check out PTN's website here; https://effthedirt.podiant.co/
Check us out on the web, read our blog, and contact us at theologydoesntsuck.com
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This week we are talking about the Lord's Day! This is a topic that many Christians don't think much about, but it is worth some serious thought.
Here is another podcast episode that explains Andy's position way better than he ever could, if you're interested in learning more; https://heidelblog.net/2015/01/heidelcastthe-holy-law-of-god-6-the-fourth-commandment/
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This week we are talking about alcohol! Why do some Christians oppose drinking, and why don't we?
With questions, comments, thoughts, etc., you can contact us through our website, theologydoesntsuck.com
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This week we are spending an entire episode answering listener questions. From creation, to Calvinism, we covered it all! This was such a fun episode to record, so we hope you enjoy listening to it.
To reach out to us with questions, comments, episode suggestions, and more, you can reach us on our website: theologydoesntsuck.com
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This week we are having a conversation about the sacrament of communion. What is communion? Does anything special or supernatural happen, or is it just a memorial? How have we seen churches practicing the sacrament? Join us as we discuss!
If you have any questions, comments, etc., contact us on our website, theologydoesntsuck.com
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This week we sat down to talk about John Piper's book "Expository Exultation", and to talk about preaching in general. We had a good conversation about the importance of preaching in the church, the role of the listener in preaching, and more!
Submit questions for our upcoming Q&A episode, and any other questions or comments, through the "contact us" page of our website, theologydoesntsuck.com
You can get Piper's book by clicking here
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This week the guys are talking about the book of Romans. This episode touches on a lot of different issues in the book, so hopefully you will find it engaging and edifying!
Here are some resources we mentioned in the episode:
Michael Horton, "Justification"
If you have any questions, comments, episode suggestions, etc., you cant contact us through our website, theologydoesntsuck.com
Don't forget to submit questions for our upcoming Q&A episode as well!
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This week's episode is a little bit lighter as we took some time to talk about Christmas! The conversation went many places, but if you've ever wondered whether Santa Claus is a heretic this might be the episode for you.
If you have any questions, comments, episode suggestions, etc., contact us through the "Contact Us" page of our website, theologydoesntsuck.com
Also, please submit questions for the upcoming Q&A episode! Submit them through the website and make a note somewhere in your message that it's for the episode.
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This week we brought on Josh's friend Marty, who works as a worship pastor, to talk about why he believes Credobaptism is biblical. This conversation was very fun, so we ended up going a little longer than expected. We hope you enjoy it!
If you have any questions, thoughts, or suggestions contact us on our website; theologydoesntsuck.com
Don't forget to submit questions for the upcoming Q&A episode!
Side note: There were a few recording difficulties on Andy's end, so please pardon the slightly worse sound and any little glitches.
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This week the guys sat down with Andy's pastor, Adam Viramontes, and discussed the case for paedobaptism- the practice of baptising the children (even infants) of believers. The conversation ranged from Adam's personal story of embracing paedobaptism, to the nature of God's covenant with his people. We hope that you find this episode challenging and interesting!
For an easy read on the subject, you can get the book "Christian Baptism" by John Murray here: https://www.heritagebooks.org/products/christian-baptism-murray.html
If you have any questions, comments, episode suggestions, etc., you can visit us online at theologydoesntsuck.com
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This week we are taking some time to talk about the belief system known as "Calvinism". In the episode we cover the basic ideas of Calvinism, and we have an interesting discussion about misconceptions and objections some may have regarding it.
If you have any questions, comments, etc., visit us online at theologydoesntsuck.com
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This week we had the amazing opportunity to speak with Matt, a friend of Josh's who does mission work in Rwanda. We talked about what Matt is doing with farming communities there, why theology is so important, and much more. The conversation was broad, so there will be something to interest everyone!
Also a note: we had some technical difficulties while recording this episode, and Josh was forced to record with dogs in the background, so we apologize for any issues.
To check out the ministry we talked about in this episode, go to sowersofhopeafa.org
To submit any questions, comments, etc., you can reach us on our website, theologydoesntsuck.com
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This week we are discussing the idea of the "Christian bubble". How do we find a healthy balance between Christian community and engagement of the world? Join us as we think on this important topic for the Christian life.
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, episode suggestions, etc., you can contact us through our website: theologydoesntsuck.com
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This week we are discussing the book "Letters to the Church" by Francis Chan. This book, in which Chan critiques the American church, has gotten a lot of attention recently. We decided to read it for ourselves and share our thoughts!
If you have any questions, comments, suggestions, corrections, etc., you can contact us through our website- theologydoesntsuck.com
You can purchase "Letters to the Church" by clicking here.
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This week we are taking a look at the book of Revelation and how to understand it. Join us for this wild ride through the most mystifying book of the New Testament!
If you have any questions, comments, etc., you can contact us through our website: theologydoesntsuck.com
Here are a few resources related to the episode-
From Josh:
Rescuing Revelation (Sermon Series)
Reading Revelation Responsibly (Book)
From Andy:
Revelation: The Spirit Speaks to the Churches (Book)
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This week we are discussing the book Kingdom Conspircay by Scott McKnight. This was an interesting book that made for a challenging conversation: we hope you enjoy!
Get the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Kingdom-Conspiracy-Returning-Radical-Mission/dp/0801097851
If you have any questions or comments, get in touch with us through our website: theologydoesntsuck.com
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Today we are taking a look at the nature of the Bible. What is the Bible? How much authority does it carry? Are certain parts of the Bible more important or valuable than others? Join as we discuss!
If you have any thoughts, questions, comments, angry rants, etc., reach out to us through our website- theologydoesntsuck.com
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Welcome to the first ever episode of Theology Doesn't Suck! Today we are introducing ourselves, and talking about why we started this podcast. We hope you enjoy it!
Find us online at theologydoesntsuck.com
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En liten tjänst av I'm With Friends. Finns även på engelska.