Jeff Wells, coeditor of 'Preaching the Uncontrolling Love of God,' discusses open, relational, and process theology challenging the concept of a controlling God. He explores religion's role in liberation, reshaping liturgies, and embracing diverse beliefs. The podcast delves into promoting an open future, avoiding rigid orthodoxy, and preaching the uncontrolling love of God.
Religion can offer unconditional love and accompaniment, contrasting with perceptions during activism.
Process theology emphasizes God's role in luring individuals and the universe toward love.
Deep dives
Exploring the Personal Journey of Jeff Wells
Jeff Wells, pastor at the Church of the Village in New York, shares his background growing up in Wisconsin, his radicalization during the 1960s and 1970s, and his spiritual reawakening that led him to ministry. Wells discusses his alignment with democratic socialism and the welcoming environment for process and open theology at the Church of the Village.
Reinterpreting the Notion of Religion as Opiate
Jeff Wells reflects on his previous perception of religion as the opiate of the masses during his activism days, contrasting it with the broader insight that religion can be a source of unconditional love and accompaniment in humanity's journey, offering possibilities for individual and collective growth.
Introducing 'Preaching the Uncontrolling Love of God'
Jeff Wells introduces the collaborative book 'Preaching the Uncontrolling Love of God,' involving 68 contributors exploring relational and process theology through sermons, essays, and worship elements. Wells highlights the challenge of balancing the lengthy title on the book cover while expressing appreciation for the teamwork in creating the publication.
Understanding Open and Relational Theology
The discussion delves into the essence of process theology, emphasizing the ever-evolving nature of reality and God's role in luring individuals and the universe toward love and positive transformation. The conversation extends to incorporating open and relational theology in diverse worship practices and fostering a foundation for progressive Christianity.
Jeff Wells joins the podcast to talk with us about the new book he coedited: Preaching the Uncontrolling Love of God: Sermons, Essays, and Worship Elements from the Perspective of Open, Relational, and Process Theology.
Purchase his book! https://www.amazon.com/Preaching-Uncontrolling-Love-God-Perspective/dp/1958670324
To speak with Jeff or join the mailing list, contact jefferywells.love@gmail.com
Join us October 17–19 in Denver for theologybeer.camp ! Use the coupon code TAKEHEARTHOBBIT for $50 off your ticket. Sign up before June 1 for reduced ticket prices. Email us at religioussocialism@gmail.com if you plan to come, we'd love to meet up.
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