TNT: Tripp's Timed Process Responses, Drugs & God as 'He'
Mar 6, 2014
auto_awesome
In this lively discussion, Gregory Walter, a theological thinker, joins Tripp, who tackles Process Theology in a timed challenge. They dive into heavy topics, including the implications of God’s gender and the relevancy of divine language in modern worship. The conversation takes a turn to explore the complexities of drug legalization, particularly its societal impact and connections to marginalized communities. The dynamic interplay between humor and deep theology provides a refreshing look at contemporary beliefs.
The hosts engage in a humorous yet serious examination of process theology, advocating for a dynamic understanding of God's nature and attributes.
Addressing the impact of drug enforcement laws, the conversation highlights the need for social justice in the context of marijuana legalization and addiction.
The podcast challenges traditional gendered depictions of God, encouraging a broader and more inclusive understanding of divine identity and language.
Deep dives
Introduction of Special Guests
The podcast features special guests, including Tim, known as the 'elder of the hops', and Ahmed, the head of the SoCal Deaconate. The hosts emphasize a lighthearted atmosphere, referencing their current tasting of double IPAs while discussing theological topics. There is playful banter about Ahmed's Twitter handle, 'you love Jesus', which stems from a past experience in car sales and an amusing comparison to Woody from Toy Story. This introduction sets a collaborative tone for the episode, highlighting the hosts' camaraderie and inviting listeners into a relaxed discussion about theology.
The Weather and Driving in LA
The episode humorously addresses the challenges of driving in Los Angeles, especially during the rain. One host shares a personal anecdote about nearly being in an accident during a rainstorm, demonstrating how LA drivers often struggle with wet conditions due to a buildup of oil on the roads. This conversation transitions into a larger discussion about the complex interactions between anthropology and physics related to driving behaviors under slippery conditions. This segment underscores the uncertainty and chaos often associated with unpredictable weather in urban environments, while adding a lighthearted approach to serious issues.
Reflecting on Process Theology
The hosts discuss process theology, with special emphasis on its implications for divine attributes such as immutability, impassibility, and omniscience. The discussion highlights how traditional notions of God’s unchanging nature conflict with lived experiences, particularly through the lens of prayer and divine interaction. They suggest that God’s openness to change and the idea of a loving, responsive deity challenges classical theology's portrayal of a static God. This conversation aims to create a modern understanding of divine attributes that embrace relationship and dynamism.
Addiction and Legalization of Marijuana
The podcast tackles the topical issue of marijuana legalization alongside reflecting on the tragic death of actor Philip Seymour Hoffman, who struggled with addiction. The discussion touches on systemic inequalities in drug enforcement, highlighting how the war on drugs disproportionately impacts minority communities. One host argues for a reevaluation of the cultural and legislative approaches to marijuana, suggesting that it should be viewed through the lens of social justice rather than solely as an addictive substance. This segment encourages a broader conversation about morality, legality, and the responsibility of society to address addiction in empathetic ways.
Language and Gendering God
The episode delves into the implications of using gendered language to refer to God and the historical patriarchal structures that influence religious discourse. The hosts advocate for a more nuanced understanding of God that transcends traditional masculine pronouns, emphasizing that God should not be confined to human gender norms. They discuss how language shapes perceptions, potentially limiting the understanding of divinity to male-associated traits. By considering alternative expressions such as 'God’s self' or utilizing feminine descriptors, the hosts encourage the inclusion of diverse views of God that resonate with all individuals.
