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The Nicene Creed (#283)

Aug 27, 2024

38:10

In this follow-up to our discussion on the Apostle's Creed, Thomas Jay Oord and I delve into the Nicene Creed, examining its history, language, and theology through a progressive Christian lens. We grapple with complex concepts like the Trinity, the nature of Christ, and the Holy Spirit, questioning traditional interpretations and exploring how our diverse backgrounds shape our understanding of these ideas. While acknowledging the historical significance of the Creed, we also confront the challenge of interpreting ancient texts in a modern context. Our conversation highlights the tension between appreciating theological tradition and prioritizing practical expressions of faith that address contemporary issues. Ultimately, we reflect on the value of critically engaging with our religious heritage to cultivate a faith that is both historically grounded and relevant to today's world.

Highlights

00:00 Introduction and Recap of Previous Episode

03:14 The Role of Theology: Faith Seeking Understanding

11:50 The Limitations of Language in Theological Discourse

19:10 Decoding the Language of the Nicene Creed

23:57 The Tension Between Theological Precision and Language

Tom's Previous Episode list:

#7 | To Change Your Mind: Healing Prayer

#23 | To Be a Postmodern Christian

#42 | Is the "Supernatural" Actually Just Natural?

Matthew Novenson Episode on "Pneuma:

#163 | Apocalyptic Expectations, the Resurrection & More