S2 Ep1135: Resurrection and a Christian Theology of the Body: Dr. Beth Felker Jones
Dec 7, 2023
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Dr. Beth Felker-Jones, a theology professor and author, discusses the theology of the body and its relation to resurrection and ethics. They challenge dualistic views of the body and explore the debate on gender in resurrected bodies. The episode also touches on the importance of nutrition, societal views on attractiveness, and the balance between conforming to beauty standards and appreciating the body. Additionally, they discuss the differences between Protestantism and Catholicism and recommend small bits of theological reading.
Understanding the theology of the body involves recognizing the goodness and significance of our embodied existence and the transformative nature of resurrection.
Valuing scripture as the ultimate authority is essential for Christians, though tradition can inform our interpretation but should always be disciplined by scripture.
Deep dives
Dr. Beth Felker-Jones discusses the theology of the body and its importance
Dr. Beth Felker-Jones, an expert in the theology of the body, emphasizes the significance of understanding our embodied and gendered existence. She explains that her interest in the theology of the body was sparked by her own pregnancy and encounters with the doctrines of the incarnation and resurrection. Jones highlights the importance of recognizing the goodness of the body, both in its continuity and transformation, as depicted in Jesus' resurrection and Paul's teachings in 1 Corinthians 15. She also addresses the debate between Eastern Orthodox and Western Catholic theological traditions regarding the sexed nature of resurrected bodies. Jones acknowledges the complexity of the transgender conversation and urges Christians to approach it with humility, understanding that there is much we still don't know. Overall, Jones emphasizes the importance of valuing and caring for our bodies as part of God's good creation.
The importance of scripture in theological authority
In a discussion about her Protestant faith, Dr. Beth Felker-Jones highlights the primary authority of scripture. She affirms her belief in the trustworthiness of God's word in scripture over the authority of the church. Jones acknowledges that tradition is important in understanding scripture, but asserts that scripture should always discipline tradition. She emphasizes the significance of scripture as the ultimate authority and the need to keep coming back to it. Jones recognizes that scripture is not always easy to decipher and should be approached with humility and careful attention to the text and its context.
Challenges in understanding conversion and its theological implications
Dr. Beth Felker-Jones is currently exploring the topic of conversion and its relationship to theology. She reflects on the challenges Christians face in understanding and articulating the concept of conversion in a new cultural context. Jones grapples with the need to address the problems of manipulation and inappropriate practices surrounding conversion while still affirming the importance of conversion and transformation. She suggests that Christians may need new narratives and language to effectively communicate the reality and significance of conversion in a contemporary context.
Appreciating ancient writers and theologians, as well as contemporary voices
When asked about her favorite ancient writers, Dr. Beth Felker-Jones mentions two influential figures: Saint Augustine and Julian of Norwich. She praises Augustine for his insights into theology, while Julian of Norwich stands out as the first woman to write a book of theology in English. In terms of contemporary theologians, Jones admires the work of Sarah Coakley, Janet Soskice, Catherine Tanner, Willie Jennings, and Catherine SonnRigert, among others. She expresses admiration for their contributions to systematic theology and their insights into current theological debates.
Dr. Beth Felker Jones holds the PhD from Duke University and teaches theology at Northern Seminary in Chicagoland, where she lives with her family. She is the author of many books and writes regularly at Church Blogmatics at bethfelkerjones.substack.com.
In this podcast conversation, we talk about a theology of the body, our future resurrected state, how resurrection should shape our ethics today, and different ways in which our culture (and the church) assumes a strong dualisitc view of the body/soul.
