The Cross, Resurrection, Blood, and Church of Jesus: TNT Crossed Out
Nov 29, 2011
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Andrew Sung-Park, a theologian focused on Asian American perspectives, joins esteemed guests like Douglas Ottati, Elizabeth Johnson, Brian McLaren, and Peter Rollins. The conversation tackles whether too much emphasis is placed on the cross, exploring its implications for contemporary faith. They delve into the interconnectedness of the cross and resurrection, challenge narrow interpretations, and highlight the call for justice and transformation. The discussion also touches on reclaiming Christian symbols and redefining concepts of redemption to address social issues.
The hosts argue that an overemphasis on the cross can overshadow the transformative aspects of resurrection and hinder a holistic understanding of faith.
They critique the misuse of the cross within religious traditions, urging a reassessment to emphasize justice, healing, and active involvement in societal change.
Deep dives
Overemphasis on the Cross
The podcast discusses the potential overemphasis on the crucifixion in Christian theology, suggesting that it may overshadow other essential aspects of the faith, particularly the resurrection. The hosts challenge the notion that the cross should be the central icon, proposing that instead, the empty tomb could represent a more transformative facet of Christianity. They argue that focusing excessively on atonement theories related to the cross can limit the scope of Christian thought and inhibit believers from fully living in the promise of resurrection and the new life that follows. This perspective aligns with the idea that a singular focus on the crucifixion overlooks the broader narrative of hope and renewal offered by the resurrection.
Connection between Cross, Resurrection, and Mission
The conversation highlights the essential interconnection between the cross, resurrection, and the mission of the church, emphasizing that these elements should not be separated. The hosts advocate for a holistic understanding of Jesus’ work, where the events of the cross and resurrection propel the church's mission forward. They point out that the apostles received the Holy Spirit at Pentecost to continue Jesus' mission of healing, liberation, and proclamation of the kingdom of God. By not integrating these elements, churches may end up focusing on traditions or practices that stray from Jesus' actual teachings and the radical implications of the resurrection.
Redefining the Concept of God’s Presence
A significant topic addressed is the nature of God's presence, particularly in the context of Jesus' crucifixion and perceived abandonment. The discourse suggests that wresting with the idea of divine absence, such as when Jesus cries out, 'My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?' can lead to a deeper understanding of human suffering and the divine presence in our struggles. The hosts propose that God does not forsake humanity but rather experiences suffering alongside marginalized individuals. This nuanced view challenges traditional atonement perspectives, urging believers to see God in the midst of their pain rather than interpreting the crucifixion as abandonment.
The Role of the Cross in Contemporary Context
Finally, the podcast critiques how the cross has been utilized or misrepresented within various religious traditions, often becoming a symbol co-opted by power dynamics rather than a call to justice and service. There’s concern that when the cross is reduced to a mere icon, its intended message of counter-cultural resistance and liberation can be diluted. The discussion emphasizes the importance of a theology that recognizes the cross as a challenge to oppression and a prompt for active involvement in healing and justice work. Ultimately, the hosts advocate for a reassessment of the cross as a means to engage with current societal issues, urging Christians to embrace their role in systemic change and fight against the 'cross-building' actions in contemporary society.
In this hour long conversation Bo and Tripp take up the question "Is too much emphasis placed on the cross?" Bo thinks that it is both out of proportion and ultimately unhelpful to place so much importance in this one symbol. Tripp think that it can be redeemed from those who have misused and misappropriated it. The debate started with [this post]
In this episode we reference (among others) books by