#82 | Why We Need A Theology of the Body | Timothy C. Tennent

Travis Michael Fleming and Timothy Tennent engage in a profound dialogue centered on the pressing need for a robust understanding of the human body within the framework of authentic Christianity. Tennent articulates that the contemporary culture is in desperate need of a Christianity that is genuinely transformative, as superficial expressions of faith fail to resonate with a society seeking depth and authenticity. He emphasizes that true change within individuals can lead to radical expressions of love and acceptance, which are crucial for impacting the world positively. The conversation delves into various critical topics, including the theological implications of gender, sexuality, and the sanctity of the body, all of which are pivotal in navigating the complexities of modern societal challenges. Ultimately, this episode serves as an exhortation to reclaim a biblical understanding of the body, asserting its significance in both our spiritual lives and our interactions with the world around us.

Is there a design for the body? Often today we hear people say, “I am not what my body is.” What place does our understanding of the body play in our theology? What difference does that make in regards to such subjects as gender reassignment surgery? Homosexuality? Abortion? Euthanasia? Eating disorders?

Today on Apollos Watered, we welcome Dr. Timothy C. Tennent (Ph.D., University of Edinburgh, Scotland) to the show to discuss his book, For the Body: Recovering a Theology of Gender, Sexuality and the Human Body. Dr. Tennent has served as President of Asbury Theological Seminary and Professor of World Christianity since 2009. He is a frequent conference speaker around the country and throughout the world.

Prior to his coming to Asbury Theological Seminary, Dr. Tennent was the Professor of World Missions and Indian Studies at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. Ordained in the United Methodist Church in 1984, he has pastored churches in Georgia, and in several of the largest churches in New England. Since 1989, he has taught annually as an adjunct professor at the New Theological College in Dehra Dun, India. He is the author of numerous books and articles. Prior to his most recent book, he has written Building Christianity on Indian Foundations, Christianity at the Religious Roundtable, Theology in the Context of World Christianity, and Invitation to World Missions: A Trinitarian Missiology for the 21st Century.

Dr. Tennent and his wife, Julie, reside in Wilmore, Ky. They have two grown children, Jonathan and Bethany.

You can learn more about him here and get his latest book here.

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The discourse between Travis Michael Fleming and Timothy Tennent delves into the profound implications of a theological understanding of the body within the context of contemporary Christianity. As Tennent elucidates, the prevalent cultural attitudes towards the body often reflect a fundamental misunderstanding of its significance in Christian doctrine. He posits that the body is not merely a vessel but rather an integral part of our identity, one that is intricately linked to our spiritual existence. The discussion traverses various topics, including the challenges posed by modern societal norms regarding gender, sexuality, and the sanctity of life. Tennent emphasizes that an authentic comprehension of the body can lead to transformative practices within the church community, fostering radical forgiveness, acceptance, and love. It is through such transformation that believers can genuinely engage with and impact a world that often seems disenchanted with superficial expressions of faith. Tennent’s insights serve as a clarion call for a revival of robust theological education and catechesis that honors the body as a creation of God, designed for a higher purpose, ultimately leading to a deeper relationship with Christ and a more profound witness to the world.

Takeaways:

• Authentic Christianity is essential for transforming both individuals and culture, as superficial faith fails to impress.
• The need for radical love and acceptance is crucial in demonstrating true Christian values in a changing world.
• Understanding our bodies from a theological perspective is vital, as it influences our views on identity and morality.
• Recovering a robust theology of the body is necessary to address contemporary issues such as gender identity and sexuality.
• The church must prioritize catechesis to prepare believers for challenges in a post-Christian society.
• True transformation comes from deep engagement with Scripture, fostering spiritual growth amidst life's complexities.