Walter Brueggemann

Walter Brueggemann, a revered Christian scholar and author, reflects on the challenges of contemporary faith in this profound conversation. He emphasizes the urgent need to confront a world that feels increasingly unstable, reminiscent of the biblical prophets' calls to truth and hope. Brueggemann discusses the significance of language in shaping cultural identity, the depths of lament, and the transformative power of mercy. He also unpacks the role of preachers in addressing societal tensions, advocating for authentic communication in times of upheaval.

Walter Brueggemann reflects on the covenantal nature of our relationships with God and one another.  Walter Brueggemann is an author and Old Testament theologian. This FULLER curated series features lectures, speeches, and sermons from across Fuller’s history, drawn from our archives in celebration of Fuller’s 75th anniversary.

This week's podcast is a discussion of the state of the Bible in the mainline church with Old Testament scholar and theologian Walter Brueggemann. Show Notes → Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Walter Brueggemann, a renowned theologian and biblical scholar, shares his profound insights on prophetic imagination. He critiques the pervasive 'totalism of market ideology' that stifles dissent and encourages a vision of abundance over scarcity. Brueggemann emphasizes the need for faith communities to challenge consumerism and embrace creativity and compassion. He reflects on personal experiences and the urgency of truth-telling as a form of resistance against societal norms. This enlightening discussion honors Brueggemann’s legacy and inspires listeners to envision justice and hope.

The conclusion of our conversation with the Rev. Dr. Walter Brueggemann.

The Rev. Dr. Walter Brueggemann is widely regarded as one of the world's leading Christian interpreters of the Old Testament.

Walter Brueggemann, an influential Hebrew Bible scholar, discusses the need to reclaim the Bible in the mainline church. He emphasizes viewing scripture not as rigid certainties but as a dynamic narrative meant for performance. The conversation touches on interpreting Revelation as poetry and the importance of justice in faith. Brueggemann critiques idolizing political divides, advocating for empathy and compassion. His insights on the relationship between the Old and New Testaments encourage a nuanced, modern approach to scripture.

The great scholar and preacher. “The task is reframing so that we can re-experience the social realities that are right in front of us, from a different angle.” Prophets are also always poets. “A society finally cannot live without the quality of mercy.” Walter Brueggemann is one of the world’s great teachers about the prophets who both anchor the Hebrew Bible and have transcended it across history. He translates their imagination from the chaos of ancient times to our own. He somehow also embodies this tradition’s fearless truth-telling together with fierce hope – and how it conveys ideas with disarming language. “The task is reframing,” he says, “so that we can re-experience the social realities that are right in front of us, from a different angle.” Walter Brueggemann is William Marcellus McPheeters Professor Emeritus at Columbia Theological Seminary in Georgia. He is the author of “The Prophetic Imagination,” “Collected Sermons of Walter Brueggemann,” and “Tenacious Solidarity: Biblical Provocations on Race, Religion, Climate, and the Economy.” Find the transcript for this show at onbeing.org.

Walter Brueggemann, a legendary scholar of the Hebrew Bible, is honored for his transformative impact on biblical scholarship. The conversation revisits his insights into prophetic imagination and critiques of money and possessions, encouraging a God-centered view of justice and human flourishing. Brueggemann's teachings on the emotional complexity of God, fidelity amidst challenges, and the relevance of liberation theology resonate with contemporary struggles. His legacy inspires both scholars and believers to engage deeply with scripture and actively pursue justice.

In this engaging discussion, renowned theologian Walter Brueggemann dives into his latest book, exploring the biblical narratives around money and possessions. He contrasts exploitative economies with covenantal communities, signaling a resistance to consumerism in America. The conversation includes a fresh look at the Ten Commandments, the role of the church in economic justice, and critiques of contemporary culture. Brueggemann’s insights challenge listeners to rethink their relationship with wealth while advocating for a more just society.