Theology in the Raw

In this discussion, Jonathan Griffiths, pastor of Metropolitan Bible Church and head of the media ministry Encounter the Truth, dives into the importance of in-person church attendance. He explores how community fosters spiritual growth and navigates the shifts in church participation since COVID-19. Griffiths contrasts megachurches and smaller congregations, addressing their unique strengths and weaknesses. He also touches on the political landscape's impact on church life in Canada and advocates for recognizing community service beyond traditional church roles.

Dr. Kelly Kapic, a professor at Covenant College and author of 'You're Only Human', dives into the importance of embracing human limitations. He discusses how societal pressures drive addiction to distractions and the need for balance between productivity and rest. Kapic emphasizes meaningful relationships over busyness and critiques simplistic views of suffering, advocating for a nuanced understanding of identity. He also explores the intersections of diet, exercise, and spirituality, revealing how these aspects enhance overall well-being and faith.

Dr. Sean McDowell, a Professor of Apologetics at Talbot School of Theology and author of over 20 books, dives deep into the fascinating fates of the apostles. He challenges common myths about their deaths, provides historical insight into figures like Thomas and his potential journey to India, and reconsiders Thomas's skepticism as a pursuit of truth. The discussion also emphasizes the significance of martyrdom in early Christianity, contrasting it with other religions and highlighting the apostles' unique experiences that affirm their sacrifices.

Dr. Glenn Packiam, lead pastor of Rockharbor Church and author, discusses the relevancy of the Nicene Creed in today’s tumultuous cultural landscape. He highlights how this historic creed can guide modern faith practices and foster unity among diverse believers. The conversation delves into the evolving role of pastors amid skepticism and the need for authenticity in ministry. Packiam also explores how political affiliations impact evangelical faith, urging a deeper understanding of individual faith journeys in a polarized environment.

Larry Sanger, co-founder of Wikipedia and former philosophy PhD, shares his unexpected journey from skepticism to Christianity. He discusses his philosophical explorations, influenced by thinkers like Ayn Rand, that complicated his beliefs about God. Sanger reflects on his transformative engagement with the Bible, revealing its coherent narrative that shifted his perspective. The conversation touches on the reliability of Wikipedia and how the evolution of technology might intersect with ideas of divinity, sparking new interpretations of faith.

Dr. Gerry Breshears, a seasoned theology professor and pastor, shares his insights on discipleship and the complexities of church leadership. He reflects on the fallout from Mars Hill and the unique challenges posed by social media to leadership ethics. The conversation tackles the dangers of narcissism among leaders and emphasizes the importance of genuine mentorship. Gerry also discusses the necessity of redemption stories in addressing the harm caused by false teachings, stressing the power of storytelling in reshaping perceptions within the faith community.

Dr. Christopher Landau, a former BBC World Service religious affairs correspondent and Church of England Minister, delves into the ethics of disagreement. He discusses how Christians often focus on trivial divisions instead of pressing global issues, advocating for deeper discipleship. Landau emphasizes the importance of grace and truth in dialogues around contentious topics, especially sexuality. He also explores healthy disagreement and its role in fostering unity, while offering strategies for navigating difficult conversations with love and respect.

A.J. Swoboda, an associate professor of Bible and Theology at Bushnell University, discusses the power of learning from both friends and foes alike. He emphasizes the necessity of humility in education, particularly amidst today’s contentious dialogues. Swoboda explores the delicate balance of trusting experts while navigating misinformation, especially post-COVID. He provocatively argues that engaging with opposing viewpoints can bolster one's beliefs, ultimately transforming intellectual curiosity into authentic growth.

In this enlightening discussion, Skye Jethani, an award-winning author and co-host of the Holy Post Podcast, tackles the pressing question of how Christians should engage with politics today. He critiques misconceptions about justice in American Christianity and emphasizes the need for a faith-driven approach amidst political polarization. Jethani also weighs in on the complexities of tariff policies, urging thoughtful economic strategies. The conversation highlights the moral responsibilities of Christians, advocating for active political participation to support marginalized communities.

Why have Christians moved away from celebrating biblically mandated holidays like Passover and Hanukkah? The conversation dives into the loss of these traditions and their implications on faith. The complexities of biblical inerrancy are explored, focusing on authorial intent and interpretation. Tensions in community conflict resolution are discussed alongside varying perspectives on transgender identity, highlighting generational differences. The podcast also lightly critiques the adaptation demands placed on cultural contexts by missionaries.