Theology in the Raw

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.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Dr. Mark Yarhouse, a psychologist and expert on sexual and gender identity, joins to explore the intersection of transgender experiences and the church. They unpack a theological overview of transgender identities, emphasizing the importance of understanding and compassion within religious contexts. Personal testimonies from individuals with diverse experiences bring depth to the conversation, shedding light on gender dysphoria, faith, and the complexities of transitioning, all while aiming for respectful dialogue.

Ashley Anderson, Missions Pastor at Church of the City (NYC), discusses her work supporting LGBTQ and same-sex attracted Christians within an orthodox Christian framework. She shares her journey in founding 'The Table,' a community that fosters connections while navigating faith and sexuality. The conversation highlights the importance of consecrated sexuality, personal narratives, and the challenges individuals face in theologically orthodox spaces. Ashley emphasizes embracing suffering and celibacy for deeper faith, advocating for inclusivity and spiritual growth.

Doug Smith, a seasoned software developer with a deep understanding of technology and biblical study, and Jay Owen, a marketing guru specializing in AI integration, delve into the intersection of faith and artificial intelligence. They discuss the potential of AI in ministry, while cautioning against its risks regarding trust and authenticity. The conversation highlights the importance of maintaining genuine human connections and the ethical implications of AI on jobs and biblical interpretation. Their insights challenge listeners to navigate technology thoughtfully in their spiritual practices.

Katelyn Beaty is a journalist, editor, and author who’s written for the New York Times, the New Yorker, the Washington Post, Religion News Service, Religion & Politics, and The Atlantic. She is cohost of the Saved by the City podcast (Religion News Service), the author of 2 books including her latest: Celebrities for Jesus: How Personas, Platforms, and Profits Are Hurting the Church (Brazos Press, 2022), and currently serves as the editorial director of Brazos Press.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who Are The Spirits In Prison Christ Preached To? If you've enjoyed this content, please subscribe to my channel! Support Theology in the Raw through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theologyintheraw -- 0:00 Introduction0:18 How do you explain the odd passage in 1 Peter about Christ being put to death and proclaiming to the spirits in prison?5:57 ls the MAGA movement blasphemous and heretical? Can we call a spade a spade?21:07 How do you view celibate partnerships? Are they biblical?29:04 Is reading smut equivalent to viewing porn?30:48 My church holds to a side B view of gender/sexuality, however they believe it's an "agree to disagree issue" with other churches. Thoughts? 33:50 Is the gospel of John trustworthy? I've heard different ideas about its reliability.37:13 Does complementarianism imply that every female pastor has a "more worthy" man somewhere in the congregation? Consdier Debra...39:41 Many Christians argue that much of the Old Testament is 'mytho-history' and that only the spiritual lessons matter. Thoughts?43:30 What are the benefits of a complementarian reading of scripture? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Dan Sered, COO of Jews for Jesus, shares his unique perspective as a Jewish Christian born in Israel. He recounts his journey from a secular upbringing to embracing Christianity, highlighting the emotional toll of the Israel-Palestine conflict. The discussion emphasizes the importance of compassion amid suffering for both communities and reflects on Jesus' cultural impact under occupation. Dan also explores the transformative power of faith, dialogue, and shared cultural experiences in fostering unity amidst ongoing tensions.