Theology in the Raw

Steve Mwendia is a Kenyan Christian leader who founded Found, a ministry supporting believers navigating same-sex attraction and faith. In candid discussions, he shares his journey reconciling his faith with his attraction, reflecting on societal and church responses in Kenya. Steve reveals how a personal crisis led him to create Found, emphasizing the importance of visibility and community for others facing similar struggles. He also discusses the challenges of a non-affirming theological stance amidst shifting cultural attitudes toward LGBT individuals.

Dr. Nate Collins, a New Testament scholar and president of Revoice, discusses his journey as a gay man within evangelicalism. He explains the mission of Revoice to foster belonging for sexual-minority Christians and the remarkable growth of its conference. The conversation delves into the complexities of language and identity in faith contexts, emphasizing the importance of a theological view centered on beauty. Nate candidly shares challenges in pastoral care, the need for supportive church environments, and the nuances of living a fulfilling life amid doctrinal disagreements.

Dr. Lainey Greer, founder of Your Body Matters and an expert in health and theology, passionately discusses the critical link between body stewardship and Christian faith. She emphasizes honoring the body through nutrition and exercise as a means to glorify God. The conversation tackles obesity trends in religious communities and reexamines dietary beliefs shaped by spirituality. Greer also offers insights into the impact of social media on body image, advocating for a balanced, biblical approach to health and wellness.

David Kinnaman, CEO of Barna Group, shares insightful research about the surprising rise in church attendance among Gen Z and Millennials, debunking the myth of a post-Christian society. He discusses how these young adults are seeking meaning and community post-pandemic and the role of media in their spiritual engagement. Kinnaman also highlights the unique trends in youth participation and the challenges faced by Christian parents in discussing contemporary issues like sexuality with their kids. With a focus on fostering genuine connections, he emphasizes the church's potential for renewal in today's culture.

Aimee Byrd, an author and speaker known for her insights on biblical gender roles, discusses her complex relationship with the evangelical church. She shares personal experiences of navigating misogyny in church leadership and advocates for women's dignity and agency in ministry. Aimee also reflects on the emotional challenges faced while advocating for change within traditional settings. With humor and vulnerability, she offers a fresh perspective on faith, healing from spiritual abuse, and the importance of community engagement in the evolving landscape of church dynamics.

Laurie Krieg, Director of Parent Programs & Discipleship at The Center for Faith, Sexuality, and Gender, dives into the challenges of discussing Christian sexuality with young children. She shares practical strategies for age-appropriate conversations and emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive atmosphere. Laurie also highlights the need for parents to focus on a gospel-centered approach while discussing sexuality and relationships. The conversation covers the balance between protection and exposure in education, reaffirming parents' critical role in their children's spiritual development.

Dive into the intriguing world of theological labels and their often-misunderstood meanings. Explore how terms like 'Reformed' and 'Evangelical' can mislead rather than clarify beliefs. Discover the importance of focusing on specific ideologies for better understanding and communication. This discussion enhances your awareness of how language shapes faith and dialogue in the theological landscape.

Laurie Krieg, Director of Parent Programs & Discipleship at The Center for Faith, Sexuality, and Gender, shares her insights on discussing sexuality with young children. She emphasizes a proactive, gospel-centered approach that reframes traditional methods. Krieg highlights strategies for navigating conversations on marriage and purpose, encouraging inclusivity and understanding. She also addresses the urgent need for early education about sexual topics, particularly in light of children's exposure to pornography. Overall, Laurie advocates for open dialogue to empower kids in their understanding of sexuality.

Josh Porter, a writer, pastor, and former frontman of the art-punk band Showbread, dives deep into faith and mortality. He discusses the unique blend of poetry and theological insights in his book 'How to Die,' emphasizing engaging storytelling over academic rigor. Porter explores the importance of radical discipleship, the complexities of church planting, and the theme of nonviolence within Christianity. He also challenges listeners to rethink spiritual disciplines, balancing personal growth with community engagement.

Dr. Kevin J. Vanhoozer, a leading Evangelical theologian and Research Professor at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, dives deep into the complexities of biblical interpretation. He explores the nuances of truth claims within Scripture and the critical importance of understanding literary genres like in Jonah. The conversation sheds light on the challenges of inerrancy and the role of community in fostering biblical literacy. Vanhoozer emphasizes humility and the need for precise definitions to navigate the intricate landscape of theological interpretation.