Theology in the Raw

Dr. Jemar Tisby, a historian focusing on race, religion, and social movements, discusses his latest book, The Spirit of Justice. He shares stories of resilience among Black Christians facing racism and reflects on the lessons from civil rights advocates. The conversation highlights the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and its relevance today, as well as the complexities of diversity training. Tisby encourages proactive engagement in race relations, emphasizing the need for understanding systemic barriers and the intricate ties between faith and politics in the Black community.

Dr. Vinoth Ramachandra, an international lecturer and civil rights advocate from Sri Lanka, dives into the complexities of American foreign policy and its impact on global Christianity. He shares his journey, critiques the disconnect between local beliefs and American megachurches, and explores the Israeli-Palestinian conflict from a Christian perspective. The discussion also touches on the relationship between U.S. military support, faith, and ethical citizenship, emphasizing the need for diversity and discernment in political engagement.

Dive into the intriguing contradictions in Jesus' teachings, revealing the nuances of interpreting his core principles. Engage in a lively debate on the moral implications of cannabis versus alcohol. Explore the complexities of salvation and the evolving roles of women in the church. Listen as community questions shed light on biblical interpretations, particularly around ancient texts and the plural reference to God. It's a thought-provoking discussion that invites diverse perspectives on faith and belief.

George Sarris, a passionate speaker and storyteller, teams up with Chris Date, a Bible and theology professor with expertise in Old Testament exegesis. They dive into the heated debate around universal salvation and ultimate restoration, challenging traditional views of hell and eternal punishment. The discussion covers God's grace, scriptural bases for universal reconciliation, and early church perspectives. They also reflect on interpretations of punishment, resurrection, and the complexity of eschatological beliefs, highlighting the nuanced views on the afterlife.

Jordan Bush, author of 'Thank God for Bitcoin' and founder of TGFB Media, shares insights on the intersection of faith and finance. He discusses his transformative journey from conservative Christianity to embracing Bitcoin, influenced by libertarian ideas. The conversation delves into the ethical dilemmas of currency manipulation, the historical impacts of moving off the gold standard, and how Bitcoin can serve as a stabilizing force in regions facing economic instability. Bush emphasizes Bitcoin's potential to glorify God while addressing modern financial challenges.

Dr. Scot McKnight, a renowned New Testament scholar and author, dives into a rich conversation blending theology and pop culture. He shares insights on his love for baseball and critiques the intertwined relationship between faith and politics. Exploring the idea of Babylon, McKnight urges listeners to reflect on modern manifestations of tyranny and corruption. He also humorously debates the legacies of basketball legends Jordan and LeBron, highlighting how sports can mirror deeper societal issues. It's a captivating mix of scholarly musings and relatable anecdotes.

Barnabas, a pastor and founder of Healing from Crossdressing, shares his personal journey of overcoming autogynephilia and cross-dressing through faith. He discusses the complexities of gender identity, emphasizing the importance of personal narratives and supportive environments. Barnabas explores the emotional struggles men face, the need for open communication in relationships, and provides guidance for faith communities to foster compassion. His story of vulnerability highlights hope and the transformative power of sharing experiences.

Phil Illy, author of 'Autoheterosexual: Attracted to Being the Other Sex,' dives deep into the intriguing world of autogynephilia, shedding light on its psychological complexities and societal implications. He discusses personal experiences and the distinction between autogynephilia and other forms of gender dysphoria. The conversation also explores how pop culture represents trans identities, the challenges of embracing femininity, and the importance of self-acceptance amidst stigmatization. Join this enlightening discussion on navigating gender identity with honesty and understanding.

In this discussion, Christopher Hays, an emerging voice on God's mercy, joins Richard Hays, a renowned theologian who has shifted his perspective on same-sex marriage. They explore the provocative themes of their upcoming book, emphasizing evolving interpretations of biblical texts related to LGBTQ inclusion. The conversation tackles the complexities of sexual ethics, the need for recognizing marginalized voices, and critiques traditional views linking sexual norms to tragic outcomes. It's a rich dialogue pushing for a more inclusive theological understanding.

Latasha Morrison, a speaker and author known for her work in cultural intelligence and racial literacy, shares her impactful journey in racial reconciliation. She discusses the significance of her initiative, Be the Bridge, and the personal challenges she's faced. The conversation delves into the roles of grace and truth in fostering understanding, while highlighting the emotional complexities of discussing systemic racism. Latasha also emphasizes the importance of listening and community engagement in addressing these critical societal issues.