Theology in the Raw

Reginald Robinson, a Senior Pastor and founder of the Brand New You Mentorship Intensive, shares his journey of faith and identity. He discusses the importance of vulnerability in overcoming sexual sin and finding one’s true self in Christ. The conversation delves into the challenges of navigating sexuality in conservative environments and the critical need for compassion and open dialogue. Robinson emphasizes the role of brotherhood and mentorship in creating supportive communities, fostering genuine connections, and addressing sensitive topics with grace.

Explore the vibrant conversation around the nature of revivals in the Western Church, and the intriguing shift some evangelicals are making toward Eastern Orthodoxy. Delve into scripture through the lenses of nonviolence and inclusivity, revealing fresh insights on women's roles in biblical texts. A passionate discussion also highlights a controversial Last Supper scene at the Olympics, sparking dialogue on LGBTQ representation and artistic expression. The intersection of art, conflict, and political commentary adds further depth to this compelling exchange.

Brenna Blain is a speaker, writer, and mother, known for her book "Can I Say That?" She dives into her personal battles with bipolar disorder, discussing how it intersects with faith and sexuality. Brenna candidly shares her experiences with mental health stigma in religious contexts and emphasizes the importance of open conversations. She explores finding grace amid struggles and the need for compassion in faith communities, advocating for supportive dialogues around difficult issues like same-sex attraction.

Dr. Carol Meyers, a feminist biblical scholar and professor emerita at Duke University, challenges the traditional view of women in ancient Israel. She argues for a concept of heterarchy instead of patriarchy to better describe their roles. The discussion highlights the complexities of interpreting biblical narratives and the significant contributions of women in managing household economies. Meyers also examines the communal aspects of breadmaking, revealing how these practices fostered social connections and cultural preservation in ancient society.

Tony Deik, a Palestinian Christian and PhD candidate in New Testament studies, shares his insights on the complex realities of the Israel-Palestine situation. He explores whether Zionism is inherently racist and discusses the Christian response to these contentious themes. The conversation touches on the emotional aftermath of the October 7 events, addressing issues of colonialism and resilience. Deik advocates for unbiased news while examining the theological implications of Christian Zionism, ultimately encouraging a nuanced understanding of justice that transcends ethnic divisions.

Pete Enns, an Old Testament scholar and biblical theologian with a love for baseball, shares his fascinating journey from the diamond to biblical scholarship. He explores the interplay between faith and personal experiences, discussing the evolving nature of biblical interpretation and the historical context of Scripture. The conversation dives into the complexities of faith, encouraging a humble embrace of uncertainty. Enns emphasizes the importance of love and community over rigid labels, making for a thought-provoking and engaging discussion.

Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, a Professor of Medicine at Stanford University and expert in health economics, presents a compelling analysis of the COVID-19 pandemic. He discusses the unintended consequences of lockdowns, particularly their impact on marginalized communities. The complexities of vaccine discourse and natural immunity are examined, along with the controversial lab leak theory as it gains acceptance. Bhattacharya also critiques the way COVID death data is interpreted, advocating for a nuanced understanding to better grasp the pandemic's true effects.

Dr. Lynn Cohick, a distinguished New Testament professor at Houston Christian University, dives into her research on the role of freed women in the early Christian community. She explores the historical context of household codes and the dynamics of master-slave relationships. Lynn highlights influential female figures like Phoebe and their impact on church leadership. The conversation also challenges traditional gender norms and emphasizes women's significant contributions, advocating for a reevaluation of their influence in early Christianity.

Dr. Rebecca McLaughlin, a Cambridge-educated author and theologian, explores challenging topics related to same-sex relationships in her latest book. She addresses the idolatry of marriage and celebrates the beauty of singleness. The conversation dives into the complexities of biblical teachings, encouraging a deeper understanding of love and relationships, highlighting the importance of community and personal faith in navigating same-sex attraction. McLaughlin emphasizes that true fulfillment comes from following Jesus, even through personal struggles.

Dr. Chris Palmer, Dean of Ministry and Theology at Southeastern University and an expert in theodicy, delves into the age-old question of why a good God allows suffering. He navigates complex theological discussions, exploring perspectives from the Book of Revelation to contemporary Pentecostal thought. The conversation covers the nuances of free will, the philosophical implications of suffering as seen in Dostoevsky's work, and emphasizes compassionate pastoral care for those grappling with pain. Ultimately, it’s about fostering deeper faith amidst life’s tragedies.