Theology in the Raw

Podcast discusses how Jesus disrupts politics, importance of political theology, comparisons between Trump slogans and hip hop culture, navigating political identity, unity in church despite political beliefs, and meaningful conversations on theological disruption.

Amy Ford, founder of Embrace Grace, discusses social factors surrounding unplanned pregnancies and how the church can provide care as an alternative to abortion. The podcast explores impactful personal stories, the work of Embrace Grace in supporting women, the importance of creating a nurturing community, and the emotional and psychological impact of abortion pills in the COVID-19 era.

The podcast explores the darker side of AI, discussing sex robots, cloning dead loved ones, and the potential end of humanity. The guest, Christopher Lind, delves into AI, transhumanism, GPT models, language technology, and ethical dilemmas. The discussion also touches on the implications of AI in intimate relationships and the challenges of navigating pain and suffering in a technology-driven society.

Dr. Greg Coles, author of Single, Gay, Christian and The Limits of My World, discusses the truth of fiction and the limits of our world. Topics covered include the role of genre in determining meaning, the power of language to shape perception, and the possibility that fiction helps us see truth more than non-fiction. They also explore the influence of pronouns and gender in fiction writing, the importance of correction and feedback, and the complexity of language and its relationship to reality.

Dr. Austin Knuppe, political science professor, discusses terrorism, ISIS, US intervention in the Middle East, and the Israel-Hamas conflict. They explore the formation of ISIS, US interventions in the Middle East, the complex history of the Israel-Hamas conflict, the role of Benjamin Netanyahu in the creation of Hamas, the Great March of Return, and the challenges of forming opinions in complex situations.

Ellen Radcliff, therapist and author, talks about her journey in faith and sexuality, explores the fluidity of female sexuality, and offers advice on parenting LGBTQ kids. They discuss embracing complexity, navigating uncertainty, repairing relationships, and setting boundaries in parent-child relationships.

Joshua S. Porter, pastor and author, discusses offensive themes in art. Topics include horror as a spiritual genre, Christian themes in secular art, the meaning of "Christian" music, and problems with contemporary worship music.

Dr. J.R. Woodward discusses the leadership crisis in the church, including the need for polycentric leadership and the problems with hierarchical leadership. They explore the temptation for church leaders to build their own kingdoms and how to shift the focus of churches to the kingdom of God. They also touch on the interconnectedness of ecclesiology and leadership, the importance of biblical languages in ministry, and the challenges and potential of shared leadership.

Topics discussed include navigating theological differences in marriage, incorporating LGBT kids into youth groups, Christians and Old Testament Law, understanding apodictic and case laws in biblical commandments.

Dr. A.J. Swoboda, associate professor of Bible and Theology, discusses desire, self-denial, and the therapeutic benefit of communal confession of sin. He emphasizes the importance of slow thinking on tough topics and the need to resist the overwhelming amount of information. They explore the integration of art and culture into writing and the concept of a 'Viagra society' where loving Jesus arouses godly desire. They also touch on scripture engagement, delayed gratification, and the longing for Eden through smell and memories.