Theology in the Raw

Levi Lusko, founder of Fresh Life Church and bestselling author, shares his profound journey through grief after losing his daughter, Lenya. He candidly discusses how personal loss shaped his ministry and community engagement. The conversation flows from navigating public success in ministry to the emotional challenges of balancing family life with a demanding speaking schedule. Levi emphasizes the transformative power of prayer and mentorship while sharing personal anecdotes that highlight resilience and hope in the face of tragedy.

The discussion kicks off with a thought-provoking look at the relationship between human suffering and God's glory. Insights from a recent conference reveal the power of diverse testimonies, including those from the trans community. The significance of practicing communion emerges, advocating for inclusivity for all, including nonbelievers. Questions arise about the assurance of salvation and whether Christians should engage in yoga. The conversation wraps with evaluations of contemporary social issues like DEI and BLM, prompting deeper reflection on faith and activism.

Matthew W. Bates, a New Testament professor and author, dissects the nuanced views of salvation between Catholics and Protestants. He examines the concept of Jesus as the 'rescuing king' and challenges misconceptions, particularly regarding faith and works. Bates emphasizes the need for ecumenical dialogue and clarification on grace, especially in Catholic theology. He also introduces the New Perspective on Paul, providing fresh insights on justification, and encourages a collaborative approach toward understanding salvation across traditions.

Dave DeCamp, the news editor at Antiwar.com, delves into the complexities of U.S. foreign policy regarding Yemen and the Israel-Palestine conflict. He highlights the humanitarian crisis in Yemen intertwined with U.S. interests and the historical roots of anti-American sentiment in the Middle East. The conversation explores the moral implications of U.S. support for Israel amid recent escalations in Gaza, the impact on regional stability, and the evolving views among younger Americans on military interventions. DeCamp advocates for open dialogue on sensitive global issues.

N.T. Wright, a leading biblical scholar and former bishop of Durham, shares his profound insights on resurrection and new creation. He discusses how Platonic thought shaped Western Christianity and advocates for a Biblical worldview that embraces our physical existence. Exploring Paul’s household code, he redefines relationships in the light of Christ's love rather than hierarchy. Wright also critiques traditional views on eschatology, encouraging a deeper understanding of the transformative essence of the gospel through His engaging course, 'Simply Good News.'

Cultural theologian Paul Anleitner, host of Deep Talks: Cultural Theology, dives into the evolution from postmodernism to metamodernism. He discusses how films like 'Fight Club' and 'Everything Everywhere All at Once' reflect this cultural shift from cynicism to a hopeful search for meaning. Anleitner also highlights the surge of sincerity in narratives, exemplified by characters like Ted Lasso. Additionally, he analyzes the unexpected resurgence of the band Creed among Gen Z, showcasing a cultural move towards genuine appreciation over irony.

Dan White Jr., co-founder of The Kineo Center and author of Love Over Fear, shares profound insights on the epidemic of loneliness. He examines how technology and social media foster isolation, particularly among men, stressing the need for genuine connections. The discussion also tackles political siloing and its damaging effects on personal relationships, advocating for more thoughtful dialogues. Dan emphasizes the importance of authentic community leadership over outdated models and the significance of long-term commitment to meaningful causes.

Dr. Munther Isaac, Palestinian pastor and academic dean of Bethlehem Bible College, shares profound insights on faith amidst the atrocities in Gaza. He critiques American evangelical responses, challenging the morality of just war theory and exploring the term 'genocide' in this context. The discussion also delves into the interplay of faith and politics, emphasizing the need for compassionate dialogue and a deeper understanding of Palestinian identity. Munther invites listeners to engage with the urgent humanitarian crisis and reflect on the church's role in these turbulent times.

Dive into a dynamic discussion on the future of writing projects, particularly a thought-provoking book on hell's annihilation view. Explore the complexities of speaking in tongues and how its practice is evolving in churches today. Delve into the tension between divine violence in the Old Testament and the New Testament's call for peace. Reflect on personal faith doubts and the desire for a stronger connection with the divine. It's a rich conversation that encourages deep theological engagement and community reflection.

Dr. Beth Allison Barr, a history professor at Baylor University and author of 'Becoming the Pastor's Wife,' discusses the shifting role of pastor's wives in the church. She explores historical and cultural influences on women's ministry, highlighting key biblical figures like Priscilla and Aquila. The conversation touches on the evolving expectations for pastor's wives and the emotional toll from societal pressures. Barr emphasizes the need for recognition of women's contributions in church leadership, blending personal anecdotes with scholarly insights.