Theology in the Raw

Cody Cook, author of "Fight the Powers" and "The Anarchist Anabaptist," discusses the intriguing intersection of faith, anarchism, and personal ideology. He shares his journey from atheism to a nuanced Christian perspective and critiques modern Anabaptist practices. The conversation delves into libertarian anarchism, contrasting Christian and secular viewpoints, and questions the church's role amid rising secular anarchy. Cook also addresses the moral implications of governance and civic engagement, offering insights into individual accountability and the potential of market-driven solutions.

Marvin Williams, lead pastor at Trinity Church in Lansing, shares his insights as a Black pastor in predominantly white spaces, focusing on self-differentiation and the unique challenges he faces. He discusses navigating identity, resilience in the face of microaggressions, and the importance of fostering inclusivity within church communities. Marvin also highlights the complexities of interactions with law enforcement and the need for genuine relationships, urging for open dialogues on race and supporting diversity in church leadership for a richer faith experience.

Christine Caine, a passionate speaker, activist, and author, dives into her groundbreaking work with the A21 Campaign, aimed at eradicating human trafficking. She shares personal inspirations behind the movement and highlights successful rescue initiatives for survivors. The conversation expands to the complexities of supporting healing for victims and the need for systemic change. Christine also touches on LGBT inclusion in ministry, advocating for balance between personal support and long-term transformation, while encouraging everyone to take action against modern slavery.

Dr. Malcolm Foley, a pastor and historian at Baylor University, discusses his upcoming book, 'The Anti-Greed Gospel.' He addresses the intersection of greed, racism, and nonviolence, urging Christians to confront economic disparities and historical injustices. Foley shares a compelling story highlighting compassion over violence, emphasizing the importance of ethical engagement and community support. He advocates for a transformative approach to wealth and justice, promoting deeper relationships with marginalized communities and a commitment to love and solidarity.

Annie F. Downs, a New York Times bestselling author and host of the "That Sounds Fun" podcast, dives into the intersection of podcasting and social justice. She shares her journey in the podcasting realm, discussing the evolution of engagement and the complexities of criticism in the digital age. Annie emphasizes the importance of fostering authentic community, especially for singles in church, and unveils her new children's book that tackles grief. Listeners gain insights into resilience, meaningful connections, and navigating faith in today's world.

The discussion dives into the pivotal moments of one's theological journey, moving away from strict conservatism. It tackles provocative statements about gender identity, including the implications of pronoun use. The complexities surrounding divorce and remarriage are explored, questioning biblical perspectives. The implications of political actions on faith communities are debated, prompting thoughts on modern church structures. Lastly, the podcast questions the nature of atonement in relation to the Passover and divine wrath in a thought-provoking way.

Dr. Holly Carey, a Biblical Studies professor and author of "Women Who Do: Female Disciples in the Gospels," shares her insights on the pivotal roles women played in Jesus' ministry. She contrasts the faith responses of various figures, highlighting women's embodiment of true discipleship. The discussion critiques traditional interpretations and emphasizes servanthood as a key to leadership in the church. Carey encourages a reassessment of women's contributions, celebrating their vital presence in early Christian communities and their impact on shaping faith today.

In this engaging conversation, Adam Davidson, a seasoned business and economics journalist with a rich background at NPR and The New Yorker, delves into his unique journey as a Jewish atheist with a penchant for evangelical Christianity. He shares insights on the transformation of Christian discourse from compassion to combativeness and critiques the moral emphasis overshadowing acceptance in modern evangelicalism. Adam also discusses sensationalism in journalism, highlighting the need for diverse perspectives in a click-driven media landscape.

Dr. Don Davis, a veteran in urban ministry and the founder of The Urban Ministry Institute, discusses the profound impact of faith and community engagement. He emphasizes trauma healing and church planting strategies and the critical role of local leaders in serving impoverished neighborhoods. Davis reflects on the historical neglect of urban ministry by evangelical institutions, urging for renewed commitment. He also explores the challenges and transformative opportunities encountered while ministering among marginalized populations, highlighting their untapped potential.

Dr. Sharon Hodde Miller, lead pastor of Bright City Church and author, dives deep into the complexities of church planting post-COVID. She shares her insights on navigating burnout and codependency in ministry, alongside the challenges of maintaining community engagement. Sharon reflects on the evolution of her marriage amid these trials and the crucial need for resilience in leadership. With a focus on authentic communication, she highlights the importance of aligning church values with community needs as they adapt to a new landscape.