Gravity Commons Podcast

We talked (again!) with Sheila Wray Gregoire about dispelling the pervasive myths about what makes a happy marriage, and looking at actual evidence to understand what creates intimacy, emotional health, and connection. Sheila's new book is The Marriage You Want: Moving Beyond Stereotypes for a Relationship Built on Scripture, New Data, and Emotional Health, co-written with her husband Dr. Keith Gregoire.Sheila Wray Gregoire is an author, podcaster, and sought-after speaker who is passionate about changing the evangelical conversation about sex and marriage to line up with kingdom principles. Sheila is the host of the Bare Marriage Podcast and has written several books including The Great Sex Rescue and She Deserves Better: Raising Girls to Resist Toxic Teachings on Sex, Self, and Speaking Up. Sheila and her husband Keith live in Ontario, Canada.Connect with Gravity Commons:Leave us a message or ask a question about this or any other episode and we'll answer it on a future episode.Join the Gravity Community to interact with other listeners, and get our list of curated links each week to all things edifying and interesting.Are you interested in advertising on the Gravity Podcast? Contact us at podcast@gravitycommons.com.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/gravity-leadership-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Emily Hunter McGowin, an Associate Professor of Theology at Wheaton College, delves into redefining what a 'biblical' family looks like. She shares insights from her upcoming book about the transformative role family plays within the Kingdom of God. Topics include the evolving nature of family dynamics, the significance of communal living, and practical applications of faith in nurturing family ties. Dr. McGowin also emphasizes the importance of open communication, love, and inclusivity in modern family structures.

In this engaging discussion, Stephen Morrison, a prolific theologian and author known for his "in Plain English" series, dives into the early church's anti-mammon stance and its significant implications today. He critiques capitalism through the lens of Christian teachings, advocating for a more equitable economic system rooted in solidarity. Morrison highlights the early church's warnings against wealth's destructive influences, urging a reevaluation of financial ethics and collective action against systemic inequalities. A thought-provoking blend of faith and social justice awaits!

Tom Oord, a prominent theologian and author, discusses the transformative power of open and relational theology in the face of tragedy and abuse. He explores how understanding God's love can reshape our views on suffering and evil. Through personal anecdotes, he delves into the complexities of divine influence and human freedom. Oord emphasizes the significance of compassionate support in trauma healing and the nuanced relationship between miracles and human agency. His insights challenge conventional beliefs while promoting a deeper understanding of faith and love.

We talk with author and mediator Cheryl Miller about how restorative justice practices can transform the lives of survivors of sexual violence. In her book Enough Silence: Creating Sacred Space for Survivors of Sexual Assault Through Restorative Justice, Cheryl outlines of these practices and offers a road map for implementing victim-offender dialogue, surrogate dialogue, circles, and more. Her book is a call to pastors, clergy, nonprofit professionals, and other leaders to dismantle patriarchal systems that perpetuate rape culture. By embracing restorative justice practices, faith communities can imitate Christ in ministering to survivors and those who love them.Cheryl Miller has worked in mediation, restorative justice, and community development for over two decades. An experienced nonprofit leader, she is also the founder of Quantum Circles Consulting and Training, an organization that equips community groups to address homelessness, economic development, restoration, and reconciliation. You can connect with Cheryl and her work on her website.Connect with Gravity Commons:Leave us a message or ask a question about this or any other episode and we'll answer it on a future episode.Join the Gravity Community to interact with other listeners, and get our list of curated links each week to all things edifying and interesting.Are you interested in advertising on the Gravity Podcast? Contact us at podcast@gravitycommons.com.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/gravity-leadership-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dr. Andrew Bauman, founder of the Christian Counseling Center for Sexual Health & Trauma and former pastor, dives deep into the urgent issues of sexism and abuse in the church. He discusses insights from his book, emphasizing the need for transparency and amplifying women's voices. Listeners explore the importance of shared power in faith communities and the challenges men face in dismantling systemic sexism. Bauman advocates for genuine discipleship that prioritizes integrity and selflessness, urging a collective effort to confront ingrained biases and create safer church environments.

Malcolm Foley, a pastor and historian serving as a special adviser at Baylor University, discusses a provocative view of racism as rooted in greed rather than hate. He explores how economic motivations shaped racial systems, especially during periods like chattel slavery. Foley emphasizes the need for financial morality in faith and advocates for economic justice, urging listeners to act with love and obligation towards the marginalized. His insights challenge the notion of racial capitalism and call for a redefined spiritual engagement with societal issues.

We talked with podcaster and author Jonathan Foster about indigo: the color of grief, his book of poems that came from processing the painful loss of his daughter.Jonathan is the partner of one and father of three, founder of lovehaiti.org, podcaster, and award-winning author with some degrees in open and relational theology who loves to hike. You can connect with Jonathan and his work at jonathanfosteronline.com.Connect with Gravity Commons:Leave us a message or ask a question about this or any other episode and we'll answer it on a future episode.Join the Gravity Community to interact with other listeners, and get our list of curated links each week to all things edifying and interesting.Are you interested in advertising on the Gravity Podcast? Contact us at podcast@gravitycommons.com.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/gravity-leadership-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this discussion, Marc Alan Schelske, a pastor and author passionate about grace and growth, delves into the essence of co-suffering love as exemplified by Jesus. He shares insights from his new book, encouraging listeners to embrace other-centeredness during Lent. Topics include the transformative power of devotional literature, the gardening metaphor for personal growth, and the significance of community in spiritual journeys. Marc invites introspection and rewilding in one's spirituality, all while maintaining a light-hearted tone.

Award-winning essayist Liz Charlotte Grant, author of "Knock at the Sky," discusses her journey of faith after losing trust in biblical inerrancy. She delves into the complexities of interpreting Genesis, advocating for a fresh, imaginative approach to scripture. Liz emphasizes the importance of understanding cultural contexts and the emotional depth within biblical narratives. She also addresses moral dilemmas in biblical stories, particularly Abraham's, and highlights the necessity of spiritual autonomy and community in navigating faith.