OnScript

Brant Pitre, a distinguished Scripture professor at the Augustine Institute, dives deep into the controversial question of Jesus' self-identity and claims to divinity. He challenges the notion that Jesus never claimed to be God, scrutinizing scholarly perspectives on his miracles and teachings. With a humorous twist, Pitre also shares whimsical dinner guest preferences, favoring Tolkien. The discussion segues into contemplating the future of Pope Francis, making this a blend of serious theological inquiry and lighthearted banter.

Crispin Fletcher-Louis, a world-leading scholar in early Christology and author of 'The Divine Heartset,' shares his insights on Philippians 2:6-11. He dives into the theological intricacies of Paul's identity, exploring themes of divine transformation and Christ's unique nature. The discussion highlights ancient myths versus Christian incarnation, alongside a critical look at Paul's metaphysical elements. Crispin passionately advocates for a deeper understanding of Christ’s supreme name, urging listeners to blend intellect with empathy in their spiritual journeys.

Shai Held, President and Dean of Hadar Institute and acclaimed author, delves into the profound relationship between love and law in Judaism. He discusses how the Torah fosters community love and the joy in rituals. The conversation explores the complexity of divine love, contrasting Jewish and Christian views, and highlights personal experiences that challenge definitions of love. Alongside humorous banter about Jewish food and love songs, Held emphasizes community responsibility and the ethical implications of loving our neighbors and adversaries.

In this insightful discussion, Matt Lynch, a scholar specializing in the Old Testament, teams up with Dru Johnson, an expert in law and ritual studies. They tackle pervasive myths about sacrifice in the Hebrew Bible, debunking misconceptions about ritual purity and moral atonement. The duo highlights the importance of community accountability, the ethical implications of animal sacrifice, and the evolving understanding of these rituals in modern faith contexts. Their engaging banter and profound insights challenge listeners to rethink ancient practices and their significance today.

Jonny Rowlands, a graduate tutor and theology lecturer at St. Miletus College, dives into the intriguing world of historical Jesus research. He discusses how one's worldview influences interpretations of Jesus' life, exploring insights from Nietzsche and Collingwood on historiography. Rolands also highlights N.T. Wright's methods, emphasizing the blend of critical realism and diverse faith perspectives. With a dash of humor, he shares personal tidbits in a quick-fire round, showcasing the human side of theological inquiry.

Esau McCaulley, an Associate Professor of New Testament and Public Theology, and a New York Times contributor, dives into the significance of diversity in biblical interpretation. They discuss how cultural contexts shape our understanding of scripture, stressing the importance of inclusivity in theological discussions. Highlighting African-American perspectives, they advocate for a communal approach to biblical commentary. The conversation also touches on valuable lessons learned in graduate school, emphasizing independent thought and influential scholars.

Arthur Keefer, an expert in theology and philosophy, delves into the profound insights of Ecclesiastes and Proverbs. He draws intriguing comparisons between biblical wisdom and Hellenistic virtue ethics, emphasizing the ethical implications of Proverbs. The conversation also tackles the complexities of life's meaning, suffering, and purpose. Keefer humorously contrasts Australian and UK culture, and reflects on the influence of AI in academia, all while navigating the emotional challenges of biblical scholarship.

Michael Rhodes, an expert in biblical justice and a distinguished lecturer in Old Testament studies, explores the vital link between justice and discipleship. He discusses the transformative impact of Deuteronomy on understanding justice today. Listeners will discover the importance of community in addressing racial challenges and the need for a broader engagement with marginalized groups. With a mix of humor and depth, Rhodes contrasts biblical figures Joseph and Daniel to present fresh political discipleship ideas and rethinks virtue ethics in biblical interpretation.

Ann Jervis, an expert on Pauline theology from Wycliffe College, explores Paul's unique understanding of time in relation to Christ. She discusses the intriguing concept of the 'already-not-yet' in Paul's letters. Jervis dives into how believers navigate their past and future through their relationship with Christ, transforming grief into present hope. The conversation also touches on the theological implications of Christ's suffering, urging a re-evaluation of the Eucharist and its communal significance for spiritual growth and deeper empathy.

Marty Folsom, an expert in theology, focuses on his second volume exploring Karl Barth’s Church Dogmatics. He delves into the transformative nature of the doctrine of God and critiques natural theology. The conversation connects music and theology, using musical metaphors to illuminate divine love. Folsom also explores divine wrath, freedom, and the relational understanding of election, challenging traditional views. He emphasizes the need for authentic community in spiritual connections, rounding off with insights on future theological works.