Mere Fidelity

Dr. Kevin Vanhoozer, a research professor of systematic theology, dives into the complexities of biblical interpretation. He challenges the idea of literally reading the Bible, emphasizing the nuances of divine and human authorship. The discussion explores figural readings and the transformative lens of the New Testament on the Old Testament. Vanhoozer also highlights the importance of context, literary tropes, and creating a reading culture within churches. It's a deep yet engaging exploration of how we can approach scripture meaningfully!

The hosts dive into the shift in a prominent theologian's stance on same-sex marriage, sparking debates about traditional beliefs versus modern perspectives. They explore the implications of changing theology within the church community and the moral responsibilities of leaders amidst evolving views. Engaging with scripture, they examine the biblical foundations of marriage, emphasizing mercy and understanding. The discussion highlights the balance between divine truth and personal opinion, along with the impact on younger evangelicals.

Amy Mantravadi, Mere Fi’s snarkiest online critic has written a novel—a historical novel—about the heroes of the Reformation. Matt and Alastair bring her on the show to talk about it, what historical fiction can do that theology can’t, what the central issue of the Reformation was, and what it’s like inside the heads of Luther, Erasmus, and Melanchthon. Plus, Matt gets it exactly right at least once. Stick around to the end for a big announcement about the future of Mere Fidelity. Full show notes at www.merefidelity.com. Timestamps: A Big Tease [0:00] Delighted and Terrified [1:48] Psychologically Intense [4:55] Historical Fiction [10:56] Hazards [15:49] Those Particular Years [23:05] Melanchthon FTW [29:10] The Peasants Are Revolting [34:45] Ambivalence [45:13] Mythological Force [50:17]

Dr. Tom Ward, a philosophy professor at Baylor University and author of "After Stoicism," shares insights on Boethius, the last Roman philosopher. He discusses the enduring influence of Boethius’s "The Consolation of Philosophy" on modern thinkers like C.S. Lewis. The conversation delves into the interplay between Stoicism and Christian thought, exploring themes of joy, suffering, and human connections. Dr. Ward emphasizes the relevance of Boethius in tackling today’s moral dilemmas and the importance of philosophical inquiry in understanding life's complexities.

Dr. Tim Perry returns to Mere Fidelity with a (as Matt calls it) “spicy” book about how ancient heresies have structured the political witness of modern evangelicalism. This is bad. Maybe even very bad. Full show notes at www.merefidelity.com. Timestamps: One Correction [0:00] Speaking of Politics (again) [2:04] The Challenge of Critiquing Self-Loathing [5:59] Straddling Worlds [8:14] Sourcing Heresy [10:58] Balancing Two Kingdoms [14:40] Slow Down [18:02] Presupposed Politics [22:00] Patchwork Theology [25:25] Gnostic Relevance [29:31] Settle Down [36:57] Idolatrously High Stakes [38:35]

Dr. Ephraim Radner, a theologian and author of 'Mortal Goods: Reimagining Christian Political Duty', dives deep into the intersection of politics and mortality. He explores how our understanding of life’s limitations can shape ethical governance. The conversation critiques society’s over-reliance on political solutions, focusing instead on historical perspectives, especially Augustine’s views. Radner emphasizes the importance of Christian faith amidst political crises and discusses the significance of community engagement and shared narratives in navigating today’s political landscape.

N.T. Wright, a renowned theologian famed for his biblical insights, sparks debate with recent remarks stirring the Evangelical community. The hosts analyze how to navigate discourse from respected figures, emphasizing the need for scriptural understanding. They explore the cultural divide between American and UK perspectives on abortion and gun rights, dissect the moral complexities of pro-life politics, and critique the frustrating contradictions within evangelical views on life issues. It's a deep dive into theology in today's world.

Dive into the intriguing world of biblical numbers and their meanings. Explore whether we should interpret ancient army sizes and genealogical ages literally or symbolically. Discover the fascinating pattern of square numbers in the ages of the patriarchs and the mystery behind the number 153. The discussion unpacks the significance of numerical symbolism and challenges conventional interpretations, all while maintaining a humorous and insightful tone. This exploration promises to deepen your understanding of scripture.

Dr. Michael Horton, a scholar of historical spirituality, dives into the ancient roots of the 'spiritual but not religious' trend. He connects Orphic mysteries to early Christianity, revealing how shamanism influenced spiritual practices. Horton discusses the tension between ancient beliefs and theological developments, particularly regarding afterlife views and divine providence. He highlights the philosophical intersections of ascension themes in Christianity and ancient myths, illustrating their ongoing relevance in today’s culture and spirituality.

Andy Crouch, an expert on culture and technology, returns to explore the profound effects of social media on mental health. He discusses how boys and girls are impacted differently by platforms, with rising issues among girls linked to social media usage. The conversation also addresses potential drastic measures, like banning smartphones in schools, and the need for moral frameworks in navigating digital environments. Crouch emphasizes the importance of real-world interactions to foster healthy development amidst pervasive digital distractions.