Gospelbound

Molly Worthen, an Associate Professor of History at UNC Chapel Hill and author of *Spellbound*, delves into the powerful role of charisma in shaping American history. She discusses how charisma transcends mere charm, revealing deeper human desires for control and moral meaning. Worthen connects past figures like Anne Hutchinson to contemporary leaders, exploring how their narratives influence societal beliefs. The conversation sheds light on the duality of charisma, its implications in politics and religion, and the potential dangers of intertwining spirituality with power.

Matt McCullough, Pastor of Edgefield Church and author of 'Remember Heaven', delves into the vital link between our earthly lives and the eternal hope of heaven. He discusses the vulnerability that comes with longing for a future beyond suffering and the significance of Judgment Day. McCullough emphasizes that heaven should not merely be a distant hope but a guiding force in shaping our Christian faith. The conversation challenges listeners to reflect on how earthly desires intertwine with the promise of eternal joy, ultimately urging a deeper connection with the divine.

Join Matt Smethurst, lead pastor and author, as he reflects on Tim Keller's profound influence on Christian living. He unveils insights from his book, showcasing Keller's unique ability to blend heart and mind in teaching. Discover the importance of genuine spiritual experiences over mere knowledge, and how Keller’s teachings on suffering, grace, and idolatry resonate deeply today. Smethurst also highlights Keller’s Christ-centered preaching style, engaging storytelling, and the need for community in faith, illustrating the enduring relevance of his legacy.

Paul Putz, Assistant Director of Truett Seminary's Faith and Sports Institute and author of 'The Spirit of the Game,' dives into the intricate ties between American Christianity and big-time sports. He highlights the historical significance of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and discusses how the portrayal of athletes in media has evolved, particularly regarding race and faith. Putz also examines the complexities of sports journalism's shifting perspectives, addressing the intersections of politics, masculinity, and the experiences of faith among athletes in today's culture.

Brett McCracken, a Senior Editor at The Gospel Coalition and author of 'Scrolling Ourselves to Death,' and Ivan Mesa, Editor and co-editor of the same book, dive into the impact of digital technology on community and faith. They discuss the challenges of information overload, parenting in a tech-driven world, and the necessity of historical memory for spiritual health. With a nod to Jesus' timeless mission, they encourage the church to prioritize authentic relationships and navigate technology responsibly, turning digital distractions into avenues for genuine connection.

In this episode of Gospelbound, Collin Hansen sits down with Walter Strickland to discuss his book, Swing Low: A History of Black Christianity in the United States. They explore the rich history of Black Christianity in the United States, considering the importance of participation in theology and the challenges faced by Black church leaders in proving their orthodoxy. Strickland explains how Black theology developed and the need for a story that truly represents the Black Christian experience. He also shares how faith can bring hope and peace despite life's challenges.

Caleb Morrell, an assistant pastor at Capitol Hill Baptist Church and author of A Light on the Hill, shares insights into the church’s impactful history in Washington, D.C. He highlights the surprising influence of ordinary individuals like founder Celestia Ferris, who made extraordinary contributions. The discussion also covers racial integration efforts through figures like Margaret Roy and emphasizes the vital elements of prayer, community, and perseverance that sustain a vibrant church. Morrell reveals how local churches can transform communities.

Ian Harber, a writer and Christian media producer, shares his insights on the journey of deconstructing faith as explored in his book, Walking Through Deconstruction. He discusses the emotional turmoil that accompanies doubt and emphasizes the necessity of church environments that support questioning. Harber highlights the importance of engaging with core doctrines like the Trinity to foster resilient beliefs, and he examines how social media shifts trust in spiritual narratives. Ultimately, he advocates for authenticity in faith as a way to connect with future generations.

Nadya Williams, a scholar and author of 'Mothers, Children and the Body Politic,' explores her fascinating journey from a secular Jewish upbringing in Russia to embracing Christianity. She highlights how societal views on motherhood have shifted, often viewing it as a burden rather than a blessing. The conversation reveals the implications of these changing attitudes on family dynamics, and the need for Christians to reclaim the dignity of human life. Williams emphasizes the importance of community support in fostering a positive view of parenting.

Collin Hansen and Russ Ramsey explore the profound relationship between art, suffering, and hope. They discuss Ramsey's book, Van Gogh Has a Broken Heart, and how art reflects our struggles and the beauty that emerges from pain, using examples from Van Gogh and Norman Rockwell. Ramsey emphasizes the importance of understanding art as a means of storytelling and a companion in our experiences of grief and joy. And he offers practical advice for engaging with art in museums, highlighting the accessibility of art beyond high culture.