Curiously Kaitlyn
Kaitlyn Schiess
Do you have questions about theology, the Bible, or the church that you’re too afraid to ask? Tired of pastors and scholars using unfamiliar language or overly complicated explanations? Curiously, Kaitlyn is a weekly podcast hosted by author and theologian Kaitlyn Schiess that tries to make theology accessible, meaningful, and fun. Each week, you’ll hear a kid ask a theology question–sometimes serious, sometimes silly–and Kaitlyn will interview a scholar to help answer it (without all the academic jargon). Together, Kaitlyn and her guest discover that this one simple question opens up big theological ideas that can impact our lives, shape our view of God, and understand Scripture in a new way. Whether you're reminiscing about your own childhood curiosities or simply seeking a refreshing take on faith, tune in and rediscover the joy of learning with "Curiously Kaitlyn.”
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 26, 2025 • 33min
Why does God make sad things when he's sad about them?
Dr. Barry Jones, a theologian and senior pastor of Irving Bible Church, joins Kaitlyn to explore the complex relationship between divine grief and human suffering. He discusses why God allows sadness and suffering, emphasizing that God's own grief can bring comfort to us. The pair delve into biblical narratives, including Jesus weeping at Lazarus' tomb, illustrating God's deep empathy. They also encourage embracing tough questions about faith while trusting in God's goodness amidst life's challenges.
20 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 36min
Why do we call each other brothers and sisters?
Dr. Christa McKirland, a systematic theology lecturer and author from New Zealand, dives into the idea of calling each other brothers and sisters within the church. She discusses the spiritual siblinghood that emerges from baptism, reimagining our Christian community as a supportive family. The conversation explores how personal family dynamics shape our understanding of faith relationships and why these connections matter. Christa emphasizes the importance of commitment and mutual accountability in this spiritual family, making a compelling case for egalitarian bonds over hierarchical structures.
10 snips
Aug 12, 2025 • 28min
Why doesn’t God answer my prayers?
Dr. Mika Edmondson, a theologian and lead pastor at Koinonia Church, joins the conversation to explore the pressing question of unanswered prayers. He breaks down what prayer means and the varied responses God may provide, often for our greater good. The discussion also touches on the emotional turmoil of feeling unheard, drawing parallels to Jesus's own suffering. Edmondson emphasizes honest communication with God as a path through disappointment, encouraging listeners to maintain faith even when answers seem distant.
22 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 32min
The Case Against Bible Reading Plans
In this enlightening discussion, Skye Jethani, an author and co-host of The Holy Post podcast, dives into the complexities of Bible reading plans. He questions whether these plans enhance our understanding or simply serve as a checklist. Skye explores the historical evolution of these methods, revealing their impact on biblical engagement. He critiques the modern approach, stressing the need for deeper, more immersive reading. His insights challenge listeners to rethink how they connect with scripture, moving beyond rigid structures towards a more meaningful spiritual journey.
7 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 22min
Does God still love dictators?
The podcast tackles the provocative question of whether God's love embraces dictators. It explores the complex relationship between divine authority and human governance, emphasizing how the fall has distorted rightful leadership. A discussion on accountability reveals the need for compassion even in the face of wrongdoing. Personal anecdotes and insights from scripture paint a nuanced picture of love in challenging contexts. Ultimately, listeners are invited to reflect on the moral responsibilities that accompany power and authority.
Jul 22, 2025 • 31min
What is the most accurate version of the Bible?
Kaitlyn speaks with Amy Peeler, a New Testament scholar and Bible translation committee member. They tackle the fascinating complexities of Bible translations, discussing why they vary and how context shapes understanding. Amy emphasizes the collaborative nature of translation, highlighting the importance of connecting with scripture personally. They also provide tips for selecting a translation that resonates with individuals and explore how to explain biblical stories to children, making scripture accessible and engaging for the younger audience.
4 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 38min
Why did God harden Pharaoh's heart?
Carmen Imes, an Associate Professor of Old Testament at Biola University and an accomplished scholar, discusses the profound question of why God hardened Pharaoh’s heart. She breaks down the theological tension between divine sovereignty and free will, offering insights into the metaphorical meanings of hard-heartedness. Imes also explores the humorous yet poignant narrative of the plagues in Egypt, emphasizing that these aren't just punishments but divine messages meant for reflection. Her explanations invite a deeper understanding of God’s nature and the complexities of morality.
Jul 8, 2025 • 17min
How do we teach kids about the Trinity?
Exploring how to explain the Trinity to kids leads to some interesting insights. Simplifying complex theology becomes key, as relatable biblical stories can make understanding easier for young minds. The discussion emphasizes the importance of engaging children's curiosity to help them appreciate the mysteries of faith. Tips are provided on when to introduce such concepts and how to answer their questions effectively, making it both accessible and meaningful.
Jul 1, 2025 • 34min
Is it wrong to doubt God?
Mike Erre, a teaching pastor and host of the Voxology podcast, engages in an introspective conversation about the nature of doubt in relation to faith. He emphasizes that doubt is not a weakness but a part of spiritual growth, illustrating this with biblical narratives. The discussion navigates the complexity of challenging scripture and the idea that questioning God can stem from genuine trust. Mike encourages a childlike curiosity in exploring faith, reminding us that our questions can lead to deeper understanding and connection with God.
26 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 28min
What makes a belief heretical?
Dive into the intriguing world of heresy and its relevance today. Discover how modern discourse blurs the line between heretical beliefs and genuine disagreements. The conversation navigates core doctrines and the tension between personal interpretation and established traditions. It also highlights the delicate balance needed in discussions about topics like women in ministry. Through thoughtful analysis, the hosts urge caution in labeling beliefs as heretical to foster unity rather than division within faith communities.
