
Curiously Kaitlyn
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.”
Latest episodes

Feb 11, 2025 • 28min
Why does God take care of us?
Dr. Vincent Bacote, a theology professor and director at Wheaton College, dives deep into the themes of divine care and human stewardship. He discusses the dual nature of God, highlighting His imminent and transcendent qualities. The conversation explores God's common grace and His ongoing commitment to creation, even amidst human flaws. Bacote eloquently reflects on the beauty of God's providence and the importance of understanding our role in the world as caretakers, emphasizing the interconnectedness of creation and redemption.

4 snips
Feb 4, 2025 • 31min
Why didn’t God just make us obey?
Dr. Barry Jones, a senior pastor and author, explores the profound question of why God didn't make us obedient. He highlights the significance of free will in nurturing authentic relationships with the divine. Delving into the Trinity, he emphasizes love over enforced obedience. The discussion touches on the paradox of faith, acknowledging the necessary role of doubt. Jones beautifully articulates how transformative love leads to true spiritual growth, urging listeners to embrace trust amid life’s challenges.

18 snips
Jan 28, 2025 • 30min
If Adam and Eve had two boys, then where did all the people come from?
Dr. Carmen Imes, Associate Professor of Old Testament at Biola University and an acclaimed author, dives into the intriguing origins of humanity from a biblical perspective. She explores the story of Adam and Eve, addressing the puzzling question of where all people originated if their family was limited to two boys. The conversation emphasizes the importance of curiosity in biblical interpretation and offers practical tips for better scripture reading. Imes also discusses the interplay of theology and science in understanding human ancestry.

11 snips
Jan 21, 2025 • 47min
Mailbag: Does God Change His Mind? Was the Trinity Torn Apart? And More!
Dive into a lively discussion about whether the Trinity was separated during the crucifixion. Explore the importance of teaching salvation to kids in a positive light and addressing contradictions in the Bible. Delve into the inherent goodness of creation while tackling complex theological questions, including feelings of abandonment and divine faithfulness. Learn practical approaches to engaging children with the Bible, emphasizing storytelling that fosters both spiritual growth and community connection. It's an enlightening conversation that challenges traditional views!

Jan 14, 2025 • 32min
If Jesus’ dad is the king, is his mother the queen?
Amy Peeler, a New Testament scholar and ordained priest, dives deep into the role of Mary, the mother of Jesus. She discusses the intriguing question of whether Mary can be considered a queen alongside God. Dr. Peeler contrasts Catholic and Protestant views on Mary's significance and her title as 'queen of heaven.' The conversation also addresses the complexities of divine relationships, emphasizing Mary’s vital role in Jesus' humanity, and encourages a thoughtful appreciation of her place in Christian tradition.

Jan 7, 2025 • 35min
How do we know when God is talking to us?
Mike Erre, a teaching pastor at Journey Church and prolific author, joins to explore how we can know when God is speaking to us. He shares insights on engaging with scripture to enhance daily life and the importance of community in discerning true divine messages. Through personal anecdotes, they discuss recognizing God's voice in nature and relationships. Erre emphasizes the need for active prayer and relational intimacy with the divine, reassuring listeners about their agency in navigating God's guidance.

Dec 31, 2024 • 29min
Sunday School with Kaitlyn: The Story of Jonah
Join a lively storytelling session where the tale of Jonah unfolds with humor and insight. Explore Jonah’s reluctance to follow divine commands and his fantastic encounter with a whale. Delve into themes of repentance and the humor behind his three days at sea. Discover the deep symbolism of ashes in mourning rituals and the philosophical questions raised by Jonah's conflicting emotions. This engaging discussion is perfect for anyone curious about faith, compassion, and the human experience.

17 snips
Dec 24, 2024 • 30min
Is Santa Real!?
Grace Hamman, a scholar and author known for her insights into medieval Christian faith, dives into the enchanting story of St. Nicholas, revealing his acts of kindness and the origins of modern-day Santa Claus. She discusses how historical narratives shape our holiday traditions and the importance of secret giving. The conversation also touches on the theological significance of saints and encourages listeners to appreciate the true spirit of Christmas, emphasizing generosity and the deeper meanings of the holiday beyond materialism.

19 snips
Dec 17, 2024 • 35min
How do we know God is real?
Justin Brierley, a writer and speaker known for bridging conversations between faith perspectives, joins Kaitlyn to tackle the crucial question of God's existence. He distinguishes between knowing and proving God's reality and shares insights on how parents can engage children about faith in today's skeptical world. Brierley advocates for a rational defense of God's existence, touching on concepts like human dignity and the universe's fine-tuning. He emphasizes that faith is a dynamic journey, shaped more by personal experience than just intellectual arguments.

13 snips
Dec 10, 2024 • 26min
What is the difference between the kingdom of God and eternal life?
Dr. Jonathan Pennington, a New Testament scholar and associate pastor, joins to explore the intriguing differences between the kingdom of God and eternal life. He discusses how Jesus’ teachings reveal their connection, emphasizing that one can’t have eternal life without embracing the kingdom. The conversation highlights the transformative power of these concepts in shaping faith and communal responsibility. Dr. Pennington also challenges the idea of salvation without active discipleship, urging a deeper relationship with God and community.
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