The Bible For Normal People

Attachment theory and its impact on perceptions of God are discussed in this episode. The speakers explore the intersection of psychology, attachment theory, and faith, reflecting on how early relationships shape attachment styles and beliefs about God. They also delve into the concept of God's emotions and question traditional beliefs about divine impassibility. Practical steps for relating to God and others are provided, and the influence of attachment styles on relationships and spirituality is explored.

Guest Pete Enns, resident destroyer, ruins the book of 1 Kings by exploring its historical context and narrative themes. Topics include proper worship and national tragedy, the structure and events of 1 Kings, grammatical connections between the golden calf and Jeroboam's calves, the prophecy of Josiah and the troubled kingship of Jeroboam, and the distinction between Elijah and Moses in the Bible.

Psychotherapist Matthias Roberts discusses healing from religious trauma, faith after trauma, and the integration of psychology and theology. The hosts share their experience with religious trauma and discuss safe spaces vs brave spaces. They also explore leaving spaces, finding refuge in the Episcopal Church, affirming queer folks in faith spaces, and the influence of culture on faith.

Barbara Leung Lai, expert in biblical studies and psychological exegesis, explores the inner thoughts and emotions of characters in the Hebrew Bible. She emphasizes the importance of the 'I' voice in understanding character emotions and relationship with God. The podcast also discusses the concept of interiority in biblical characters and the need for ongoing interpretation and dialogue with the text. Recognizing multiple voices and interpretations in biblical texts is highlighted, along with practical tips for analyzing the biblical text.

Eddie Howells, an expert on Christian mysticism, explores its historical development, integration of intellectual exploration and self-discovery, the presence of mysticism in scripture, and immediate presence of God within oneself. They discuss the development of mysticism for women in Christian institutions, the significance of preaching and contemplation, and the role of mysticism in theology and metaphysics. They emphasize the practices involved in Christian mysticism, embracing mystery, and the joy of studying church history.

Renowned scholar John Dominic Crossan joins Pete and Jared for a discussion on non-canonical gospels, exploring their theological significance. They delve into the unique characteristics of the Gospel of Thomas, emphasizing asceticism and disenchantment with the Roman world. The value of extra canonical gospels and the significance of narrative structure in the New Testament are also highlighted.

Cole Arthur Riley, guest, discusses the harm of disembodied theology, intergenerational spirituality, remembering well, and the path to embodied spirituality.

Richard Kalmin, expert on the origins and history of the Talmud, discusses its significance, development, origin, and function within modern Judaism. They explore its influence, relationship with the Mishnah, and diverse topics covered in the tractates. They also delve into the authority of the Talmud, its role in Jewish tradition, and the value of interpretation and debate.

Felipe Hinojosa, expert in Latino Church History, joins Pete and Jared to discuss the history of the Latino Mennonite tradition in the US. They explore the tensions between white evangelicalism and Latino freedom movements, and the challenges of navigating diverse theological perspectives within a progressive church community. They emphasize the importance of understanding Latino history and recognizing it as part of American church history.

We’re uncovering more than Boaz’s feet in this episode of The Bible for Normal People as Judy Fentress-Williams joins Pete and Jared to take a historical-critical look at the symbolism, cultural context, and subversive embrace of the other within the book of Ruth.Show Notes → Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices