Tangible: Theology Learned and Lived

The wisdom in the book of Job often gets tangled with platitudes of our own making. Which is which? "Job is dealing with the idea of a kind of a suffering that's incomprehensible and he gives us permission to speak very differently to and about God," said Dr. Tim Saleska, professor of exegetical theology. Join us as Dr. Saleska faces Job head-on.

In this new series of episodes, professors explore the theological impact of their favorite pieces of literature. "Literature can help us to see the transcendent truths of the gospel anew," said Dr. Ryan Tinetti, professor of Practical Theology. "It can help us deepen our experience, our understanding and our sympathy for folks from all walks of life and experiences," said Dr. Kent Burreson, professor of Systematic Theology. Join Tinetti and Burreson in a discussion about Willa Cather's "My Ántonia" and Karen Blixen's "Babette's Feast."

Dr. Leopoldo Sánchez, professor of systematic theology and Dr. Jeff Oschwald, professor of exegetical theology, discuss the role of the Holy Spirit in the Gospel of Luke. "You've got to 'land the dove,' listening to what the Spirit was doing in the life of Jesus and in our lives," said Sánchez. "The presence of God is in Jesus in a completely unique way, and yet he draws us into that by the gift of his Spirit to us," said Oschwald. Join this discussion about Spirit Christology and its impact in our daily lives.

How should the church respond to its declining influence in today's culture? Join Dr. Chad Lakies and President Emeritus Dr. Dale A. Meyer as they continue the discussion about Lakies's new book How the Light Shines Through: Resilient Witness in Dark Times.

"I've been reading Luther's mail for a long time now," said Dr. Stephen Pietsch, associate professor of Practical Theology. "Martin Luther was not only a bull-headed reformer — but also a gentle, wise correspondent." Join Pietsch and Dr. Jason Lane, associate professor of Historical Theology, as they discuss Pietsch's research into the letters that Luther wrote to comfort those who were suffering from depression.

Join Dr. Chad Lakies and President Emeritus Dr. Dale A. Meyer as they discuss "insider versus outsider" mentality and explore some ways to build positive relationships with those on the other side of the fence.

World-renowned archeologist Dr. Jodi Magness shares her findings from decades of excavations in Israel. "The world of Jesus 2000 years ago was as alien to us as life on Mars. It was a completely different world," said Magness in this discussion with Professor of Exegetical Theology Dr. David Adams.

Is social media changing the factors that contribute to the formation of sexual identity? Join this discussion between three church workers as they share their experiences working with tech-savvy youth.

Technology is an apparent force in the world, but it's nothing new. From scrolls to screens, innovations have shaped how we interact with God's Word and each other. How will technology influence the church in the future? Listen to Dr. Bernard Bull and Dr. David Maxwell as they discuss their research and experience.

Hosea lived out God's message of redemption in a very tangible way. What does this minor prophet from the eighth century BC have to say to us today? Dr. Kevin Golden shares his research discoveries in a discussion with Dr. David Lewis about the incredibly relevant book of Hosea.