Denzel Washington was recently baptized and now believes he's been called to ministry. How does he compare to other celebrity Christians and do we expect too much, or not enough from the most famous believers? Also, Esau talks about a recent CT article on family estrangement drawing from his own personal experience. How do we follow the commandment to honor our mother and father when we are cut off from them?   Christianity Today article on Estrangement: https://www.christianitytoday.com/2024/11/estrangement-parents-love-carrie-mckean/

Esau is joined by Justin Giboney and Tish Harrison Warren to look back at the major religious, cultural, and political stories of 2024. From the impact of the election and the rise of AI in churches to surprising shifts in church demographics and the ongoing challenges of political polarization, the conversation dives deep into what shaped the church this year.

Emily McGowin, an associate professor of theology and co-pastor, and Timothy Larson, the McManus Chair of Christian Thought, dive into the rich tapestry of Christmas traditions. They explore the origins of beloved customs like the Christmas tree and the significance of cherished hymns. The duo highlights the importance of embracing all 12 days of Christmas, balancing joy and sorrow in celebrations, and reflecting on the theological roots linking winter solstice to Christ's coming. Expect a mix of humor, personal anecdotes, and deep theological insights!

In this engaging discussion, Kevin Vanhoozer, a research professor of systematic theology and author of 'Mere Christian Hermeneutics,' explores the essence of Bible reading and its impact on personal character. He highlights C.S. Lewis's influence on literary criticism and advocates for unity among diverse Protestant views. The conversation delves into the significance of context in interpretation and the importance of humility in approaching scripture. Ultimately, they emphasize fostering community-oriented reading practices that enrich spiritual growth.

Alissa Wilkinson, a New York Times film critic renowned for her keen insights, discusses her journey into film critique and reveals her top movie picks for 2024. The conversation spans the cultural impact of cinematic storytelling and the challenges of maintaining authenticity in blockbuster filmmaking. They explore faith themes in horror films, examining how they illuminate belief and doubt. Plus, Alissa shares cherished Christmas movie memories, blending nostalgia with a heartfelt reflection on what makes these films resonate.

Dr. Jennifer Powell McNutt, a leading biblical scholar and author of The Mary We Forgot, joins the discussion to debunk longstanding misconceptions about Mary Magdalene. They explore her vital role as an apostle and model disciple, challenging the myths that have historically overshadowed her significance. The conversation also tackles women's contributions to ministry, the importance of retrieving overlooked stories in church history, and the intriguing dynamics of spiritual warfare. This rich dialogue invites a reevaluation of how we view both Mary and women's roles in faith.

In this lively discussion, Kaitlyn Schiess, a thoughtful theologian and writer, joins Esau for a festive Thanksgiving food draft. They debate their favorite dishes, sharing personal stories and cultural insights that make the meal special. The conversation takes a deeper turn as they tackle the complexities of loving those with different beliefs and confront the challenging teachings of Jesus, including the meaning behind his controversial statement about bringing a sword. Plus, expect some playful banter on turkey and dessert choices!

Mike Cosper, Senior Director of Media for Christianity Today and author of "The Church in Dark Times," dives into the controversial picks for Trump's cabinet, analyzing the implications of figures like Dr. Oz and Matt Gaetz. He discusses the balance between competence and ideology in political appointments and the influence of media personalities. Cosper also explores the intersection of politics and faith, warning against churches being co-opted by political agendas, urging the importance of maintaining spiritual integrity amidst societal pressures.

Join Malcolm Foley, a cultural insight enthusiast, and Justin Giboney, president of The AND Campaign, as they explore the Kendrick Lamar vs. Drake beef. They reveal how hip-hop rivalries mirror church conflicts, touching on authenticity and identity in both realms. Discover how disagreements can clarify beliefs and foster growth rather than division. With a look at historical church tensions and the necessity of grace, they emphasize constructive engagement in both faith and culture, proving that conflict can indeed bring us closer together.

In this discussion, Justin Giboney, co-founder of the AND Campaign, and Michael Wear, founder of the Center for Christian Public Engagement, unpack the surprising factors behind Trump's recent electoral win. They delve into the struggles faced by low propensity voters and the Democratic Party's future strategies. The conversation also explores the intersection of faith and politics, addressing how Christian voters navigate complex issues and the vital role of community leaders in fostering civic engagement amidst a polarized climate.