Homebrewed Christianity

Corey Walker, Dean of the School of Divinity at Wake Forest University, and Bill Leonard, Founding Dean and Church History expert, engage in a thought-provoking discussion. They trace the roots of today’s civilizational crisis from the Council of Nicaea to smartphone addiction, exploring the impact of fear in religious discourse. The two emphasize the troubling rise of Christian nationalism and the significance of individual conscience. They call for a deeper, inclusive engagement with faith, challenging listeners to find community and meaning in diverse perspectives.

Join Josh Gilbert, podcast producer and philosophical explorer, as he shares insights on navigating modern identity and adulthood. He opens up about the existential crises faced by many today. The discussion dives into the tension between individualism and community, exploring William James' 'Will to Believe' and the complexities of personal choices. They also touch on societal divides, Byung-Chul Han's concept of positive violence, and the humorous side of planning a cigar expo. Expect laughter and deep thoughts on commitment, freedom, and the search for meaning!

Grace Ji-Sun Kim, a theology professor and host of the Madang podcast, shares her insights on the vital connection between the Holy Spirit, social justice, and the theology of inclusivity. She discusses the transformative potential of starting theological discourse with the Spirit instead of Christology. Grace also critiques the impact of colonial imagery of God on issues like patriarchy and racism, while humorously tying Pentecost to evolutionary biology. Expect engaging conversations about community, discernment, and the upcoming Theology Beer Camp!

Join Andrew Root, a professor dedicated to youth and family ministry at Luther Seminary, as he navigates the complexities of evangelism in today's despair-ridden culture. He argues that the church's true calling may not be to spread happiness, but to walk alongside individuals in their sorrow. The conversation touches on the failure of the pursuit of happiness, critiques of social media's impact on authenticity, and the need for genuine community support. Reflecting on personal stories and philosophical insights, this discussion redefines what the gospel can mean in modern times.

Rolf Jacobson, a Professor of Old Testament at Luther Seminary, pays tribute to the influential biblical scholar Walter Brueggemann. They discuss Walter's revolutionary approach to biblical theology, emphasizing a relational God. Rolf shares touching stories about Walter's pastoral heart and his critiques of American capitalism. They explore 'The Prophetic Imagination' as a call for hope rather than condemnation, and examine the connections between ancient texts and contemporary social justice issues, showcasing Walter's innovative interdisciplinary insights.

Walter Brueggemann, a legendary scholar of the Hebrew Bible, is honored for his transformative impact on biblical scholarship. The conversation revisits his insights into prophetic imagination and critiques of money and possessions, encouraging a God-centered view of justice and human flourishing. Brueggemann's teachings on the emotional complexity of God, fidelity amidst challenges, and the relevance of liberation theology resonate with contemporary struggles. His legacy inspires both scholars and believers to engage deeply with scripture and actively pursue justice.

The podcast explores the puzzling decline of liberal churches despite their rich theological scholarship. It highlights the clash between individual choice and communal faith, compounded by consumer culture. Key issues include 'spiritual thinness' and 'liberal laryngitis,' revealing a struggle to communicate essential truths. With many congregations facing existential crises, the discussion suggests that losing thoughtful faith risks profound consequences. The conversation challenges listeners to consider the survival and evolution of liberal Christianity in an ever-changing cultural landscape.

Grace Ji-Sun Kim, a theology professor at Earlham School of Religion and host of the Madang podcast, dives into the rich and often overlooked nuances of the Holy Spirit. She explores the evolution of Spirit language, revealing its feminine roots in early texts. Kim connects cultural concepts of spirit, like 'chi' and 'ruah', advocating for a more inclusive theological framework. The conversation touches on the intersection of spirituality and social justice, arguing for a broader understanding of the Spirit that unites diverse faiths in advocacy and compassion.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Justin Barrett, President of Blueprint 1543 and cognitive scientist, dives into human development and the intersection of faith and science. He highlights the importance of developmental psychology, explaining how children's innate curiosity drives their understanding of agency. The conversation also touches on the challenges of modern technology on relationships, likening it to kudzu's invasive nature. Additionally, Barrett addresses the crisis of masculinity, linking historical shifts in relationships to today's evolving identities and social landscapes.

Grace Ji-Sun Kim, a theology professor and author, explores the tumultuous history of early Christian doctrine regarding the Holy Spirit. She reveals why the term 'Trinity' isn't even found in the Bible and the complexities the early church faced without a canonized New Testament. Grace discusses how Roman imperial politics influenced these debates and the importance of historical context in theology. The conversation dives into distinguishing the Spirit's work from personal emotion and emphasizes a communal approach to understanding faith.