Homebrewed Christianity

James McGrath, an expert on theology and science fiction, dives deep into the fascinating interplay between faith and futuristic narratives. He ponders the intriguing question of whether a powerful alien could be equated to a god. McGrath also tackles the soul of an android and the idea of retelling biblical stories in distant realms. He explores how sci-fi facilitates a modern understanding of faith crises, identity, and ecological narratives, encouraging a richer dialogue between religion and speculative fiction.

In this engaging conversation, theologian Thomas Jay Oord discusses the landscape of faith deconstruction. He shares insights from surveying those in transition, highlighting personal journeys that reflect the complexities of belief and identity post-9/11. Oord explores the balance between fear and freedom in questioning traditions, tackling vital issues like church abuse and biblical inconsistencies. The dialogue emphasizes the potential for both harm and healing in reevaluating faith, inviting listeners to embrace uncertainty and seek a constructive path forward.

Diana Butler Bass, an acclaimed author and scholar, and John Dominic Crossan, a leading expert on the historical Jesus, join forces to explore the resurrection of Jesus through innovative and progressive lenses. They delve into the contrasting interpretations of resurrection, challenging traditional views and emphasizing its transformative implications. The discussion also covers the impact of these concepts on social justice movements and the significance of personal faith in relational contexts. Expect rich insights into early Christianity and vibrant intergenerational dialogue.

Ilia Delio, a distinguished theologian and scholar on science, and Brian McClaren, a key voice in progressive Christianity, team up with community participant John to discuss the upcoming Theology Beer Camp 2024 in Denver. They share exciting details about the diverse range of activities, guest speakers, and the unique blend of theology with craft beverages. The trio emphasizes creating an inclusive atmosphere, the joy of connecting with like-minded individuals, and even dives into youth slang trends, all wrapped in a humorous and engaging dialogue.

Robert N. McCauley, a leading figure in the cognitive science of religion and professor at Emory University, dives into the fascinating intersection of cognition and faith. He discusses the role of cognitive biases in shaping religious beliefs and practices, revealing how implicit cognition influences our understanding of the divine. The conversation also touches on the cultural dynamics of spirituality amidst increasing secularization and the parallels between religious experiences and contemporary fandom, particularly in superhero culture.

Join scholars Jennifer Garcia Bashaw and John Dominic Crossan as they explore how historical Jesus scholarship reshapes Christian practice. They dive into the Passion narratives, discussing the need for historical context and how it counters anti-Semitism. The conversation critiques traditional atonement theories, urging a reevaluation of Jesus's death in light of marginalized perspectives. They also address the complexities of interpreting Scripture across different contexts, inviting deeper engagement with the Gospels.

In this engaging conversation, Brian McLaren, a public theologian and author, joins biblical scholar John Dominic Crossan to unpack the historical significance of Jesus. They dive into the context of Jesus' parables, revealing their relevance to justice and morality today. The duo discusses nonviolent resistance during Jesus' time, emphasizing resilience amid oppression. They also explore the transformative potential of Jesus' message in addressing modern societal issues like wealth distribution and resource exploitation, all while encouraging listeners to rethink their faith.

Ryan Burge, an assistant professor of political science and co-founder of Religion in Public, dives into the evolving landscape of Christian education and ministry. He highlights the challenges of navigating seminary education, including issues of declining enrollment and financial strains. With a touch of humor, Burge discusses the complexities of event planning for theologians and clergy compensation, blending serious insights with lighthearted banter. This conversation shines a light on the impacts of politics on faith communities and the importance of fostering engaging dialogues.

Brian Zahnd, the creator of Word of Life Church, teams up with John Dominic Crossan, a leading historical Jesus scholar. They dive into the complexities of God, violence, and salvation, exploring non-violent readings of scripture. Zahnd reflects on bridging academic theology with practical faith, while Crossan emphasizes the communal nature of salvation. The duo also challenges traditional notions of resurrection and discusses accessible theological texts, making profound ideas relatable for everyone, regardless of their background.

John Caputo, a renowned postmodern philosopher and theologian, discusses his latest book, diving into the essence of belief in a rapidly evolving world. He redefines modern faith, exploring themes like theopoetics and the impact of technology on traditional religion. Caputo emphasizes prayer as a transformative practice and examines the dynamics of desire within communities. His reflections on panentheism challenge rigid notions of divinity, encouraging a more relational understanding that resonates with contemporary experiences.