Homebrewed Christianity

Wm. Curtis Holtzen, professor of philosophy and theology at Hope International University, brings a fresh perspective on divine faith and pop culture. He dives into open relational theology, discussing how it reshapes our understanding of God's trust and engagement with humanity. The conversation explores the multifaceted nature of Christ's incarnation, redefining salvation in communal terms, and the implications for scriptural interpretation. Plus, enjoy a lighthearted debate on the intersection of ice cream flavors and theological ideas!

Brian McLaren, a prominent author and speaker on contemporary faith, dives into the changing landscape of Christianity post-9/11. He reflects on the lasting impact of terrorism and societal perceptions, while expressing frustration over political deception regarding climate change. The conversation emphasizes a relational understanding of God, exploring love and inclusivity across diverse faiths. McLaren also touches on the evolution of beliefs and the intersection of faith with economic realities, advocating for deeper connections and vulnerability in prayer.

Myron Penner, a philosophy professor and director at the Anabaptist-Mennonite Centre, dives deep into the intersection of philosophy and religion. He shares his late-blooming journey in academics and the complexities of defining faith. The conversation weaves through personal anecdotes, tackling the contradictions of divine love and the significance of rituals. Penner reflects on community dynamics in a post-pandemic world, while also challenging listeners to think critically about identity and justice within their beliefs.

Diana Butler Bass, an acclaimed author and scholar in theology and spirituality, engages in a thought-provoking discussion about the evolving landscape of faith since 9/11. She tackles the impacts of surveillance culture on trust and spirituality, revealing how security measures create divisions. The conversation also highlights the tension between faith and science, especially around vaccine sentiments in church communities. Bass emphasizes the power of inter-religious friendship to bridge divides and foster understanding in today's polarized society.

Michael Showalter, a filmmaker known for his work on 'The Big Sick' and 'Wet Hot American Summer,' discusses his latest film, 'The Eyes of Tammy Faye.' He explores themes of faith and resilience reflected in the movie, along with the shifting landscape of film consumption post-pandemic. The conversation also dives into the cultural significance of nostalgic shows, the ethics of superpowers, and the joy of craft beer culture. Expect light-hearted banter, deep reflections on identity and storytelling, and insights on fandom in today's media landscape.

Diana Butler Bass, an esteemed author and scholar on Christianity and culture, dives deep into the evolving landscape of American evangelicals. The conversation explores the political shifts among white evangelicals, especially their support for Donald Trump, and the implications for religious identity. They reflect on the legacy of John Shelby Spong, emphasizing themes of forgiveness and inclusivity. Bass also discusses the cultural takeaway from 'The Eyes of Tammy Faye,' advocating for communities rooted in compassion and understanding amidst contemporary challenges.

Matthew Segall, an author dedicated to exploring cosmology and process philosophy, returns to share insights from his new book. He discusses his journey into Alfred North Whitehead's thought and its implications on consciousness and existence. The conversation delves into the limits of science, the concept of the 'world-soul,' and how Whitehead reshapes the understanding of life after death. Segall also reflects on his personal experiences with Christianity, advocating for a non-denominational approach that emphasizes relationality and community.

In this discussion, Joshua Morris, a practical theologian and army chaplain, sheds light on the moral injury faced by veterans returning from conflict. He emphasizes the importance of genuine support from families and communities and critiques societal narratives that romanticize military service. Morris shares powerful veteran stories, highlighting the disconnection between military experiences and civilian life. He advocates for a shift from mere gratitude to deeper solidarity, calling on religious leaders to provide compassionate care and foster healing.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Brian McLaren, an influential author on faith, joins historian Diana Butler Bass. They dive into America's evolving global image post-9/11 and the importance of humility in addressing systemic issues. The dialogue tackles the church's role in a turbulent society, with emphasis on love-centered spirituality over fear-driven narratives. They also confront systemic racism, highlighting the need for genuine relationships and vulnerability. Their insights challenge listeners to engage meaningfully with contemporary faith-related challenges.

Featuring Justin Barrett, a cognitive scientist, Pamela King, a co-author focused on human flourishing, Joanna Collicutt, a psychological scientist clergy, and Jonathan Jong, known for his research on psychology and spirituality. The discussion reveals how evolutionary psychology can enrich Christian faith. They explore Blueprint 1543's role in merging science and theology and share insights on thriving through faith and psychology. The conversation also delves into moral philosophy, the dynamics of human nature, and the transformative power of understanding mortality in our spiritual lives.