Homebrewed Christianity

Diana Butler Bass, a renowned scholar and communicator, discusses her new book, Freeing Jesus, weaving together themes of rediscovering faith in a post-religious context. She shares personal revelations from the lockdown, including a newfound love for murder shows and classic films. The conversation addresses evolving faith in contemporary society, emphasizing the need for authentic connections and resilience. Bass also reflects on Jesus as a model for fearless living, highlighting the balance of love, justice, and relationships in nurturing faith.

Gerardo Marti, a sociology professor at Davidson College, dives deep into the dynamics of secularization and social change. He examines the rise of the religiously unaffiliated and the impact of economic development on religiosity. Marti explores the historical roots of spirituality, particularly during the American Revolution, and discusses how traditional religions are evolving amid political landscapes. With insights on the complexity of modern identities and the intersection of faith and capitalism, this conversation is both enlightening and thought-provoking.

Richard Wolff, a Professor of Economics Emeritus, delves into the relevance of Marxist theories in today's capitalist landscape. He critiques traditional economic education and highlights the flaws of capitalism, particularly its cyclical nature and the resulting income inequality. Wolff explores the evolution of socialism as a response to these issues and emphasizes the importance of understanding production relationships to grasp labor dynamics. He also discusses how faith and culture intersect with economics, advocating for proactive community engagement to address systemic challenges.

Bruce Rogers-Vaughn is a Public Theologian, Psychotherapist, and Advocate for Radical Care. He discusses the spiritual implications of the economic crisis, highlighting how neoliberal capitalism affects mental health and community dynamics. Loneliness, especially among youth, becomes a focal point as he critiques traditional counseling methods. The conversation delves into pandemic-induced inequality and systemic injustices, emphasizing love and care as antidotes. Bruce also calls for a reevaluation of money's role in faith, advocating for diversity and community support.

Peter Rollins, a renowned thinker in theology and community, returns for an engaging discussion filled with humor and insight. They reflect on the evolution of friendships and relationships, sharing personal anecdotes and the impact of lockdown on social connections. Rollins dives into 'Christian atheism' and its implications, questioning the relevance of God in today's world. The conversation also touches on Hegel's philosophy and the intersection of faith and doubt, all while preparing listeners for an exciting upcoming cultural event in Belfast.

Gerardo Marti, a sociology professor at Davidson, delves into the intersections of race, religion, and social change. He shares insights from his book 'American Blindspot,' discussing the evolving landscape of American faith and its ties to politics. The conversation reveals the shifting dynamics within multiracial churches and critiques institutional narratives in light of historical injustices. Marti also emphasizes the transformative power of humility and the role of online communities in fostering meaningful dialogue and growth among diverse beliefs.

Tony Jones, a key figure in the emerging church movement, reminisces about the vibrant origins of his podcasting journey with humor and warmth. They discuss the challenges and evolution of the church post-collapse, touching on the biggest failures of the movement and the significance of personal relationships within communities. With nostalgic stories of past gatherings, they explore the impact of social media on public discourse and ponder whether the American church or democracy will face extinction first. Through laughter and reflection, they emphasize the importance of being human in community.

Joerg Rieger, a Distinguished Professor of Theology, combines his expertise in theology with a focus on social justice. He discusses the intertwining of economics and religion, likening modern economic beliefs to dogma while highlighting systemic injustices. Rieger critiques individualism in capitalism, advocating for community collaboration and recognizing hidden resistances in social movements. He delves into concepts like 'lordless slavery' and the importance of grassroots activism, offering a compelling vision for collective action in the face of injustice.

John Polkinghorne, a distinguished physicist-priest, was a pioneer in bridging science and theology. In a captivating discussion, he addresses the harmony between scientific inquiry and faith. He offers insights into open theology and its implications for understanding divine action and miracles. The conversation explores complex ideas about creation, prayer, and the nature of time, emphasizing a collaborative relationship between humanity and God. Polkinghorne's work challenges simplistic views, encouraging a deeper engagement with the intricacies of faith and the universe.

Douglas Ottati, a distinguished Reformed Theology professor at Davidson College, shares insights from his significant new book on 21st-century theology. He dives into the contemporary relevance of piety, the historicity of religious traditions, and critiques on Jonathan Edwards. The conversation touches on how enlightenment shapes our cultural engagement, the interplay between church and academy, and the importance of maintaining a thick doctrine of sin. Ottati also emphasizes the need for deeper theological reflection amidst societal tensions and advocates for a more integrated approach to theological education.