Homebrewed Christianity

Chase Tibbs, co-host of the Faith and Capital podcast, dives into the compelling connection between Christianity and socialism. He outlines five key reasons to embrace Christian socialism, emphasizing the historical contributions of theologians like Barth and Niebuhr. The discussion navigates class identity, urging solidarity among the working class while critiquing capitalism's societal barriers. Tibbs argues for transformative community engagement to address systemic injustices and challenges Christians to actively participate in the fight for social justice.

Kevin Max is a four-time Grammy-winning vocalist known for his work in DC Talk and various music styles. He dives into his journey from Christian fame to a more inclusive spirituality and his adventures with his new band, Sad Astronauts. Listeners will hear about his unique friendship with Larry Norman, humorous tour bus tales, and heartfelt reflections on faith deconstruction. Kevin also explores the nuances of artistic expression and imagines cosmic collaborations, inviting all to join his creative expedition.

Join Sarah Lane Ritchie, a Lecturer in Theology and Science, and Joshua Ralston, a Reader in Christian-Muslim Relations at the University of Edinburgh, for a lively chat. They tackle misconceptions about Islam, exploring interfaith dialogue's importance. The duo shares insights on the significance of Lent, its parallels to Ramadan, and the emotional challenges facing Americans abroad during major events. Their humorous yet profound discussion highlights the intersections of politics, faith, and personal experiences, along with the complexities of the Trinity.

John Thatamanil, a theological super-star and author of 'Circling the Elephant', dives into the complexities of comparative theology. He critiques fixed religious categories, argues for the importance of engaging with diverse faiths, and highlights the metaphor of the blind elephant to illustrate religious diversity. Emphasizing that encountering the mystery of God requires understanding our neighbors, he challenges capitalist influences on spirituality and explores how nature's interconnectedness can enrich our theological frameworks.

Andrew Davison, a lecturer at the University of Cambridge and Canon Philosopher of St Albans Cathedral, dives into profound themes of faith and philosophy. He discusses the challenge of modern doubts within ancient traditions and the art of preaching in academic circles. Davison explores Aristotle’s concepts of causation, linking them to contemporary biology, and emphasizes the transformative power of participation in Christian life. He reflects on the essential beauty of human finitude and the communal nature of redemption, illustrating how interconnectedness deepens our understanding of faith.

Dr. Alister McGrath, a public intellectual and Oxford scholar of science and religion, shares his fascinating journey from atheism to faith. He critiques Richard Dawkins' views, emphasizing the rich interplay between science and existential questions. McGrath discusses the vital role of wonder in intellectual pursuits and the duality of human nature, highlighting the coexistence of good and evil. He also encourages dialogue between atheists and the faithful, advocating for a deeper understanding of religion's significance in contemporary life.

Thomas Jay Oord, a renowned theologian specializing in Open and Relational theology, tackles thought-provoking questions about faith and existence. They discuss the implications of extraterrestrial intelligence on theology, suggesting that faith can evolve and coexist harmoniously with diverse beliefs. Oord also challenges conventional views on Jesus' death, presenting it as a dynamic relationship with humanity. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, hope, and inclusive dialogue in spiritual experiences.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Adam Clark, an expert in Black Theology, and Jeffrey Pugh, a scholar and former professor, delve into the theological implications of January 6th. They explore resistance through the lenses of Bonhoeffer and Cone, tackling the intersections of faith and political turmoil. The conversation highlights the risks of authoritarianism intertwining with Christian nationalism. They also reflect on the necessity for empathy in confronting societal challenges, examining how social media shapes belief systems and the responsibility of faith communities in today's polarized landscape.

Dr. Helene Russell, an associate professor at Christian Theological Seminary, dives into trauma-sensitive theology and feminist perspectives. She shares personal stories from her childhood teaching adventures, illustrating her journey into the field. The discussion highlights Soren Kierkegaard’s insights on faith, doubt, and the subjective nature of truth. Russell also explores the interplay between trauma and theology, emphasizing the importance of relational understanding and the emotional weight of symbols in shaping ethical discourse.

Join Jan-Olav Henriksen, a Norwegian philosopher and theologian, as he delves into contemporary theological challenges. He discusses the intriguing concept of 'symbol-deficit disorder' and how it affects our understanding of religion today. The conversation emphasizes the pragmatic side of theology, connecting philosophy with lived experiences. Henriksen challenges traditional views of God, promoting a narrative-driven approach to identity. He also explores the role of religious symbols in shaping personal and communal faith, all while urging for ecological consciousness within theology.