Homebrewed Christianity

Robert Wright, a notable author and podcaster, engages in a thought-provoking dialogue about the intersection of Buddhism and psychology. He explores the merits of evolutionary psychology, emphasizing why everyone should learn about it. Wright delves into the concept of 'new agnosticism' and its implications on consciousness, urging discussions around moral progress. He challenges the Western perspective on Buddhism, advocating for its rich traditions beyond mere mindfulness. The conversation also critiques religious practices and the role of competition in belief systems.

Dr. Robert Kurzban, an evolutionary psychologist and author, dives into the intriguing intersections of morality, hypocrisy, and human behavior. They unpack how our modular brains influence moral beliefs and how self-interest often shapes public opinions. The discussion touches on religion's role in politics, the challenges of discussing climate change, and the impact of social media on polarization. With a mix of humor and insight, Kurzban challenges listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and the complexities of their motivations.

Karl Giberson, a physicist and prominent voice in the science-religion dialogue, shares his journey from evangelicalism to a Catholic context. He discusses the struggle of reconciling faith with scientific understanding, particularly concerning evolution and climate change. Giberson expresses skepticism about the multiverse theory and emphasizes the challenges of anti-intellectualism in evangelical circles. Personal anecdotes reveal the complexities of LGBTQ+ acceptance within church communities as he navigates his evolving beliefs and promotes a more nuanced discourse on faith.

Rolf Jacobson, an expert on the Old Testament and author of the Homebrewed Christianity Guide to the Old Testament, dives into the often misunderstood Hebrew scriptures. He challenges listeners to embrace these texts rather than dismiss them. The discussion also covers the nature of God as just and merciful, the transformative power of prayer and Psalms, and the complexities of engaging with sacred texts. With a blend of humor and theology, Jacobson reflects on modern interpretations and the ongoing relevance of ancient scriptures in today's world.

Ted Peters, a renowned theologian and cosmo-theologian, dives into profound discussions on cosmic history and the implications of extraterrestrial life for faith. He challenges traditional Christian views by exploring humanity's place in a vast universe. The conversation touches on the intersection of science and religion, advocating for collaboration rather than conflict. Peters also reflects on the historical Axial Age and its impact on spiritual consciousness while humorously connecting faith with technology and ethics.

Greg Jarrell, founder of QC Family Tree in Charlotte, shares his journey from a Southern Baptist upbringing to advocating for community and justice. He discusses the themes of his new book, 'A Riff of Love,' exploring the transformative power of connection. Conversation highlights include the challenges of privilege, navigating despair with local hope, and the significance of truth in family narratives. Greg's insights on inclusivity and community engagement highlight the importance of building bridges in today's divided society.

In this lively conversation, acclaimed author and speaker Brian McLaren takes the helm, discussing themes from the film 'The Road to Edmond.' He delves into sexuality, inclusion, and evolving church dynamics, advocating for a compassionate understanding of faith. Brian shares insights on the transition from podcasting to filmmaking and reflects on the creative process. The duo also tackles identity struggles within church settings, emphasizing authenticity in storytelling and the impact of home-grown Christianity in the arts.

In this engaging conversation, Thomas Jay Oord, a renowned theologian and author, dives into his thought-provoking book, 'God Can't.' He explores the complexities of divine love versus power, emphasizing God's empathetic presence amid human suffering. Oord shares personal stories that illuminate the challenges of faith in the face of tragedy and injustice. The discussion urges a paradigm shift in understanding God’s role in healing, advocating for love and relational connections over traditional narratives of divine intervention.

Keith Ward, a British philosopher, theologian, and former Regius Professor at Oxford, shares his transformative journey from atheism to Christianity. He discusses the intersection of science and spirituality, emphasizing the influence of quantum mechanics on our understanding of reality. Ward critiques institutional power and advocates for a broader interpretation of religious experiences, transcending traditional confines. Additionally, he explores the concept of the Cosmic Christ and the need for practical engagement in social justice within Christianity.

In this discussion, Thomas Jay Oord, a distinguished scholar in Open and Relational Theology, shares insights from his recent book, 'God Can't,' which addresses the problem of evil and human agency. He emphasizes the importance of relationality in understanding God's nature and the impact of our actions. The conversation highlights how open and relational theology can make profound theological concepts accessible to everyone, encouraging community engagement and personal connections. Oord also explores differing theological perspectives, revealing the rich tapestry of contemporary theological discourse.