Homebrewed Christianity

In this enlightening discussion, Andrew M. Davis, a prominent process philosopher and theologian, introduces the intricate thought of Alfred North Whitehead. He uses the metaphor of a prism to illustrate the complexity of reality and the dynamic nature of being and becoming. The conversation explores the interplay between philosophy, human experience, and the cosmos, advocating for a relational perspective that emphasizes ethical transformation. Davis also highlights the importance of community in understanding these philosophical concepts and invites engagement through educational opportunities.

In this episode, I team up with our producer, Josh Gilbert, for an experimental format inspired by our podcast planning sessions, where Josh often brings up intriguing questions he’s gathered while editing. Together, we explore how our initial infatuation with ideas can grow into a deeper understanding and mastery and how our personal biases inevitably shape our philosophical inquiries.  We discuss the significance of philosophy in making sense of existence, agency, and how we apply ideas in everyday life. We talk about the value of curiosity and the ongoing journey of learning across the humanities, emphasizing the need to engage with philosophical texts critically and passionately. Josh pressed me on the distinction between plausibility and intensity of faith commitments, the existential register’s importance in understanding religious identity, and how modern empiricism and cultural narratives influence individual agency.  Throughout the conversation, we weave in insights from thinkers like Alfred North Whitehead, Hans-Georg Gadamer, Søren Kierkegaard, Paul Tillich, Karl Barth, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, J.R.R. Tolkien, Martin Heidegger, Philip Goff, and Charles Taylor. Together, we explore how these voices create a community of inquiry that invigorates our understanding of life and existence, showing how philosophy can shape what we think and how we live.To get the entire conversation, all podcast episodes ad-free, and support our work, consider joining the Process This on SubStack or get access to our entire catalog of classes & all the rest by joining up at Theology Class.UPCOMING ONLINE CLASS - Truth in Tough Times: Global Voices of LiberationI am thrilled to announce our upcoming class with Joerg Rieger and a host of liberation theologians from across the globe. Our goal is to create an experience where participants will get a clear and compelling account of contemporary liberation theology and meet the most critical voices of our generation. As always, then lass is donation-based, including 0. Get info and join up at www.TruthInToughTimes.com_____________________Join my Substack - Process This!Join our class - THE RISE OF BONHOEFFER, for a guided tour of Bonhoeffer's life and thought.Spend a week with Tripp & Andrew Root in Bonhoeffer’s House in Berlin this June as part of the Rise of Bonhoeffer Travel Learning Experience. INFO & DETAILS HEREFollow the podcast, drop a review, send feedback/questions or become a member of the HBC Community. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Grace Ji-Sun Kim discusses her provocative new book, When God Became White. We delve into challenging topics like the implications of a colonialist legacy on the church, the intersections of race, gender, and religion, and how historical missions have shaped perceptions. We also discuss the representation of Jesus in church life, syncretism in Christianity, and the experiences of Korean immigrants. Grace Ji-Sun Kim is a professor of theology at Earlham School of Religion and host of the Madang podcast.You can WATCH the conversation on YouTube.Previous Episodes with Grace & Susan Surviving God Godly QnA a Theology of Visibility  What is Intersectional Theology? The Prophetic Life of the Spirit Embracing the Other and Reading the Bible Keeping Hope Alive Garrett Theological Seminary sponsored this episode. Seminary education isn’t just for pastors. Social awareness of the world’s most pressing problems, robust ethical analysis, empathic biblical wisdom, and courageous leadership are skills you can use across a wide range of vocations. Whether you feel called to care and counseling, public service, prophetic arts, or non-profit management, there’s a degree program at Garrett Seminary that’s right for you. Our global faculty and diverse student body nurture class discussions that reflect the contextual realities in the communities you’ll serve, and our commitment to hands-on learning means you’ll have plenty of opportunities to put that knowledge to use. Located in the heart of Northwestern’s campus, just a short train ride from Chicago, let our city be your training ground. Garrett also offers fully online and hybrid programs. So wherever and whoever you are, apply to begin your fulfilling new career today. Learn more here. _____________________Join my Substack - Process This!Join our class - THE RISE OF BONHOEFFER, for a guided tour of Bonhoeffer's life and thought.Spend a week with Tripp & Andrew Root in Bonhoeffer’s House in Berlin this June as part of the Rise of Bonhoeffer Travel Learning Experience. INFO & DETAILS HEREFollow the podcast, drop a review, send feedback/questions or become a member of the HBC Community. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr. David Congdon joins me to discuss Rudolf Bultmann and his Advent preaching. He is infamous for his “demythologizing” approach to scripture, which seeks to uncover the true meaning behind the biblical narratives. Bultmann’s Advent sermons strip away sentimentalism, presenting the Incarnation as a call to authentic existence. We’ll consider how his approach can help us understand Christmas as more than a story, but as a profound encounter with God’s call in our own lives.You can WATCH the conversation on YouTubeDavid Congdon is an author, speaker, and scholar working in the area of theology and culture. Originally from Portland, Oregon, he completed a B.A. in English at Wheaton College, acquired an M.Div. and Ph.D. in theology from Princeton Theological Seminary, and have since worked in the publishing industry as an academic acquisitions editor.Previous Podcast Episodes with David Who Is a True Christian?: Contesting Religious Identity in American Culture Dialectical Theology Bultmann’s Mission of Demythologizing _____________________This DECEMBER, we will be exploring the 'Theologians of Crisis' in our online Advent class - Breaking into the Broken World. Join us to learn about Karl Barth, Paul Tillich, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and Rudolph Bultmann as we explore their thoughts and timely reflections in their Advent/Christmas sermons.Join my Substack - Process This!Join our class - THE RISE OF BONHOEFFER, for a guided tour of Bonhoeffer's life and thought.Spend a week with Tripp & Andrew Root in Bonhoeffer’s House in Berlin this June as part of the Rise of Bonhoeffer Travel Learning Experience. INFO & DETAILS HEREFollow the podcast, drop a review, send feedback/questions or become a member of the HBC Community. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Dr. John Thatamanil, a Professor of Theology & World Religions, as he dives into the intricate philosophy of Paul Tillich. They explore Tillich's insights on God's relationship with history and incarnation, delving into existential despair, divine grace, and the complexities of time. The discussion illuminates the connections between culture and religion, advocating for a forward-thinking approach to justice and spirituality. Discover how these ideas resonate with contemporary faith in challenging times.

Dr. Reggie Williams, an associate professor of Black theology and Bonhoeffer expert, joins Dr. Jeffrey Pugh for a thought-provoking discussion. They explore Dietrich Bonhoeffer's theological evolution influenced by the Harlem Renaissance, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of his critiques in today’s sociopolitical climate. Topics include the role of Black church traditions in social justice movements, the ethical challenges faced by faith leaders, and the importance of personal narratives in confronting systemic injustices, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Dr. Andrew Root, a theologian specializing in Dietrich Bonhoeffer's legacy, discusses Bonhoeffer's profound Advent sermons and their relevance today. He explores Bonhoeffer’s experiences in major cities and his responses to ideological crises. The conversation highlights Christ’s presence in the marginalized and the significance of community over institutional religion. Root reflects on the tension between hope and despair in anxious waiting, emphasizing personal connections and humility as revolutionary forces that transform faith and ethics.

Travis McMaken, the Butler Bible Endowed Professor of Religion, dives into the thought-provoking theology of Karl Barth, the original crisis theologian. They explore Barth's reaction to World War I and the evolution of his ideas on incarnation and revelation. Discussing the relevance of Barth's insights for contemporary challenges, they tackle the interplay of faith and power, critiques of cultural captivity, and the transformative essence of the gospel. The conversation highlights how the incarnation remains significant for believers today, underscoring a deep, ongoing relationship with God.

Catherine Keller, a leading voice in process theology, joins Kristy Whaley, an expert in Christian literature, and Ilia Delio, a theologian focused on science and religion. They dive deep into the perplexities surrounding the language of God and propose a theopoetic approach. The conversation navigates how personal experiences shape perceptions of God and the importance of a relational understanding of the divine. They explore the transformative power of community, the relevance of personal wounds, and the impact of technology on faith, all while challenging traditional theological views.

In this conversation, Simon Critchley, a philosopher at the New School for Social Research and author of "Mysticism," discusses his deep dive into the world of mysticism and its relevance today. He reflects on figures like Meister Eckhart and Julian of Norwich, exploring transformative spiritual experiences amidst modernity's alienation. The talk delves into personal engagement with mysticism, the role of prayer, and how mystical texts can reshape our understanding of faith. Critchley's insights provide a fresh perspective on spirituality in our contemporary world.