Theology of God's homecoming

In this conversation, Jason Ballard sits down with N.T. Wright, New Testament scholar, Anglican minister, and longtime teacher, to talk about the grand story of Scripture, the vocation of the scholar-pastor, and the unique hope that sustains weary leaders.

Tom reflects on his early sense of call, his lifelong commitment to holding together pastoral ministry and academic theology, and the deep joy of returning to Scripture over decades without losing wonder. He speaks candidly about the disorientation that can come through serious theological study, and offers wise, pastoral insight for those walking alongside students and pastors in seasons of theological questioning.

Jason and Tom also explore the central burden behind Tom’s recent book God’s Homecoming. They discuss why the biblical story is not ultimately about leaving earth for heaven, but about God coming to dwell with His people and renew all things. From Romans 8 to the Psalms, from the Sermon on the Mount to the road to Emmaus, Tom helps reframe the Christian hope as resurrection, new creation, and the healing of the world under the reign of the risen Christ.

Jason and Tom discuss:

• Tom’s early sense of call and the path that led him into both parish ministry and academic theology,
• Why the work of pastor and scholar belong together,
• How deep study of Scripture can lead not to cynicism, but to renewed wonder,
• How pastors can lovingly walk with people through seasons of theological disorientation,
• Why learning to preach the whole story of Scripture matters so deeply,
• The central vision behind God’s Homecoming and the Bible’s theme of God dwelling with His people,
• The Psalms as a lifelong school of prayer,
• Why Eastertide should be marked by joy, celebration, and embodied hope,
• and a final word of encouragement for discouraged pastors.

This is a rich conversation for pastors, preachers, seminary students, and anyone longing to love Scripture more deeply, live more faithfully in the story of God, and find inspiration in the midst of ministry’s daily rhythms. 

Links & Resources

• N.T. Wright Online
• God’s Homecoming
• Surprised by Hope

Partners

• Special thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for making this episode possible. We invite you to explore their ⁠Bible Course⁠ to help your church grow in Scripture engagement.
• We couldn’t do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and ⁠give⁠ towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church.