Homebrewed Christianity

Michael Welker, one of Germany’s top theologians and a Senior Professor at the University of Heidelberg, delves into his new book 'God the Revealed: Christology.' He explores who Jesus is for us today, connecting historical insights with cultural shifts in the church. Topics include the intersection of science and faith, Bonhoeffer's theology of the cross, and the complexities of resurrection. Welker critiques traditional atonement theories while advocating for a relational understanding of God that embraces suffering and justice.

In this enlightening conversation, Erin Law, a somatics expert, joins activists Robyn Henderson-Espinoza, Steed Davidson, and Brian McLaren. They delve into the intersection of somatics and spiritual activism, discussing the implications of gender, sexuality, and the need for resistance against oppressive structures. Davidson and McLaren explore post-colonial narratives in biblical interpretation and challenge traditional views on salvation, advocating for community-focused transformations. Together, they question the church's role in restoring dignity amidst today's technological challenges.

Jonathan Jong, a Research Fellow at Coventry University and a Senior Researcher at the Institute for Cognitive and Evolutionary Anthropology, dives deep into the intersection of religion and cognitive science. He explores how our cognitive mechanisms shape religious beliefs and the evolutionary origins of faith. Jong discusses the importance of humility in theological discussions and the role of cultural context in understanding divine revelation. He also tackles the impact of awareness of mortality on human behavior, advocating for open conversations about death within communities.

Join Greg DeLoach, the Dean at McAfee School of Theology, and David Gushee, a renowned theologian, in a vibrant discussion from a brewery in Atlanta. They delve into the quirky concept of 'wet vs. dry Baptists' and explore the complexities of American Evangelicalism. Gushee shares insights from his book on moral leadership, touching on figures like Gandhi and Romero. The conversation also highlights the transformative power of comic books in understanding biblical themes, revealing how pop culture can influence contemporary faith discussions.

Join Stan Mitchell, a champion of activist theology, and Dr. Robyn Henderson-Espinoza, an inspiring author, as they tackle urgent themes around faith and inclusion. They explore the shifting views on sexuality within evangelicalism and share personal journeys from rigidity to openness. The conversation dives deep into advocacy for LGBTQ rights in the church and the intersections of identity and faith. They also reflect on the community's role in healing and activism, emphasizing the power of shared stories and meals in nurturing connections.

Exciting news is shared about a new postdoctoral fellowship in Edinburgh, focusing on a science-engaged theology of nature. The discussion turns philosophical, exploring panpsychism and its implications on our understanding of consciousness. Challenges of transitioning into academic life and the family's move to Europe are candidly addressed, highlighting the importance of community support. Listener engagement is urged, with emphasis on the gig economy and a new initiative fostering interdisciplinary conversations. Your support is crucial for the journey ahead!

In this engaging discussion, Michael Reiss, a British bioethicist and Anglican priest, delves into the fascinating intersection of evolutionary ethics and religion. He explores how our evolutionary heritage informs ethical frameworks and the role of language in shaping identity. Reiss shares insights on the emergence of religions and how they foster social cohesion. He also unpacks the evolution of morality, highlighting the parallels between human and non-human species, while advocating for a dialogue between science and faith to address contemporary ethical challenges.

Dr. Michael J. Murray, a distinguished philosopher and former academic leader, dives into the intersection of faith and science. He thoughtfully navigates topics like the origins of religion through cognitive science and evolutionary psychology. Murray discusses the theological implications of climate change, gene editing, and animal suffering. He also explores the historical Adam, the nature of evil, and the consciousness of both animals and AI, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue between science and theological beliefs.

John D. Caputo, a renowned philosopher and theologian, dives into radical theology and his unique concept of 'weak theology'. He passionately discusses Paul Tillich's influence on modern theological thought and the interplay between culture and religion in a postmodern context. The conversation navigates the vital need for theology to evolve, emphasizing inclusivity and the impact of technology on religious experiences. Caputo also advocates for a pluralistic approach to spirituality, challenging traditional norms to embrace a transformative journey.

In this engaging discussion, Catholic theologian John Haught explores the interplay between religion and science, highlighting insights from his book, 'The New Cosmic Story.' He delves into Big History, layered explanations of reality, and a three-fold pattern of growth: Divergence, Convergence, and Emergence. Haught critiques modern atheism and underscores the importance of beauty and ethical dilemmas in our understanding of the cosmos. His reflections on the evolution of religious thought and the quest for meaning add depth to the narrative of our universe.