Homebrewed Christianity

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.

Dan Koch is back, known for hosting impactful podcasts like 'Depolarize!' and 'Reconstruct.' In this lively discussion, Dan dives into his new venture, 'You Have Permission,' tackling profound questions around Christian Inclusivism and Theistic Evolution. The conversation shifts to navigating political discourse and cultural shifts, revealing personal anecdotes about family dynamics. They explore the synergy of faith and personal ideologies, emphasizing the need for inclusivity in spiritual practices. Join them for a thought-provoking mix of humor, insight, and real talk on faith!

Rabbi Brad Artson, an influential author and dean at the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies, delves into the interwoven paths of science and spirituality. He shares his personal journey through faith, including the challenges of parenting a child with autism. The discussion challenges traditional views of God, advocating for a relational understanding and community engagement. Rabbi Artson also explores panentheism in Jewish mysticism and emphasizes the importance of scientific literacy among clergy, fostering collaboration between faith and reason.

In this conversation, David G. Conover, director and ecological activist of the documentary 'Behold the Earth,' dives into America’s disconnect from nature. He discusses the significant role of faith communities in climate action and how personal narratives can bridge ecology and spirituality. The power of music and breathtaking visuals in storytelling is highlighted, inviting listeners to reflect on their own childhood connections to nature. Conover also explores the resurgence of communal singing, emphasizing the need for deeper human connections amidst digital isolation.

Brian McLaren, an influential author, is joined by Micky ScottBey Jones, a social justice advocate, and Daneen Akers, an expert in parenting and faith. They dive into the challenges of parenting in a changing spiritual landscape, exploring how to nurture children's understanding of love, justice, and peace. Micky shares her journey as a nonviolent practitioner, while Brian discusses his new children's book. They emphasize the importance of open conversations about faith and inclusivity, urging parents to create supportive environments for their children.