Homebrewed Christianity

In a lively celebration of the Protestant Reformation's 500th birthday, guests Daniel Pugh and Wolfgang Herz-Lane discuss the ongoing relevance of Luther's teachings. They emphasize the real presence in the Eucharist and share insights on addressing social justice and racism in the church. The conversation also dives into the significance of community in faith, engaging in theological debates and playful reflections on Luther's complex legacy. They ponder pressing questions about faith, grace, and the future of Protestantism while enjoying a unique church gathering.

Justin Skeesuck and Patrick Gray embark on the spiritual pilgrimage of El Camino de Santiago, exploring themes of friendship and community. They share the transformative power of shared experiences and the importance of support in faith journeys. Ryan Parker discusses the unique storytelling approach of the documentary 'I'll Push You', highlighting its uplifting message amidst a sea of heavier films. Together, they delve into challenges faced by those with disabilities and the value of genuine connections, reminding listeners of the joy found in vulnerability and deep relationships.

Steven Knapp, the former president of George Washington University and a scholar of literature, discusses his transformative intellectual and spiritual journey. He shares how reading Kierkegaard sparked his faith and the impact of 1960s political turmoil on his beliefs. The conversation explores the relationship between literature and theology, the evolving landscape of higher education, and how millennials are increasingly religiously engaged. Knapp also addresses the crisis in the humanities and offers insights into the challenges of financing education today.

Keith Ward, a distinguished British philosopher and theologian, dives into the depths of his new book, exploring the Christian idea of God. He articulates why theology and philosophy intertwine, discussing the complexities of consciousness and morality. Ward critiques contemporary discourse on God, arguing for personal idealism and highlighting God's role within the cosmos. The conversation touches on the significance of the resurrection and divine empathy, inviting listeners to rethink faith through a rational lens.

In this lively debate, Greg Boyd, a leading open theism advocate, engages with Tripp from #teamprocess, moderated by writer Rachel Held Evans and theologian Tony Jones. They dive deep into the nuances of divine foreknowledge versus human freedom, laughing and sharing anecdotes along the way. The discussion also touches on the relational aspects of theology, addressing the nature of God, suffering, and the implications for faith. It all culminates in a spirited preach-off that you won't want to miss!

Adam Lewis Greene, a visionary behind Bibliotheca, dives into the evolution of engaging with the Bible as literature. He discusses the Kickstarter campaign's success, raising $1.4 million, and the transformative impact of aesthetic design on scripture reading. Greene shares anecdotes from his project and talks about the shift from viewing the Bible strictly as a rule book to appreciating its literary beauty. He also touches on the challenges of translation choices and the importance of creating immersive experiences for readers.

Ola Sigurdson, a professor of systematic theology at the University of Gothenburg, delves into the intriguing themes of his book, discussing the concepts of incarnation, embodiment, and the gaze. He draws connections between contemporary philosophy and the Christian tradition, highlighting the experiential understanding of the incarnation. Ola emphasizes the transformative role of liturgy and how our senses connect us to spirituality, while also advocating for deeper engagement within communities and exploring the interplay of faith, identity, and ethics.

Ryan Andrew Newson, an author acclaimed for his insights on friendship and communal discernment, dives into the complexities of relationships amidst political turmoil. He discusses the origins of his book, how radical friendship can challenge societal norms, and the intersection of politics, religion, and community. The conversation touches on historical parallels, critiques of hyper-individualism, and the transformative power of dialogue, as illustrated through the unlikely friendship between a former KKK leader and a black activist. Expect laughter and profound insights!

Join Christian Piatt, author in progressive Christianity, Kristen Howerton, a writer advocating for social justice, and Micky ScottBey Jones, a community engagement leader, as they celebrate a major milestone. They explore the intersection of spirituality and community, sharing insights on modern family dynamics and the role of humor in theology. The conversation also touches on the influence of hip hop in ministry and the importance of inclusivity in faith discussions. Their lively banter and reflections promise a refreshing take on faith in today's world.

Ted Vial, Professor of Theology at the Iliff School of Theology, dives into his book, Modern Religion, Modern Race. He discusses the influence of 19th-century German philosophy on contemporary society, particularly in relation to race. Vial highlights the distinction between theology and religious studies, while also emphasizing the significance of community in shaping faith. His insights on Schleiermacher's impact reveal how personal religious experiences are intertwined with cultural contexts, pointing towards the need for inclusive engagement in today's religious landscape.