Homebrewed Christianity

Alan Roxburgh, a pastor and founder of the Missional Network, discusses his transformative ideas on church and mission. He challenges rigid church structures, advocating for a deeper understanding of community narratives. Roxburgh emphasizes the importance of compassionate, engaging leadership and innovative practices that resonate with contemporary culture. Listeners are invited to explore how to recognize God's presence in everyday moments and encourage genuine connections within their churches, fostering hope and collaboration.

Kevin Kelly, a Senior Maverick at Wired magazine, shares his insights on technology's profound impact on humanity. He discusses his book, 'The Inevitable,' and how technology reshapes our identities and authority. Kelly reflects on what the Amish can teach us about communal tech adoption and debates the balance between privacy and personalization in our digital lives. He even envisions a radical plan if he were Czar of Technology, including making the internet essential infrastructure and promoting a global democratic government to tackle interconnected challenges.

Join liberation theology expert Joerg Rieger and social justice scholar Emilie Townes as they dive into transformative themes from the Wild Goose Festival. Rieger discusses his new book and the grassroots significance of liberation theology, while Townes shares insights on womanist theology and the unique challenges faced by black women. The conversation explores intersectionality, embodied theology, and critiques of traditional narratives. They conclude with a lively round of theological questions, tackling topics like God’s identity and the value of diverse beliefs.

Kristen Howerton, an influential figure at the Wild Goose Festival, joins Christian Piatt, an author focusing on personal transformation, and his partner Amy Piatt. They dive into humor-laden discussions about faith, critiquing traditional beliefs while embracing inclusive interpretations. From Croc fashion to parenting challenges, they tackle societal norms and individual choices with wit. Tripp adds depth by venting about creeds, while stories about personal experiences highlight the complexities of relationships and spirituality in a modern context.

Dan Stiver, a respected Ricoeur scholar and Baptist theologian, delves into the interplay of philosophy and theology. He explores how Ricoeur's insights into narrative shape meaning-making and the nature of truth. The conversation also tackles the problem of evil, contrasting Irenaeus and Augustine’s views, while examining the expression of embodied freedom in faith. Stiver emphasizes the importance of community in theological discourse and encourages a holistic approach to understanding scripture and belief in the modern context.

Rev. Dr. Jay E. Johnson, a theologian from the Pacific School of Religion, dives into the vibrant realm of queer theology, exploring the intersections of sexuality and faith. He discusses how dance parties can serve as spiritual sanctuaries for the LGBTQ+ community. Jay challenges conventional perceptions of erotic desire and its connection to divine love, advocating for an inclusive church that fully embraces diverse identities. His insights on the need for profound conversations about sexuality in faith communities are both refreshing and crucial.

David Congdon, a PhD graduate from Princeton Theological Seminary and associate editor at IVP Academic, dives deep into Rudolf Bultmann's mission of demythologizing the gospel. The conversation highlights Bultmann's impact on modern theology and the complexities of discussing faith and history. They explore how his ideas resonate within various cultural contexts and examine the tensions between theology and urgent social issues. Congdon also contrasts Bultmann's approach with those of other theologians, emphasizing the need for a relevant theological discourse today.

In this discussion, Luke, a lively co-host, joins to answer a flurry of intriguing audience questions. They delve into theological crossovers, revealing humorous childhood stories and mishaps that will surely make you chuckle. The duo tackles complex topics like the role of the church in societal issues, the balance of personal identity with global Christianity, and unique perspectives on suffering and healing. They even explore how technology affects our understanding of consciousness, all while keeping the conversation engaging and light-hearted.

In this engaging dialogue, Sallie McFague, a pioneering theologian known for her work in Christian feminist theology, shares her insights on love for God and the world. She recounts her early motivations for becoming a theologian and discusses the transformative power of language in understanding divine connections. Topics include her concept of 'wild spaces' and the importance of empathy, along with the intersection of feminist and ecological theology amid contemporary challenges. Sallie's thoughtful reflections invite listeners to rethink their relationship with faith and the environment.

Ryan Parker, a storyteller at the crossroads of cinema and faith, joins Barry Taylor, a film and theology expert, along with contributor Tripp. They dive deep into the film 'Jesus of Montreal,' discussing its cultural impact, the politics of storytelling, and the tension between traditional faith and modern artistic expression. The conversation explores themes like exploitation in the audition process, complexities of belief, and how consumerism has shifted societal values since the 1980s. Expect insights on the resurrection narrative and the creative intersections of faith and film.