A History of Christian Theology

Follow A History of Christian Theology
Share on
Copy link to clipboard

Dr. Charles Kim, Jr. offers interviews and conversations about the historic doctrines and theologians of the Christian faith. The podcast has grown over the last several years to include not only round table discussions of ancient theological texts, but also includes interviews of leading theologians on these topics.

Chad Kim


    • May 28, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • monthly NEW EPISODES
    • 54m AVG DURATION
    • 180 EPISODES

    4.6 from 146 ratings Listeners of A History of Christian Theology that love the show mention: christian theology, documents, chad, tom, bible, thank you guys, deeply, discussions, church, early, history, guest, conversations, different, great job, looking forward, keep up the great, thanks, great podcast, entertaining.


    Ivy Insights

    The A History of Christian Theology podcast is a treasure trove of knowledge and insight for anyone interested in deepening their understanding of Christian theology. As someone who has recently discovered this podcast, I wish I had found it sooner. The hosts, Chad, Tom, and Trevor, are not only great scholars but also skilled conversationalists who make the discussions entertaining and engaging. Listening to episodes in chronological order allows for continuity and a deeper appreciation of the threads that are repeated throughout.

    One of the best aspects of this podcast is its commitment to exploring different viewpoints and theological perspectives. The hosts approach theology with an open mind and are willing to delve into topics that many have pondered at some point. This willingness to explore and discuss allows listeners to gain a broader understanding of the faith and its development over time. Furthermore, the hosts' ability to break down complex ideas and bring them down to "street level" is commendable. Tom's grace in teaching anything shines through, while Chad's grasp of languages and multiple theological viewpoints is impressive. Additionally, Trevor's honesty and his use of words like "wicked" adds a touch of nostalgia.

    This podcast excels at providing listeners with a solid foundation in Christian history by going through critical texts that formed the basis of our beliefs. It relieves listeners from having to read extensive back-history and classics themselves while still delivering valuable insights. For busy individuals like myself who have limited time for reading or studying theology extensively, this podcast offers an accessible format for spiritual growth and education.

    While there are numerous positives about this podcast, one critique is that it sometimes moves at a slow pace. However, given the complexity of the subject matter being covered, this can be forgiven as it allows for a more thorough exploration of each topic.

    In conclusion, The A History of Christian Theology podcast is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of Christian theology. Through engaging discussions and a commitment to exploring different viewpoints, the hosts provide listeners with a solid foundation in the development of the faith. Whether you are a pastor, Bible college graduate, or simply an individual with a curiosity for theology, this podcast offers hours of informative and thought-provoking content. I highly recommend it.



    Search for episodes from A History of Christian Theology with a specific topic:

    Latest episodes from A History of Christian Theology

    Episode 179: Andrew Chronister- "Augustine in the Pelagian Controversy"

    Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2025 67:06


    Welcome to A History of Christian Theology! Today, Chad sits down with his friend and colleague, Dr. Andrew Chronister. Like Chad, Dr. Chronister teaches ancient languages at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in addition to serving as a professor of patristics. Similarly, they both received their PhDs from Saint Louis University and studied St. Augustine's work there. Their conversation today centers around Dr. Chorinister's newest book: "Augustine in the Pelagian Controversy: Defending Church Unity," which was released in December (2024) with Catholic University of America Press. As Augustinian scholars, their conversation is lively and interesting as they approach the issue of the Pelagian Controversy from multiple angles. Thanks to Dr. Chronister for taking the time to chat on this important topic and for providing Chad with a copy of his book. We hope you enjoy!Buy "Augustine in the Pelagian Controversy"Subscribe to our Patreontwitter: @theologyxianFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahistoryofchristiantheology

    Episode 178: Episode 178: Abigail Favale- "The Genesis of Gender"

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2025 44:55


    Welcome back to A History of Christian Theology! This week, Chad talks with Dr. Abigail Favale about her book "The Genesis of Gender: A Christian Theory" with Ignatius Press. Dr. Favale's book came out in 2022 and has received excellent reviews, and while the topic is not one we often discuss on the podcast, Chad thought it would make for an interesting conversation, and he was absolutely right! Dr. Favale currently works at the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame, where she is a professor and writer. Her topics of interest revolve around matters of women and gender from a Catholic Perspective. In today's episode, she and Chad discuss the philosophy and theology of gender and different ways we approach it. Thanks to Dr. Favale for taking the time to join us! We hope you enjoy!Buy "The Genesis of Gender"Subscribe to our Patreontwitter: @theologyxianFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahistoryofchristiantheology

    Episode 177: Episode 177: Matthew Bates- "Beyond the Salvation Wars"

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2025 51:04


    Today, Chad sits down with Dr. Matthew Bates to discuss his newly released book "Beyond the Salvation Wars: Why Both Protestants and Catholics Must Reimagine How We Are Saved" with Brazos Press. Dr. Bates is a professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary and the author of several books. He talks with Chad about his position on the order of salvation and his counterproposal to Protestant and Catholic understandings of salvation. Thanks to Dr. Bates for coming on the podcast and Brazos Press for providing us with a copy of the book.And thank you for being patient with us as we work on getting episodes out! Stay tuned over the next couple of weeks for episodes with Abigail Favale and Andrew Chronister. If you enjoy these episodes, please like and review us on iTunes and Spotify!We hope you enjoy!Buy "Beyond the Salvation Wars"Subscribe to our Patreontwitter: @theologyxianFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahistoryofchristiantheology

    Episode 176: Kevin Vanhoozer- "Mere Christian Hermeneutics"

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2025 57:05


    On this episode, Chad chats with Dr. Kevin Vanhoozer of Trinity Evangelical Divinity School about his latest book "Mere Christian Hermeneutics: Transfiguring What It Means to Read the Bible Theologically" with Zondervan Academic. Dr. Vanhoozer explains his thesis of how we ought to read and respond to the Bible through the lens of Christ's transfiguration. He received his PhD from Cambridge University, served as Senior Lecturer in Theology and Religious Studies at the University of Edinburgh, has written over 20 books, and is currently Research Professor of Systematic Theology at Trinity. His work covers many areas of theology and has inspired and influenced many to study the Bible, including Chad. We're thankful to Dr. Vanhoozer for taking the time to meet and to Zondervan for providing a copy of his book!Stay on the lookout for more episodes coming soon and we hope you enjoy!uy "Mere Christian Hermeneutics"Subscribe to our Patreontwitter: @theologyxianFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahistoryofchristiantheology

    Episode 175: Episode 175: Simon Kennedy- "Against Worldview"

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 13, 2025 54:22


    This week on A History of Christian Theology Chad sits down with Dr. Simon P. Kennedy to talk about his latest book "Against Worldview: Reimagining Christian Formation as Growth in Wisdom" with Lexham Press. Their conversation focuses on why evangelicals talk so much about worldview, what it is, why it's important, Dr Kennedy's critiques, and his suggestions on how we might want to reframe our view of or approach to it. Dr. Kennedy is both a research fellow at the University of Queensland and a non-resident fellow at the Danube Institute as well as teaching at numerous institutes like Lachlan Macquarie Institute and Queensland Theological College. We're very thankful to Dr. Kennedy for his time and to Lexham Press for sending us a copy of his book, be sure to check it out below!Buy "Against Worldview"Subscribe to out Patreontwitter: @theologyxianFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahistoryofchristiantheology

    Episode 174: Episode 174: Brad Littlejohn- "Called to Freedom"

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2025 55:34


    Welcome back to A History of Christian Theology! This week we're happy to welcome Dr. Brad Littlejohn to the podcast to discuss his newly released book "Called to Freedom: Retrieving Christian Liberty in an Age of License" with B&H Academic Press. He and Chad take a bit of a break from our regular sort of conversations to discuss contemporary issues of freedom, what it is and isn't, and how we as Christians ought to think about it. Dr. Littlejohn is currently a fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center in Washington D.C. We're thankful to B&H Academic Press for sending us a copy of his book, and Dr. Littlejohn for sitting down to chat. We hope you enjoy!Buy "Called to Freedom: Retrieving Christian Liberty in an Age of License"Subscribe to our PatreonTwitter: @theologyxianFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahistoryofchristiantheology

    Episode 173: Episode 173: Nijay Gupta- "The Affections of Christ Jesus"

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 10, 2025 49:13


    In this episode, Chad interviews Dr. Nijay Gupta about his upcoming book "The Affections of Christ Jesus- Love at the Heart of Paul's Theology" with Eerdmans Publishing: it is scheduled for release near the end of February this year. They discuss how the idea of love is often overlooked in Paul's work as well as the Biblical view of affection and emotion in Christian Theology. Dr. Gupta's accomplishments are wide-ranging. Currently, he is a professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary, serves as co-chair of the Pauline Theology seminar of the Institute for Biblical Research, has authored numerous books, co-hosts the "Slow Theology" podcast, and is the senior editor for the New Living Translation of the Bible. We're very thankful to Dr. Gupta for taking the time to sit down with Chad and to Eerdmans Publishing for providing an early copy of the book and setting up the interview. We hope you enjoy!Buy "The Affections of Christ Jesus- Love at the Heart of Paul's Theology"Subscribe to our PatreonTwitter: @theologyxianFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahistoryofchristiantheology

    Episode 172: Episode 172: Ronnie Kurtz- "Light Unapproachable"

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 28, 2024 53:14


    This week Chad sits down with Dr. Ronnie Kurtz to discuss the topics of his latest book "Light Unapproachable: Divine Incompressibility and the Task of Theology" with InterVarsity Press. They cover a number of topics ranging from 2nd vs 3rd person theology all the way to their shared love for St. Louis, Missouri. Dr. Kurtz is an Assistant Professor of Theology at Cedarville University as well as the author of a number of other books. He previously taught at both Midwestern Seminary and Spurgeon College as well as pastoring a church in Kansas City. We're glad we got the opportunity to talk with him and we hope you enjoy!Buy "Light Unapproachable: Divine Incompressibility and the Task of Theology"Subscribe to our PatreonTwitter: @theologyxianFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahistoryofchristiantheology

    Episode 171: Episode 171: Rubén Rosario Rodriguez- "Calvin for the World"

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2024 60:07


    This week Chad sits down with Dr. Rubén Rosario Rodriguez to discuss his newest book "Calvin for the World: The Enduring Relevance of His Political, Social, and Economic Theology" with Baker Academic Press. Dr. Rosario Rodriguez is an associate professor of theology at St. Louis University and the coordinator for both the MTS and MARE programs. Some of you may remember when he joined Chad last year to discuss one of his other 5 books, we're thankful to have Dr. Rosario Rodriguez back on the podcast. In this episode, Ruben and Chad discuss several topics surrounding Calvinism including the historical context of his work as well as why and how Calvin has impacted communities outside of the Western world. Special thanks to Dr. Rosario Rodriguez as well as Baker Academic Press, we hope you enjoy!Buy "Calvin for the World: The Enduring Relevance of His Political, Social, and Economic Theology"Subscribe to our PatreonTwitter: @theologyxianFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahistoryofchristiantheology

    Episode 170: Episode 170: Philip Hussey- "Supralapsarianism Reconsidered"

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 25, 2024 71:36


    Dr. Philip Hussey joins Chad today to discuss his new book "Supralapsarianism Reconsidered: Jonathan Edwards and the Reformed Tradition" with T&T Clark as part of their "Studies in Systematic Theology" series. Along with being an author, Dr. Hussey is the head pastor at Christ Fellowship Church in St. Louis, Missouri. Chad's conversation with Dr. Hussey covers systematic vs dogmatic theology, supralapsarianism, Johnathan Edwards, and much more. Huge thanks to Dr. Hussey for joining us as well as T&T Clark.Just a reminder, there are several upcoming episodes on their way so make sure to stay tuned for those. We hope you enjoy!Buy "Supralapsarianism Reconsidered: Jonathan Edwards and the Reformed Tradition"Subscribe to our PatreonTwitter: @theologyxianFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahistoryofchristiantheology

    Episode 169: Episode 169: Brad East- Letters to a Future Saint

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 23, 2024 57:44


    Welcome back to A History of Modern Theology! On this episode, Chad talks with Dr. Brad East about one of his newest books "Letters to a Future Saint" by Eerdman's Publishing. Dr. East talks about the idea behind the book and his views on the different types of Christian literature. Although you may be used to Chad reviewing more academic or rigorous books, Dr. East's book is an intriguing read and offers insight into shepherding Christians who are new to the faith. As always, we hope you enjoy!Buy "Letters to a Future Saint"Subscribe to our PatreonTwitter: @theologyxianFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahistoryofchristiantheology

    Episode 168: Episode 168: Alex Fogleman

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2024 56:51


    Welcome to Episode 168. Today Chad join Dr. Alex Fogleman to discuss his newly released book "Knowledge, Faith, and Early Christian Initiation" with Cambridge University Press. Dr. Fogleman is an Assistant Research Professor of Theology at Baylor University as well as the founding director of "The Catechesis Institute." His book covers what the early church thought it meant to know God and how they chose to teach it. Thanks again to Alex for his insightful book and thought provoking conversation. We hope you enjoy!Buy "Knowledge, Faith, and Early Christian Initiation"The Catechesis InstituteSubscribe to our PatreonTwitter: @theologyxianFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahistoryofchristiantheology

    Episode 167: Episode 167: Andrew Rellera

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2024 68:31


    On this episode, Dr. Andrew Remington Rillera discuses his new book "Lamb of the Free" with Chad. Dr. Rillera's new book looks at the different ways that New Testament authors apply sacrificial imagery to Jesus through the lens of Old Testament law. Dr. Rillera received his PhD from Duke university where he studied New Testament, Theology, and Early Judaism and is currently an associate professor of Biblical Studies and Theology at King's University in Edmonton, Alberta. He discusses a few of his other extensive works while talking with Chad, some of those are linked below.Buy "Lamb of the Free"Subscribe to our PatreonTwitter: @theologyxianFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahistoryofchristiantheologyMore works by Dr. Rillera:Dr. Rillera's work on the EphesiansHis interview on The Bible Project Podcast

    Episode 166: Episode 166: Thomas Harmon on Augustine and Philosophy

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2024 66:27


    Dr. Thomas Harmon joins Chad on the podcast to discuss the background for his new book "The Universal Way of Salvation in the Thought of Augustine", how Augustine challenged the philosophers of his time, as well as some of Dr. Hamon's work with Shakespeare. Dr. Harmon is the associate director of Catholic Studies at the University of St. Thomas in Houston, Texas and has been published in numerous journals about several topics.Buy "The Universal Way of Salvation in the Thought of Augustine"Subscribe to our PatreonTwitter: @theologyxianFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahistoryofchristiantheology

    Episode 165: Special Episode: Tom, Trevor, and Chad's Spiritual Journeys Pt. 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2024 72:45


    In a special release of an episode that was previously a Patreon exclusive, we present the second and final part of Tom, Chad, and Trevor's discussion on conversion and their spiritual journeys. In response to questions from multiple listeners, our hosts get personal and shed some light on their upbringings in faith. For more exclusive episodes, backlog files, and other content, subscribe to our Patreon.Twitter: @theologyxianFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahistoryofchristiantheology

    Episode 164: The Reluctant Leader - An Augustinian Cure for a Modern Malady at the Schaeffer House

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2024 68:58


    Chad Kim gives a lecture on Augustine as a leader drawing insights from his dissertation research at the Schaeffer House in St. Louis, MO. 

    Episode 163: Harrison Perkins on Reformed Covenant Theology

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2024 52:44


    Harrison Perkins joins the podcast today to discuss his new book, "Reformed Covenant Theology: A Systematic Introduction" (Lexham Academic, 2024). Perkins pastors at Oakland Hills Community Church in Detroit, and has a variety of research, writing, and teaching positions. Join us as he discusses how covenant theology serves the faith!Buy "Reformed Covenant Theology: A Systematic Introduction"Subscribe to out Patreontwitter: @theologyxianFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahistoryofchristiantheology

    Episode 162: Richard Burnett on J. Gresham Machen

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2024 49:58


    Richard Burnett joins the podcast today to discuss his new book, "Machen's Hope: The Transformation of a Modernist in the New Princeton" (Eerdman's, 2024), a spanning biography on J. Gresham Machen, the founder of Westminster Theological Seminary and a main figure of the anti-modernist revolt at Princeton. This text attempts to reevaluate many of the common characterizations of Machen's life and the manner in which he navigated the theological tensions of early-20th century academic theology.Buy "Machen's Hope""Subscribe to out Patreontwitter: @theologyxianFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahistoryofchristiantheology

    Episode 161: Dr. Vince Bantu on Haymanot Theology

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2024 61:21


    Dr. Vince Bantu of the Meacham School of Haymanot joins us today to discuss his new book "Gospel Haymanot: A Constructive Theology and Critical Reflection on African and Diasporic Christianity", a collection of voices, edited by Bantu, which engages with the resources of the Black Church and puts forward notes toward how these forces can contribute to and should be recognized within the effort of reforming the Eurocentricity of Christian Theology.LinksBuy Gospel Haymanot on AmazonMeacham School of Haymanottwitter: @theologyxianFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahistoryofchristiantheology

    Episode 160: Jamie Kreiner on John Cassian, Translation, and Concentration

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2024 43:01


    Dr. Jamie Kreiner joins us today to discuss her recently published translations of dialogues between John Cassian, a 4th century theologian credited with importing the ideas of early Christian monasticism to the Latin world, and various Egyptian monks on the subjects of distraction, concentration, and freedom from vice. In this podcast, Kreiner discusses the pertinence of these topics to the modern world as well as her approach to her translation of these previously-untranslated texts.

    Episode 159: Brian Zahnd on the Cross in Christian Theology

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2024 46:04


    Join us for our interview with Brian Zahnd on his recently released book, "The Wood Between the Worlds: A Poetic Theology of the Cross" (IVP, 2024). Following a pilgrimage where he spent time contemplating the crucifix in many different churches, Zahnd realized the kaleidoscopic possibilities behind an interpretation to and an emotional response to such imagery, leading to the publishing of this book. In an interesting and engaging interview, Zahnd discusses his inspirations, his life as a Christian, and even the Lord of the Rings.Hope you enjoy this conversation!

    Episode 158: Dr. Gregory Wiebe on Angels and Demons in Augustinian Theology

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2024 65:39


    Today's podcast features an interview with Dr. Gregory Wiebe concerning his book "Fallen Angels in the Theology of St. Augustine" (Oxford University Press, 2021). For our long-time listeners, this subject matter's inclusion in the podcast will come at no surprise. This conversation presents a wide-spanning dialogue on Angelology and Demonology in the work of St. Augustine. Hope you enjoy!

    Episode 157: Charles Kim, Sr. Interviews Charles Kim, Jr. Augustine Way of Humility (Catholic University of America Press)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2024 1:42


    For a fun twist, my dad asked if he could interview me about my new book The Way of Humility, St. Augustine's Theology of Preaching (Catholic University of America Press, 2023). I had a very good time and appreciate all the time he took to read it. He has read plenty of my bad high school papers, but this one took a lot more time. I am blessed that both of my parents have beens so supportive in my academic and spiritual journey. Thank you to all parents who support their kids! You do tremendous and live changing work. You can support the podcast here: https://www.patreon.com/AHOCTYou can buy the book here: https://www.cuapress.org/9780813237398/the-way-of-humility/

    Episode 156: Glen L Thompson on The Jingjiao and the Earliest Christianity in China

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2024 61:09


    Glen L Thompson's The Jingjiao: the Earliest Christian Church in China (Eerdmans Press, 2024) provides a thorough introduction to a very little known history of the centuries old story of Christians in China. Dr. Thompson comes on the podcast to provide some background on the book and some really fascinating stories, including how a Chinese Christian was once the head of the Syriac Church! As a historian of early Christianity, this is a history I knew nothing about and I am sure listeners will learn a lot from this great book. Links:Glen Thompson's BookSupport our Show on Patreon for exclusive content, early release episodes, and a forum for listeners and the hosts.Glen's website on Christianity in the Fourth Centurytwitter: @theologyxian Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahistoryofchristiantheology

    Episode 155: Brad Littlejohn on Why Protestants Convert

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2024 53:47


    For today's episode, we interview Dr. Brad Littlejohn on his recently published book Why Do Protestants Convert? (co-authored with Chris Castaldo). In this podcast, we explore some of the reasons behind the recent trend of conversions from Protestantism to Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy, especially among prominent Protestant intellectuals.  Far from an apologetic undertaking, this book takes on the approach of attempting to understand the phenomena which have led to this shift, and provides intrigue for those of all faith backgrounds.

    Episode 154: Episode 154: Tiffany Kriner on Farming and Attention to the Almighty

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 26, 2024 61:42


    Today we sit down with Dr. Tiffany Kriner, Associate Professor of English at Wheaton College, whose new book "In Thought, Word, and Seed: Reckonings from a Midwest Farm" (Eerdmans, 2023) discusses her recent life on a farm in Northern Illinois and how her interactions with the land have reconfigured her own faith. This literary work, engaging with a variety of themes and intersections of various fields, incorporates theological considerations in a manner that draws our focus toward the importance of attention and its constituent elements. 

    Episode 153: Dr. Dru Johnson on Darwin and Scripture's Conceptual Worlds

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2024 59:14


    Today our longtime Editorial Assistant, Grant Bellchamber, joins us for an interview with Dr. Dru Johnson on his recently published book "What Hath Darwin to Do With Scripture?: Comparing the Conceptual Worlds of the Bible and Evolution" (IV Press, 2023). We discuss the evolutionary notions of scarcity and fit in relation to the Old Testament writers' own conception of Creation as Dr. Johnson attempts to put the two understandings into a dialectical relation. Join us as we explore an interesting approach to an, often, highly-fraught intellectual relationship.

    Episode 152: Drew Martin- Reformed Theology, Covenants, and Politics

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 25, 2024 67:53


    We welcome my good friend Drew Martin to the podcast today to talk about his book The Covenant with Moses and the Kingdom of God (Brill, 2023). His work crosses disciplinary boundaries like history, theology, and political theory. We talk mostly about how covenant theology works and how that overlaps with political theory.

    Episode 151: Episode 151: Han-luen Kantzer Komline on Augustine's Conception of the Will

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 8, 2024 46:40


    In her book, Augustine on the Will (Oxford University Press, 2019), Dr. Kantzer Komline discusses Augustine's theological stance on the will, which developed throughout his lifetime, and its implications for his theology and Western thought as a whole. On this podcast, we've invited her for an in-depth discussion on Augustine's theology and his broader intellectual development, a topic which has been the focus of much debate amongst scholars.

    Episode 150: Episode 150: Ty Paul Monroe on Augustine's Early Theology of Sacraments and Salvation

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 19, 2023 65:11


    Ty Paul Monroe, an associate professor of Theology at Assumption University, joins the podcast to discuss his new book, “Putting on Christ: Augustine's Early Theology of Salvation and the Sacraments” (CUA Press, 2022). With his deep, theological approach to a reading of Augustine, his work fits right in with our host's own academic work. Join us as we interrogate the connection between Augustine's early understanding of central Christian beliefs and Donatist and Neo-Platonist lines of thinking.

    Episode 149: Episode 149: Jacob Wright on How the Bible Began

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 13, 2023 48:58


    Jacob Wright offers a compelling proposal for Why the Bible Began (Cambridge University Press, 2023) in his book of that title. This book was chosen as one of the best books of 2023 by the New Yorker. In our conversation, we talk about what it means that the Bible laid the foundation for a people and the scribes who wrote, edited, and collected the work. We talk briefly about what it means for the people of God in the 21st century in the land of Israel and Palestine and the catastrophic events of October 7th. Also, please consider supporting A History of Christian Theology by subscribing to our Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/AHOCT), where we will be posting exclusive content and episodes in the upcoming weeks.

    Episode 148: Episode 148: Andrew Hofer on Patristic Preaching

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2023 39:09


    Andrew Hofer's new study The Power of Patristic Preaching (Catholic University Press, 2023) surveys several key early Christian theologians and preachers. We talk through Origen, Leo the Great, and Gregory the Great, three figures we haven't discussed much on this podcast. Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider subscribing to our Patreon, which helps make this possible: https://www.patreon.com/AHOCT

    Episode 147: Episode 147: Benjamin Laird on the Formation of the Canon

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2023 66:29


    Join us as we delve into Dr. Benjamin Laird's latest book, 'Creating the Canon' (IVPress, 2023), offering a comprehensive exploration of the intriguing journey behind the New Testament's origins. Dr. Laird focuses on the pivotal concept of apostolic authority and unravels the challenges and rewards associated with emphasizing this narrative in the New Testament's formation. Additionally, check out our Patreon, as we'll begin providing exclusive benefits to subscribers soon:https://www.patreon.com/AHOCT

    Episode 146: Episode 146: Paul Hinlicky on Farming

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2023 56:13


    In a monumental third interview, we venture into the fascinating world of Paul Hinlicky, a multifaceted individual who wears two significant hats: farmer and theologian. Join us as we explore the compelling narrative of how he embarked on this unique path, the intricacies of his agricultural endeavors, and the profound intersection between his Christian faith, particularly within the Lutheran tradition, and the art of farming. This conversation promises to be a captivating exploration of faith, agriculture, and the meaningful synergy between the two in Paul's life.

    Episode 145: AHOCT Interview: Dr. Scot McKnight on the 2nd Testament

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 17, 2023 53:32


    We have Scot McKnight on again to talk us through his new translation of the New Testament with IVPress called The Second Testament. We talk through translation choices, different methods of translation, and why it's so important to read the bible in Greek. 

    Episode 144: AHOCT Interview: Emily Dumler-Winkcler on Mary Wollstonecraft

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 26, 2023 65:06


    Emily Dumler-Winkcler brings our conversation into the modern period with her book Modern Virtue: Mary Wollstonecraft and a Tradition of Dissent (Oxford University Press, 2022). Dr. Dumler-Winkcler has some insights into the nature of tradition and how Wollstonecraft fits into the virtue tradition. Also, we discuss Wollstonecraft's lesser known theological convictions which are often overlooked in scholarship on the early feminist. 

    Episode 143: AHOCT Interview: K.J. Drake

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2023 69:31


    Dr. KJ Drake works through the history of the doctrine known as the Extra-Calvinisticum in his book The Flesh of the Word: The Extra Calvinisticum from Zwingli to Early Orthodoxy (Oxford University Press, 2021. Although this is not a popularly discussed doctrine it drives at the heart of what the Reformers were debating in the early years of the Protestant Reformation. Dr. Drake provides a window into how the Reformers answered the question: “where is Christ after the resurrection?”

    Episode 142: Dr. Ruben Rosario Rodriguez on Teaching Theology

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2023 70:53


    Dr. Ruben Rosario Rodriguez gives his case for a new way of thinking about theology in his book Theological Fragments (Westminster John Knox Press, 2023). We talk about our experience teaching undergrads at a Jesuit university and how that has shaped Dr. Rosario's approach to teaching and doing theology. 

    rosario jesuits teaching theology rosario rodriguez
    Episode 141: Grant Kaplan on Faith and Reason

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 7, 2023 18:01


    Grant Kaplan has been working on the relationship between Faith and Reason in the Christian tradition (Catholic University Press, 2022). We discuss differing Catholic and Protestant approaches to the question and why many of the ancient doctors of the church have the greatest insights. 

    Episode 140: Paul Hinlicky on Samuel Stefan Osusky

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2023 51:40


    Paul Hinlicky comes back on the pod to discuss Between Humanis Philosophy and Apocalyptic Theology: The Twentieth Century Sojourn of Samuel Stefan Osusky (T and T Clark, 2016). This fascinating man confronted some of the great historical disasters of the twentieth century from Communism to Nazism and found that the biblical faith of his childhood was the only thing which could carry him through the dark times. 

    Episode 139: AHOCT Interviews: Matthew Lynch

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2023 48:48


    Matthew Lynch talks with us about his new book Flood and Fury: Old Testament Violence and the Shalom of God (IVPress 20223). We cover how the question of violence has to be considered canonically as well as dig into the weird stories of the Nephilim.CONTENT WARNING: Rape; in the context of Old Testament studies

    Episode 138: AHOCT Interviews: Dr. Scot McKnight on Revelation

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 26, 2023 52:58


    Today we talk with Dr. Scot McKnight professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary about his recently released book Revelation for the Rest of Us: A Prophetic Call to Follow Jesus as a Dissident Disciple (Zondervan, 2023). We talk about his own background with Revelation as well as our mutual love for baseball. I hope you will enjoy this episode.

    Episode 137: AHOCT Interview: Dr. Paul Hinlicky

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 5, 2023 50:58


    Dr. Paul Hinlicky is Professor Emeritus of Theology at Roanoke College in Virginia. Dr. Hinlicky talks with us about early Christian reception of the Greek philosophical tradition in a work entitled Divine Complexity (Fortress Press, 2010). We also delve into his work in Slovakia and his connection to Robert Jenson. 

    Episode 136: AHOCT Interviews: Dr. Brian Gronewoller

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2023 68:39


    This week we do a deep dive into Augustine's rhetorical theology. We talk about the ways Augustine as a rhetorician framed his theology in different ways using the tools he learned from his particular trade. Dr. Gronewoller's book, Rhetorical Economy in Augustine's Theology (Oxford University Press, 2021) has many fascinating elements, but we focus mainly on how rhetoric helps Augustine better explain the problem of evil. 

    Episode 135: AHOCT- Tom, Trevor, and Chad on Hope and the Enchiridion

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 31, 2023 94:10


    In this episode, Tom, Trevor, and Chad rejoin forces to discuss St. Augustine's Enchiridion and his definition of hope. Trevor is currently writing his PhD thesis on hope in the field of philosophical theology, so we are certainly in for an apt and in-depth conversation on this important aspect of the Christian life and theology. We hope you enjoy the conversation!

    Episode 134: AHOCT Interview- Hannah Nation

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2023 59:40


    We sat down this week with Hannah Nation to discuss her recently published book under Intervarsity Press, '"Faithful Disobedience". Nation speaks on leaders of the faith in an environment that is growing increasingly hostile toward Christianity. We hope you enjoy the interview!

    christianity intervarsity press faithful disobedience hannah nation
    Episode 133: AHOCT Interview: Dr. Brad East

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 4, 2023 56:19


    In this episode, we talk with Brad East whose book The Church's Book (Eerdmans Press, 2022) explores the relationship between the church and scripture. It was an illuminating book and conversation where Dr. East expounds upon the book and how Robert Jenson, among other theologians, can help us understand what the bible is. 

    church east robert jenson
    Episode 132: AHOCT- Acts of Chalcedon

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 13, 2022 83:22


    In this final episode on the Christological Controversies, Tom, Trevor, and Chad work their way through the Chalcedonian definition and what that means for how Christians understand the two natures of Christ.

    Episode 131: AHOCT- Theotokos and Christology: Cyril of Alexandria and Nestorius

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 28, 2022 78:40


    Tom, Trevor, and Chad continue their conversation over the Christological Controversies of the 4th and 5th centuries. In this episode, we cover the question over the name “theotokos” for Mary and why this was such a hot topic for Nestorius and Cyril. This is the second of three in the series on this important topic of early Christianity.

    Episode 130: Episode 130: Interview with Benjamin Wheaton

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2022 29:02


    Dr. Benjamin Wheaton comes on the podcast to explore his thesis in Suffering Not Power: Atonement in the Middle Ages (Lexham Press). Although many have thought since Gustav Aulen that a kind of Christus Victor was the predominate view, Wheaton explains why we should nuance that view and see other ways of viewing the atonement in Dante, and several other early preachers and commentators. *A technical issue occurred in the recording of this episode, but much of the content was able to be retained*

    Episode 129: Interview with Dr. Jordan Wood

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2022 71:29


    Jordan Daniel Wood discusses his recently released monograph The Whole Mystery of Christ: Creation as Incarnation in Maximus the Confessor (University of Notre Dame Press, 2022). Dr. Wood talks us through some the controversial aspects of his thesis, but why it can still be understood as an orthodox perspective. We even cover a little bit of Hegel and his role in Dr. Wood's work.

    Claim A History of Christian Theology

    In order to claim this podcast we'll send an email to with a verification link. Simply click the link and you will be able to edit tags, request a refresh, and other features to take control of your podcast page!

    Claim Cancel