This podcast is for people who are curious about the ancient context that influenced the final shape of the Bible…AND ALSO…how our modern context influences the way we understand the Bible and God and all things spiritual.
Listeners of Context Matters that love the show mention: deuteronomy, parker, dr.
The Context Matters podcast is an outstanding show that delves into the importance of context in understanding and interpreting biblical narratives. As a cohost of my own podcast, I recently had the pleasure of having Dr. Parker as a guest, and in preparation for the interview, I listened to a couple of episodes of Context Matters. From that experience alone, I realized that this is a podcast that I will want to revisit time and time again, which led me to happily subscribe. With its diverse range of guests and perspectives, along with its ability to delve into the intricacies of Deuteronomy, this podcast truly stands out among the many competing for attention.
One aspect that makes The Context Matters podcast truly exceptional is the way Ms. Parker approaches every person and topic with compassion and curiosity. In today's public sphere, where polarization seems to be more prevalent than ever before, it is refreshing to hear a host who values understanding over judgment. This mentality sets a positive tone for each episode and fosters an environment where listeners can engage in meaningful discussions about how social and physical contexts shape our interpretation of biblical narratives.
Furthermore, Dr. Parker's expertise as an instructor shines through in every episode. She not only provides insightful connections between what the scriptures say and their historical significance but also applies these lessons to our present-day lives. It is clear that she has a deep understanding of the material she discusses, making her explanations engaging and highly informative. As a listener, I consistently find myself learning new things and gaining valuable insights when tuning into this podcast.
While The Context Matters podcast certainly has numerous strengths, there are no glaring weaknesses or areas for improvement worth mentioning. It is evident that Ms. Parker has put considerable effort into crafting each episode, ensuring they are well-researched and thoughtfully produced. From start to finish, this podcast remains consistently engaging throughout its entirety.
In conclusion, The Context Matters podcast is undoubtedly one of my new favorites. With its compassionate and curious approach, it breaks through the noise of today's public sphere, offering insightful discussions on how context shapes our understanding of biblical narratives. Dr. Parker's expertise as an instructor adds depth and value to each episode, making this podcast a must-listen for anyone interested in deepening their knowledge of scripture. If you're looking for a podcast that will captivate your attention and expand your perspective, I highly recommend subscribing to The Context Matters podcast.
Dr. Mia Chung joins us to talk about how classical music is a foundational aspect of human flourishing. Dr. Chung is an internationally renowned pianist, concerto soloist, and chamber musician. She was on the faculty of the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, and she is now a professor at Harvard. Additionally she is the founder and executive director of the Octet Collaborative, which is a community of students, faculty, and staff at MIT who are dedicated to human flourishing. And if that is not enough, she writes and speaks on the transformative impact of music on cognition, learning, and health.Find out more about Dr. Mia Chung HEREDiscover more about the Octet Collaborative HEREFollow the Octet Collaborative and their podcast through their Instagram HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Scott Erickson is an artist who uses many mediums to communicate with this audience. Today we talk about his collaborative book project with Justin McRoberts, 'In the Low, Honest Prayers for Dark Seasons,' which provides spiritual support for those experiencing depression. Scott then shares personal anecdotes, including an impactful experience at the Wailing Wall, illustrating how art can serve as a medium for expressing inexpressible emotions. Scott's art, which has resonated widely to the extent of being tattooed by numerous fans, aims to communicate the complexities of faith and the human conditionFind out more about Scott Erickson - his art, books, shows, and resources HEREExplore Scott Erickson's talks on his YouTube channel HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Scott Erickson joins us to talk about the power of art in our spiritual lives. Scott talks about growing up in a religious family with significant exposure to Christian traditions but feeling out of place due to his inclination towards art in a tradition that lacked visual representation. But then he found the old European cathedrals and realized art can be used as a significant medium for spiritual development. Today we talk about how he describes his job, the benefit of art in the church, and the "haunted" role of the artist.Find out more about Scott Erickson - his art, books, shows, and resources HEREExplore Scott Erickson's talks on his YouTube channel HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Today is part 2 of the conversation with Rachel Clinton Chen about healing from spiritual abuse. Rachel discusses ways our cultural values have influenced leadership in churches, often valuing charisma over genuine pastoral care, which sometimes leads to spiritual abuse. We also discuss what to do in the case of people unintentionally contributing to spiritual abuse - sometimes due to their own unresolved trauma. Love and Humility have to be a part of the conversation! Finally we talk about the new online course available through the Allender Center. See the links below for significant resources available for you. RESOURCES:Find out more about the Allender Center at the Seattle School of Theology and Psychology with a link to their podcast HERESpiritual Abuse & Healing Online Course - This six-lesson course, complete with reflective practices and deep dive panel discussions, helps you engage your body, mind, and spirit as you unpack the harm caused by spiritual abuse.Story Workshop for Spiritual Abuse & Healing - Our mission at The Allender Center is rooted in the belief that our stories are best understood and healed when we share them with others. We're honored to introduce the new Story Workshop for Spiritual Abuse & Healing—an immersive experience designed to guide you through the complex process of healing from religious trauma and spiritual harm and reclaiming your faith. This is a three day virtual workshop held May 16-18, including large group teaching and small group story work with a seasoned facilitator. Free Checklist: How to identify the signs of spiritual abuseContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Today we are talking about the sticky subject of spiritual abuse in the church. To lead us on the journey is Rachael Clinton Chen. Rachael is devoted to addressing the harm of abuse – especially spiritual abuse – at the intersection of trauma, healing, embodiment and spiritual formation. She leads the Story Workshop for Spiritual Abuse & Healing and recently developed the Allender Center's Spiritual Abuse & Healing Online Course, inviting survivors of spiritual abuse to journey together towards healing and reclamation.RESOURCES:Find out more about the Allender Center at the Seattle School of Theology and Psychology with a link to their podcast HERESpiritual Abuse & Healing Online Course - This six-lesson course, complete with reflective practices and deep dive panel discussions, helps you engage your body, mind, and spirit as you unpack the harm caused by spiritual abuse.Story Workshop for Spiritual Abuse & Healing - Our mission at The Allender Center is rooted in the belief that our stories are best understood and healed when we share them with others. We're honored to introduce the new Story Workshop for Spiritual Abuse & Healing—an immersive experience designed to guide you through the complex process of healing from religious trauma and spiritual harm and reclaiming your faith. This is a three day virtual workshop held May 16-18, including large group teaching and small group story work with a seasoned facilitator. Free Checklist: How to identify the signs of spiritual abuseContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
In Part 2 of the conversation with Dr. Justin Reed about his new book The Injustice of Noah's Curse, we focus on the "presumption of Canaanite guilt" and what kind of influence that has on interpreters. How can we learn to ask better questions of the text? This is yet another example of why it is so important to study the Bible with people who bring different lenses to their study! Dr. Reed helps us explore the broader implications of these interpretations for understanding compassion, justice, and morality in ancient texts, highlighting the dynamic and often ironic narratives within Genesis.Read more about Dr. Justin Reed HEREExplore many of his online resources HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Dr. Justin Reed teaches at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary and is here to talk about his new book The Injustice of Noah's Curse. Dr. Reed starts by introducing us to his context growing up and the influence of his mother and father on his faith and academic work. Then we dive into the strange text of Genesis 9. The timing is strange, the absence and presence of characters is strange, and the curse uttered against Canaan is very perplexing. Read the story, listen to the episode, and bring your ideas with you to the podcasting table!Read more about Dr. Justin Reed HEREExplore many of his online resources HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Dr. Dana Harris joins us for part 2 of our conversation about preaching and the book of Hebrews. We explore the book's theology and its profound connection to the Old Testament (equally dispelling misconceptions that the book is anti-Semitic). The preacher of Hebrews uses Midrash to use weave scripture into a meaningful narrative for the contemporary audience. How can we learn from the audience of Hebrews about developing a stronger sense of biblical narrative by immersing ourselves in the Bible?Find out more about Dr. Harris HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Dr. Dana Harris joins us to talk about the profound experiences that shaped her outlook on teaching and faith. We discuss God's presence in nature and the importance of theological education. Dr. Harris specializes in the book of Hebrews, so we dive into the riddle of that book. Is it a transcript of a sermon? Is it an epistle? Who is the author, and who are the Hebrews to whom this is addressed? Most of all, what can we learn about teaching scripture from this writing? You may want to go read Psalm 95 and think of its use of Numbers 14, 20, and Exodus 17. Find out more about Dr. Harris HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
This is part 2 of the conversation with Dr. Rebecca Idestrom about her book Show Me Your Glory. Today Dr. Idestrom discusses God's glory in the Temple. This leads us to a conversation of the visions of God's glory in the book of Ezekiel and how they relate the God's divine kingship and the hopeful restoration promised at the end of the book. Find out more about Rebecca Idestrom HEREExplore the book Show Me Your Glory HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
We sit with Dr. Rebecca Idestrom to discuss the themes of her latest book, Show Me Your Glory, which explores the concept of God's glory throughout the Old Testament. Dr. Idestrom explains how the notion of "glory" is multifaceted and context-dependent, involving both tangible and intangible elements of God's presence and character. We also talk about how Israel's perception of God's glory evolved across different historical and physical contexts. Find out more about Rebecca Idestrom HEREExplore the book Show Me Your Glory HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
We start today's episode talking about all the different Marys in the gospels and how that influences the way people interpret Mary Magdalene. Dr. McNutt also untangles how the Gospels describe Mary Magdalene and then offers insights into her significance, not just as a follower, but as a pivotal figure financially supporting Jesus's ministry. Read more about Jennifer Powell McNutt HERERead more about her book HERERead about McNuttshell Ministries HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Rev. Dr. Jennifer Powell McNutt talks about her new book called The Mary We Forgot: What the apostle to the apostles teaches the church today. To be honest, Mary Magdalene's story is rarely told well in churches, which leads us to dismiss her as a teacher for people in the church. Her portrayal in popular media like The Da Vinchi Code or Jesus Christ Superstar tantalizingly focuses on her sex appeal and possible love interest of Jesus. Others highlight her deviant behavior. Is any of this true? If not, why do we think it is? Read more about Jennifer Powell McNutt HERERead more about her book HERERead about McNuttshell Ministries HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Today's episode flips the tables and places me in the hot seat. Wesley Arning and Ryan Presley interviewed me about the book of Deuteronomy for their podcast called The Wayside Podcast. So I am rebroadcasting it for you here to help us think about storytelling and transformation as we enter this Advent season.Listen to more of the Wayside Podcast HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
When scholars examine the writing, copying, and editing of biblical text, they can discern a complexity in the Hebrew Bible. There is scribal activity at the copying AND editing levels. What does this tell us about the development of Scripture? And what do we do with Dead Sea scrolls like Jeremiah that show us a complexity within the Jewish communities through the complexity of the scrolls themselves? Our guide through this is Dr. Karl Kutz who is a recently retired professor of biblical languages and Bible at Multnomah University and also a voracious explorer of the biblical text. If you feel nervous about these conversations, join us at the end of the episode to talk about why this is a valuable field of study instead of one that criticizes the Bible. Find out more about Karl Kutz HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Textual criticism is about. offering a critique about what the best reading of the biblical text is, because before you can translate it, you need to know that you've got the best reading possible. And to engage in textual criticism, you need to have a fascination with biblical languages and biblical culture and biblical history. If it sounds complicated, it sort of is. But we have a great guide to walk us through what textual criticism is and why it matters. Dr. Karl Kutz is a recently retired professor of biblical languages and Bible at Multnomah University, and he is a voracious explorer of the biblical text. Find out more about Karl Kutz HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
In today's episode with the Rev. Dr. George Athas, we pick up the historic overview of what is incorrectly called the 400 years of silence. We dive into the significant historical influence of Greek culture and thought on Jewish society, especially during the Hellenistic period. In the Hasmonean period, we find the rise of anti-Dividic position of silencing the prophetic voice. What does that mean for the way we understand who Jesus is? Find out more about Dr. Athas HERERead more about his book HERESee his many other writings HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
We casually talk about 400 years of silence between the Old and New Testaments, but why do we say that? Who was the first to coin that phrase? What if that is an anti-Messianic statement? Then shouldn't we be more aware of the history and the development of Jewish thought to develop better vocabulary to talk about this time period? The short answer is, "Yes!", and the Rev. Dr. George Athas can help. His excellent new book Bridging the Testaments is a treasure trove of historic details. Today he joins us to talk about vocabulary. What is the difference between "Intertestamental" and "Second Temple"? What are the big picture historical periods included in this time that we need to be aware of? Find out more about Dr. Athas HERERead more about his book HERESee his many other writings HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Dr. Heath Thomas is back to talk more about his book The Minor Prophets: A Theological Introduction. Often the prophets are not addressing the individual's sin but the whole community's sin. So what does it mean to live as a distinctive community that represents a distinctive God? How do the writings of the prophets create expectations for the coming Messiah? How can these writings instruct the church today?Read more about Dr. Heath Thomas HEREFind the book HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Dr. Heath Thomas grow up as a pastor's kid, thought he'd be an English teacher but ended up specializing in Hebrew Poetry. He is now the president of Oklahoma Baptist University and somehow found time to co-write a book with Craig Bartholomew titled the Minor Prophets: A Theological Introduction. We talk about what the role of the prophet is, the content of their messages, and why they seem so angry all of the time. Read more about Dr. Heath Thomas HEREFind the book HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Although cherubim in European art are cute, small, and angelic, the ancient world thought of them as terrifying protectors. In today's conversation, Dr. Gray continues to describe what we can learn about the ancient world by looking at their art. What did these people believe about hybrid creatures like the cherubim, seraphim, and sea serpents play? What role do these creatures play in the Bible?Find out more about Dr. Gray HERESee depictions of cherubim HERESee depictions of seraphim HERESee the sea serpent on Kudurru boundary stones HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
If the imagination influences spiritual formation, then what can we discover about how people in the ancient world thought of the spiritual realm by looking at their art? Today's guest is Dr. Taylor Gray, and we will discuss how exploring iconography helps us understand ancient customs, stories, and ways of thinking about the divine world. Find out more about Dr. Gray HERESee Pillar Figurines HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Today we continue our conversation about Dr. Lanta Davis' new book called Becoming by Beholding. We begin with "bestiaries" - what they are and what their purpose was in early Christian art. We also talked about art and architecture. Does the shape and design of a church building indicate how worship is practiced inside? And how can ancient depictions of historic figures in the church reveal who significant leaders were? And what if they were women?You can find Lanta Davis' book HERESee examples of Bestiaries HERERead more about Dr. Davis HERERead Dr. Davis' article "The Witness of Women Written on the Walls" HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Dr. Lanta Davis joins us today to talk about her new book called Becoming by Beholding. Her book will prompt you to think about the connection between art, imagination, and theology. How did the historic church think about the imagination and spiritual formation, and can we do a better job of that in today's environment? Are we aware enough of what we "behold" and how that creates an impression on our lives? And how did the Protestant church lose its ability to gaze on images and allow them to stoke our imagination?You can find Lanta Davis' book HERERead more about Dr. Davis HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Dr. Ryan Vroegindewey joins us once again to talk about the global food system, how animal welfare matters, and how to think about "organic", "mono cropping", and "genetically modified food". Helpful books referenced in today's episode:Stewards of Eden by Sandra RichterScripture Culture and Agriculture by Ellen DavisThe collected works publications by Katharine HayhoeLearn more about the movie Kiss the GroundContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
How does the Bible instruct us to treat the world, our food, and our ground? Today we talk with Dr. Ryan Vroegindewey about how he became aware of the complexities in our global food systems and what we can all do to become more informed with the choices we make. Helpful books referenced in today's episode:Stewards of Eden by Sandra RichterScripture Culture and Agriculture by Ellen DavisThe collected works publications by Katharine HayhoeContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Dr. Stephen Ko is an interdisciplinary writer at the intersection of faith, medicine, and public health. He is also the Senior Pastor of New York Chinese Alliance Church. In his new book Faith Embodied, Dr. Ko explores the intersection of his medical knowledge with his spiritual insights. Using our senses can we learn to see Scripture in a new way and can we learn to fully embody our worship? You can learn more about Dr. Stephen Ko HERE where you can also subscribe to his newsletter and follow him on social media.Explore his book Faith Embodied HERE. Contact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Dr. Stephen Ko is an interdisciplinary writer at the intersection of faith, medicine, and public health. He is also the Senior Pastor of New York Chinese Alliance Church. In his new book Faith Embodied, Dr. Ko explores the intersection of his medical knowledge with his spiritual insights. Using our senses can we learn to see Scripture in a new way and can we learn to fully embody our worship? You can learn more about Dr. Stephen Ko HERE where you can also subscribe to his newsletter and follow him on social media.Explore his book Faith Embodied HERE. Contact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Dr. Mark Glanville joins us today from his piano to talk with me about his newly released book titled Improvising Church: Scripture as the Source of Harmony, Rhythm and Soul. We start with a conversation about the need for churches to develop according to their local context - the flavor of the places they are in. We then talk about worship in polyrhythms and the jazz-sound of the heart of the church.Read more about the book Improvising Church HERERead more about Dr. Mark Glanville HEREwatch a great introduction to his book with more great jazz HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Dr. Mark Glanville joins me from his piano to talk about his new book Improvising Church: Scripture as the Source of Harmony, Rhythm, and Soul. What is it about jazz and scripture that make them natural conversation partners regarding the modern church? Is there a way to create churches that are characterized by being leader-full, where the imagination, the energy, and the thoughtfulness goes beyond the capacity of any one leader? Read more about the book Improvising Church HERERead more about Dr. Mark Glanville HEREwatch a great introduction to his book with more great jazz HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
This is part 2 of our conversation with Dr. Ericka Dunbar who is an Assistant Professor of Hebrew Bible at Baylor University. We talk about noticing the small characters in a narrative. Who are the unnamed women taken from throughout the Persian empire? What was their experience like? We also talk about how challenging engaging in conversation that shift our perspectives and assumptions can be. Read more about Dr. Dunbar HERERead more about her book Trafficking HadassahContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
In part 1 of our conversation on the book of Esther, Dr. Ericka Dunbar introduces us to contextual influences in her life that changed how she read the book of Esther. Far from a story about queens and beauty pageants, Dr. Dunbar highlights the problematic issues around gender, ethnicity, violence, and sexualized abuse that are in the text that we cannot ignore.Read more about Dr. Dunbar HERERead more about her book Trafficking HadassahContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Dr. Nadya Williams is a Classics Historian who brings her knowledge of the culture and writings generated in the Greco-Roman world to bear on the early church. This is Part 2 of our conversation regarding her book Cultural Christians in the Early Church. Dr. Williams discusses popular, best-selling Roman literature and how that illuminates how radical the teachings of Jesus are and how challenging living counter-culturally was for the early church. While we explore the earliest church, the persecuted church, and the connected-to-empire church, we hear echoes of all of these cultural movements in the modern church. Explore the book Cultural Christians in the Early ChurchRead other articles by Dr. Nadya Williams HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Dr. Nadya Williams is a Classics Historian who brings her knowledge of the culture and writings generated in the Greco-Roman world to bear on the early church. While modern people in their struggle against institutionalized church tend to look back at the earliest Christians as those who wear halos, Dr. Williams says, "Not so fast." In this conversation, Dr. Williams introduces us to her own multi-country, multi-lingual, and multi-faith context growing up and how that shaped her view of God today. Then we dive into the types of Greco-Roman cultural norms that proved challenging for the earliest Christians to shed. Explore the book Cultural Christians in the Early ChurchRead other articles by Dr. Nadya Williams HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Part 2 of the conversation with Dr. Myrto Theocharous takes us into new perspectives on Deuteronomy. How do we think about Imago Dei, not in the faces of those around us, but reflected in our own actions? What does the book say about becoming complacent in a good economy? What responsibility do we have for communal care? Find out more about Dr. Theocharous HEREFind out about New ZoiContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
In part 1 of our conversation, Dr. Myrto Theocharous explains her love for connecting Deuteronomy's theology with the practical actions in the world. There is so much this book still has to teach us!Find out more about Dr. Theocharous HEREFind out about New ZoiContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Rev. Dr. Eun Strawser describes her journey as a church leader transforming small discipleship group into multiple communities. How did they do it? They focused on intentional discipleship, community engagement, and the markers of mature disciples. How can these practices be adopted by other churches?Find out more about the book here: www.centeringdiscipleship.comExplore the 4-week online training program for Centering Discipleship HEREFollow Dr. Strawser on Instagram: @ekstrawser Contact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Rev. Dr. Eun Strawser joins us to talk about what it means for churches to think about discipleship. What is it? How do you do it? Can you design a church structure around discipleship? Dr. Strawser was faced with all of these questions when she started a new church plant. After some experimentation, she discovered that when discipleship becomes central to your leadership and community, then discipleship becomes central to congregational mission and cultural renewal.Find out more about the book here: www.centeringdiscipleship.comExplore the 4-week online training program for Centering Discipleship HEREFollow Dr. Strawser on Instagram: @ekstrawser Contact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
What does the book of Revelation have to say to the modern church? In Part 2 of the conversation with Dr. Scot McKnight, we examine the visual propaganda machine of the Roman empire and how the author of Revelation makes great use of those images to mock the arrogance of Rome. But this is also a book about becoming dissident disciples. When we read this book as a letter to the churches who were dangerously close to allowing the "Babylon Creep" into the church, we hear a strong warning to the Western Church. Find out more about Dr. McKnight HERESubscribe to his Substack HEREFollow him on X [Twitter] https://twitter.com/scotmcknightContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Dr. Scot McKnight recently published a book called Revelation for the Rest of Us. But it is the subtitle that is intriguing: A Prophetic Call to Follow Jesus as a Dissident Disciple. Dissident disciples? The book of Revelation? Politics and theology coming together in one episode? In part 1 of our conversation we learn about why Dr. McKnight felt like he needed to write this particular book in this time in history. And he throws in an amazing comment about the author, John, when describing how many allusions he makes to Old Testament imagery: "[John's] soul inebriated with Scripture that he can't speak without describing things in biblical ways."Find out more about Dr. McKnight HERESubscribe to his Substack HEREFollow him on X [Twitter] https://twitter.com/scotmcknightContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
This is Part 2 of the conversation with Dr. Michael Rhodes. He is a professor in Old Testament at Carey Baptist College in Aukland, New Zealand, and we are discussing his book Just Discipleship. If we are to people concerned about Justice and concerned about BECOMING people of justice, what does that say about the topic of reparations? Can the biblical concept of Jubilee shed light on how modern countries can name and identify the sins of the previous generation, and where appropriate, identify your continuity with them? We even get to talk about the relevance of some very random laws in the Old Testament! We conclude talking about what happens to the application of these laws about justice when you are living within someone else's kingdom? Find more information on his other books: Formative Feasting and Practicing the King's Economy. Discover his book Just Discipleship HERE. Contact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Is it possible that Western Christianity and modern American life is shaping us to become people who are NOT good at doing justice, and loving mercy, and showing kindness? We know of such concepts but do we embody such concepts in the world around us? This week kicks off a several week conversation with scholars about different aspects of discipleship. We start today with a fellow Old Testament scholar, Dr. Michael Rhodes. He is a professor in Old Testament at Carey Baptist College in Aukland, New Zealand. He is the author of Formative Feasting and Practicing the King's Economy. We start with the impetus for his new book Just Discipleship, which you can find HERE. What is biblical justice? Is it different from other forms of justice? Contact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
This is Part 2 of a conversation with Rev. Dr. Helen Paynter about her new book titled: Blessed are the Peacemakers: A Biblical Theology of Human Violence. Today we discuss what to do when it seems like God is calling his people to violence, or what happens when the Israelites are violent with one another. How does the Bible give voice to those who suffer from violent attacks? And for those who study violence, where do they find a type of hope that can sustain them and their work?Find out more about Dr. Paynter HERESome of the resources and links mentioned on this episode:https://www.facebook.com/CSBVBristolBaptistCollege/Twitter @CSBibleViolenceYoutube https://www.youtube.com/@CSBibleViolencehttps://www.amazon.com/Bible-Doesnt-Tell-Me-So/dp/0857469894https://www.amazon.com/Cursing-God-Imprecatory-Psalms-Christian/dp/1481316362https://www.amazon.com/Bloody-Brutal-Barbaric-Wrestling-Troubling/dp/0830852492Contact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
We are in a time of global conflict and violence, and so this is a great time to pay careful attention the newest book released by Rev. Dr. Helen Paynter called Blessed are the Peacemakers: A Biblical Theology of Human Violence. Today we talk about why Dr. Paynter ended up studying a biblical view of violence and what her Center for Study of Bible and Violence is all about.Find out more about Dr. Paynter HERESome of the resources and links mentioned on this episode:https://www.facebook.com/CSBVBristolBaptistCollege/Twitter @CSBibleViolenceYoutube https://www.youtube.com/@CSBibleViolencehttps://www.amazon.com/Bible-Doesnt-Tell-Me-So/dp/0857469894https://www.amazon.com/Cursing-God-Imprecatory-Psalms-Christian/dp/1481316362https://www.amazon.com/Bloody-Brutal-Barbaric-Wrestling-Troubling/dp/0830852492Contact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
This is Part 2 of a conversation with Dr. Jennifer Holberg about her recently released called Nourishing Narratives. Dr. Holberg is a Professor and chair of the English department at Calvin University and co-director of the Calvin Center for Faith and Writing. Today we talk about how to imagine the real humanness of people in the biblical text and how that shapes our theology.Discover more about Dr. Holberg HEREFind her book Nourishing Narratives HERERead about the Calvin Center for Faith and Writing HEREWatch a trailer for the film "They Shall Not Grow Old" HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Dr. Jennifer Holberg recently released a book that talks about the power of story to shape our faith. Dr. Holberg is a Professor and chair of the English department at Calvin University and co-director of the Calvin Center for Faith and Writing. This week we talk about how important context is for understanding people and story. Then we talk about how people not only gravitate towards narratives, but they are shaped by narratives. And what does that mean when we talk about faith?Discover more about Dr. Holberg HEREFind her book Nourishing Narratives HERERead about the Calvin Center for Faith and Writing HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
How does medieval history teach us more about Christianity? We get a glimpse into the past with in this week's episode with Dr. Grace Hammer. Dr. Hammer is a medievalist who specializes in Middle English. She has a new book called Jesus Through Medieval Eyes. She also hosts a podcast called Old Books with Grace. We have hosted a couple of episodes around the context of the split between the Eastern and Western Churches, but this week we get to talk about how the context of the western, European church influenced how the church talked about Jesus. Click here for more information about all the ways to know about Dr. Grace Hamman's workClick here to sign up for Grace's monthly newsletter, Medievalish.Contact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
This is part 2 of a conversation with Dr. Gordon McConville who is Professor Emeritus at the University of Gloucestershire. We are discussing his book The Suffering Servant: Isaiah 53 for the Life of the Church. In this episode we explore the context and impact of the suffering servant in Isaiah 53. What is unique about the suffering? What is the role of the servant? And how did New Testament writers use Isaiah to help them understand who Jesus was?Find his book The Suffering Servant HEREFind his commentary on Isaiah HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Gordon McConville grew up in Northern Ireland, and studied Modern Languages at Cambridge and Theology in Edinburgh, before doing a PhD in Old Testament with Prof Gordon Wenham at Queen's University, He has taught at Trinity College, Bristol and Wycliffe Hall, Oxford, and is now Professor Emeritus at the University of Gloucestershire.Find his book The Suffering Servant HEREFind his commentary on Isaiah HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
We are taking advantage of the end of the year to take a reflective look back on where we have been in 2023. There are so many amazing guests that sat with us around the podcast table. We took a fresh look at books of the Bible we rarely hear sermons on, and we had a masterclass on how to interpret the Bible contextually. Each guest brought a nuanced view of scripture, and helped us think about how valuable it is to read the Bible with people who have diverse perspectives. What a gift it is to be in conversation with so many people. Let me know which episodes are on YOUR list! You will find links to the full episodes here.Dr. Carol Kaminski: Gems in GenealogyDr. Kay Higher Smith and Dr. Alice Yafey-Deigh: Reading the Bible Around the WorldDr. Lewis Brogdon: Philemon Part 1 and Part 2Kevin Kim and Sang Tian from Basil Tech: Studying the Bible with Technology and don't forget to look at Bible Dojo!Rev. Jacob Breeze and Reading with the Spiritually Wounded Part 1 and Part 2Contact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
Why is this concept of Being God's Image a challenging concept to wholeheartedly believe not only about yourself but also other people. This is not really the messaging from society, right? But can you imagine if the modern church REALLY lived into this? How would this transform how we treated others, how we understand God, and what we think about beauty? Dr. Carmen Imes takes us through some significant themes of identity from her newest book. Find Dr. Imes book here: https://www.ivpress.com/being-god-s-image Find out more about Dr. Imes here: https://www.biola.edu/directory/people/carmen-imesContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine.Join Cyndi Parker's Patreon Team!
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