Currents in Religion

In this episode, Zen speaks with Claire Mummert, the incoming host and producer of Currents in Religion.Our GuestClaire is a second year PhD student at Baylor University, specializing in the Hebrew Bible.

Show SummaryIn this episode, I am joined by Michelle Knight, author of The Prophet's Anthem: The Song of Deborah and Barak in the Narrative of Judges, which was recently published by Baylor University Press (link below). We talk about how the story of Deborah in Judges 4 relates to the song of Deborah in Judges 5, and how both function as a critical interpretive key to the whole narrative of Judges. We also talk a little about the way Deborah, as a judge, stands out among the others—as an exemplary leader in the history of Israel. Our GuestMichelle Knight is Associate Professor of Old Testament and Semitic Languages at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. She also serves as Senior Reviewer for the Historical Books for the New Living Translation. Find her book here: https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481321594/the-prophets-anthem/Other Relevant EpisodesThe book of...Judges? with Julian Chike: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6oKFIaMTUGBmFW7kQWZ5bl?si=CzqDe3WzQ8WfpqhtnD04EwTrauma, Resilience, and the Psalms with Rebecca Poe Hays: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0B475O1XqN0hA0795xWCWL?si=gQ4idTWeQqCx9VRP9d316QClimate Change, Preaching, and the Apocalypse of Place with Jerusha Neal: https://open.spotify.com/episode/79uXLCcysx7MHR4DpyIQUR?si=mN8wEoN2QQOe6czbVMMqdQ

In this episode, I speak with Blake Burleson about his long career of studying and teaching world religions at Baylor University. He tells the story of how he became a scholar of world religions and how studying world religion has shaped his own spiritual practices. He also shares why he thinks studying world religions is critical for the present moment. I especially enjoyed hearing Blake talk about how meditative learning activities can equip students to listen well in this age of distraction and contention. I think you'll find this conversation insightful and challenging, sobering and encouraging and, perhaps, a little provocative. Blake Burleson has been at Baylor for more than forty years. Among other roles and accomplishments, Blake has served as a senior lecturer and Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies. He contributes regularly to the Waco Tribune. The Spring of 2024 will be his final semester at Baylor as he enters retirement. Relevant EpisodesBlack Contemplative Preaching with E. Trey Clark: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Nf1w59GeWEtLstDRerk9t?si=xvCcecIqTM-9SJDEgGQudATheology, Ethics, and a Church in Conflict: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7DXKtwkSWGOMhkLQKuMqUp?si=KWvca3c-TVG_KelW8KLlHgInterdisciplining Theology: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1F7vdM2k59iVygibvhWQq4?si=FQc75otnRKmoT67ojZBHpQ

In this episode, we feature the work of three scholars affiliated with the Baptist Scholars International Roundtable (BSIR). They discuss the collegial process of BSIR and their research on northern Baptist women and their missions. Our GuestsDr. Laine Scales is the guest host for this episode. Laine is a professor and the PhD program director in the Diane R. Garland School of Social Work here at Baylor. She is also a co-director of BSIR.Nadia Andrilenas is a PhD candidate in the Department of Religion in Historical Studies at Baylor University. Her research examines women's experiences in Christianity, especially in East and Southeast Asia, and draws from World Christianity methodologies. Her dissertation will investigate how women and gender shaped early 20th century Vietnamese evangelicalism.Dr. Laura Rodgers Levens. Laura is the Associate Professor of Christian Mission and the Director of the Master of Arts in Ministry Studies Program at BSK Theological Seminary. She specializes in interdisciplinary courses that integrate multiple academic disciplines for practical theological inquiry and training. In addition to teaching, Laura has written for numerous publications, serves on various academic and ecclesial committees, and regularly guest preaches in local churches. Other Episodes Featuring BSIRJoão Chaves and Ronilso Pacheco: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5w8Py2063b3uYrRXBEaw9D?si=twyX2DkjS5icXL4sVCUlhgLaine Scales, David Goatley, and Brad Creed: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3Ix2UztGrdZXAs5xspNfSs?si=TgdbDgq_RWqUR_T8hmCkJgJoão Chaves, Felipe Hinojosa, and Stephen Di Trolio: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Zg9lJjGr2sA581pfQosv5?si=tk9LFYZERRawusevrWFxtQLaine Scales and João Chaves: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0qABw70AEevYv9OwXDtDMY?si=CDVwcFIGQ5S3X4kYHhBkjw

In this episode, Zen speaks with several people who contributed to a new Baylor University Press book called God of the Whirlwind. The book collects stories and reflections from the Black Waco community that revolve around the Black storytelling tradition in Waco related to two significant events: a lynching and a deadly tornado.GuestsLinda Jann Lewis describes herself as a 1960's Baby Boomer who worships at the altar of Voting Rights and Civil Rights. She is a writer, having contributed to the Austin Villager, Nokoa, and multiple books. She has been featured in a film about Molly Ivins. And she helped found and remains involved with Austin Community Radio's kazifm.org.George Oliver is the Assistant Director of Huntsville Hornet Drama, a 1998 graduate of Huntsville High School, received his BFA in Theatre from Sam Houston, and earned a MDiv from Andover Newton Seminary (at Yale Divinity School). George is Co-Producer on the short film Ado, starring Jennifer Lewis, which was just invited to both the Florida Film Festival and the Cleveland International Film Festival, and made its Festival debut at the Flickfest Short Film Festival in Australia. He plans to begin studying Commercial Real Estate Development in the year to come.Tyler B. Davis is a Research Administrator, Adjunct Professor in the Mexican American Studies Program and Department of Theology, and Affiliate Faculty in the Center for Catholic Studies at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas. He is also a graduate of Baylor University's Religion Department. LinksBuy God of the Whirlwind: https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481322560/god-of-the-whirlwind/

Was the Apostle Paul a Stoic? Mm, probably not. But some people in Corinth who Paul taught about Christ may have appropriated Stoicism, subordinating it to flesh out their understanding of their new faith. That is what Timothy Brookins joins us to talk about today.This Episode's GuestTimothy earned his PhD from Baylor University, working on First Corinthians, Stoic philosophy, and economics. He's gone on to publish several books, including recently Rediscovering the Wisdom of the Corinthians (Eerdmans, 2024). Timothy taught at Houston Christian University for more than a decade before making a move to University of St. Thomas and St. Mary's Seminary in Houston, Texas. LinksRediscovering the Wisdom of the Corinthians: https://www.eerdmans.com/9780802883230/rediscovering-the-wisdom-of-the-corinthians/Other Relevant EpisodesA Bigger Gospel with Beverly Gaventa: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0B1vRGZZRDIczqb87pR7vl?si=XOISyBiPSfWxTBI0yHH_FgMike Bird on Jesus among the Gods: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0cNAJcGfBtf4QFVJTyqSXI?si=HBhS3gf9QnaT1qSNBuJlWQWomen in the New Testament with Susan Benton: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4zSCCtXkiPjolc1L7VfQ2o?si=qXAQkZv6TpyUj-Wwcqe-fw

In this episode, guest host João Chaves speaks with Ronilso Pacheco about Samuel Sharpe's libertarian and anti-slavery preaching. Ronilso Pacheco is the Jackson Scholar of Latin American Studies, director of programming at the Instituto de Estudos da Religião (Brazil). He is also a Ford Global Fellow. João Chaves is the Assistant Professor of the History of Religion in the Américas at Baylor University and one of the Co-Directors of the Baptist Scholars International Roundtable.Previous BSIR-related EpisodesAround the Table: David Goatley and Brad Creed – https://open.spotify.com/episode/3Ix2UztGrdZXAs5xspNfSs?si=aPtZDaSuS5eHPLgvet3HkwChristian Nationalism in the Americas – https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Zg9lJjGr2sA581pfQosv5?si=a2PoaTJXQ3WPIkjO7lmqegBaptists, Scholarship, and God's Kingdom: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0qABw70AEevYv9OwXDtDMY?si=HpDDb9FUSxqWtePU5p0Y6AOther Relevant EpisodesA Study in How Migration Shapes Religion: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5jU3HPamZEcFvHRq0Wq4TV?si=TZn61_d2R-6CbtpbclDDmQBlack Baptist Leaders, Race Literature, and the Salvation of America: https://open.spotify.com/episode/53a29CcqwmRtcCupJlduvW?si=7wRPvIIgRb-55l9WKJDIWABlack Contemplative Preaching: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Nf1w59GeWEtLstDRerk9t?si=SLj07DpjSrSfydaOXUxX7A

Episode SummaryIn this episode, Zen speaks with Rachel Toombs about her Baylor University Press book, Good News Resounding, which is available to pre-order now. This book includes contributions from an wonderful group of scholars and artists, including works of academic prose, poetry, creative nonfiction, and visual art. It offers the reader glimpses of the beautiful world of theology and literature.But the book tells a story, a story about a scholarly life well lived. One that included not only careful reading and thinking, but careful mentoring. The book is a festschrift honoring the career of Ralph Wood, the Baylor University Emeritus Professor of Theology and Literature. In our conversation, Rachel reflects on her experience as one of Ralph's students. It made me once again grateful for mentors in my own life—and led me to reflect on what it means to be both a good student and a good teacher.Guest BioRachel Toombs earned her PhD from Baylor University. She has written on Flannery O'Connor and Hebrew narrative and has a recently published book with Baker Academic called Reading the First Five Books: The Invitation of the Pentateuch's Stories (https://bakeracademic.com/p/Reading-the-First-Five-Books-Rachel-Toombs/579875). Rachel has recently been called to serve as assistant professor of Old Testament at Church Divinity School of the Pacific.Related EpisodesNatalie Carnes on feminist theology and the arts: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0lJKY9SBaJBWZZuAurvGAm?si=bW5TRgafTVuEFDMzygomOgPicturing Ecclesiastes with Menachem Fisch and Debra Band: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6B0Z4z3RrEpzD6mNeXFwUj?si=R8yF8K8fQJ-4TRp-k-9V2QDisaster and Desire with Micheal O'Siadhail: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5CMlCkpKw7PhIoSGQEsUKs?si=r5j9NeBuSySMRxKOkIHyHALinksGood News Resounding: https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481322539/good-news-resounding/Reading the First Five Books: https://bakeracademic.com/p/Reading-the-First-Five-Books-Rachel-Toombs/579875

Episode IntroIn today's episode, the Rev. Dr. Malcolm Foley joins us again to discuss his recently published book, The Anti-Greed Gospel: Why the Love of Money is the Root of Racism and How the Church Can Create a New Way Forward (Brazos Press 2025). I can't imagine a more relevant book for the church, given the intense economic anxiety that is so pervasive in America and beyond. I'm excited for you to hear from Malcolm about greed, racism, and how Christians might bear witness to the gospel economically.About the GuestThe Rev. Dr. Malcolm earned his PhD from Baylor University's Department of Religion. He serves as the Special Advisor to the President for Equity and Campus Engagement. He is also a pastor at Mosaic Waco, a gospel-centered, Spirit led, multicultural church in Waco, Texas. Related Episodes & Links1) Black Contemplative Preaching: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Nf1w59GeWEtLstDRerk9t?si=B8jYkt3cTqCzQeBiJdsgRA2) Theology, Ethics, and a Church in Conflict: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7DXKtwkSWGOMhkLQKuMqUp?si=agjg4IPGTCuNhiEBUzzxUA3) The Cross and the Lynching Tree: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3BVgyMhmm49BhRWLh3HoYt?si=rUno3OOzQlO_LKqBalMFhAMalcolm's book: https://bakerpublishinggroup.com/books/the-anti-greed-gospel/419161Rebecca "Becky" Copeland's book: https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481321426/entangled-being/

In this episode, Zen speaks with Melody Escobar about her new book Revelations of Divine Care (Baylor University Press: 2024). You can learn more about the book at this link: https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481320559/revelations-of-divine-care/ Melody Escobar is a research associate with the Collaborative on Faith and Disability in the Baylor Center for Developmental Disabilities at Baylor University. Other Episodes You Might Like Autism and Worship with Léon von Ommen: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2RWXSNpgDHR4bd5UfMLiDj?si=OtB2a6X-RPWOkZ2K99M6kQ Inclusion, Justice, and Disability in the Church with Erin Raffety: https://open.spotify.com/episode/76ivqvdHBVoM0XBI32uGZw?si=s5lmHcSWT96tVIDpZ69wrg An Era of Soft Eugenics? with Devan Stahl: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1ukJKPza94WEu0MVAPzv9P?si=Hg6XEPQvSc2E5JcmcvE51g

In this episode, Laine Scales guest hosts a conversation with David Goatley and Brad Creed about the Baptist Scholars International Roundtable. They discuss recent research emerging from the Roundtable as well as how the Roundtable cultivates an international, intergenerational, and interdisciplinary community of scholarship through intentional mentoring. David Goatley is the sixth president of Fuller Theological Seminary. He is a constructive theologian and globally recognized missiologist with a background in pastoral counseling. J. Bradley Creed is the fifth president of Campbell University. He is an accomplished leader of mission-driven institutions and a scholar and historian of religion. Laine Scales is Professor of Social Work at Baylor University and a co-director of the Baptist Scholars International Roundtable.

In this episode, Zen speaks with Leah Lomotey-Nakon, one of the newest faculty members in Baylor's Religion Department. Leah shares some of her story and discusses her research on religion and reproductive health. Learn more about Dr. Lomotey-Nakon here: https://religion.artsandsciences.baylor.edu/person/leah-lomotey-nakon-phd Other Episodes You Might Like An era of soft eugenics with Devan Stahl: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1ukJKPza94WEu0MVAPzv9P?si=x2YRVkmdS5yT33Wtg0K0Fw Interdisciplining theology with Natalie Carnes, Devan Stahl, and others: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1F7vdM2k59iVygibvhWQq4?si=UwO76n1CTcqXNc0OjJBvjw Imagining motherhood with Amy Marga: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1OgGe29lfyEzvrNGtpppBL?si=nWk_uaVTQIihzvwYLi9GBg

In this episode, Zen speaks with Christopher Seitz about his new book The Heights of the Hills are His Also. Learn more about the book here: https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481322454/the-heights-of-the-hills-are-his-also/ Other Episodes You Might Like Bill Bellinger on the psalms and faith: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3MEUD4045KXTY3GtNhXRNy?si=HbVy3bRkTWqwdAmMYvIQCw Rebecca Poe Hays on the Psalms, trauma, and resilience: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0B475O1XqN0hA0795xWCWL?si=JiNq0nB2TKG5rQFQBFonlA Micheal O'Siadhail's Testament (with poems reflecting on the psalms): https://open.spotify.com/episode/3AOdcGFqsZiBEB7b4XQiAp?si=8zJLgOA1T96NipPAviw1ZQ

In this episode, Zen speaks with Sameer Yadav, one of Baylor's newest religion faculty. The son of Indian immigrants, Sameer was raised in a Hindu home in rural Idaho. His childhood experiences of religion are the beginning of Sameer's story of becoming a theologian. Hear more about his journey in this episode. Listen until the end to hear Sameer discuss whether mysticism has a place in Christian higher education today. Learn more about Sameer at his faculty page: https://religion.artsandsciences.baylor.edu/person/sameer-yadav-phd Other episodes you might like: Black Contemplative Preaching with E. Trey Clark: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Nf1w59GeWEtLstDRerk9t?si=LA-u_s9VQDmFq9XFFG8Reg Amy Carr and Christine Helmer on theology, ethics, and the church in conflict: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7DXKtwkSWGOMhkLQKuMqUp?si=awXNtHr9RlK8jZlz-DkI7A Malcolm Foley on James Cone's The Cross and the Lynching Tree: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3BVgyMhmm49BhRWLh3HoYt?si=too2D28bSa2sRMHL5IN9Aw

In this episode, Zen speaks with John Duncan about teaching introductory courses on the Bible and church history. The discussion includes reflections on the challenges of teaching courses like these, such as navigating issues raised by having students of various faith backgrounds in the room. John also offers strategies and examples of in-class activities he uses to teach the class. Learn more about John by visiting his Baylor faculty profile: https://religion.artsandsciences.baylor.edu/person/john-duncan-phd Other Episodes You Might Like Digital Religious Studies: AI, digitial humanities, and teaching online with Tyler Mowry: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1p9ONnGMPnlaLyh1fcm8oh?si=IzLyXjRcThODc5hmof-GEQ Publishing academic journal articles with Jeff Hubbard: https://open.spotify.com/episode/54Gt5E6ewVPkDyJaCjAavS?si=6VhNWHptRdiAPVuSdjl72A Networking at AARSBL with Dave Nelson: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2DHAP5p0rjD4C3G5i1dcMZ?si=pmz_QJrNQt-lE39qzhV68g

In this episode, João Chaves joins as guest host, facilitating a conversation with guests Felipe Hinojosa and Stephen De Trolio. They discuss Christian nationalism, the colonial history of Christian nationalism, and the impact histories of Christian nationalism have on the church today. This episode is a special collaboration with the Baptist Scholars International Roundtable. Learn more about the Roundtable here: https://religion.artsandsciences.baylor.edu/affiliated-programs/baptist-studies-center-research/baptist-scholars-international-roundtable-4 Learn more about the guests at their respective academic pages: João Chaves: https://religion.artsandsciences.baylor.edu/person/joao-chaves-phd Felipe Hinojosa: https://history.artsandsciences.baylor.edu/person/felipe-hinojosa Stephen Di Trolio: https://ptsem.edu/profiles/stephen-r-di-trolio/ Other Episodes You Might Like: Studying Evangelicalism with Leslie Garrote: https://open.spotify.com/episode/61dadOXmU40hMxjljYYDfp?si=Kn_DELYsTRiZDq6p-q7OZg Baptists, Scholarship, and God's Kingdom with Laine Scales and João Chaves: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0qABw70AEevYv9OwXDtDMY?si=rjZO682BRCyHK-hAPvFSNw Hearing History with Mandy McMichael: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3mg7ciIUc4RjPnWxqhhmGr?si=8k_zbv_pSH2aL6tHxVvcew

In this episode, Zen speaks with Jerusha Neal (Duke Divinity School) about her new book Holy Ground: Climate Change, Preaching, and the Apocalypse of Place. How might our discourse, teaching, and preaching about climate change differ if we listened more carefully to the voices of displaced people? Listen to hear what Jerusha Neal thinks. Holy Ground is available November 2024 from Baylor University Press: https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481319072/holy-ground/ Other Episodes You Might Like: Micheal O'Siadhail on disaster and desire: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5CMlCkpKw7PhIoSGQEsUKs?si=kR95eMYaRBeg1pnGbOhRMw Rebecca Poe Hays on the Psalms, trauma, and resilience: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0B475O1XqN0hA0795xWCWL?si=ZlEkaiNKTHyEwxcbpty9yg Paul and the Good Green Life with Cherryl Hunt and Julien Smith: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1pMbiRmH6sjP2XI2f1IuBB?si=ypv-dtpZTTejuXkHQvI-Cw

In this episode, guest host Natalie Carnes (Baylor University) speaks with Kutter Callaway (Fuller Theological Seminary) about the past, present, and future of theology and the arts. Other Currents Episodes You Might Like: Mikeal Parsons and Robin Jensen on early Christians and their arts: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6yQRLp1wcReeYgd5X8rdtL?si=HShgW_EqSECM-CAL-LzHfw Elise Edwards on architecture, theology, and ethics. https://open.spotify.com/episode/6fvfwLeXZYKTMoNYpoeFjL?si=DC84TaWeSuazDU42MjoIKw Menachem Fisch and Debra Band on illuminating Ecclesiastes. https://open.spotify.com/episode/6B0Z4z3RrEpzD6mNeXFwUj?si=gIW0UhQfQX2sn0-xpUIixA Interdisciplining Theology: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1F7vdM2k59iVygibvhWQq4?si=luH0bOHsTMiRD_Wzssv3Yg Natalie Carnes on Feminist Theology and the Arts: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0lJKY9SBaJBWZZuAurvGAm?si=Gvqrcv9WQcOB9TtFu0Ci1A Links to books, initiatives, and grants mentioned: Natalie's new book: https://global.oup.com/academic/product/attunement-9780197765623 Baylor Initiative in Christianity and the Arts: https://bica.artsandsciences.baylor.edu/ Illuminating Theological Inquiry Grant: https://ethics.web.baylor.edu/special-programs-and-projects/project-overview Measuring the Immeasurable Grant: https://templetonreligiontrust.org/explore/measuring-transcendence-irl/

In this episode, Zen speaks with Tyler Mowry about teaching religious studies in online settings, using digital humanities, and assigning AI. Tyler is a Hebrew Bible PhD student and Learning Management System Content Specialist at Baylor University. Links to the digital humanities tools Tyler mentions in the interview will be posted in due course. The essay on assigning AI (written by Ethan and Lilach Mollick) is available here: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4475995 Relevant Episodes: Publishing academic articles with Jeff Hubbard: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/publishing-academic-journal-articles-with-jeff-hubbard/id1648052085?i=1000637176857 Networking at AAR/SBL with Dave Nelson: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/publishing-academic-journal-articles-with-jeff-hubbard/id1648052085?i=1000637176857

In this episode, Zen speaks with Leslie Garrote about American Evangelicalism: its history, the challenges of studying a living religious movement, and best practices. Leslie is currently a PhD student in Baylor's Religion Department. She is a Hispanic Theology Initiative scholar and a recipient of the Louisville Institute's doctoral fellowship. Leslie's Recommended Readings: Mark Noll's A History of Christianity in the United States and Canada Darren Dochuck's From Bible Belt to Sunbelt: Plain-Folk Religion, Grassroots Politics, and the Rise of Evangelical Conservatism Daniel Vaca's Evangelicals Incorporated: Books and the Business of Religion in America Kristen Kobes Du Mez's Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation Anthea Butler's White Evangelical Racism: The Politics of Morality in America Read Leslie's Anxious Bench essay here: https://www.patheos.com/blogs/anxiousbench/2024/07/what-black-women-bloggers-can-teach-american-evangelicals/ Other Episodes You Might Like: Mandy McMichael on hearing Baptist women's history: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hearing-history-mandy-mcmichael-on-interviewing-baptist/id1648052085?i=1000619951034 Adam Bond on Black Baptist Leaders, Race Literature, and the Salvation of America: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-baptist-leaders-race-literature-and-the/id1648052085?i=1000653202533

In this episode, Zen speaks with E. Trey Clark about his new book, Black Contemplative Preaching: A Hidden History of Prayer, Proclamation, and Prophetic Witness (Baylor University Pres: https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481321990/black-contemplative-preaching/). Related Episodes: Malcolm Foley on Cone's The Cross and the Lynching Tree: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-cross-and-the-lynching-tree-malcolm-foley-on/id1648052085?i=1000607851160 Ericka Shawndricka Dunbar on Africana Biblical Criticism: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/africana-biblical-criticism-and-the-book-of/id1648052085?i=1000600183961 Marcus Jerkins on Black Lives Matter and the Gospels: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-lives-matter-to-jesus-marcus-jerkins-on-salvation/id1648052085?i=1000599025436 The Baylor University Press book plugged in the middle of the episode is By the Word Worked by Fleming Rutledge (https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481321754/by-the-word-worked/).

In this episode, Zen speaks with Dr. Joel Burnett about his cutting edge research on the Amman Theater Statue, a larger-than-life, Iron Age statue discovered in 2010. We discuss the statue's origin, its features, and its religious function. Along the way, Joel helps us understand how this statue relates to and sheds light on other ancient Near Eastern societies, including Israel and Judah only seventy miles to the west. Here's a link to an article about the Amman Theater Statue, including numerous pictures: https://www.asor.org/anetoday/2019/12/Amman-Theatre-Statue-and-Ammonite-Royal-Ancestor-Cult Here's a link to Joel Burnett's new book on the statue: https://www.asor.org/news/2024/05/aasor75-amman-theater-statue Also in this episode, Cade Jarrell from Baylor Press joins us to discuss a new book by Philip Jenkins, Kingdoms of This World. You can learn more about that book here: https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481319935/kingdoms-of-this-world/ Other Episodes You Might Like: Seeing and Touching History with Cynthia Shafer-Elliott: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seeing-and-touching-history-cynthia-shafer-elliott-on/id1648052085?i=1000585869717 The Book of...Judges? with Julian Chike: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-book-of-judges-julian-chike-on-literary/id1648052085?i=1000610082013 Africana Biblical Criticism and the Book of Esther with Ericka Shawndricka Dunbar: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/africana-biblical-criticism-and-the-book-of/id1648052085?i=1000600183961

In this episode, Zen speaks with Beverly Gaventa about Paul's letter to the Romans. Her New Testament Library commentary is out now with Westminster John Knox (https://www.wjkbooks.com/Products/0664221009/romans.aspx). This episode also features special music from Paul Zach (ft. Jon Guerra, Tristen Stuart-Davenport, and IAMSON). Listen to the full track on Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube. Cade Jarrell also joins to talk about Paul and the Wrath by Thomas P. Dixon, out now from Baylor University Press (https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481321358/paul-and-the-wrath/). Relevant Episodes Paul and the Good, Green Life (ft. Julien Smith and Cherryl Hunt): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/paul-and-the-good-green-life-conversations-with/id1648052085?i=1000622634985 Greco-Roman Associations and the New Testament (ft. Bruce Longenecker): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/greco-roman-associations-and-the-new/id1648052085?i=1000605716630 Mike Bird on Jesus among the Gods: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mike-bird-on-jesus-among-the-gods/id1648052085?i=1000588501532

In this episode, Zen speaks with Barry Harvey about the story that led to the Barmen declaration, how Dietrich Bonhoeffer factors into that story, and how Barmen remains relevant today, even after 90 years. Barry Harvey is professor of theology in the Religion Department as well as in the Great Texts program of the Honors College here at Baylor University. Among other specialties, Barry is a Bonhoeffer scholar, exploring Bonhoeffer's thought in classes, articles, and a book titled Taking Hold of the Real: Dietrich Bonhoeffer and the Profound Worldliness of Christianity. Other Episodes You Might Like: Carr and Helmer on ordinary faith in polarized times: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/theology-ethics-and-a-church-in-conflict/id1648052085?i=1000631232401 Malcolm Foley on James Cone's The Cross and the Lynching Tree: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-cross-and-the-lynching-tree-malcolm-foley-on/id1648052085?i=1000607851160 Amanda Tyler on Christian nationalism: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/amanda-tyler-on-religious-liberty-and-christian/id1648052085?i=1000592862958

In this episode, Zen speaks with Micheal O'Siadhail about his new collection of poetry, Desire, which is out now from Baylor University Press. Micheal O'Siadhail is an award-winning Irish poet. He received the Irish American Cultural Institute prize for poetry in 1982; the Marten Toonder prize for Literature in 1998. And one of his other Baylor University Press books, The Five Quintets, received the Conference on Christianity and Literature's 2019 book of the year award. Listen to Micheal discuss Testament, another collection of poems, on a previous episode of Currents in Religion: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/micheal-osiadhail-on-faith-poetry-and-daring-to-love/id1648052085?i=1000590394430 Learn more about the Desire here: https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481320061/desire/

In this episode, Zen speaks with Gary Dorrien about his new book, Anglican Identities, recently published by Baylor University Press. Learn more about the book and Gary here: https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481320931/anglican-identities/

Episode Overview In this episode, Zen speaks with Adam Bond about his story and scholarship. Adam Bond joined the Religion Department at Baylor University in the summer of 2023. Prior to his time at Baylor, he served as the pastor of the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church of Richmond, Virginia. Bond is a historian of Christianity in the United States. His research and writing focus on the narratives and ideas of Black Christian leaders of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Episode Links Carr and Helmer's book, Ordinary Faith in Polarized Times: https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481319317/ordinary-faith-in-polarized-times/ Other Episodes You Might Like: Malcolm Foley on James Cone, racism, and American Christianity: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-cross-and-the-lynching-tree-malcolm-foley-on/id1648052085?i=1000607851160 Marcus Jerkins on Black Lives Matter to Jesus: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-lives-matter-to-jesus-marcus-jerkins-on-salvation/id1648052085?i=1000599025436 Ericka Shawndricka Dunbar on Africana Biblical Criticism: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/africana-biblical-criticism-and-the-book-of/id1648052085?i=1000600183961

In this episode, Zen speaks with Léon van Ommen about his new book, Autism and Worship, out now from Baylor University Press. Resources from the Episode Buy the book: https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481319898/autism-and-worship/ Learn about the Centre: https://www.abdn.ac.uk/sdhp/centre-for-the-study-of-autism-and-christian-community-1725.php Listen to the Centre's Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/autism-and-theology-podcast/id1705103191 Other Episodes You Might Like: Erin Raffety on disability, inclusion, and justice: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/should-we-abandon-inclusion-erin-raffety-on-disability/id1648052085?i=1000594272809 Devan Stahl on an era of soft eugenics: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/an-era-of-soft-eugenics-devan-stahl-on/id1648052085?i=1000589593683

In this episode, Zen speaks with Robin Jensen and Mikeal Parsons about their new co-edited volume Early Christians and Their Art, which is out now with SBL Press. You can learn more about the book at the link below. Our Guests Robin Jensen is the Patrick O'Brien Professor of Theology at the University of Notre Dame. But she is also a concurrent faculty member of Art History and Classics and a fellow of the Medieval Institute. Mikeal Parsons is the University Distinguished Professor Kidd L. & Buna Hitchcock Macon Professor of Religion at Baylor University. Other Episodes You Might Like Menachem Fisch and Debra Band on Picturing Ecclesiastes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/picturing-ecclesiastes-a-conversation-with/id1648052085?i=1000650359438 Natalie Carnes on Art and Feminist Theology: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/natalie-carnes-on-feminist-theology-and-the-arts/id1648052085?i=1000583436666 Mike Parsons and Cody Sanders on Corpse Care: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rotten-epiphany-mikeal-parsons-and-cody-sanders-talk/id1648052085?i=1000595686788

In this episode, Zen speaks with Elise Edwards about her new book Architecture, Theology, and Ethics: Making Architectural Design More Just (Lexington Books, 2024). Dr. Elise Edwards is Assistant Professor in the Department of Religion at Baylor University. You can order the book by clicking here. Other Episodes You Might Like Feminist theology and the arts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/natalie-carnes-on-feminist-theology-and-the-arts/id1648052085?i=1000583436666 On inclusion and justice with Erin Raffety: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/should-we-abandon-inclusion-erin-raffety-on-disability/id1648052085?i=1000594272809

In this episode, Zen speaks with Menachem Fisch and Debra Band about their illuminated philosophical commentary, Qoholet: Searching for a Life Worth Living. You can learn more about the book by clicking here. Other Currents in Religion Episodes You Might Like: Natalie Carnes feminist theology and the arts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/natalie-carnes-on-feminist-theology-and-the-arts/id1648052085?i=1000583436666 Micheal O'Siadhail on faith, poetry, and daring to love: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/micheal-osiadhail-on-faith-poetry-and-daring-to-love/id1648052085?i=1000590394430 Thomas Gardner on lyric theology: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lyric-theology-thomas-gardner-on-marilynne-robinson/id1648052085?i=1000602629863

Rebecca Poe Hays is working on several projects that bring the Psalms into conversation with recent research on trauma and resilience. She joins us today to talk about her research, both how it helps us better understand the psalms historically and how it makes them relevant in the life of faith today. Rebecca Poe Hays is Assistant Professor of Christian Scriptures at George W. Truett Seminary at Baylor University. Other CIR episodes on the psalms Bill Bellinger on Psalms as a Grammar of Faith: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-grammar-lesson-in-prayer-bill-bellinger-on-the-psalms/id1648052085?i=1000587487293 Trevor Laurence on cursing psalms and Christian ethics: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cursing-christ-and-christian-prayer/id1648052085?i=1000583436719 Deirdre Fulton on translating the NRSVue: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/updating-the-nrsv-a-chat-with-deirdre-fulton/id1648052085?i=1000623434086

In this episode, Zen recaps some interesting, important, or otherwise intriguing religion news headlines. Polls/Reports Cited in Part 1 Is Religion Good for You? https://news.gallup.com/opinion/gallup/512216/religion-spirituality-tools-better-wellbeing.aspx Asian American Nones & Connection to Religion: https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2023/10/11/religion-among-asian-americans/ Generational & Geographical Trends in Faith: https://www.ipsos.com/en-us/two-global-religious-divides-geographic-and-generational Gen Z and the Sacred: https://www.springtideresearch.org/post/news/sacred-experience-benefits-gen-z-spirituality-wellbeing The Fire and the Cloud: https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481320504/the-fire-and-the-cloud/

In this episode, Zen speaks with Jeff Hubbard about publishing academic journal articles. As a graduate student, Jeff has published in seven different peer reviewed journals and has a lot of wisdom (and humor) to share. You can learn more about Jeff by visiting his academia page (https://baylor.academia.edu/JeffHubbard/). Other Episodes You Might Like Writing Religious Studies: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/writing-religious-studies-featuring-amos-yong-alicia/id1648052085?i=1000621879919 Dave Nelson on Publishing Academic Books: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dave-nelson-on-publishing-academic-books/id1648052085?i=1000606742147 Theology in Many Voices by Amy Chilton: https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481317306/theology-in-many-voices/

In this episode, Zen speaks with Dr. Susan Benton about her research on women in early Christianity and the Greco-Roman world and her work as a member of the ministry guidance team in Baylor's Religion Department. Learn more about the ministry guidance program at Baylor University: https://religion.artsandsciences.baylor.edu/ministry-guidance Check out Gary Dorrien's new book with Baylor University Press: https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481320931/anglican-identities/ Related Episodes: Bruce Longenecker on Greco-Roman associations: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/greco-roman-associations-and-the-new/id1648052085?i=1000605716630 Amy Marga on imagining motherhood: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/imagining-motherhood-in-the-christian-tradition/id1648052085?i=1000583436695 Dustin Benac on adaptive church and ministry: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/adaptive-church-dustin-benac-on-collaborative-christian/id1648052085?i=1000597869190

This episode is a rerun from November 2022. In this episode, I speak with Dave Nelson, who is the director of Baylor University Press. We speak specifically about AAR/SBL from a publishers perspective. Dave offers honest advice about networking and discusses why he enjoys conferences like this one. AAR/SBL discount: Get 30% off and, if you're in the US, free shipping on all orders from BaylorPress.com by entering the code 17AARSBL23 at checkout. Related Episodes: On writing a PhD application: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-applying-to-phd-programs-in-religion/id1648052085?i=1000632014324 On publishing academic books: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dave-nelson-on-publishing-academic-books/id1648052085?i=1000606742147

In this episode, Zen speaks with Philip Jenkins about his new book A Storm of Images: Iconoclasm and Religious Reformation in the Byzantine World, recently published by Baylor University Press. Dr. Philip Jenkins is Distinguished Professor of History & Director of the Program on Historical Studies of Religion at Baylor University. Related Episodes: Jessica Wai-Fong Wong on icon theology and antiracism: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/icons-economies-and-racism-a-conversation-with/id1648052085?i=1000584235192 Natalie Carnes on the arts, theology, and feminism: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/natalie-carnes-on-feminist-theology-and-the-arts/id1648052085?i=1000583436666 Micheal O'Siadhail on poetry and scripture: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/micheal-osiadhail-on-faith-poetry-and-daring-to-love/id1648052085?i=1000590394430 Thomas Gardner on lyric theology: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lyric-theology-thomas-gardner-on-marilynne-robinson/id1648052085?i=1000602629863

In this episode, Zen speaks with Laine Scales and João Chaves about the Baptist Scholars International Roundtable and their new book Baptists and the Kingdom of God (Baylor University Press, 2023). BSIR Call for Papers https://religion.artsandsciences.baylor.edu/sites/g/files/ecbvkj1166/files/2023-10/BSIR_Call%20for%20Proposals%202024%20%282%29.pdf Giveaway Enter to win a free copy of A Storm of Images by Philip Jenkins: https://bit.ly/40mnfbj Related Episodes: Hearing History: Mandy McMichael on Interviewing Baptist Women in Ministry: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hearing-history-mandy-mcmichael-on-interviewing-baptist/id1648052085?i=1000619951034 Baptists in 2022 with Elizabeth Flowers and Doug Weaver: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/baptists-in-2022-with-elizabeth-flowers-and-doug-weaver/id1648052085?i=1000591685324

In this episode, Zen speaks with Neil Messer, who has recently come to Baylor as Professor of Theological Bioethics. The discussion considers Neil's work in neuroethics. The episode also includes a plug for Autism and Worship: A Liturgical Theology by Armand Léon van Ommen. This new book is out now from Baylor University Press. Related Episodes: Interdisciplining Theology: How the Psychological Sciences Help Theology Should We Abandon Inclusion? Erin Raffety on Disability and the Church An Era of Soft Eugenics? Devan Stahl on Disability's Challenge to Theology

Are you applying to PhD programs in religion? Or thinking about it? This episode is for you. In this episode, Zen shares about the process for applying to Baylor's graduate program in religion. He speaks with currents, Lanie Walkup and Tyler Fulcher, and Carlos Cardoza-Orlandi, a graduate faculty member. They discuss how to write a strong application and how to survive the process. The episode also includes a promo for "The End of Civility" by Ryan Andrew Newson, a new book from Baylor University Press. Learn more here.

Welcome to our Fall 2023 season! In this episode, Zen speaks with Amy Carr and Christine Helmer about their brand new Baylor University Press book Ordinary Faith in Polarized Times: Justification and the Pursuit of Justice. Amy Carr is Professor of Religious Studies at Western Illinois University. Christine Helmer is Peter B. Ritzma Professor of Humanities at Northwestern University. Want to get a free copy of the book? Enter our giveaway by visiting us on X/Twitter and following the directions on our pinned post (https://twitter.com/cirbaylor). The winner will be announced October 27th! Here's some of the book's blurb: Christians in the United States and around the world are politically polarized today, unable to speak to one another across deep divisions regarding urgent social issues. Ordinary Faith in Polarized Times: Justification and the Pursuit of Justice addresses this dire reality by offering a theological framework for Christian justice-seeking. Amy Carr and Christine Helmer draw on Paul's theology to center the idea of justification by faith in Christ as the primary ground of Christian belonging and community. This approach yields a theology of ordinary faith that resists the temptation to equate Christian identity with the performance of a heroic "here I stand" posture against moral and political positions felt to be inimical to a properly Christian life... Carr and Helmer articulate ways that justification by faith grounds Christian practices of affective listening and storytelling, even on the most contentious ethical questions today, with the hope that mutual conversation in and through the Beloved Community can get Christians who disagree oriented towards each other again for the good of the world.

Summary In this episode, Deirdre Fulton joins us to share about the process of updating the NRSV, and to tell us a little about her role in that process. Deirdre Fulton is Associate Professor of Hebrew Bible/Old Testament here at Baylor University. Themes Bible translation, text criticism, NRSVue Relevant Baylor Press Books Baylor handbooks on original languages (NT Greek, Hebrew Bible, Septuagint): https://www.baylorpress.com/books/series/ Book previewed by Cade: Katherine Dell, The Lord By Wisdom Founded the Earth, https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481317047/the-lord-by-wisdom-founded-the-earth/ Additional Resources For more about the NRSVue (https://www.friendshippress.org/pages/about-the-nrsvue) For Deirdre Fulton's faculty profile (https://religion.artsandsciences.baylor.edu/person/deirdre-fulton-phd)

Summary: How might Paul help Christians today live faithfully in light of the ecological crisis? In this episode, Zen speaks with Julien C. H. Smith and Cherryl Hunt about how Paul's writings are relevant to living faithfully today, with a specific focus on the ecological crisis. Themes: New Testament studies; environmental ethics; virtue theory; Pauline theology; creation care; ecotheology Additional Resources: Grove Booklets (https://grovebooks.co.uk/) provide short introductions to issues • B 50 The Earth is the Lord's: A Biblical Response to Environmental Issues (2008) • E 184 An Introduction to Environmental Ethics (2017) • MEv 127 Forest Church: Earthed Perspectives on the Gospel (2019) • MEv 134 Climate Action as Mission: How to Link the Gospel with Safeguarding Creation (2021) Scientifically trained ‘ordinary' Christians: Christians in Science (https://www.cis.org.uk/about-cis/) Relevant Baylor University Press Books: • Julien C. H. Smith, Paul and the Good Life (https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481313100/paul-and-the-good-life/) • David G. Horrell, Cherryl Hunt and Christopher Southgate, Greening Paul (https://www.baylorpress.com/9781602582903/greening-paul/) • Jennifer R. Ayres, Good Food (https://www.baylorpress.com/9781602589858/good-food/)

Summary: Do you ever wish you knew how other writers come up with ideas, research for essays, or write their books? In this episode, Zen speaks with Alicia Myers, Amos Yong, and Christopher Hoklotubbe about how they approach writing, from generating ideas to organizing research to putting words on the page. Themes: Writing habits, writing style, research habits Additional Resources: • Helen Sword, Stylish Academic Writing • Eric Barreto, Writing Theologically • Paul Silvia, How to Write a Lot • Joseph Bizup and Joseph M. Williams, Style: Lessons in Clarity and Grace

Summary: In this episode, Zen speaks with the Primary and Co-Investigators of “Illuminating Theological Inquiry and Christian Ethics Through Training in Psychological Science,” a 2.5 million dollar John Templeton Foundation grant. Sarah Schnitker, Devan Stahl, Natalie Carnes, and Anne Jeffrey—who are Baylor faculty—share about grant and how its already helping to cultivate connections between the scholars of religion and the psychological sciences. Themes: interdisciplinary research, psychology and religion, research methods Additional Resources: • Information on the grant: https://ethics.web.baylor.edu/project-overview Relevant Baylor Press Books: • Devan Stahl, Bioenhancement Technologies and the Vulnerable Body (https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481318273/bioenhancement-technologies-and-the-vulnerable-body/) • Drew Collins and Matthew Croasmun (eds.), What Is the Good Life? Perspectives from Religion, Philosophy, and Psychology (https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481318013/what-is-the-good-life/)

Summary: In this episode, Zen speaks with Mandy McMichael about her project on Baptist Women in Ministry and the art of interviewing for historical research. Themes: Baptists, women in ministry, oral history, historical research methods Additional Resources: • Baptist Women in Ministry (https://bwim.info/) • Baylor Institute for Oral History (https://www.baylor.edu/library/index.php?id=974108) Relevant Baylor Press Books: • Mandy McMichael, Miss America's God (https://www.baylorpress.com/9781481311977/miss-americas-god/)

In this episode, Zen wraps up season one of Currents in Religion. In addition to giving thanks to our listeners and our guests, Zen shares about Summer School, which will be a short season in late June/early July. Thanks for a great first season!

Why do we call the main characters in the Book of Judges “judges”? Compared to what judges are supposed to do in Deuteronomy, for example, the “judges” of Judges don't really look like judges at all. In this episode, Dr. Julian Chike joins me to discuss his work on the Book of Judges, in which he explores social, historical, and literary developments that might help clarify our understanding of what the judges in the book of Judges were. As he says, he is attempting to rediscover these characters. He's doing some fascinating work, and I'm excited for you to hear more about it.   Dr. Julian Chike earned his PhD from Notre Dame. In the fall of 2022, Julian joined the Baylor University Religion Department as an assistant professor. You might also enjoy: Ericka Shawndricka Dunbar on Esther and Africana biblical criticism: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/africana-biblical-criticism-and-the-book-of/id1648052085?i=1000600183961 Cynthia Shafer-Elliott on archaeology and the Old Testament: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seeing-and-touching-history-cynthia-shafer-elliott-on/id1648052085?i=1000585869717 Trevor Laurence on the imprecatory psalms and Christian ethics: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cursing-christ-and-christian-prayer/id1648052085?i=1000583436719

In this episode, the Rev. Dr. Trevor Hart joins us to discuss Jesus and his works, christology and soteriology. We discuss topics like substitution, deification, participation, particularity, and more. The discussion engages with themes and ideas in Trevor's book In Him Was Life (Baylor University Press), a recently published collection of Trevor's essays. The Rev. Dr. Trevor Hart is Rector of Saint Andrew's Episcopal Church in St Andrews and Honorary Professor of Divinity in the University of St Andrews. You can learn more about Trevor at trevorhart.com. Other Currents in Religion Episodes you might like: Mike Bird on Jesus Among the Gods: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mike-bird-on-jesus-among-the-gods/id1648052085?i=1000588501532 Malcolm Foley on The Cross and the Lynching Tree: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-cross-and-the-lynching-tree-malcolm-foley-on/id1648052085?i=1000607851160 Trevor Laurence on Christ, prayer, and ethics: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cursing-christ-and-christian-prayer/id1648052085?i=1000583436719

James Cone died five years ago this month. He is one of the legends of American theology, writing books like A Black Theology of Liberation, God of the Oppressed, and The Spirituals and the Blues. One of the last books of his celebrated career, The Cross and the Lynching Tree, was published in 2011. And, because this episode releases on Good Friday, when Christians remember Christ's own lynching, it is fitting to discuss this significant book. I am very glad to have the Rev. Dr. Malcolm Foley joining us to discuss James Cone's book. Malcolm is a historian of American religion, and has focused his studies on lynching and Protestantism in America. We're going to discuss James Cone's book, but we're also going to get to hear from Malcolm about his own work, which he does in both academic and ecclesial contexts. The Rev. Dr. Malcolm Foley serves as the Special Advisor to the President of Baylor University for Equity and Campus Engagement as well as the director of the Black Church Studies Program at Truett Theological Seminary. He is also a pastor at Mosaic Waco, an intentionally multi-cultural, non-denominational church in Waco, TX. Learn more from Malcolm: Twitter: https://twitter.com/MalcolmBFoley Anxious Bench: https://www.patheos.com/blogs/anxiousbench/malcolm-foley/ Theology in Pieces: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/theology-in-pieces/id1664552032 Related Episodes of Currents in Religion: Jessica Wai-Fong Wong & Jonathan Tran on theological approaches to antiracism: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/icons-economies-and-racism-a-conversation-with/id1648052085?i=1000584235192 Marcus Jerkins on Black lives and salvation in Luke-Acts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/black-lives-matter-to-jesus-marcus-jerkins-on-salvation/id1648052085?i=1000599025436 Ericka Shawndricka Dunbar on reading Esther and Africana biblical criticism: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/africana-biblical-criticism-and-the-book-of/id1648052085?i=1000600183961 João Chaves on immigration and American Christianity: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-study-in-how-migration-shapes-religion/id1648052085?i=1000583436591

In this episode, Dave Nelson talks about publishing academic books. He discusses the process of publishing a book, gives tips for turning a dissertation into a published book, and offers ideas on how to write better. Dave is an expert in these things, having served as an acquisitions editor at Baker Academic for years, before becoming the Director of Baylor University Press. Dave joined us on the podcast before to discuss academic conferences from a publisher's perspective. He offered some ideas about how scholars can connect with publishers at conferences like AAR/SBL. You can listen to that episode here.