Discerning the Forms

In this thought-provoking episode Nik and Anthony delve into the captivating realm of myth, secularism, and the resurgence of enchantment through a Christian lens.https://www.amazon.com/Myth-Disenchantment-Magic-Modernity-Sciences/dp/022640336X

In this episode, Nik and Anthony tackle the challenge of preaching in today's cultural context. They question the effectiveness of "relevant" sermons and propose a simpler approach: letting the scripture passage and redemptive narrative set the tone for preaching. Join them as they explore the importance of exegeting both scripture and our cultural moment to meet the congregation's needs. Links:https://theopolisinstitute.com/of-preaching-and-newspapers/https://www.firstthings.com/web-exclusives/2016/09/whats-preaching-forhttps://theopolisinstitute.com/the-end-of-premium-mediocre-church/

Join us on this episode of Discerning the Forms as we explore the fascinating relationship between theology and architecture. Our guest CM Howell, philosopher and theologian, shares his insights on the different styles of architecture and their theological underpinnings. We delve into Bergmann's threefold distinction of "doing" theology and architecture, which includes theology "of," "as," and "in" architecture. We also discuss the concept of "place" versus "space" in architecture, as well as the significance of proportion in classical architecture and its relation to theology. From medieval to modern styles, we take a journey through history to understand how theology has influenced architectural design and how architecture influences or sets the stage of culture. Resources:https://www.amazon.com/Architecture-Theology-Place-Murray-Rae-ebook/dp/B08W2R1GZ8https://www.routledge.com/Religion-Space-and-the-Environment/Bergmann/p/book/9781412862943https://www.routledge.com/Nature-Space-and-the-Sacred-Transdisciplinary-Perspectives/Scott-Bergmann-Bedford-Strohm/p/book/9781032243382https://www.amazon.com/Spaces-Sacred-Place-Memory-Identity/dp/0801868610Timestamps0:00:32 - Conversation on Theology and Architecture between Nick and Charles Howell0:04:21 -Subject: Exploring the Relationship Between Contemplation and Architecture0:07:22 - Theology of Architecture: Exploring the Relationship between Place, Space, and Theology0:12:56 - Conversation on Theology of Architecture0:15:43 - Topic: Exploring the Meaning of Architecture0:18:30 - Heading: Exploring the Ethical and Semiotic Aspects of Architecture0:25:42 - Conversation on the Influence of Architecture and Technological Advancements0:28:37 - Discussion on the Role of Architecture in Christianity0:37:05 - Discussion on the Influence of Theology on Architecture0:43:44 - Conversation on Qubits, Metric System, and American Christianity0:45:58 - Heading: Exploring the Impact of Economics on Social Identity and Social Imaginary0:48:39 - Conversation on the Limitations of Architecture and the Creative Process of Building a Cathedral0:51:09 - Conversation on the Evolution of Church Architecture0:56:18 - Heading: Architectural Achievements in Modern Styles: A Discussion on Technological Advancements and Theological Reflection0:59:41 - Discussion on the Evolution of Architecture from Medieval to Contemporary Times1:01:36 - Heading: Exploring the Role of Architects in Shaping Culture1:07:37 - Conversation on the Impact of Architecture on Religious Spaces1:18:52 - Discussion on the Impact of Space on Discipleship and Thinking1:22:26 - Conversation on Church Design and the Impact of Technology on Society

In this episode we explore the world of AI technology and its impact on our lives. In this episode, we are joined by Jamison Wight, a talented coder who offers a wide range of services for web development and design.With over a decade of experience in the tech industry, Jamison has witnessed firsthand the incredible advancements in AI technology. He brings a unique perspective to our conversation as we delve into the pros, cons, and dangers of AI advancement.During our discussion, Jamison shares his expertise on the benefits of AI, including increased efficiency and productivity, as well as the potential downsides such as job loss and ethical concerns. We also explore the importance of responsible innovation and the dangers of unchecked AI development.In addition to his vast knowledge of AI, Jamison's business offers a variety of web development and design services. From responsive design to custom CMS and web application development, Jamison and his team at Jamison Digital can transform any outdated website into a sleek and modern online presence that truly stands out.Jamison Digital Contact:Email: jamisonw.wight@gmail.comPhone: 4174029696Timestamps:0:00:33"Exploring the Impact of Chat GPT on the Future of Art and Writing with Jameson, a Freelance Full Stack Developer"0:03:39Conversation Summary: Benefits and Potential Problems of Chatbot Technology0:06:26Discussion on the Potential Challenges of Automated Coding0:08:23Conversation on the Impact of Chat GPT on Human Communication and Education0:13:58"Exploring the Impact of AI on Human Creativity"0:18:53Heading: Exploring the Unique Quality of Human Art and the Impact of CGI in Movies0:20:47AI Script Writing: Exploring the Merits of Christopher Nolan and the Rise of AI Technology0:23:56Discussion on the Impact of Technology on Everyday Life0:26:10"Exploring the Ethical Implications of AI Technology"0:34:13Conversation on the Impact of AI and Transhumanism0:36:55"Exploring the Potential of Chat GPT and Its Impact on Businesses"0:38:27Conversation on the Impact of AI on Human Communication0:41:08Conversation on the Impact of Technology on Social Interaction0:46:42Conversation on Social Media and Its Impact on Interactions0:48:44Heading: Discussion on the Use of Technology in Society0:50:56Conversation on Nihilism, Technology, and Chat GPT0:54:25Conversation Summary: Building a Mario Game with GPT-30:56:34Discussion on the Impact of AI on Human Development1:01:55Discussion on the Role of Christ in Artificial Intelligence1:03:48Conversation Summary: Exploring the Dan Prompt and Nephilim

Join Nik and Anthony in their latest podcast as they dive into the fascinating world of artificial intelligence and the rising popularity of ChatGPT. Together, they explore the endless possibilities and potential pitfalls of this cutting-edge technology, all while keeping a sharp Christian philosophical perspective in mind. Don't miss out on this mind-bending discussion!Links to books mentioned:https://www.amazon.com/Digimodernism-Technologies-Dismantle-Postmodern-Reconfigure/dp/1441175288https://www.amazon.com/Nihilism-Technology-Nolen-Gertz/dp/1786607034/ref=sr_1_1?amp&keywords=nihilism+and+technology&&&&sr=8-1Timestamps0:00:32Conversation on Chat GPT, AI, and Its Potential Effects on Society0:03:58Exploring AI Chatbots: My Experience with GPT-30:06:35Exploring the Potential of Chat GPT for Historical and Theological Research0:10:00Conversation on Artificial Intelligence and Sentience0:12:03Conversation on GPT-3 and Chat PDF Applications0:14:15Conversation on the Uses of Chat GPT AI Technology0:16:50Conversation on the Impact of Technology on AI Detection0:21:09Heading: The Impact of AI Generated Voice on Society0:23:43Discussion on the Impact of Technology on Authenticity and Skepticism0:26:11Conversation on Digimodenism and the Impact of Digital Culture on Art0:28:45Discussion on Authenticity and Technology in the Digital Age0:35:10Discussion on Human Flourishing and Automation0:38:55Discussion on Theology and Technology: John Milbank's Theology and Social Theory0:44:36Discussion on Social Media Authenticity and Political Posts0:46:11Heading: Connecting Through Shared Interests: A Conversation About Human Connection in the Digital Age0:48:10Heading: The Importance of Church Participation in Embodying True Humanity0:52:16"Exploring the Role of Embodiment in Christianity"0:54:52"Exploring the Potential of Chat GPT and Its Impact on Human Discernment"Highlight My main concern is to protect our humanity. I have noticed how technology, even with its current capabilities, can influence my behavior and desires, similar to what John Millbank describes in how other discourses can shape theology. I am transparent about the fact that I am often guided by my desire to use technology, whether it is my phone, laptop, or video games. It seems that my heart is easily swayed by these things, possibly due to certain behavioral patterns or emotional needs.

I science alchemy? In this episode we discuss scientism and it's ties to alchemy and theosophy. We basically make the case that science has always been religious and is fueled by religion. We also explore Anthony's broad use of the word "magic" in the vein of Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. 

What comes after the exhaustion of metaphysics? C.M. Howell explores how Trinitarian theology took the new metaphysical turn and what theology is up to now. C.M. Howell holds a graduate degree in Theology from The University of Oxford and is currently pursuing his PhD in theological aesthetics, with specific interest into the post-metaphysical theology of Ederhard Jungel as it relates to socio-cultural issues such as secularization, disenchantment, and cultural pluralism. 

Where do we go after modernism and postmodernism? Metaphysics! Anthony and Nik sketch out some metaphysical options.Hellenism and the history of metaphysics:https://www.scribd.com/read/434071353/Reality-From-Metaphysics-to-MetapoliticsA great introduction to Thomism:https://www.scribd.com/read/433020760/Aquinas-A-Beginner-s-GuideAnd this:https://www.scribd.com/audiobook/354319829/Thomas-Aquinas-Understand-the-Universal-Teacher-s-Greatest-IdeasDooyeweerd on "ground motives":https://dooy.info/gm.html

In this episode we talk to an Exorcist and advocate of deliverance prayer, Bishop Jerry King. We ask him about his experience with spiritual warfare and encounters with demonic activity. Jerry King is the Bishop at Kingdom Covenant Churches and Ministries (Worldwide Communion of Catholic Apostolic Churches) in Aledo, Texas . Previously he pastored Christ Church in Ft. Worth for 20 years (First AG) and Kings Corner AG in Louisiana. He is the author of It's Not About You! It's About The Kingdom.Bishop Jerry King's recent sermons on Kingdom and Covenant:https://www.facebook.com/watch/136104663247035/946010765996106Books Mentioned:Jerry King's Book:https://www.amazon.com/Its-Not-about-You-Kingdom/dp/149847425X/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Jerry+King+It%27s+Not+About+You&qid=1667592943&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjg2IiwicXNhIjoiMC4wMCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMDAifQ%3D%3D&sr=8-1Needless Casualties of War by John Paul Jacksonhttps://www.amazon.com/Needless-Casualties-John-Paul-Jackson/dp/158483000X

In this episode we discuss chapter 2 of Jacques Ellul's book The Technological Society.https://www.amazon.com/Technological-Society-Jacques-Ellul/dp/0394703901Free Audiobook:https://odysee.com/@organdonor:7/The-Technological-Society-Audio-book:6

In this episode Nik discusses Clouser's Biblical case for universal salvation and the final end of all human beings. Roy Clouser is professor of philosophy and religion (Emeritus) at the College of New Jersey. He holds an BA from Gordon College, a B.D. from Reformed Episcopal Seminary, and an M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania. Along the way to the Ph.D. he studied with Paul Tillich at Harvard Graduate School and with Herman Dooyeweerd at the Free University of Amsterdam. In 1997 he won one of the Templeton Awards for his course in science and religion. He is the author of The Myth of Religious Neutrality (University of Notre Dame Press, revised 2005), Knowing with the Heart  (IVP, 1999), and numerous articles.Roy Clouser Papers, Books, and Lectures:https://www.allofliferedeemed.co.uk/clouser.htmhttps://www.amazon.com/Roy-A.-Clouser/e/B001IXRW90%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share

Books We're IntoThis episode we discuss some books we're into. What are you into? Send us an email at: discerningtheforms@gmail.comBooks we mentioned:Anthony:The Agony of Eros by Byung-Chul HanTheses Towards A Trinitarian Ontology by Klaus HemmerleThat Hideous Strength by C.S. LewisYou are Gods by David Bentley HartSeeing God: The Beatific Vision in Christian Tradition by Hans BoersmaNik:God and the World of Signs by Andrew RobinsonTraces of the Trinity: Signs, Sacraments and Sharing God's Life by Andrew RobinsonDifference and Repitition by Gilles DeleuzeTheology Beyond Metaphysics: Transformative Semiotics of René Girard by Anthony BartlettGod and Enchantment of Place: Reclaiming Human Experience by David W. Brown

In this episode we discuss the importance of the Christian doctrine of the fall. We believe that all meta narratives have some kind of story of "the fall" or give some kind of account of what goes wrong with humanity and what we can do to fix it. Understanding what went wrong is essential to our humanness.  

Join us as we read Jacques Ellul's The Technological Society and think about it's relevance for today. This week we begin with the first chapter.

This week we look at dialectical theology, a key movement in post WWII theology.  CM Howell walks through the history of dialectical theology and introduces us to many of the key theologians setting the stage from contemporary theology.

Roy Clouser Interview IICan there be a Christian view of science?  In this episode we explore Roy Clouser's view that whatever divinity belief you hold to colors the way you view anything in reality. If this is the case, a Christian will have an Incarnational world-view that colors everything, including science. Relevant Paper:https://www.allofliferedeemed.co.uk/Clouser/historicism.PDFRoy Clouser's Works:https://www.allofliferedeemed.co.uk/clouser.htmhttps://www.goodreads.com/author/show/538122.Roy_A_Clouser

We are like frogs in a frying pan at a slow boil. Big tech censorship, authoritarian policies, AI algorithms, you name it. Technology is a blessing and a curse. Or is it all a curse? Join us as we read through Jacques Ellul's The Technological Society and discuss its meaning and application to our current moment. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/274827.The_Technological_Society

Roy Clouser NotesIs there a Christian way to do philosophy? In this episode, we explore religion and Christian philosophy with renowned Reformational Philosopher Roy Clouser. We discuss everything from Christian metaphysics and it's relation to philosophy, to the doctrine of God from the perspective of Calvin, Luther, and the Eastern Orthodox theological tradition.Roy Clouser is professor of philosophy and religion (Emeritus) at the College of New Jersey. He holds an BA from Gordon College, a B.D. from Reformed Episcopal Seminary, and an M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania. Along the way to the Ph.D. he studied with Paul Tillich at Harvard Graduate School and with Herman Dooyeweerd at the Free University of Amsterdam. In 1997 he won one of the Templeton Awards for his course in science and religion. He is the author of The Myth of Religious Neutrality (University of Notre Dame Press, revised 2005), Knowing with the Heart  (IVP, 1999), and numerous articles.Roy Clouser Papers, Books, and Lectures:https://www.allofliferedeemed.co.uk/clouser.htmhttps://www.amazon.com/Roy-A.-Clouser/e/B001IXRW90%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_shareHerman Dooyeweerd Pages:http://www.dooy.info/

In this episode we discuss the war in Ukraine. How can we sift through the propaganda and fake news coming from both NATO and BRICS? Our thoughts and prayers go out to those who are caught in the middle of this. Victims of all kinds--refugees, families, real people.  

Episode 16 Austin KopackIn this episode we talk with Austin Kopack on Wittgenstein and the theology of metaphor. Book Recommendations:Wittgenstein's workshttps://www.goodreads.com/search?q=wittgenstein&qid=BIfbHLv4Jjhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12073.Philosophical_Investigations?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=BIfbHLv4Jj&rank=3https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/762159.On_Certainty?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=BIfbHLv4Jj&rank=7Secondary Literaturehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/312955.Theology_After_Wittgenstein?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=5s96RaFgAj&rank=1https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/771742.God_Matters?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=UcI37U8n82&rank=2https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1994956.Multiple_Echo?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=7VMjSHXPDy&rank=1

Episode 16 In this episode, Nik interviews CM Howell on the life and theology of Eberhard Jungel. Book Recommendations:Guides to his thought:https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/184023.Eberhard_J_ngel?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=gIqmYykcOW&rank=1https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/48672369-j-ngel?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=XPwTDzlyE9&rank=5https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55995104-eberhard-j-ngel-and-existence?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=yWKFtauSxW&rank=1Original Works:https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/184021.God_s_Being_is_in_Becoming?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=gIqmYykcOW&rank=22https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1334682.God_as_the_Mystery_of_the_World?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=gIqmYykcOW&rank=14https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3625200-theological-essays-i?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=gIqmYykcOW&rank=31https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/558098.Theological_Essays_II?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=gIqmYykcOW&rank=26

Divine SimplicityAnthony and Nik discuss the topic of Divine Simplicity. This is a sometimes controversial doctrine in contemporary theology, but it shouldn't be. Of course, we can't help talk about almost everything else in this episode. Enjoy!Introductory Articles:https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/essay/divine-simplicity/https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/essay/immutability-impassibility-god/Books mentioned:David Bentley Harthttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/826245.The_Beauty_of_the_Infinite?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=M3kggD8hBK&rank=7https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32503184-the-hidden-and-the-manifest?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=M3kggD8hBK&rank=13David Bradshawhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43941.Aristotle_East_and_West?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=zc0flX2lEr&rank=2An Introduction to Christian Philosophyby Richard J. Plantinga, Thomas R. Thompson, Matthew D. Lundberghttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3243725-an-introduction-to-christian-theology?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=ttCe1skJiY&rank=1Thomas F. Torrancehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5161884-incarnation?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=bFblFrnkJc&rank=3Anthony Also Recommends:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B083KN7B5N/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_d_asin_title_o05?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Episode 14 - Theology and FilmJoin us this week as we discuss theology and our top three favorite films. Drop comments below to recommend good films for Nik to watch!

Why not deconstruct your faith? What does it mean to go full on doubt and deconstruction? We we explore the idea and reflect on our own pasts in this episode. You don't want to miss this one!Notes:https://www.premierchristianradio.com/Shows/Saturday/Unbelievable/Episodes/Unbelievable-Why-are-Christian-musicians-deconstructing-Audrey-Assad-and-Fr-Chris-Foleyhttps://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09FM651VT/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i10https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B072NZDQ58/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i15

We are loving Dune! In this episode we explore the meaning and prophetic ramifications.

In this episode we interview Fr. Joshua Mahar. Fr. Mahar is minster at Community of St. Columba Anglican Church in Missoula, Montana. We chat about Icons and their use in church and worship. 

Joining us on DTF is C.M. Howell! He holds a graduate degree in Theology from The University of Oxford and is currently pursuing his PhD in theological aesthetics, with specific interest into the post-metaphysical theology of Ederhard Jungel as it relates to socio-cultural issues such as secularization, disenchantment, and cultural pluralism. 

In this episode we talk about the importance of having a view of history and the future that informs your present. We ask not just what the end of the world looks like, but what is the end or potential becoming of man.

In this episode we discuss the problem of divine violence. How does ontology and metaphysics change the way we engage everyday life? Recommended Lecture by Peter Leithart:https://youtu.be/8BQ_b7cd1Is 

This is part III of our politics episode. Here are the books recommended:Hermeneutics:https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2739452-biblical-interpretationChristianity and Politics:https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/54959540-the-maker-versus-the-takershttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19133.The_Politics_of_Jesushttps://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/7846894-to-change-the-worldhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/53438190-live-not-by-lieshttps://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/44000714-gospel-allegiance

Let's talk politics! 

In this episode we explore our political journey's. We also talk a little about where we're at today and what has influenced us to see the world the way we do.

In this episode we explain why it's important to bring back the apocalypse... I mean, bring back a Christian apocalyptic worldview and cultural interpretation. Sound strange? We think it's at the core to understanding anything politically.Book Referenced:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00E3UR1QY/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i1Extra Reading:https://richardbauckham.co.uk/articles/https://www.thinkingfaith.org/articles/%E2%80%98between-politics-and-apocalypse%E2%80%99-ren%C3%A9-girard%E2%80%99s-reading-global-crisishttps://www.academia.edu/37595200/Rene_Girard_Christian_Apocalypse_of_Modernity_or_Modern_Apocalypse_of_Christianity

In this episode we talk about apologetics, what it is, our journeys with it, and what we think are the problems with modern apologetics. Books:https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16241757-end-of-apologeticshttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17802922-the-experience-of-god?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=uQkEO7HyQo&rank=2https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/332138.After_Virtuehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22962483-knowledge-and-christian-belief?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=S8rBS2tvcg&rank=12https://www.goodreads.com/search?q=roy+clouser&qid=https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/74126.Who_s_Afraid_of_Postmodernism_?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=E7FNBwhSwG&rank=1https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23055121-mapping-apologetics?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=7u1dwuo3P0&rank=1

Anthony and Nik talk about the importance of aesthetics in philosophy.Links:https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/430555.David_Bentley_Harthttps://www.goodreads.com/author/show/30796.Hans_Urs_von_BalthasarBooks by Michel Henry (Author of I Am the Truth) (goodreads.com)

Welcome to the first episode of Discerning the Forms! In this episode we talk about our individual journey's in the realm of theology, philosophy, politics, economics etc. From where we started to where we are now, and hopefully give a taste of what is to come in future episodes.