Professors, In Rooms, Getting Coffee

Justin and Stephen conclude the conversation with Marcus Dip Silas about relational knowing and the nature of truth. In today's episode (pt. 3 of 3), they consider how truth is encountered and shared. Marcus talks about beauty and truth in cooking, and Justin shares about a project in which his students make a soundtrack for the Gospel of John. Marcus and Justin reflect on what Georgia O'Keeffe and Vincent Van Gogh communicate about truth. Stephen asks Marcus about where he finds hope.Justin and Stephen also talk about early morning sports, a recent gallery showing at Sprig, Envision Berlin's creative space, and polarization in US society after the recent Supreme Court decisions. They will post more of their reflections about that on Patreon, before too long. We're also inviting listeners to contribute questions on Patreon. Let us know what questions you have for us!Link: from the Gallery Showing at Sprig (on Instagram).We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com, and bonus material on Patreon!Find Profs in Rooms mugs and more here. Credits: Regular Theme Music “A New Hope” by MeGustaMusic. This episode was partially recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Those commissions do not reduce authors' royalties. Thank you for your support.

Justin and Stephen continue the conversation with Marcus Dip Silas about relational knowing and the nature of truth. In today's episode (pt. 2 of 3), they consider what truth does. They consider how educational approaches reflect and perpetuate ideas of what truth is, and ask what effective measures of truth are, and what happens when authority interacts with truth selectively.Justin and Stephen also discussed more about the language learning process, and Justin shares about an upcoming episode of another podcast that he's appearing on soon. We're also inviting listeners to contribute questions on Patreon. Let us know what questions you have for us!Link: Stephen referenced these episodes of the Unterwegs podcast:Episode 40: Cultural Transitions - Language Learning - Part 1 of 2Episode 41: Cultural Transitions - Language Learning - Part 2 of 2We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com, and bonus material on Patreon!Find Profs in Rooms mugs and more here. Credits: Regular Theme Music “A New Hope” by MeGustaMusic. This episode was partially recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Those commissions do not reduce authors' royalties. Thank you for your support.

Marcus Dip Silas dropped by the Studio in Berlin to discuss relational knowing and the nature of truth with Justin and Stephen. In today's episode (pt. 1 of 3), Marcus shares how his own background, including the postcolonial context where he grew up and his multiracial experience, are important to understanding how he considers what truth is.Justin also joined Stephen in the studio in Berlin for a special recording of highlights, lowlights, and insights! This is the first time the guys were in the same room while recording an episode!We're also inviting listeners to contribute questions on Patreon. Let us know what questions you have for us!Link: Stephen referenced these episodes of the Unterwegs podcast:Episode 40: Cultural Transitions - Language Learning - Part 1 of 2Episode 41: Cultural Transitions - Language Learning - Part 2 of 2We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com, and bonus material on Patreon!Find Profs in Rooms mugs and more here. Credits: Regular Theme Music “A New Hope” by MeGustaMusic. This episode was partially recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Those commissions do not reduce authors' royalties. Thank you for your support.

Justin and Stephen conclude the second series on Justin's dissertation about Ephesians and the Roman Empire. Justin explains socially constructed institutional facts and provides key Speech Act Theory definitions. Stephen asks Justin whether his approach overly complicates Biblical interpretation.Justin and Stephen also explore the question of their own implied audience, what we know what the Bible means (not just what it says), and how Justin wrestles with avoiding doing elitist interpretation of the Bible.In their highlights, lowlights, and insights, Stephen reflects on the challenges of experiencing his own incompetence while language learning and Justin talks about an unexpected setback.We're also inviting listeners to contribute questions on Patreon. Let us know what questions you have for us!We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com, and bonus material on Patreon!Find Profs in Rooms mugs and more here. Credits: Regular Theme Music “A New Hope” by MeGustaMusic. This episode was partially recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).

Justin and Stephen continue the discussion of Justin's dissertation about Ephesians and the Roman Empire. In the second part of this three part series, they talk about Speech Act Theory. Justin applies the ideas of Speech Act Theory to Ephesians 5 and Romans 13.In their highlights, lowlights, and insights, Justin shares about a good deal on a book, Stephen talks about trying to maintain multiple languages, and they reflect on accurately interpreting the church as it is today.Also check out Episode 8.5 on Patreon, in which Justin and Stephen talk about understanding the implied audience and why it matters in Biblical Studies.We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com, and bonus material on Patreon!Find Profs in Rooms mugs and more here. Credits: Regular Theme Music “A New Hope” by MeGustaMusic. This episode was partially recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Those commissions do not reduce authors' royalties. Thank you for your support.

Justin and Stephen turn back to considering Justin's dissertation about Ephesians and the Roman Empire. In the first part of this three part series, they talk about hermeneutics, and how many interpretive decisions are made before we even realize it. Justin talks about some of the limits of other approaches of Bible study, and then explains the relationship between implied and empirical authorship, and what difference it makes in interpreting scripture.Justin shares about an upcoming project, Stephen talks about losing a friend to illness, and they reflect on what it means to live in the present .We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com, and bonus material on Patreon!Find Profs in Rooms mugs and more here. Credits: Regular Theme Music “A New Hope” by MeGustaMusic. This episode was partially recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Those commissions do not reduce authors' royalties. Thank you for your support.

Megan Yoder joins Justin and Stephen again for the final installment of this 3 part series. In this episode, Megan reflects on Christian symbolism, arts and artists in the church, and hope.Justin talks about the joys of Spring, and he and Stephen also reflect again on the war in Ukraine, including ways in which they think about their own responses to the conflict.We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com, and bonus material on Patreon!Resources from this episode:Culture Care by Makoto Fujimura (Book): at Bookshop.orgMemorial for the Victims of War and Tyranny at Neue Wache . Photo of the Statue Find Profs in Rooms mugs and more here. Credits: Regular Theme Music “A New Hope” by MeGustaMusic. This episode was partially recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Those commissions do not reduce authors' royalties. Thank you for your support.

Megan Yoder joins Justin and Stephen again to help them think through the intersection of Art with Beauty and helps them expand their view to include intersections of Art with Truth, Wisdom, and Goodness. In part 2 of this 3 part series, Megan reflects on how Art might influence scholarship.Justin and Stephen also reflect on the war in Ukraine, and Stephen reflects on the weird dual-reality of life going on as “normal” while there is horrible conflict unfolding nearby.We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com, and bonus material on Patreon!Resources from this episode:Culture Care by Makoto Fujimura (Book): at Bookshop.orgMemorial for the Victims of War and Tyranny at Neue Wache . Photo of the Statue Find Profs in Rooms mugs and more here. Credits: Regular Theme Music “A New Hope” by MeGustaMusic. This episode was partially recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Those commissions do not reduce authors' royalties. Thank you for your support.

Megan Yoder joins Justin and Stephen to help them think through the intersection of Art with Beauty and them helps them expand their view to include intersections of Art with Truth, Wisdom, and Goodness. In part 1 of this 3 part series, Megan considers the ways in which Art expresses Truth, along with the limitations of words.Justin makes a couple of important corrections from Episode 4, and the guys talk about hope and uncertainty as they talk about highlights, lowlights, and insights for the week.We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com, and bonus material on Patreon!Find Profs in Rooms mugs and more here. Credits: Regular Theme Music “A New Hope” by MeGustaMusic. This episode was partially recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Those commissions do not reduce authors' royalties. Thank you for your support.

In Part 3 of 3 of this series, Justin discusses the Roman Imperial Eschatology in the 1st Century, and how it impacted the way 1st Century readers of Ephesians would have understood the Gospel of Jesus. Stephen follows up on the question from Part 1, about whether current events should impact our reading of scripture, and the guys talk about strengths and weaknesses of contextual readings of scripture. Justin and Stephen also talk about highlights, lowlights, and insights for the week, including language learning, cross-cultural experiences, questions about gun violence, and more. We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com, and bonus material on Patreon!

In today's episode, Justin and Stephen introduce the guiding themes for this season: truth, beauty, wisdom, and goodness. Then, in today's second installment of this three part series, Justin discusses the Roman Imperial context in the 1st Century and considers how it matters for understanding the book of Ephesians.In particular, he introduces Roman treason laws, espionage, and imperial cults as important elements of context. Justin also wrestles with how Pauline or non-Pauline authorship impacts the Empire's influence on the first readers of Ephesians.Justin and Stephen also talk about coffee and their highlights, lowlights, and insights for the week.We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com, including a wonderful picture of Jerry the Cat, and bonus material on Patreon!Find Profs in Rooms mugs and more here. Credits: Regular Theme Music “A New Hope” by MeGustaMusic. This episode was partially recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Those commissions do not reduce authors' royalties. Thank you for your support.

Justin and Stephen talk about the upcoming Season of Profs in Rooms. Stephen asks whether he still qualifies to be on the podcast, and Justin considers the question of the most consistent element of the podcast.We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com and bonus material on Patreon!To donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com or become a patron. Find Profs in Rooms mugs and more here. Resources related to today's episode:Unterwegs, the En Route Podcast, is our sister podcast. In it, Stephen and Jennie have recurring series in which they discuss their transition to Berlin, Germany. Those conversations are based on Stephen's book Transitions Across Cultures: Bookshop.org or AmazonCredits: Regular Theme Music “A New Hope” by MeGustaMusic. This episode was partially recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Those commissions do not reduce authors' royalties. Thank you for your support.

In this brief episode, Justin and Stephen talk through highlights, lowlights, and insights for the last couple of weeks as they wrap up Season 2. Watch for the longer meta-conversation Justina and Stephen had thinking through Season 2 on the Profs in Rooms Patreon. It will post within about a week after this episode.We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com and bonus material on Patreon!To donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com or become a patron. Find Profs in Rooms mugs and more here. Resources from this episode:Unterwegs, the En Route Podcast, which Stephen mentioned at the beginning of today's show. The first two series of the show chronicle the cross-cultural transition journey that Jennie and Stephen are on as they prepare to move to Berlin - more series later as they arrive and adjust to their new home!Stephen's book Transitions Across Cultures: Bookshop.org or AmazonVideos and other resources for transitions: traxcultures.comCredits: Regular Theme Music by Josiah Enns. This episode was recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Those commissions do not reduce authors' royalties. Thank you for your support.

In this episode, Rachel Pieh Jones joins Justin and Stephen again to discuss her new book Pillars: How Muslim Friends led me Closer to Jesus. She shares more about what her Muslim friends have taught her, especially about prayer and giving.Rachel also talks about what she wished American Christians understood about Muslims, and what brings her delight as she walks through life with her Muslim friends.Also in this episode, Justin and Stephen discuss end of year transitions - espeically within academics, doing good for its own sake, and Stephen’s upcoming move. as they talk through their highlights, lowlights, and insights for the week.We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com and bonus material on Patreon!To donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com or become a patron. Find Profs in Rooms mugs and more here. Resources from this episode:Resources related to today’s episode:S2. E.18 Profs in Rooms podcast conversation with Rachel Pieh JonesRachel’s websiteFind Rachel on social media:Instagram: @rachelpiehjonesFacebookTwitter: @rachelpiehjonesRachel’s book: Pillars: How Muslim Friends led me Closer to Jesus: On Bookshop.org | On AmazonRachel’s book: Stronger than Death: How Annalena Tonelli Defied Terror and Tuberculosis in the Horn of Africa: On Bookshop.org | On Amazon About Rachel Pieh JonesRachel Pieh JonesRachel Pieh Jones moved to Somaliland in 2003 and has lived in Djibouti since 2004. She and her husband run a school in Djibouti and she writes about life at the crossroads of faith and culture. Her work has appeared in the New York Times, Christianity Today, Runners World, and more. Her writing is influenced by living in the Horn of Africa, raising Third Culture Kids, and adventurous exploration of the natural world. She is the author of Stronger than Death: How Annalena Tonelli Defied Terror and Tuberculosis in the Horn of Africa and her newest book, just out in April is Pillars: How Muslim Friends Led Me Closer to Jesus.Credits: Regular Theme Music by Josiah Enns. This episode was recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Those commissions do not reduce authors’ royalties. Thank you for your support.

In this episode, Rachel Pieh Jones joins Justin and Stephen to discuss her new book Pillars: How Muslim Friends led me Closer to Jesus. Rachel shares her inspiration for the book, and talks about how discovering the core of her own faith allowed her to work on rooting out unhelpful beliefs, while also opening her to be more deeply present with people who are different from her.Rachel also talks about the unique joys of being a Christian in a place where Jesus-followers are in the minority, and what she has learned as she has deconstructed the idol of safety. In Episode 19, Justin and Stephen talk more specifically with Rachel about what she has learned from her Muslim friends.Also in this episode, Justin and Stephen discuss parenting and the way that memories are connected to material items as they talk through their highlights, lowlights, and insights for the week.We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com and bonus material on Patreon!To donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com or become a patron. Find Profs in Rooms mugs and more here. Resources from this episode:Resources related to today’s episode:Rachel’s websiteFind Rachel on social media:Instagram: @rachelpiehjonesFacebookTwitter: @rachelpiehjonesRachel’s book: Pillars: How Muslim Friends led me Closer to Jesus: On Bookshop.org | On AmazonRachel’s book: Stronger than Death: How Annalena Tonelli Defied Terror and Tuberculosis in the Horn of Africa: On Bookshop.org | On Amazon Justin, Stephen, and Rachel discuss household help in more detail, on Patreon (for subscribers).About Rachel Pieh JonesRachel Pieh JonesRachel Pieh Jones moved to Somaliland in 2003 and has lived in Djibouti since 2004. She and her husband run a school in Djibouti and she writes about life at the crossroads of faith and culture. Her work has appeared in the New York Times, Christianity Today, Runners World, and more. Her writing is influenced by living in the Horn of Africa, raising Third Culture Kids, and adventurous exploration of the natural world. She is the author of Stronger than Death: How Annalena Tonelli Defied Terror and Tuberculosis in the Horn of Africa and her newest book, just out in April is Pillars: How Muslim Friends Led Me Closer to Jesus.Credits: Regular Theme Music by Josiah Enns. This episode was recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Those commissions do not reduce authors’ royalties. Thank you for your support.

In this episode, Dr. Holly Beers helps Justin and Stephen develop better understanding about women’s experiences in biblical studies, higher education, and ministry. Holly talks about the process of discerning call, and what professors could know and do differently to help women students thrive.Holly also discusses how she pastors students working through deconstruction of faith, and how the local church is central to the work of God in the world today.Justin and Stephen discuss gun violence, and personal growth and change, as they talk through their highlights, lowlights, and insights for the week.We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com and bonus material on Patreon!To donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com or become a patron. Find Profs in Rooms mugs and more here. Resources from this episode:Resources related to today’s episode:Part One of the conversation with Holly Beers (S2. E16) Holly Beers’ Westmont College faculty pageA Week in the Life of a Greco-Roman Woman, by Holly Beers: On Bookshop.org | On AmazonThe Making of Biblical Womanhood, by Beth Allison Barr, on Bookshop.org or Amazon.Jesus and John Wayne, by Kristin Kobes Du Mez, on Bookshop.org or Amazon.The Great Sex Rescue, by Sheila Wray Gregoire, Rebecca Gregoire Lindenbach and Joanna Sawatsky, on Bookshop.org or AmazonJustin and Stephen discuss gun violence in more detail, on Patreon (for subscribers).Stephen asks Holly about mentorships across genders, on Patreon (for subscribers, posts 4/21).About Holly Beers, Ph.D.Holly Beers is an associate professor of religious studies at Westmont College in Santa Barbara, California, where she teaches New Testament and Greek courses. She loves to research and write, though her primary passion is teaching and mentoring students in their various stages of faith development. She sees her academic work as her primary way of serving the church and believes passionately in the local church as the hub of God's kingdom work in the world. Holly is married to Max and they have three elementary-aged children with Old Testament, rather than New Testament, names: Noah, Moses, and Eden.Credits: Regular Theme Music by Josiah Enns. This episode was recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Those commissions do not reduce authors’ royalties. Thank you for your support.

In Part 1 of today’s conversation, Justin and Stephen talk with Dr. Holly Beers about her fascinating book A Week in the Life of a Greco-Roman Woman, and how developing a better understanding of the first century context can lead to more accurate, and more interesting, interpretations of the New Testament.They also consider the role of narrative in reaching understanding. Holly shares about how her own experiences have led her to pursue these topics more deeply along with her process of writing. In Part 2, Justin, Stephen, and Holly will talk about how we can understand similar themes today, and the implications for inter-gendered relationships.Justin and Stephen discuss Holy Saturday and who we imagine ourselves to be as they talk through their highlights, lowlights, and insights for the week.We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com and bonus material on Patreon!To donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com or become a patron. Find Profs in Rooms mugs and more here. Resources from this episode:Resources related to today’s episode:Justin and Stephen discuss 1st century slavery in more detail on Patreon.Holly Beers’ Westmont College faculty pageA Week in the Life of a Greco-Roman Woman, by Holly Beers: On Bookshop.org | On AmazonAbout Holly Beers, Ph.D.Holly Beers is an associate professor of religious studies at Westmont College in Santa Barbara, California, where she teaches New Testament and Greek courses. She loves to research and write, though her primary passion is teaching and mentoring students in their various stages of faith development. She sees her academic work as her primary way of serving the church and believes passionately in the local church as the hub of God's kingdom work in the world. Holly is married to Max and they have three elementary-aged children with Old Testament, rather than New Testament, names: Noah, Moses, and Eden.Credits: Regular Theme Music by Josiah Enns. This episode was recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Thank you for your support.

Justin and Stephen continue their discussion about their own experiences of deconstruction of faith, including how the process of dismantling elements of their Christianity has helped them to start to see Jesus more clearly. They discuss their own experiences of doubt and hope.Justin and Stephen also discuss the murders in Georgia and the sometimes very unhelpful ways that people like them have responded to crises.We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com and bonus material on Patreon!To donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com or become a patron. Find Profs in Rooms mugs and more here. Resources from this episode:True Tunes podcast: Rich Mullins episodeA recent Twitter discussion on deconstructionMore about JustinMore about Stephen Credits: Regular Theme Music by Josiah Enns. This episode was recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Thank you for your support.

Justin and Stephen talk about their own experiences of deconstruction of faith, including how the process of dismantling elements of their Christianity has helped them to start to see Jesus more clearly. They look for useful metaphors for the process of dismantling broken parts of their belief system and talk about the particular risks and opportunities they have as profs.Justin and Stephen also discuss dissertation, teaching, Y2K, apocalyptic moments, and good coffee.We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com and bonus material on Patreon!To donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com or become a patron. Find Profs in Rooms mugs and more here. Resources from this episode:Heirs CoffeeA recent Twitter discussion on deconstructionPerry’s Model of Cognitive and Ethical Development on Bookshop.org or AmazonThe episode on re-imagining Christian higher education with Thorsten MoritzMore about JustinMore about Stephen Credits: Regular Theme Music by Josiah Enns. This episode was recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Thank you for your support.

Justin and Stephen talk with Pastor Rob Mapstone about how using a local coffee shop as his primary office pushes him to integrate ground level theology into real life as he engages ministry. They talk about encouragement and disappointment in the church over the last year, and how changes in the process of preparing and credentialing people for ministry can create healthier expectations and better accountability.They wade into the waters of healthy support for and discipline of church leaders,* and consider the issues of white supremacy and Christian nationalism in the American church. Justin challenges popular conceptualizations of the “enemy,” and Rob expresses hope in what it looks like to honestly and deeply pursue Christ - to allow God to challenge and change us in every area of life.Justin and Stephen also discuss dissertation, kids, WWII and more as they talk through their highlights, lowlights, and insights for the week.We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com and bonus material on Patreon!To donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com or become a patron. *This episode was recorded a week before the recent report detailing the horrible conduct of Ravi Zacharias came out and we were not aware of the report at that time. So, although we touch on some very relevant themes, we did not discuss that report in this episode.Find Profs in Rooms mugs and more here. Resources from this episode:Resources from Justin and Stephen’s conversation:Michael Burleigh’s The Third Reich: A New History at Bookshop.org or Amazon.Resources related to the Rob MapstoneThe River Church in ChaskaThe Christian and Missionary AllianceAbout Rob MapstoneRob MapstoneRob is Pastor of The River Church in Chaska, MN. He teaches as an Adjunct Professor at Crown College and is a Candidate Developer for The Christian and Missionary Alliance. Rob and his wife have 4 kids, with the oldest in college.Credits: Regular Theme Music by Josiah Enns. This episode was recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Thank you for your support.

In today’s short episode, Justin and Stephen talk about dissertation writing and try to figure out how Stephen can move forward now that he has gotten stuck in Chapter 5 of 7 of his dissertation. Justin shares reflections on his own dissertation writing experience.Today’s shortened episode brought to you by actual progress happening on Chapter 5 right now! We’ll be back next episode with a guest and full length conversation. We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com and bonus material on Patreon!To donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com or become a patron. Find Profs in Rooms mugs and more here. Resources from this episode: Resources from Justin and Stephen’s conversation: Zotero bibliography management softwareCredits: Regular Theme Music by Josiah Enns. This episode was recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Thank you for your support.

Justin and Stephen talk with Pastor Soriba Joseph Camara, President of the Evangelical Protestant Church of Mali. Reflecting on the Malian church’s experience with political turmoil Pastor Joseph shares recommendations for American Christians navigating the tumultuous start to the year.Pastor Joseph also discusses the witness and reputation of the church in Mali, where Christians are estimated to be between 2% and 7% of the population. Together, they reflect on questions of contextualization and the maturing of the church in Mali as it wrestles with the mixed legacies of missionaries.Pastor Joseph shares what he finds encouraging as he thinks about the global church, and his recommendations for Christians today.Justin and Stephen also discuss the inauguration, civil religion, and cars, as they talk through their highlights, lowlights, and insights for the week.We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com and bonus material on Patreon!To donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com or become a patron. Find Profs in Rooms mugs and more here. Resources from this episode:Resources from Justin and Stephen’s conversation:Amanda Gorman’s Poem: The Hill We Climb (video)Stephen’s short storiesSwitchback Coffee RoastersResources related to the conversation with Soriba Joseph Camara:Mali Church Legacy project (includes an opportunity to give)AGEMPEM Association of evangelicals in MaliPastor Joseph’s church (facebook)A message (in French) by Pastor Joseph (facebook video)About Soriba Joseph CamaraSoriba Joseph Camara is a pastor and has served as President of the Evangelical Protestant Church of Mali since 2012. He has a regular television broadcast on national television and a popular call-in radio program in Bamako. He was a long-time director of Reed Bible Institute, Bougouni. Pastor Joseph studied Biology at University in Mali before studying pastoral ministry at Grace University in Omaha, NE, and a Masters of Divinity at Calvary Seminary in Kansas City. Together with Dr. Yousef Dembele and Mama Josias Sako, Pastor Joseph hosted and taught more than 30 US students through Grace University’s six month EDGE program between 2007 and 2012. Pastor Joseph’s family includes Marthe, his wife of 33 years, and three adult children.Credits: Regular Theme Music by Josiah Enns. This episode was recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Thank you for your support.

Justin and Stephen talk about last week’s attempted insurrection in Washington, D.C. Then, Marcus Dip Silas joins to discuss Christianity from a Malaysian perspective. They talk about what it means to learn from the church that lives without political power, in the shadow of colonization. They also discuss contextual theology and continue the ongoing conversation about Christian nationalism.Marcus reflects on the journey of living with a refugee that was in the process of resettling, the way of Mercy, and abiding in prayer and lament. We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com and bonus material on Patreon!To donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com or become a patron. Find Profs in Rooms mugs and more here. Resources from this episode: Background episodes:Profs in Rooms Season 2 Episode 9: Jesus, Lament, and Advent Hope - with D.L. MayfieldProfs in Rooms Season 2 Episode 8: Bonhoeffer and Living for Others - with Joel LawrenceCredits: Regular Theme Music by Josiah Enns. This episode was recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux), and Semang Kensiu and Kintaq peoples.We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Thank you for your support.

D.L. Mayfield, author of The Myth of the American Dream and Assimilate or Go Home, joins Justin and Stephen to think through what it means to live a Jesus-centered, love-your-neighbor faith. They wrestle with Christian Nationalism, what the word Evangelical means and how to relate to it, and the “thick gospel” of Jesus. They also discuss the painful process of engaging lament and the connection between Advent and lament. We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com and bonus material on Patreon!To donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com or become a patron. Find Profs in Rooms mugs and more here. Resources from this episode:Resources from Justin and Stephen’s conversation: The book of Jude Charles Galbreath’s church videosBackground podcast: Profs in Rooms Season 2 Episode 8: Bonhoeffer and Living for Others - with Joel LawrenceResources related to the conversation with D.L. Mayfield: Never’s Decaf Coffee Reggie Williams: Bonhoeffer’s Black Jesus on Bookshop or Amazon Soong-Chan Rah and Mark Charles: Unsettling Truths on Bookshop or Amazon Bob Ekblad: Reading the Bible with the Damned on Bookshop or Amazon Lisa Sharon Harper: The Very Good Gospel on Bookshop or Amazon Emmanuel Katongole and Chris Rice: Reconciling All Things on Bookshop or Amazon Soong-Chan Rah: Prophetic Lament on Bookshop or Amazon Walter Brueggemann: Reality, Grief, Hope on Bookshop or Amazon Emma Green’s Article in the Atlantic Oliver Crisp’s Article on UK Evanglicalism Pew study on attitudes toward refugeesMusic: “Complicated” by Arulo at Mixkit.co “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” (Piano x Guitar Duet) by Bleerix is licensed under a Creative Commons License.About D.L. Mayfield: D.L. Mayfield is a writer and neighbor living in Portland, Oregon. Her most recent book is The Myth of the American Dream: Reflections on Affluence. She also has a podcast called Prophetic Imagination Station. D.L. Mayfield’s WebsiteFind her on Instagram or TwitterD.L. Mayfield: The Myth of the American Dream on Bookshop or AmazonD.L. Mayfield: Assimilate or Go Home on Bookshop or AmazonCredits: Regular Theme Music by Josiah Enns. This episode was recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Thank you for your support.

Joel Lawrence, Bonhoeffer scholar and Executive Director of the Center for Pastor Theologians, joins Justin and Stephen to discuss the life, theology, and ethics of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Joel also talks about the difficulties and benefits of applying the lessons of 20th century Germany to the American context today. The discussion includes conversation Bonhoeffer’s time in the US, the African American influence on Bonhoeffer, and the illegal seminary at Finkenwalde. Justin, Stephen, and Joel discuss themes of confession (vs. accountability), morality, ethics, the church in a world come of age, Christian nationalism, power, and eschatology. They also consider the role of pastor theologians and the academy.Justin and Stephen also consider the theme of nostalgia as the holidays approach. We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com and bonus material on Patreon!To donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com or become a patron. Resources from this episode: Resources from Justin and Stephen’s conversation:Prof in Rooms guest (S2, E1) Michial Farmer on “The Uses of Nostalgia”Stephen’s post about “Feeling the Loss in Leaving”Stephen’s book Transitions Across Cultures on Bookshop or AmazonBackground podcasts and videos about Bonhoeffer and about Joel:Two podcasts episode Joel appeared on entitled “Dietrich Bonhoeffer's Pastoral Journey”Lecture (video) Joel gave entitled “Death Together: Dietrich Bonhoeffer on Becoming the Church for Others”Podcast about “Becoming a Pastor Theologian” References from the conversation with Joel: Center for Pastor TheologiansMartin Buber’s I and Thou on Bookshop or AmazonJames Loewen’s Sundown Towns on Bookshop or AmazonKathrine Stewart’s The Power Worshippers on Bookshop or AmazonJoel’s article “Pastoring in the Age of Anger” Pankaj Mishra’s Age of Anger on Bookshop or AmazonOliver O’Donovan’s Common Objects of Love on Bookshop or AmazonJaques Ellul’s The Subversion of Christianity on Bookshop or AmazonJaques Ellul’s Money and Power on Bookshop or AmazonJaques Ellul’s The Technological Society on Bookshop or AmazonBonhoeffer Resources:Joel’s book: Bonhoeffer: A Guide for the Perplexed on Bookshop or AmazonBonhoeffer: Sanctorum Communio on Bookshop or AmazonBonhoeffer: Christ the Center on Bookshop or AmazonBonhoeffer: Ethics on Bookshop or AmazonBonhoeffer: Cost of Discipleship on Bookshop or AmazonBonhoeffer: Life Together on Bookshop or AmazonBonhoeffer: Letters and Papers from Prison on Bookshop or AmazonBonhoeffer: Creation and Fall on Bookshop or AmazonMartin Doblmeier’s documentary: Bonhoeffer at IMDBEberhard Bethge’s Dietrich Bonhoeffer: A Biography on Bookshop or AmazonPaul House’s Bonhoeffer’s Seminary Vision on Bookshop or AmazonBonhoeffer: Act and Being on Bookshop or AmazonAbout Joel Lawrence: Dr. Joel Lawrence serves as the Executive Director of the Center for Pastor Theologians. Prior to this role, Joel served for seven years as the Senior Pastor of Central Baptist Church (St Paul, MN) and for eight years on the faculty at Bethel Seminary, teaching systematic theology and ethics. Joel holds degrees from Texas A&M University (B.A.), Dallas Theological Seminary (ThM.), and Cambridge University (MPhil. and PhD.). He is the author of Bonhoeffer: A Guide for the Perplexed (T&T Clark, 2010), as well as numerous articles and chapters in books on a variety of theological and pastoral subjects. Credits: Regular Theme Music by Josiah Enns. This episode was recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Thank you for your support.

Poet and spoken word artist Jason “Smiley” Abrams joins this episode to talk about his process of writing poetry, and how performing it transports him back into the emotional space that the poem responded to. Smiley shares how God met him through dark times in his life and how he got his name. Smiley also reflects on mentoring, the church, and campus ministry in the age of COVID.Smiley shares two of his poems from Curing the Midas Touch, and this episode includes excerpts from Smiley’s spoken word album 3:13 AM, including clips from WYD, Hopelessness Disease, Trust God Period, and Darkest Valley.We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com and bonus material on Patreon!To donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com or become a patron. Resources from this episode:Smiley’s WebsiteSmiley’s Spoken Word Album: 3:13 AM Smiley’s book Curing the Midas Touch at Amazon or Bookshop.orgFind Smiley on: Facebook, Instagram, or TwitterAndy Abrams FoundationSpecial Resources on Patreon:Cut conversation Justin and Stephen had about politics (free)Stephen’s recent devotional message from a local youth group (free)Smiley talks about his artistic influences (all patron access)Smiley talks about publishing his book (all patron access)Justin reflects on leaving a legacy (all patron access)Conversation about teaching and technology in 2020 (all patron access)Justin and Stephen reflect on the conversation with Smiley (tier 2 and 3 patron access)About Jason “Smiley” Abrams:Jason "Smiley" Abrams is an inspirational speaker and poet. He has been in full-time ministry since 2008. He is the author of Curing The Midas Touch. He currently resides in Mississippi, serving as an Area Ministry Director for InterVarsity Christian Fellowship supervising college ministry in the entire state of Mississippi, Memphis, and West Florida. Smiley is also the co-founder of The Andy Abrams Foundation, a nonprofit in honor of his late father. His first spoken word album, entitled 3:13 AM, is available now on all music streaming platforms. Credits: Regular Theme Music by Josiah Enns. This episode was recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).We may receive commission from Amazon or Bookshop.org for purchases made through some of our links. Thank you for your support.

Marriage and family therapist Dr. Pang Foua Rhodes joins the Profs for a wide-ranging conversation including family stress in 2020, experiencing church, and using healthy boundaries as we navigate the systems that we find ourselves in. They discuss the recent election and have a conversation about abortion and sexuality. Pang Foua shares her experience of being on a committee that is reviewing how their shared denomination interacts with diversity, and she shares some thoughts about Christian higher ed. We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com and find bonus material on Patreon!To donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com or become a patron. Resources from this episode: Pang Foua’s WebsiteRuth Julian’s Chapter is in This BookGary Nebeker’s Article on PreunderstandingsThe Article Stephen Mentioned about the Christians and PoliticsHe’s Alive Song by Don FranciscoStephen’s Book about Navigating Transitions

Justin and Stephen talk about coffee, dissertation writing, how to decide when it’s time for graduate school, and the fragility of the human psyche, before they jump into today’s episode about faith and politics.The Profs incorporate listener questions and comments as they reflect on all sorts of questions at the intersection of politics and Christianity. They consider the perspectives of non-American Christians on the American political environment. They ask about self-interest in voting and what it means to love your neighbor as you consider your voting agenda. They talk about ranked choice voting, the political process, defining the problem, and political variation among followers of Jesus. And Justin and Stephen get into the BIG questions about eschatology, idolatry, and ask about what the truest truth is in our lives.**Correction: Between the time that we recorded (10/23) and published (10/26) the Mark Charles campaign received word that they have been approved as a write-in option for MN.We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com and find bonus material on Patreon!To donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com or become a patron.Resources from this episode:John Piper’s ArticleInfo on Ranked Choice VotingRondell Treviño on TwitterThe Immigration CoalitionThis episode’s Patreon bonus content includes a conversation on how Justin and Stephen are deciding to vote for. It will be posted on 10/26. More bonus content will be posted on 11/2.We may receive commission from purchases made through some of our links. Thank you for your support.

Justin and Stephen talk about the presidential debates, the dissertation process, and then are joined by Charles Galbreath to discuss his multicultural church context in Brooklyn.Charles talks about the lessons he has learned from pastoring his diverse and largely Black congregation, with congregants from many different linguistic and cultural backgrounds. He also discusses what it means to be a pastor not only to his church but also for his neighborhood.Charles, Justin, and Stephen talk about how the American church has responded to the events of the last six months, particularly around racial trauma and injustice. They also discuss the relationship between the church and Christian higher ed, and how the people of Jesus could be leading discussions of justice instead of reacting to them.Charles explains why he is both encouraged and discouraged and repeats Jesus’s question about whether we want to be healed.We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com. To donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com or become a patron.Resources from this episode:Clarenden Road ChurchCharles Galbreath at Clarenden Road ChurchLeah Gunning Francis’s book: Ferguson and FaithStephanie Mitchem’s book: Race, Religion and PoliticsJohnathan Walton’s book: A Lens of LovePaulo Freire’s book: Pedagogy of the OppressedTim Keller’s article: A Biblical Critique of Secular Justice and Critical TheoryTim Keller’s book: Generous JusticeWe may receive commission from purchases made through some of these links. Thank you for your support.This episode’s Patreon bonus content includes a conversation on the prophetic voice of hip hop. It will be posted on 10/19.

Justin and Stephen start by reflecting on Breonna Taylor, bureaucracy, and the risk of competitive authoritarianism in American democracy. Megan DeFranza joins to discuss the lived experiences of intersex people and the risk of literal lifelong damage that can come through the lack of understanding. Megan shares how her search for theological truth led her into a place of advocacy for others, and how following Jesus can lead to moments of holy disruption. Megan, Justin, and Stephen discuss the practical consequences of ideas and the role of theologizing in shaping our responses to the world. Megan discusses her new film as well as why she continues to identify as an evangelical. Megan also provides some insight on the complex relationship between Intersex and LGBT experiences. We have show notes for you at profsinrooms.com and find bonus material on Patreon!About Our Guest:Megan DeFranza is a theologian, author, speaker, and film-maker. Author of Sex Difference in Christian Theology: Male, Female, and Intersex in the Image of God (Eerdmans) and a contributing author to several volumes including Two Views on Homosexuality, the Bible, and the Church (published by Zondervan) and most recently Understanding Transgender Identities: Four Views (published by Baker) You can learn more about Megan at www.megandefranza.com.To donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com or become a patron.Resources from this episode: Megan DeFranzaMegan on TwitterStories of Intersex and Faith FilmSex Difference in Christian Theology by Megan DeFranzaTwo Views on Homosexuality, the Bible and Church (book)Understanding Transgender Identities: Four Views (book)Competitive Authoritarianism by Levitsky and Way

Justin and Stephen start by reflecting on the purpose of higher education and are joined by Dr. Thorsten Moritz to discuss doing theology as hermeneutically intelligent engagement at the point of real life. Thorsten reflects on his experiences as a professor and dean in the UK, Germany, and the US, and as the founder of Warehouse Theology, as he shares the vision of turning every aspect of higher ed upside down in pursuit of better theological education. Thorsten helps Justin and Stephen think through the relationship between subjectivity and objectivity, using the lenses of positivism, phenomenalism, and critical realism. They also discuss the benefits of teaching students outside of the classroom through developing co-creative spaces, especially in international settings. And, Thorsten makes a bold claim about what it means to be human. We have plenty of show notes for you at profsinrooms.com and find bonus material on Patreon!To donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com or become a patron.Resources from this episode: Warehouse TheologyWarehouse Theology on InstagramCubacuStephen’s book on related themes: Social Constructivism and Christianity

Justin and Stephen discuss the sting of death (before we knew about Chadwick Boseman’s passing) and hardness of heart in the Church. Michial Farmer joins to discuss the purpose of higher education and describes his journey of evaluating why he was a professor. He shares the unique possibilities he sees at the intersections of the Humanities and Christian Higher Education. The three profs ask where there might be a different way forward. Michial highlights the importance of seeing things as they are, and loving them for what they are. They consider the need for ethical reasoning, and Michial describes the process of his career change.After we recorded, Michial published an article on Christianity and the Liberal Arts entitled Much Higher Education. We have plenty of show notes for you at profsinrooms.com or find bonus material on Patreon!To donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com.Resources from this episode: Michial’s article: Two Forms of DespairMichial’s article: The Uses of NostalgiaChristian Humanist Radio NetworkJohn Mark Reynolds St Constantine SchoolZena HitzFront Porch RepublicPhilip Sidney’s The Defense of PoecyFyodor Dostoevsky’s The Brothers Karamazov and The IdiotJoy Kogawa’s ObasanPam Muñoz Ryan’s Esperanza RisingThomas Friedman’s Thank you for Being LateDietrich Bonhoeffer’s Life TogetherJudith Guest’s Ordinary PeopleT.S. Eliot’s Preludes

In the final episode of season 1, Justin and Stephen talk coffee and reflect on highlights, lowlights, and insights from the summer. They also share their hopes and fears for the coming year. More resources at profsinrooms.comTo donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com.Resources from this episode:Intercultural and International Leadership Institute

Q Nellum joins Justin and Stephen to discuss her work as a Black entrepreneur and the process of leading organizations in their goals of becoming more effective in their diversity. She also discusses the difficulties of maintaining focus on social media messaging, what Black Lives Matter means to her, the unique struggles facing Black women, and finding inspiration in the Old Testament and the life of Jesus.. Justin and Stephen also talk about colonized experiences of Christianity, individual vs. corporate issues in making change, and family with COVID. More resources at profsinrooms.comTo donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com.Resources from this episode:Q IncQ on Twitter and InstagramQ’s Bible Reading PlanJemar Tisby’s Color of CompromiseDee Brown’s Bury My Heart at Wounded KneeWalter Wink’s The Powers That BeIntercultural and International Leadership Institute

Justin and Stephen talk with cattle rancher Levi Gosnell about life on the ranch, including mental health among farmers and ranchers, COVID’s impact on the local volunteer fire department, the complicated relationship between ranching and the environment, and the invisibility of producers to many consumers. They also discuss hopes for the next generation of Christ-followers and Levi’s church’s response to COVID. Justin and Stephen also talk golf, the explosion in Beirut, and the complicated ways in which academics think about theories. More resources at profsinrooms.comTo donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com.Resources from this episode: Levi’s YouTube ChannelNASA ArticleSuicide rate in agriculture (as Levi mentions, there was a previous erroneous report that has been rescinded)Grassland management and the environmentTim Keller’s article on Critical TheoryPropaganda’s comments about CRT

Justin and Stephen talk about dualism in conversations about race, and the particular difficulties of holding relationships with family in tension with the goals of justice. In the second half of their conversation with Jon Lundberg, they discuss what it means to be a bridge and how that involves both tension and love, as well as silence and speech. Jon shares his Minneapolis neighborhood’s experiences during the unrest after George Floyd’s murder. Justin and Stephen geek out at the end and discuss the practical contributions of intercultural theory and theology and the challenges involved in perceiving the world in multiple ways. More resources at profsinrooms.comTo donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com.Resources from this episode: The Forbes Article Stephen mentioned about antiracismA cautionary article about racist antiracism materialSocial Constructivism and Christianity book

Justin and Stephen revisit the issue of abled-ness being temporary, and then discuss what Justin has recently learned about Minnesota’s troubling history with the Dakota people. They are joined by Jon Lundberg to talk about his process of coming to understand what it means to be white, including time he spent working with Dr. John M. Perkins. They also discuss the challenges of having good conversations about race and whiteness, especially with other white people. More resources at profsinrooms.comTo donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com.Resources from this episode: The United States-Dakota War Trials: A Study in Military Injustice article by Carol ChomskyBeing White (IVP Book) by Harris and Schaupp

Justin and Stephen are joined by 2020 US Presidential candidate Mark Charles (Independent) to discuss the doctrine of discovery, the US Constitution, Lincoln’s legacy, and American Exceptionalism. Mark also talks about why he thinks we are in a unique moment in time to generate change. Justin and Stephen discuss Independence Day, the South Dakota Black Hills, and the Old Testament. Find more resources at profsinrooms.comTo donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com.Resources from this episode:Article about the Black Hills SettlementPostulating Solutions podcast with John P. Perkins and Matthew J. WattsNIV Sola Scriptura Bible SetUnsettling Truths by Soong-Chan Rah and Mark CharlesTEDx Talk on the Doctrine of Discovery by Mark CharlesMark Charles 2020 CampaignMark Charles 100 Day PlanNative Lands MapReflections from the Hogan blog

Justin and Stephen are joined by US Presidential candidate Mark Charles (Independent) who discusses his campaign and the vital perspectives of indigenous peoples in the US. Mark also talks about biases that he has found embedded in presidential electoral politics and he poses a surprising and powerful question. Justin and Stephen also discuss the Postulating Solutions podcast, critical theory, and the difference between perceived and actual distinctions between the political left and right. Find more resources on the episode homepage.To donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com.Resources from this episode: Postulating Solutions podcastNative Lands MapUnsettling Truths by Soong-Chan Rah and Mark CharlesReflections from the Hogan blogWould Jesus Eat Frybread conference seriesMark Charles 2020 Campaign

Justin and Stephen are joined by Christian Curtis, who is an enrolled member of the Fort Peck Sioux and Assiniboine Tribe and is a nurse with the Health Promotion Disease Prevention program in Fort Peck. Christian shares about Native experiences of COVID-19. They also discuss the ways in which to listen and remember, and Justin and Stephen consider ways in which listening to others may help in understanding who God is and what Christianity means.To donate to production costs, visit profsinrooms.com.This episode was recorded on the land of the Wahpekute, Anishinabewaki, and the Očeti Šakówiŋ (Sioux).Resources from this episode:Native Lands MapConnect with ChristianThe End of Memory by VolfYou can see Justin’s pictures from the George Floyd Memorial on the episode homepage

In the second half of their conversation with John P. Perkins, Justin and Stephen consider the problems with colorblindness and the necessity of deconstructing race. They also discuss practical ways forward for each of them. Part 1 was aired in Episode 12. Resources from this episode: 20 20 20 Economic Justice and Equity Initiative Petition and ExplanationPostulating Solutions Podcast with John Perkins and Anthony D. Bobo, Jr.Commissioned to Love by Perkins and BoboDanger of a single story TED TalkMS State Senator’s reference to a hangingAl Sharpton’s speech at the Minneapolis memorial for George FloydWhen Helping Hurts by Corbett and FikkertUp from Slavery by Booker T. WashingtonThe Autobiography of Malcom X as told to Alex HaleyRace the Power of An Illusion video seriesRace the Power of An Illusion companion websiteThe Trouble with Racial Reconciliation by Dr. Kenneth YoungDivided by Faith by Emerson and SmithSocial Constructivism and Christianity by Stephen W. Jones

Justin and Stephen think through the recent developments in American society. They are joined by Pastor John P. Perkins, grandson of civil rights leader Dr. John M. Perkins, who just celebrated his 90th birthday. Together, they discuss Dr. Perkins’ legacy in Pastor John’s life, as well as reflections on George Floyd and the protests that have followed. Part 2 will be aired in Episode 13. Resources from this episode: Danger of a single story TED TalkMS State Senator’s reference to a hangingAl Sharpton’s speech at the Minneapolis memorial for George FloydWhen Helping HurtsUp from Slavery by Booker T. WashingtonThe Autobiography of Malcom X as told to Alex HaleyRace the Power of An IllusionRace the Power of An Illusion companion websiteThe Trouble with Racial Reconciliation by Dr. Kenneth Young

We present continuations of conversations we had with James (ep. 7) and Mike (ep. 9). James discusses developing discernment as we interact with news. Mike talks with Justin and Stephen about the strengths and limitations of social media. Resources from this episode: Episode 7: “Remembering, Heroes, and Race” Professors in Rooms Getting CoffeeEpisode 9: “Power, Accountability, and Ethics” Professors in Rooms Getting CoffeeEpisode 127: “Fake News” Christian Feminist Podcast

As the nation mourns George Floyd, Alicia Thoj joins Justin and Stephen to talk about race from a Hmong perspective. They talk about the protests and riots in the Twin Cities, where Alicia lives, and what she is processing as she stands for Black Lives. Alicia shares about the process of rediscovering Jesus as a person of color, and she, Justin, and Stephen talk about ways they have seen Jesus in the last week. A musical composition by Marcus Dip Silas, entitled “A Dirge for the Gentle Giant” pays tribute to George Floyd.Resources from this episode:Black Fear and Distrust in Hmong AmericaJon Lundberg shares a perspective on Jesus in the passion narrative“A Dirge for the Gentle Giant” by Marcus Dip Silas available for download from the episode page at profsinrooms.com

Justin and Stephen talk family successes, failed attempts, vehicles and remembering both the good and the hard things from childhood and earlier in life. Mike Picconatto joins them to discuss the lockdown in Germany, issues of solidarity, liberty, and how Jesus challenges ideas of what we do for our own and others' concerns. Then Justin, Stephen, and Mike talk about Romans 13 and the relationship between Jesus followers and governments. This includes a conversation about the right and responsibility to hold governments accountable by serving as prophets and priests in the places God has put us. Justin describes the historical context of Romans 13 to help with the hermeneutical interpretation. Mike asks what it would look like to be a new kind of confessing church that confesses Christ above all others. Bonhoeffer comes up as a complex character. Justin and Stephen conclude with reflections on ethical reasoning. Resources from this episode:Artfest.onlineStephen’s family’s LEGO videoStephen’s bookEthics and antibody tests in GermanyProblems with antibody testsMore info on antibody testsGermany’s 1st quarter in recessionJeff Sessions separation and Romans 13, and additional historyPostulating Solutions with Preachers Podcast: perkinsandwatts.com

Justin and Stephen talk with Dr. Victoria Reynolds Farmer about experiences of people with disabilities during COVID, including reasons for hope, frustration, and deep disappointment. They discuss the question of why society seems to be able to adapt now in ways that were resisted earlier, the experience of growing up Christian and disabled, and hopes for the church. Victoria shares about embodied faith and incarnational theology. They conclude with a discussion of Jean Vanier and abuse. Justin and Stephen also talk about the transition out of the semester and the pleasure of outrage.Resources from this episode: A couple of pop-media articles on the Pleasures of Outrage and the Psychology of Outrage.We also found this book about Christians and outrage. We haven’t read it but the idea sounded interesting.Christian Feminist PodcastChristian Humanist Radio NetworkA brief profile on Imani Barbarin#abledsareweird on Twitter#notaboutuswithoutus on TwitterTime article that includes Alice WongInquiry Statement regarding Jean Vanier

Justin and Stephen talk with history prof. James Willetts about how Americans remember racial history and the creation of hero narratives. They also discuss graduation, role changes, distress in the Psalms, and the complex reality of responding to racialized tragedy.Resources from this episode:Atlanta Mayor calls Arbery’s killing a lynchingLies My Teacher Told Me by James LoewenSundown Towns by James LoewenAmerica’s Original Sin by Jim WallisGod’s Politics by Jim Wallis

In this follow-up to Episode 4, Dr. Karen Gustafson (Ph.D. in Psychology) shares more about the bio-psycho-spiritual-social approach as we consider mental health in the Coronavirus era.

Anthony D. Bobo, Jr., co-author of Commissioned to Love joins Justin and Stephen. They discuss church ministry and mission in each of the commission circles - from close to home to global. They also discuss the possibilities for the church to unite around Jesus in a time of division. Justin and Stephen also discuss the possibilities for trajectory setting decisions to be made in this time of intense upheaval.Show notes:For information on the quote Stephen mentions about US Foreign Policy after WWII, click here.For the podcast Stephen referenced with Perkins and Watts and their guest Soong-Chan Rah, click here.To purchase Commissioned to Love, click here.

Justin and Stephen discuss their favorite coffee experience, a theology of sports, and navigating different social truth universes. Then they are joined by Dr. Karen Gustafson, who introduces a bio-psycho-social-spiritual approach to mental wellness and applies it to the current circumstance of the coronavirus situation.Credits: Music: Josiah Enns | Photo: Photo by Preston Goff on Unsplash