The Table Church

We all curate the best parts of ourselves for public consumption – but what about the messy 90% beneath the surface? Using Moses' 40-year wilderness period as a framework, this talk explores why spiritual dryness and deconstruction aren't signs of failure, but often necessary stages of growth. Drawing from Christian mysticism and personal experience with loss and religious trauma, Pastor Anthony challenges the idea that authentic faith should always feel good. Instead, he suggests that our most difficult seasons – when prayers feel empty and old beliefs no longer fit – might actually be where real transformation begins. For anyone who's felt spiritually homeless, questioned their faith, or wondered if they're "doing it wrong," this conversation offers permission to sit with uncertainty and find the sacred in ordinary, difficult places.

We're told constantly to level up, hustle harder, and become the best version of ourselves. But what if this relentless pursuit of self-optimization is actually keeping us from the peace and purpose we're seeking? In a culture that treats exhaustion as a status symbol and measures worth by productivity, many of us are burning out while chasing an impossible standard of perfection. This sermon by Pastor Heidi Mills explores an ancient alternative to our modern obsession with doing more and being better. Through the lens of a profound moment in Jesus's life, we'll discover how creating space for rest, practicing presence, and embracing our imperfections might be the real path to transformation—not the kind that comes from grinding harder, but the kind that happens when we finally stop trying to optimize ourselves into oblivion. Whether you're drowning in your to-do list, feeling guilty about not doing enough, or just exhausted from trying to upgrade every aspect of your life, this might offer a different way forward.

What happens when the faith you grew up with doesn't have room for who you're becoming? Pastor Heidi Mills shares her personal story of moving from conservative Christianity's rigid expectations to discovering her queer identity at age 30. She explores how religious spaces often force people into narrow boxes that prevent authentic self-discovery. Through her own experience of questioning, deconstructing, and ultimately embracing her sexuality, Heidi demonstrates how supportive communities can create space for people to explore their true selves without shame or judgment. Her story reveals how stepping outside familiar boundaries—even when it costs relationships—can lead to greater freedom and self-acceptance. Whether you're questioning your own identity, supporting someone who is, or wondering how faith and sexuality intersect, this honest conversation offers hope that there are communities where everyone can belong exactly as they are.

Growing up queer in religious spaces often means inheriting a legacy of shame—being told your identity is incompatible with God's love. But what if the very questions that expose our shame could lead us back to belonging? In this Pride Sunday sermon, Antonio Ingram explores how the Genesis story of Adam and Eve offers a surprising framework for understanding queer identity and faith. Drawing on the concept of "chosen family" familiar to many LGBTQ+ folks, he reframes our relationship with the divine not as one of exile and hiding, but as adoption into a family where shame has no place. This isn't about sanitizing faith or ignoring harm done by religious institutions—it's about reclaiming a spiritual heritage that says you belong, exactly as you are. Whether you're questioning, affirming, or somewhere in between, discover how ancient texts speak to modern struggles for dignity and belonging.

Our society has become eerily comfortable with hiding disabled bodies and experiences from view. With 25% of people living with disabilities, why do we make them invisible in our communities and even in our religious spaces? This sermon examines how ableism functions as a system that ranks bodies and assigns worth based on constructed notions of "normalcy." Drawing from Luke 14, we explore Jesus's radical invitation to center marginalized bodies at the table. What if disability isn't something to be fixed, but an identity to be honored? What if our task isn't to worry about our own seat at the table, but instead to become "table setters" who create spaces where everyone belongs as they are? The banquet of new creation has plenty of room—and the house isn't full until everyone is present.

What if being "fixed" isn't the point? In this sermon, Matt explores how our narrow definitions of "normal" actually prevent collective liberation. Through the biblical story of Jacob, who received both a blessing and a permanent disability in the same divine encounter, we're challenged to question our assumptions about healing and wholeness. One in four Americans experiences disability, yet our churches and communities often approach disability as something to overcome rather than embrace. Discover how shifting from a medical model to a social model of disability might transform not just how we see disability, but how we understand God's vision for humanity. What if heaven includes wheelchairs, hearing aids, and all the beautiful diversity of human bodies?

What if disability isn't something to be "fixed," but rather a divine aspect of human diversity? In this candid conversation, Pastor Tonetta leads a community panel with Madison, Udim, and Gwyth as they challenge conventional religious narratives about disability. They discuss how churches often miss the mark by connecting disability with sin or promising its erasure in heaven. The panelists share their personal experiences with ableism, from bizarre healing prayers to everyday access barriers, while offering practical ways for everyone to resist harmful narratives. Whether you're disabled, neurodivergent, or simply want to understand how to create more inclusive spaces, this episode offers fresh perspectives on how disability intersects with spirituality, justice, and genuine community. Hearing these stories will change how you think about bodies, accessibility, and what it truly means to be made in God's image.

What if disability isn't something to "overcome" but a source of wisdom and creativity? Dr. Amy Kenny flips the script on ableism with humor and insight, showing how disability appears throughout scripture and nature—not as punishment but as divine design. From God's "wheelchair" in Ezekiel to Jesus keeping his scars after resurrection, she reveals how accessibility isn't charity—it's justice. Whether you're disabled, know someone who is, or just want to build more inclusive communities, this talk offers practical wisdom for seeing the sacred in all bodies.

Anthony Parrott tackles the question we're all asking: How do we find hope when the world feels like it's burning? Through the unexpected story of discouraged friends going fishing after a crisis, this sermon explores how meaning often shows up in the most ordinary moments—like breakfast on a beach. For anyone feeling overwhelmed by global crises, personal failures, or the daily struggle to keep going, this Easter message offers a fresh perspective on how small acts of community and care can become radical responses to empire and despair. Recorded April 20, 2025.

In a city that often feels like the Capitol from The Hunger Games, how do we maintain our humanity and agency? Pastor Heidi Mills explores what Jesus' radical entrance into Jerusalem teaches us about confronting systems of power without becoming what we oppose. Perfect for anyone tired of feeling like a pawn in someone else's game, searching for ways to create meaningful change in a world that prioritizes power over justice. Drawing parallels between ancient Jerusalem and modern DC, this sermon offers four practical strategies for living with purpose in the shadow of empire.

In the final installment of the Sacred Self-Care series, we tackle that voice in your head that never stops criticizing you. If your inner dialogue sounds like someone you'd never want to be friends with, this episode is for you. Learn why researchers say self-flagellation is actually self-defeating, and discover practical ways to replace harsh self-talk with self-compassion. Perfect for anyone who apologizes too much, feels perpetually inadequate, or struggles with the "should monster" that keeps you in a cycle of burnout. Because let's face it—you can't fight for justice in the world while waging war against yourself.

Former wrestler turned preacher Trevor Wentt breaks down why suppressing your feelings isn't the answer. Through personal stories of depression and King David's intense emotional expressions, he offers a practical 5-step approach to understanding your emotions as valuable signals rather than inconvenient obstacles. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, can't identify what you're feeling, or just want better emotional intelligence, this talk provides actionable strategies for using emotions as guides to what you actually need. Perfect for anyone who's ever been told to "stop being so emotional" or "just get over it."

In a culture that often tells us to suppress our emotions, what if they're actually trying to tell us something important? In this refreshingly honest conversation, Shae Washington unpacks how our emotions—even the uncomfortable ones—serve a purpose in our lives. Drawing inspiration from Pixar's "Inside Out" and challenging the messaging many of us received growing up ("boys don't cry," "happiness is a choice"), this talk offers practical wisdom for recognizing what your feelings might be signaling about your needs. Whether you've been told anxiety means you lack faith or that sadness should be overcome quickly, this episode provides a framework for treating your emotional life with respect rather than suspicion. Plus, stick around for an adorably instructive "feelings fashion show" from the kids that perfectly demonstrates why children might be our best teachers when it comes to emotional honesty.

In a world that constantly tells us our bodies need fixing, this sermon explores what it means to truly accept yourself as "your own best thing." Drawing from Toni Morrison's novel Beloved and the ritual of communion, Pastor Tonetta challenges the false division between mind and body that costs us connection, joy, and presence. Discover how reclaiming your body as holy space can be an act of resistance against systems that try to define your worth through appearance. Whether you're wrestling with body image, seeking a healthier relationship with yourself, or curious about how embodiment connects to justice, this conversation offers a refreshing perspective on what it means to be fully human in a society obsessed with perfection.

Feel like meditation might help your anxiety but been told it's not compatible with Christianity? In this episode, Anthony traces Christian meditation back to its ancient roots, explaining how desert monks used contemplative practices as resistance against empire and power. He breaks down four practical meditation techniques you can try today: Centering Prayer, Breath Prayer, Lectio Divina, and Imaginative Prayer. Learn how these practices can actually reshape your brain while connecting you with a tradition older than you might have realized. Perfect for stressed millennials trying to reconnect with spirituality in an authentic way.

In a culture that valorizes productivity and constant connection, taking time for yourself can feel selfish or indulgent—especially for those committed to social justice. But what if rest isn't just a reward for hard work, but the foundation that makes meaningful work possible? In this episode, Pastor Anthony challenges our workaholic mindset by exploring what Genesis, the prophets, and even Jesus have to say about rest. Plus, he opens up about his own recent struggle with anxiety and the hard lesson that none of us—not even pastors—are exempt from needing care. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed or just need permission to take a break, this candid conversation offers a refreshing alternative to the "grind til you die" mentality.

"It is the dance we are fighting for." In this series opener, we explore why radical self-care matters in a world that feels increasingly chaotic. Through stories of bubble baths, borrowed wisdom from LGBTQ+ activists who "buried friends in the morning and danced all night," and a fresh take on ancient scripture, this episode challenges the notion that suffering equals goodness. We dive into Dr. Shaniqua Walker Barnes' concept of Sacred Self-Care and why refusing to be scapegoated is not just personal wellness—it's political rebellion. A timely conversation for anyone wondering how to stay human in dehumanizing times.

Growing up, many of us learned that Christianity was about escaping this world for heaven and following the one narrow path to God. But what if we've misunderstood Jesus's message? In this eye-opening talk, Pastor Anthony Parrott explores how Jesus redefined God's "house," challenged religious exclusivity, and revealed a divine love that works more like gravity than a gatekeeper. Whether you're deconstructing your faith or just questioning traditional interpretations, this fresh perspective on John 14 offers a more beautiful and expansive way of understanding God's presence in our world today.

What happens when the spaces meant to welcome us become spaces we need to leave? Drawing from Jamar Tisby's #LeaveLoud movement and "The Color Purple," this episode dives into the complex dynamics of leaving religious institutions, toxic workplaces, and communities that no longer serve us. We explore a fresh take on an ancient story about standing in your truth, even when facing pushback from authority figures. Whether you're contemplating a major life transition or processing past spiritual trauma, this conversation offers a framework for understanding that sometimes, leaving isn't just okay - it's sacred. No guilt trips, no clichés - just honest talk about finding your way forward.

What happens when the typical answers don't cut it anymore? Daniel Dixon gets real about finding new ways forward in uncertain times. Through the lens of MLK's final writings, ancient wisdom, and DC's rich history of community organizing, Daniel explores how we might create spaces that sustain us - whether that's dance clubs that become HIV/AIDS care centers or faith communities reimagining what's possible. A candid conversation about burnout, resistance, and choosing community over chaos.

What if our exhaustion isn't actually about personal failure, but about systems designed to keep us drained? In this fresh take on the story of Jesus and the woman at the well, Pastor Anthony explores how we can find rest and renewal even in times that feel overwhelming. Drawing unexpected insights from an ancient text, he challenges traditional interpretations and asks what it means to resist scarcity mindsets in our modern world.

What does personal transformation have to do with social justice? Matt breaks down one of the most misunderstood conversations in the Bible - the late-night meeting between Jesus and Nicodemus. Beyond the religious clichés, this chat gets real about shame, authenticity, and finding your place in movements for change. Perfect for anyone trying to figure out how to make a difference without losing themselves in the process.

What do a braided whip, property damage, and divine anger have in common? Co-pastor Tonetta weaves together Audre Lorde's philosophy, personal reflections on queerness and race, and a radically different take on Jesus clearing the temple. This episode dives into what authentic resistance looks like, why being "well-mannered" isn't always virtuous, and how disruption can be an act of love. Perfect for anyone looking to bridge their spiritual life with their commitment to justice, or who's ever wished they could channel their inner "that girl" energy for good.

From potential disaster to unexpected abundance - the wedding at Cana gets a contemporary examination that speaks to anyone who's ever faced a moment of crisis. Bekki Fahrer weaves together ancient wedding customs, family dynamics, and divine partnership to explore how we move from shame to celebration. She challenges listeners to imagine new possibilities even in seemingly hopeless situations. This episode is especially relevant for those interested in progressive theology, social justice, and finding hope in difficult times. Keywords: progressive christianity, spirituality, social justice, abundance, wedding at cana, crisis management, hope, transformation, divine partnership Length: 42 minutes

What if the pressure of New Year's resolutions and fresh starts is missing the point entirely? In this thoughtful exploration of John's Gospel, Rev. Tonetta Landis-Aina challenges our understanding of new beginnings and what it means to truly believe. Drawing from John O'Donohue's poetry, pop culture references like Good Will Hunting, and ancient wisdom, this talk invites us to move beyond mere observation into genuine participation in our spiritual lives. Perfect for anyone wrestling with faith, cynicism, and the desire for authentic change in their lives. From The Table Church in Washington, DC - a community cultivating authentic belonging and following in the prophetic, thoughtful, and radical way of Jesus.

What happens when we cling too tightly to what we think we deserve? In this thought-provoking exploration of the Christmas narrative, we examine how Joseph's radical choice to give up his social standing challenges our modern instincts about power, privilege, and entitlement. From billionaires to turn signals, this sermon weaves together pop culture references, ancient texts, and contemporary social commentary to offer a fresh perspective on what it means to love others in a world obsessed with self-preservation. Drawing on insights from bell hooks, Jewish mysticism, and an unexpectedly relevant deep-dive into TV Tropes, we explore how letting go of our "I deserve" mentality might be the key to creating the world we actually want to live in. Perfect for anyone wrestling with questions about privilege, social change, and what ancient wisdom might have to say about modern problems.

In this moving sermon from The Table Church DC, Heidi explores how to authentically engage with joy without ignoring the world's pain and darkness. Through Mary Oliver's poetry and the revolutionary words of Mary of Nazareth, she unpacks how small moments of delight can fuel resistance and hope. Perfect for anyone struggling to balance awareness of injustice with the need to stay sustained and nourished in the work of creating a better world. Drawing on her experiences as a woman in ministry and someone who struggles with traditional holiday expectations, Heidi offers a fresh perspective on the Magnificat and what it means to embrace joy as an act of prophetic imagination. This sermon weaves together contemporary poetry, progressive theology, and practical wisdom for finding light in difficult times.

In this compelling meditation on joy during difficult times, elder Shae Washington weaves together Nikki Giovanni's radical poetry with Mary's subversive Magnificat. Through fresh interpretations of these revolutionary texts, Washington explores how marginalized voices throughout history have claimed joy as an act of resistance. Drawing on personal stories, historical context, and contemporary struggles, she challenges us to see joy not as an emotion dependent on circumstances, but as a posture of hope and defiance in the face of empire. Part of The Table Church's "Poetry of Advent" series examining sacred and secular poetry as spiritual practice. Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 3:45 Nikki Giovanni's Poetry of Black Joy 8:30 Mary's Magnificat as Revolutionary Text 15:20 Joy as Resistance in Modern Context 21:00 Three Keys to Finding Joy 26:30 Closing Reflection and Song #Advent #Poetry #Faith #Resistance #Joy #NikkiGiovanni #Spirituality #ProgressiveChristianity

From reciting Langston Hughes in second grade to exploring the wilderness with John the Baptist, Rev. Tonetta Landis-Aina of The Table Church shares a fresh perspective on finding peace through poetry. Through the works of Lucille Clifton, Mary Oliver, and Ann Porter, she weaves together childhood memories, artistic wisdom, and ancient spiritual truths. This message invites viewers to experience both the sweetness and difficulty of life as paths to authentic transformation. A timely reflection for anyone seeking to reconnect with wonder and meaning in our complex world. Join The Table Church DC in discovering how poetry can help us see the sacred in everyday moments.

In a world designed to hijack our attention, what happens when we deliberately choose where to focus? Through stories ranging from an Alaskan gas station attendant to Tolkien's Middle-earth, Pastor Anthony Parrott explores how paying attention can be an act of rebellion and hope. Drawing on Mary Oliver's poetry and ancient wisdom, this talk challenges us to notice both beauty and injustice in our daily lives. Perfect for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the noise of modern life or searching for meaning in cycles of change. Recorded at The Table Church in Washington, DC on the first Sunday of Advent 2024. Topics covered: The countercultural practice of paying attention How noticing small details can lead to life-changing moments Finding hope beyond immediate circumstances The cyclical nature of history and change Practical ways to stay alert in a distracted world #Mindfulness #Hope #Progressive #Faith #Spirituality #DCChurch #PayingAttention #MaryOliver #Tolkien

What if Jesus' words about "storing treasures in heaven" weren't about the afterlife at all? In this message, Pastor Anthony Parrott explores Luke 12:32-34, challenging us to rethink our understanding of fear, generosity, and what it means to build alternative economies as a church community. Learn how addressing our fears head-on and embracing God's abundance can lead to revolutionary generosity and justice-centered community building.

What is church? In this debut episode of LOAM, co-pastors Tonetta Landis-Aina and Anthony Parrott explore the essence, tensions, and beauty of Christian community. From underground churches in Yemen to food pantries in Iowa, they unpack personal experiences that have shaped their understanding of what makes church...church. Key Conversations - The "isness" of church: Beyond programs and buildings - Church as a fellowship of difference - The power of marginality in Christian community - Tension between institutional structures and authentic relationships - Multi-generational community as "burning bushes" Featured Quotes & References - Eugene Peterson on the "ontological church" - C.S. Lewis's Screwtape Letters on the visible vs. invisible church - Dr. Willie James Jennings's commentary on Acts - Jamar Tisby on the Civil Rights Movement as America's third Great Awakening - Dallas Willard: "Your system is perfectly tuned to get the results you're getting" Scripture Referenced: - Ephesians 2 (God's household) - Acts 1-2 (Birth of the church) Questions for Reflection: 1. What experiences have shaped your understanding of church? 2. How do you navigate the tension between church as institution and church as community? 3. Where do you see "burning bushes" in your faith community? Follow LOAM: Instagram loam.fm Got thoughts or questions about this episode? We'd love to hear from you: podcast@loam.fm

In this opening message of our "Future With Hope" series, Pastor Tonetta unpacks Jeremiah 29 - a passage often reduced to an inspirational quote but actually written to people in exile. Through examining the original context and drawing modern parallels, she explores how God's promises of hope often come in unexpected ways and unexpected places. Featuring an elder panel discussion about The Table Church's vision for the future, this message challenges us to embrace both present faithfulness and future hope, even when we feel displaced from what's familiar.

In this conclusion to our "Shadowboxing" series, Pastor Tonetta Landis-Aina explores the Book of Daniel's apocalyptic visions and their relevance to our modern struggles. Through the lens of Daniel's dreams, she offers a profound meditation on remaining human in the face of systemic injustice, the power of imagination in resistance, and finding hope in times that feel apocalyptic. Rather than interpreting the dreams of empire, she challenges us to dream our own dreams of justice and renewal.

Pastor Anthony Parrott tackles the reality of death and loss, revealing how authentic grief and defiant hope can—and must—coexist. Drawing from Scripture and contemporary poetry, discover why hope isn't a delicate bird, but a resilient sewer rat that refuses to let death have the final word.

Why do bad things happen if God is good? Journey through biblical history to discover how our understanding of Satan transformed from a divine legal prosecutor to the ruler of this world's broken systems. Learn how the Bible's view of evil evolved, from ancient chaos monsters to the familiar adversary we know today. This eye-opening sermon challenges both fundamentalist and modernist views, revealing how spiritual warfare isn't just about demons and exorcisms - it's about creating communities of justice, forgiveness, and radical inclusion. Perfect for anyone wondering about the nature of evil, the role of Satan in modern life, and how we can meaningfully resist darkness in today's world.

Shadowboxing: Unmasking the Monsters Within In this episode of the sermon series 'Shadowboxing: Confronting the Monsters Within,' we explore the concept of the 'false self' and the inner 'monster' through personal anecdotes and literary references like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. By delving into the Bible story of Isaac, Rebecca, Jacob, and Esau from Genesis 27:1-20, we uncover the masks we wear to navigate life's challenges and seek acceptance. Insights from Christian psychologist David Benner and the Enneagram help us differentiate the false self from our true God-given identity. The sermon concludes with reflections on autumn's symbolism of letting go, inspired by Lucille Clifton's poem, 'The Lesson of the Falling Leaves.' 00:00 A Memorable Mistake in London 03:06 Facing Fears and Cultural Monsters 06:43 Exploring the Monster Within 07:29 The Tale of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde 11:09 The False Self and Genesis 27 15:54 Setting the Stage: Isaac's Prayer and Rebecca's Revelation 16:20 Jacob and Esau: The Struggle Begins 17:12 The Shrewdness of Rebecca and Jacob 18:43 The Deception Unfolds: Jacob's Mask 20:12 The Consequences of Deception 20:45 Reflecting on Identity and the False Self 21:56 Understanding the False Self in Christian Context 22:46 Personal Journey: Confronting the False Self 23:34 The Enneagram and Self-Discovery 25:34 Jacob's Transformation: From Supplanter to Israel 27:00 The Struggle of Marginalized Identities 28:11 The Spiritual Journey: Losing the Self to Find the Self 28:55 Confronting Our Fears: The Lesson of the Falling Leaves

Join us as we kick off our exciting new series with a twist—Tonetta wanted to have some fun, so we're diving into a horror movie theme!

This sermon delves into the themes of patience, growth, and the transformative power of trusting in the slow work of God. Through the writings of Teilhard de Chardin and insights from the book 'Slow Church,' the sermon challenges cultural obsessions with speed, prompting the pursuit of a deeper, more intentional Christian community. Exploring the concept of 'North Star' communities, the sermon highlights the significance of being a liberating church, drawing from historical examples like the desert monks of North Africa and the hush harbors of enslaved African Americans. Emphasizing rootedness, love, and communal growth, the sermon is part of a larger series on the 'Marks of a Liberating Church.' 00:00 Opening Prayer and Reflection 01:29 The Slow Work of God 02:54 Introduction to Slow Church 04:24 Marks of a Liberating Church 06:08 The North Star Community 10:35 Imitating God and Love 20:10 Rootedness and Growth 24:53 Broadcasting the Gospel 27:19 Reflection and Communion

In this heartfelt sermon, Trevor Wentt delves into the essence of a liberating church by drawing on the black spiritual 'All God's Children Got Shoes' and exploring its resonance with 1 Corinthians 12:4-11. Wendt emphasizes the importance of recognizing and utilizing our diverse spiritual gifts for the common good, promoting equality, dignity, and communal purpose. With references to modern cultural icons like 'My Hero Academia' and personal stories of faith communities on the margins, this sermon invokes a powerful call to action for creating communities of connection and dismantling structures of oppression. 00:00 Introduction to the Series 00:25 Welcoming Trevor Wendt 01:32 Anime and Power Dynamics 03:40 Exploring Spiritual Gifts 07:22 Understanding the Triadic Formula 12:26 The Common Good and Spiritual Gifts 17:28 Dignity for All 23:36 You Are Enough 28:22 Call to Action

Embracing Unspeakable Joy Amidst Trauma In this sermon, our Co-Director of Community Formation Antonio Ingram explores the concept of 'unspeakable joy' that transcends circumstances and finds its root in faith in a victorious risen Christ. He discusses the challenges of experiencing genuine joy amidst trauma, using personal anecdotes and biblical examples, particularly focusing on the figure of Miriam in Exodus. Antonio also reflects on the experiences of the Pentecostal Black Church and how unspeakable joy served as a means of liberation for African Americans. The message highlights the importance of choosing to invite God's presence into our pain and using worship as a way to encounter divine joy that defies reason and logic. 00:00 Introduction to Unspeakable Joy 01:04 Personal Story of Loss and False Joy 02:34 Historical Context and the Black Church 06:34 The Story of Miriam in Exodus 10:30 Miriam's Prophetic Joy and Modern Parallels 12:48 The Power of Worship in Pain 15:13 Conclusion and Prayer

Welcome to Greenhouse a new groups curriculum for The Table Church. This is the audio version. You can find the PDF of Stage 1 Week 1 here: PDF Link

Part of "Marks of a Liberating Church Series." Preacher: Pastor Tonetta Landis-Aina This sermon delves into the contrasting narratives within American Christianity, focusing on the song 'Give Me That Old Time Religion' and its implications of division and exclusion. The speaker critiques this version of faith, highlighting its historical role in subjugation and oppression. They contrast this with a more liberatory approach to Christianity, emphasizing the need to interpret the Bible through the lens of liberation theology. Key moments include a detailed reading of Luke 4:16-30 and an exploration of how Jesus' teachings challenge the status quo, calling for a faith that promotes freedom and justice for all. 00:00 Introduction to an Old Song 01:07 The Divided American Church 03:00 A Different Side of Christianity 04:42 Choosing Which Jesus to Follow 06:03 Reading the Bible for Liberation 09:20 Jesus' Inaugural Sermon 17:17 Interpreting Scripture in Community 22:54 The Scandal of God's Grace 25:29 Conclusion: A Creative Relationship with the Bible

From our "Marks of A Liberating Church" series, Pastor Tonetta reflects on the concept of Ubuntu and its significance in building a liberating church community. Drawing parallels between the ancient story of Cain and Abel and modern-day challenges, the sermon encourages a rejection of unlimited growth and excessive consumption in favor of interdependence, care, and community. Pastor Tonetta explores how understanding and practicing Ubuntu can lead to a more human and just society, grounded in the values of knowing and keeping our neighbors. Join us as we delve into the wisdom of Ubuntu and its biblical connections to inspire a more liberated and interconnected church community in today's world. 00:00 Welcome Back: Embracing the Fall Season 00:52 Reflecting on Our Core Values 02:48 Exploring Liberating Community Structures 04:04 Personal Church Histories and Models 06:52 The Concept of Hush Harbors 08:51 Introducing Ubuntu: A Philosophy of Interdependence 11:37 Biblical Insights: The Story of Cain and Abel 17:52 Lessons from Cain and Abel: Embracing Ubuntu 24:00 Practical Applications of Ubuntu 29:18 A Call to Action: Becoming a Liberating Church

August 25, 2023 In this episode, Matt Collinson from the preaching team at The Table wraps up a series on the Book of Romans, focusing on Romans 8. Matt begins by confessing his early misunderstandings of Christianity, noting that it initially seemed like a means to avoid hell rather than a transformative faith. He critiques the simplified 'Toothpaste Christianity,' which is a hedge against future 'bad places,' and stresses that the gospel is more about a present, active life of transformation. Through Romans 8, Matt dives into Paul's teachings on living by the Spirit rather than the flesh, emphasizing that our bodies are good, not inherently bad. He explores the concept of Christians as heirs of God's vocation, not just future rewards in heaven, and challenges the Western Church's often future-oriented focus by calling for active participation in God's work of liberation and the renewal of all things here and now. The episode concludes with a call to engage deeply in this present transformation, to empathize with the world's suffering, yet hold onto the hope of future restoration. 00:00 Introduction and Personal Confession 00:21 Struggles with Faith and Understanding 03:01 The Concept of Toothpaste Christianity 04:39 Exploring Romans 8 07:24 Body and Spirit Dichotomy 14:50 Inheritance and Vocation 20:32 Engaging in Collective Liberation 25:43 The Role of Suffering and Hope 34:29 Call to Action and Conclusion

(Some AI tools were used to recover some poor audio from the original recording. You may notice some . . . oddness in Anthony's voice)   This sermon, part of a series on the Book of Romans, focuses on Romans chapter 6. It interprets the scripture to present sin as an oppressive entity that Jesus's death and resurrection have overcome. The message emphasizes the need for believers to shift their allegiance entirely from sin to God, as trying to serve both is futile. Various analogies, including a modern story about an employee with two jobs, illustrate this point. The sermon debunks the traditional legalistic approach, portraying sin as a despotic ruler rather than merely individual mistakes. It underscores the transformative power of baptism, seen as participating in Jesus's death and resurrection, thus liberating believers from sin's grip. The concluding message encourages embracing one's identity as beloved by God, rejecting self-hatred, and living in the freedom and peace offered through Jesus.

Reclaiming Romans: Examining God's Story Beyond Sin Management Join Pastor Anthony from The Table Church as he delves into the complexities of understanding the Book of Romans. In this enlightening sermon, he contrasts traditional interpretations focused on individual sin and salvation mechanisms with a broader context of systemic issues and the power of Jesus. Through exploring the current and historical societal challenges faced by those under oppressive systems, Anthony aims to reclaim Romans as a gospel proclaiming peace and wholeness for all creation. Tune in for insightful discussions on Biblical narratives and the urgent need to read these scriptures through a lens that addresses both ancient and modern struggles.

Unveiling God's Multiplicity Through a Mother's Struggle - A Different Mother's Day Sermon In this unique Mother's Day sermon, the speaker departs from their usual polished style due to recovering from illness, to deeply explore the multifaceted concept of God across gender. Reflecting on the story of a relentless Canaanite mother from the Bible, the sermon delves into themes of struggle, sass, and solidarity, emphasizing the broader and often complex interpretations of motherhood. The discussion extends to examining metaphors for God, and how different biblical texts portray similar stories with variations. The sermon is a call to recognize and appreciate all forms of mothering, urging a celebration of the revolutionary work done by mothers of all kinds.