Theology in the Raw

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In quick and dirty 20-25 minute episodes, Preston takes a fresh look at what the Bible really says, as he challenges opinions and traditions--yes, even his own. Homosexuality, sex, porn, drinking, immigration, racial tensions, violence, ISIS, Trump, guns, patriotism, you name it. If it's of interes…

Preston Sprinkle


    • Aug 11, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 1h AVG DURATION
    • 785 EPISODES

    4.6 from 1,125 ratings Listeners of Theology in the Raw that love the show mention: thanks preston, thank you preston, love preston, sprinkle, best christian podcast, think deeply, posture, open mindedness, theologically, difficult topics, he's always, evangelical, gracious, theology, authority, thinker, christians, well worth your time, lgbtq, openness.


    Ivy Insights

    The Theology in the Raw podcast is an intellectually stimulating and challenging podcast that has greatly helped me grow in my faith. I love the thought-provoking discussions on pressing topics of our time, as well as the diverse range of guests that Preston Sprinkle brings on. His openness, style, and approach to tough conversations are greatly appreciated. The podcast tackles difficult issues with compassion and invites listeners to listen and learn from each other without judgment or division. Overall, this podcast is a great resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of Christian faith and practice.

    One of the best aspects of Theology in the Raw is the diversity of perspectives presented. Preston Sprinkle invites guests from across the theological spectrum on issues of pressing concern to Christians and Christian churches. This allows listeners to engage with different viewpoints and consider multiple perspectives, which is crucial for personal growth and development. The podcast also promotes intellectual honesty and challenges deeply-held beliefs, encouraging listeners to think deeper about their faith.

    Another great aspect of this podcast is Preston Sprinkle's humility and willingness to ask difficult questions. He doesn't shy away from controversial topics or demolishing idols, which leads to honest and challenging conversations. Even when I disagree with him or a guest, I always find myself helped to think deeper about my own beliefs and understandings.

    On the flip side, one potential downside of this podcast could be that some listeners may find it challenging or uncomfortable due to its willingness to challenge deeply-held beliefs. However, I believe that discomfort can often lead us to personal growth and a greater understanding of our faith.

    In conclusion, The Theology in the Raw podcast is an excellent resource for those seeking thought-provoking discussions on pressing topics within Christianity. It offers diverse perspectives, intellectual honesty, and challenges listeners to think deeper about their faith. Despite potential discomfort or disagreement with certain viewpoints presented, this podcast provides valuable insights that can help individuals grow in their understanding of Christian faith and practice. I highly recommend giving it a listen.



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    Latest episodes from Theology in the Raw

    The Secrets of Effective Writing, and How to Tame Your Thoughts: Max Lucado

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2025 64:07


    Max Lucado is a pastor, speaker, and best-selling author who, in his own words, “writes books for people who don't read books.” He serves the people of Oak Hills Church in San Antonio, Texas. Max's books have sold more than 150 million copies in over 50 languages worldwide. His latest book is: Tame Your Thoughts: Three Tools to Renew Your Mind and Transform Your Life. Join the Theology in the Raw community for as little as $5/month to get access to premium content. https://www.patreon.com/theologyintheraw See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Is God Really on Our Side? And the OT Background to John's Gospel: Joshua Ryan Butler

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2025 54:20


    Joshua Ryan Butler is a Teaching Pastor with the Willamette family of churches in the Portland area and the author of The Party Crasher, Beautiful Union, The Skeletons in God's Closet, The Pursuing God, and his most recent book, God is On Your Side. To listen to our "extra innings" conversation, head over to Theology in the Raw's Patreon page to become a member of the Theology in the Raw community. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Justice in the Face of Violence, and the Pros/Cons of Short-Term Missions: Dr. Kurt Ver Beek

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2025 57:24


    Kurt Ver Beek is the co-founder of the Association for a More Just Society (ASJ). He taught as a professor of Sociology at Calvin University, where he directed the Honduras Justice Studies semester with his wife, Jo Ann, for 20 years. He is the author of Call for Justice, co-written with Christian philosopher Nicholas Wolterstorff. Join the Theology in the Raw community for as little as $5/month to get access to premium content.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Should Christians Read Fictional Literature Containing Magic, Witchcraft, & the Occult? Marian Jacobs

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2025 58:46


    Marian Jacobs has a background in theater-arts and is an avid reader, writer, wife and mother, and a current seminary student. She's the author of the recently released On Magic and Miracles: A Theological Guide to Discerning Fictional Magic, which is the topic we discuss in this conversation. Join the Theology in the Raw community for as little as $5/month to get access to premium content.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Navigating Faith and Bisexuality: Kainan Seth Joubert

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2025 59:41


    Kainan is a covenant member at Fielder Church in Grand Prairie, Texas, where he serves as a commissioned shepherd, Bible teacher, and church planting resident. He earned his BA in Communication Theory from Dallas Baptist University, and is currently pursuing a Master of Theological Studies at Grimké Seminary in their School of Urban Ministry. Join the Theology in the Raw community for as little as $5/month to get access to premium content.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Live from Exiles25: Social Justice & the Gospel. Thaddeus Williams & Malcolm Foley

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2025 56:06


    Subscribe to Theology in the Raw on Patreon to instantly unlock Part 2 of this episode for FREE. You'll get to watch Malcolm and Thaddeus interact with questions from each other and our live audience! Just head to www.patreon.com/theologyintheraw and select “Join for Free” to watch now. For this first video, I invited Dr. Thaddeus Williams and Rev. Dr. Malcolm Foley to discuss and debate the role of social justice in the mission of the the Church. This took place at 2025 Exiles in Babylon Conference, hosted in Minneapolis April 3-5, 2025. Rev. Dr. Malcolm Foley serves as the Special Advisor to the President of Baylor University for Equity and Campus Engagement and as a pastor at Mosaic Waco, an intentionally multi-cultural, non-denominational church in Waco, TX. His book with Brazos Press, The Anti-Greed Gospel: Why the Love of Money is the Root of Racism and How The Church Can Create a New Way Forward, argues that the only truly antiracist Christian communities are the ones that resist greed and exploitationThaddeus Williams (Ph.D., Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam) serves as tenured professor of theology for Biola University. He is also the author of the best-seller Confronting Injustice without Compromising Truth: 12 Questions Christians Should Ask About Social Justice. He has also taught Philosophy and Literature at Saddleback College, Jurisprudence at Trinity Law School, and as a lecturer in Worldview Studies at L'Abri Fellowships in Switzerland and Holland, and Ethics for Blackstone Legal Fellowship the Federalist Society in Washington D.C.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Bonus Q&A - Preview (July)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 5:12


    Subscribe to Theology in the Raw on Patreon to instantly unlock this full Bonus Q&A. You'll also have access to a huge archive of bonus episodes, Extra Innings, and free video content from the Exiles in Babylon archives. Here's the questions you'll find when you unlock the full episode!* Huldah interpreted Scripture for men and was sanctioned by God as a prophet to do so. Does that role for women change in the New Testament?* Do you see this issue as an agree-to-disagree issue between Christians? How important is it and why?* Does Phoebe being a letter carrier necessarily mean that she is teaching authoritatively? Isn't Paul the true authority, and she is simply representing him?* In 1Tim 3:1 Paul says “if anyone desires to be an elder” if he meant only men, why use the Greek word “tis” and not a more descriptive word for male?* Is it possible to be a mutualist at home but a purely symbolic complementarian in the church on the basis that bishops are representatives of the apostles?* Elder-exclusive complementarianism is the only form that makes any sense to me, Biblically. What arguments, if any, do you see for stricter forms?* Does "husband of one wife" in 1 Tim. 3.2;3.12 have to be gender exclusive? Could it be translated as some have suggested as a "one-man" woman?* Comps: women cant teach/exercise auth. over men because 1 Tim 2.But Priscilla teaching Apollos is to a degree a man submitting to a woman's teaching. How you understand this?* In Gen 3 God punished females with subjection to their husbands due to Eve's sin. Is Paul extrapolating this to church leadership positions as well in 1 Tim 2?* Do we need to read primogeniture into Genesis in order to be faithfully exegeting Genesis 2?* With so many Hapax Legomena in 1 Timothy, and 8 alone in 1 Timothy 2, why is it so often quoted as “the clearest passage on women” in the New Testament?* Does Gen. 3:15 indicate that sexism is from Satan, ie., that the enemy specifically targets women? If so, what are the implications for the church/Christians?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Son of an Israeli General Becomes an Activist for Palestinians

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2025 68:06


    Miko Peled is an Israeli-American, whose father Matti Peled was a famous Israeli general who served in the 1948 and 1967 war with the Israel Defense Force. Miko also served 3 years in the IDF. But he is now an activist advocating for Palestinian liberation and the end to the occupation. Miko is the founder and president at Palestine House of Freedom in Washington, D.C. And is the author of several books including The General's Son: Journey of an Israeli in Palestine. Join the Theology in the Raw community for as little as $5/month to get access to premium content.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Following God in the Midst of Suffering and Sin: Measha Brueggergosman-Lee

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2025 62:52


    Measha Brueggergosman-Lee is a professional singer and musician, who in 2024 became the first black recipient and youngest recipient ever of the Lifetime Achievement Award for Classical Music from the Governor General of Canada. She's also the author of her memoir Something Is Always On Fire and is currently writing a sequel entitled Open-Hearted. She is currently in the third year of a Masters in Practical Theology at Acadia Divinity College.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Reflections on Israel-Palestine, the Destruction of Gaza, and the American Church: Dr. Daniel Bannoura

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2025 82:21


    Dr. Daniel Bannoura (PhD, University of Notre Dame) is a Palestinian theologian. His research focuses on the Quran, Christian-Muslim relations, and Palestinian theology. He's also a co-host of "Across the Divide", a podcast on faith and politics in the context of Palestine-Israel. And he's on the organizational team for the upcoming “Church at the Crossroads” conference outside of Chicago this coming September (11-13). Recieve $20 off registration for the Church at the Crossroads conference by entering "TITR" upon checkout. Listen to Daniel's podcast Across the Divide. Click on this link to find Daniel's resource list for Israel-Palestine: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1JHWbiYVQ4sD5gX-o0yHC-5hXnY1KPf0kBvw2rZSJfiE/edit?usp=sharing Join the Theology in the Raw community for as little as $5/month to get access to premium content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Reflections on Israel-Palestine, the Destruction of Gaza, and the American Church: Dr. Daniel Bannoura

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2025 82:21


    Dr. Daniel Bannoura (PhD, University of Notre Dame) is a Palestinian theologian. His research focuses on the Quran, Christian-Muslim relations, and Palestinian theology. He's also a co-host of "Across the Divide", a podcast on faith and politics in the context of Palestine-Israel. And he's on the organizational team for the upcoming “Church at the Crossroads” conference outside of Chicago this coming September (11-13). Recieve $20 off registration for the Church at the Crossroads conference by entering "TITR" upon checkout. Listen to Daniel's podcast Across the Divide. Click on this link to find Daniel's resource list for Israel-Palestine: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1JHWbiYVQ4sD5gX-o0yHC-5hXnY1KPf0kBvw2rZSJfiE/edit?usp=sharing Join the Theology in the Raw community for as little as $5/month to get access to premium content.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Is it Good for Christians to be Involved in Sports? Dr. Ed Uszynski

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2025 63:44


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    Is it Good for Christians to be Involved in Sports? Dr. Ed Uszynski

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2025 63:14


    Dr. Ed Uszynski (PhD, Bowling Green State University) has been working with collegiate and professional athletes in various roles with Athletes in Action since 1992. He's the author of Untangling Critical Race Theory: What Christians Need to Know and Why It Matters (IVP) and his most recent book, Away Game: A Christian Parents Guide to Navigating Youth Sports, coauthored with Brian Smith. To listen to our "extra innings" conversation, head over to Theology in the Raw's Patreon page to become a member of the Theology in the Raw community. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    What Can the Church Learn from Early Abolitionists? Dr. Daniel Hill

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2025 57:03


    Dr. Daniel Lee Hill (PhD, Wheaton College) is assistant professor of Christian theology at George W. Truett Theological Seminary, Baylor University, in Waco, Texas. He is the author of several books, including his most recent book, Bearing Witness: What the Church Can Learn from Early Abolitionists (Baker Academic, 2025), which forms the basis of our conversation. Join the Theology in the Raw community for as little as $5/month to get access to premium content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    The Religious History of the Land Now Called "America": Dr. Thomas Tweed

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2025 59:40


    Dr. Thomas A. Tweed, who did his graduate study at Harvard and Stanford, is the Harold and Martha Welch Professor of American Studies and Professor of History at Notre Dame University. Dr. Tweed served as president of the American Academy of Religion in 2015, the largest learned society for the study of religion. He is the author of many books, including his more recent: Religion in the Lands That Became America: A New History (Yale University Press) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Bonus Q&A (Women In Leadership)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2025 6:24


    Subscribe to Theology in the Raw on Patreon to instantly unlock this full Bonus Q&A on women in leadership! You'll also have access to a huge archive of bonus episodes, Extra Innings, and free video content from the Exiles in Babylon archives.  Here's the questions you'll find when you unlock the full episode!* Are Egalitarian arguments similar to arguments from pro LGBTQ theologians? * 1 Corinthians 12 gives a list of spiritual gifts for church leadership and specifically doesn't mention sex distinction. Are these roles specific to men only? * Which is a bigger risk - being wrongly complementarian or being wrongly egalitarian? What price do we pay in each case?* How do complementarians rationalize listening to female academics (such as those on your podcast) when they say Biblically women can't teach men?* “1 Tim 2:11: ‘A woman should learn in quietness and full submission.' Once culturally liberating, now often restrictive—how do you handle that tension?”* In Eph 5, ppl teach about men & women like it transcends culture over time, but the bit on slaves is taught differently. How can we know how to differentiate?* How should the fact that Jesus chose 12 male Jewish apostles inform this question?* What is the complementarian rationale for keeping male/female distinctions while no longer keeping slave/free and Jew/Greek distinctions in Gal. 3:28?* Paul says, “ I do not permit a women to teach” he didn't Say “God does not allow a women to teach” do you make anything about this being a “Paul” command Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    A Raw Converastion about Women in Ministry: Dr. Sandy Richter

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 30, 2025 55:37


    Dr. Sandra Richter (PhD Harvard) is the Robert H. Gundry Chair of Biblical Studies at Westmont College and, in Sandy's own words: "I'm Preston Sprinkle's best friend." Oh, glory! Sandy is also the author of several books including the incredible The Epic of Eden and an ongoing series of Bible Studies (written and video) called Epic of Eden Bible Study. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Is Abortion Ever Morally Permissible? Lila Rose

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2025 58:39


    Lila Rose is an anti-abortion activist who is the founder and president of the anti-abortion organization Live Action and the author of Fighting for Life: Becoming a Force for Change in a Wounded World. She's the host of the Lila Rose Show on YouTube and has engaged in a number of debates over the ethics of abortion. Join the Theology in the Raw community for as little as $5/month to get access to premium content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Are Spiritual Gifts Still for Today? (Bonus Q&A Preview)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2025 6:24


    Subscribe to Theology in the Raw on Patreon to instantly unlock this full Bonus Q&A, as well as a huge archive of bonus episodes, Extra Innings, and free video content from the Exiles in Babylon archives. Check out all the questions Preston tackled on today's episode: * What are your thoughts on spiritual gifts, cessationism vs continuationism? * Should Protestants read the deuterocanonical books even if they don't agree they are inspired? * What are your thoughts on Open Theism? * Many people are converting to Catholicism and Pentecostalism. Do you have a theory for why these denominations are particularly reaching people in this time? * Have you ever heard of the miracle of the holy fire? How should western Christians think about and relate to traditions and rituals in the eastern church? * Matt. 16:19, 18:18. What does Jesus mean here: “Whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”? * If events/people in Gen. 1-11 weren't "real," what about the Noahic covenant, genealogies, doctrines, etc based on them? * Creative ideas for how we can biblically engage with pride month? In the past we have done prayer walks but that is kind of behind the scenes. * Is marriage always to be officiated in public with witnesses? In other words, if vows were made privately does that count biblically as marriage? * What unique challenges do you think a father faces when raising a daughter, and how should he address them? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    What Is the Main Focus of Paul's Letter to the Romans? Dr. Joey Dodson

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2025 59:06


    Joey is my brotha from another motha. He also has a Ph.D. in New Testament from Aberdeen University, is the Dr. Craig L. Blomberg Endowed Chair of New Testament at Denver Seminary, and is the author of several books and peer reviewed articles. In this conversation, Joey walks us through the four main lenses scholars use to assess the main focus of Romans: Reformational, Apocalyptic, Heilsgeschichte (Salvation-History), and Reading Romans Backwards. To listen to our "extra innings" conversation, head over to Theology in the Raw's Patreon page to become a member of the Theology in the Raw community.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Sex, Procreation, and How Our Bodies Tell God's Story: Dr. Christopher West

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2025 69:34


    Dr. Christopher West serves as President of the Theology of the Body Institute near Philadelphia and as Professor of Theological Anthropology in its jointly sponsored master's program with Pontifex University. Christopher is one of the world's most recognized teachers of John Paul II's Theology of the Body. He's written many books including Our Bodies Tell God's Story: Discovering the Divine Plan for Love, Sex, and Gender. To recieve 20% off of Christopher's book "Our Bodies Tell God's Story," go to https://shop.corproject.com/collections/books/products/our-bodies-tell-gods-story-discovering-the-divine-plan-for-love-sex-and-gender-paperback and enter the code "OURBODIES" at checkout. Join the Theology in the Raw community for as little as $5/month to get access to premium content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Does Archaeology Prove the Trustworthiness of the Bible? Dr. Todd Bolen

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2025 67:07


    Dr. Todd Bolen is professor of Biblical Studies at The Master's University (my alma mater) and the founder of BiblePlaces.com—one of the most comprehensive pictorial library of biblical sites. Todd was one of my all-time favorite professors in college and was one of my main inspirations for wanting to become a biblical scholar. Join the Theology in the Raw community for as little as $5/month to get access to premium content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Do Christians Need to Go to Church? Jonathan Griffiths

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2025 53:29


    Jonathan Griffiths is pastor of Metropolitan Bible Church in Ottawa, Canada and leads Encounter the Truth, a media ministry that broadcasts on radio and podcasts across the U.S. and Canada. In his recent book, Gathered for Good: God's Good Design for the Local Church, he addresses the need for in-person gathering with empathy and authority, and encourages believers to commit to their local church community as a way to deepen their spiritual growth. Join the Theology in the Raw community for as little as $5/month to get access to premium content at patreon.com/theologyintheraw  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    You Were Never Meant to Do it All: Dr. Kelly Kapic

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2025 50:30


    Kelly M. Kapic (PhD, King's College, University of London) is a professor of theological studies at Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, Georgia. He is an author or editor of more than fifteen books, including You're Only Human, Embodied Hope, which each won a Christianity Today Book of the Year Award, and the recently released You Were Never Meant to Do it All. Join the Theology in the Raw community for as little as $5/month to get access to premium content at patreon.com/theologyintheraw  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    How Did the Apostles Really Die? Dr. Sean McDowell

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2025 64:13


    Dr. Sean McDowell is a professor of Apologetics at Talbot School of Theology, Biola University. He has earned two Master's degrees in philosophy and theology and his Ph.D. in Apologetics and Worldview Studies. He is the author, editor, or co-author of more than 20 books including More Than A Carpenter, Chasing Love, End the Stalemate, and The Fate of the Apostles. He is the co-host of the Think Biblically podcast–one of the most popular podcasts on the intersection of faith and culture. At the end of this episode we also discuss our recent debate about whether Christians should use preferred pronouns. This “extra innings” portion of our conversation will be available for our patreon supporters. If you would like to become a member of the patreon community, then head over to patreon.com/theologyintheraw to get access to TITR “extra innings” and other premium content.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Understanding the Nicene Creed for Ministry Today: Dr. Glenn Packiam

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2025 54:39


    Dr. Glenn Packiam is a pastor, author and practical theologian who currently serves as the lead pastor of Rockharbor Church in Costa Mesa, California. He earned a PhD from Durham University, is an ordained priest with the Anglican Church of North America, and is the author of several books, including The Resilient Pastor, Blessed Broken Given, and the recently released: “What's a Christian Anyway? Finding our Way in an Age of Confusion and Corruption,” which forms the topic of our conversation. Join the Theology in the Raw community for as little as $5/month to get access to premium content at patreon.com/theologyintheraw  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    How a Skeptical Philosopher Becomes a Christian: Dr. Larry Sanger

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2025 57:22


    Dr. Larry Sanger is the co-founder of Wikipedia. Larry received his PhD in philosophy from The Ohio State University and for many years was an intellectual skeptic of Christianity. But earlier this year, he wrote an essay titled: “How a Skeptical Philosopher Becomes a Christian” (Feb 2025), which went viral. Join the Theology in the Raw community for as little as $5/month to get access to premium content at patreon.com/theologyintheraw  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Discipleship, Failed Leadership, and an Insider's Perspective on Mark Driscoll/Mars Hill: Dr. Gerry Breshears

    Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2025 63:16


    Dr. Gerry Breshears (Ph.D. Fuller Seminary) is a professor of theology at Western Seminary, a pastor of pastors, elder at Grace Community Church (Gresham, OR), and a happy great-grandfather. To listen to the last part of our conversation about women in leadership, become a Theology in the Raw patron at patreon.com/theologyintheraw Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    A Theology of Disagreement: Dr. Christopher Landau

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2025 67:06


    Dr. Christopher Landau is a former BBC World Service religious affairs correspondent, who left journalism to train as a Church of England Minister. He has a doctorate in Christian Ethics at the University of Oxford on the ethics of disagreement among Christians in the New Testament, later published as 'A Theology of Disagreement'. His latest contribution to debates on sexuality is his newly published Grove Booklet, ‘Compassionate Orthodoxy' and Sexuality: Seeking Grace and Truth in Disagreement. He is the director of ReSource, a UK charity supporting local churches in spiritual renewal. Join the Theology in the Raw community for as little as $5/month to get access to premium content at patreon.com/theologyintheraw  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    How to Learn from Experts and Enemies: Dr. A.J. Swoboda

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2025 57:39


    A.J. Swoboda (Ph.D., Birmingham) is an associate professor of Bible and Theology at Bushnell University and lead mentor for the Doctor of Ministry Program on Spiritual Formation and Soul Care at Friends University. He is the author of many books, including The Gift of Thorns (Zondervan), After Doubt (Brazos), and the recently released: A Teachable Spirit: The Virtue of Learning from Strangers, Enemies, and Absolutely Anyone. He hosts the “Slow Theology” podcast (w/ Dr. Nijay Gupta) and writes the widely read “Low-Level Theologian” Substack. Join the Theology in the Raw community for as little as $5/month to get access to premium content at patreon.com/theologyintheraw Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Politics, Tariffs, and How Christians Should Respond to our Political Moment: Skye Jethani

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2025 91:03


    Skye Jethani is an award-winning author, speaker, and co-host of the Holy Post Podcast. Skye has written more than a dozen books and served as an editor and executive at Christianity Today for more than a decade. His voice has been featured in The New York Times, USA Today, and The Washington Post. To listen to the final 25 min of this episode, where Skye and I debate the question "should Christians vote," go over to patreon.com/theologyintheraw.com to become a member, where you can access this convo and other premium content.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Bonus Q&A: Why Christians Stopped Celebrating Biblically-Commanded Holidays Like Passover & Hanukkah

    Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2025 21:40


    Bonus Q&A: Why Christians Stopped Celebrating Biblically-Commanded Holidays Like Passover & Hanukkah If you've enjoyed this content, please subscribe to my channel! Support Theology in the Raw through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theologyintheraw 0:00 INTRO0:32 Why did Christians stop celebrating Biblically commanded holidays? Passover, Sukkot, Shavuot, Hanukkah (Jesus celebrated). Not salvation issue but is it a loss?7:55 Do you think biblical inerrancy should be a central or peripheral doctrine for Christians? 16:13 Are Christians who use Social Media or books to call out fellow Christians violating Matthew 18 about having private conversations first? 20:32 We have friends whose child is trans but say they do not have gender dysphoria. Is this common? I don't remember you ever addressing this in your writing. 22:33 Can you please put the death knell on dispensationalism and rapture theology?! Would you call it a heresy or a deception?! 26:17 Any ideas/strategies for campus ministry staff to engage with non-believing LGBTQ students well? 34:48 I've read that Rahab plays a subversive role in Joshua, though it's not explicit. What safeguards ensure this reading stems from the text, not modern agendas? 39:09 What are your thoughts on Christian missionaries evangelizing a group then insisting the group adapt to their cultural values e.g. modesty/how much they wear 43:55. What are your thoughts on Christian couple traveling alone before marriage? Should they care about perception even if they're not sleeping together? 47:12 Can I be saved if I believe gay marriage is wrong in God's eyes but still choose to marry someone of the same sex? 50:12 Conditional Immortality: I've never heard you point out the duality of Rev 20:10 vs 21:8. Same punishment, very different results. Why not? Seems vital. 52:41 When reading church history, do you sometimes feel discouraged or unsettled (or maybe you feel encouraged)? What helps you read and keep healthy perspective. Join the Theology in the Raw community for as little as $5/month to get access to the full length Q & A episode at patreon.com/theologyintheraw  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Transgender People and the Church, Pt. 1: Dr. Preston Sprinkle & Dr. Mark Yarhouse

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2025 58:26


    This episode is a recording of the session titled "Transgender People and the Church" at the recent Exiles in Babylon conference in Minneapolis. In this session, I give a short theological overview of Transgender identities and Mark Yarhouse gives a psychological perspective. And then, we had three people share their testimonies: Remi Rathjen (a Christian who experiences Gender Dysphoria and who hasn't transitioned), Julia Mallott (a transitioned transwoman who does not identify as a Christian), and Chloe Cole (a Christian who transitioned at an early age and then detransitoned). To listen to these testimonies and our 45 minute dialogue, go to patreon.com/theologyintheraw and sign up for a free (or paid) account.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Making Space for LGBTQ/SSA People in a Theologically Orthodox Church: Ashley Anderson

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2025 64:46


    Ashley Anderson is the Missions Pastor at Church of the City (NYC) where she is a part of the teaching team and leads ministries that partner in the spiritual, social, and cultural renewal of New York City. As a part of that work Ashley leads a group called The Table, which is a group of LGBTQ/same sex attracted Christians at Church of the City who have consecrated their sexuality to God in alignment with an orthodox Christian sex ethic with the belief that a consecrated life is not only possible, but can be deeply satisfying. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Should Christians Use AI? A Dialogical Debate w/Doug Smith and Jay Owen

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2025 69:18


    Doug Smith offers an insider's perspective on the power of technology, informed by over three decades of software development experience and a lifetime of Bible study. As a software developer, Doug has served Fortune 500 companies, startups, universities, government agencies, and media personalities. He's currently an Android-focused engineer with Covenant Eyes and a proud ambassador for ScreenStrong.org. See his recent article on AI and ministry https://renew.org/should-we-use-generative-ai-chatbots-for-ministry/ and his recent book [Un]Intentional: How Screens Secretly Shape Your Desires, and How You Can Break Free. Jay Owen is the Founder and CEO of Business Builders, a marketing agency in St. Augustine Florida, and the executive director of communication at The Church of Eleven22. With over 20 years of experience growing businesses, Jay now helps others leverage AI technology for sustainable growth. Follow Jay's work at https://aiwithjay.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Behind the Scenes of Christian Publishing: Katelyn Beaty

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2025 68:19


    Katelyn Beaty is a journalist, editor, and author who's written for the New York Times, the New Yorker, the Washington Post, Religion News Service, Religion & Politics, and The Atlantic. She is cohost of the Saved by the City podcast (Religion News Service), the author of 2 books including her latest: Celebrities for Jesus: How Personas, Platforms, and Profits Are Hurting the Church (Brazos Press, 2022), and currently serves as the editorial director of Brazos Press.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Bonus Q&A: Who Are The Spirits In Prison Christ Preached To?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2025 21:44


    Who Are The Spirits In Prison Christ Preached To? If you've enjoyed this content, please subscribe to my channel! Support Theology in the Raw through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theologyintheraw -- 0:00 Introduction0:18 How do you explain the odd passage in 1 Peter about Christ being put to death and proclaiming to the spirits in prison?5:57 ls the MAGA movement blasphemous and heretical? Can we call a spade a spade?21:07 How do you view celibate partnerships? Are they biblical?29:04 Is reading smut equivalent to viewing porn?30:48 My church holds to a side B view of gender/sexuality, however they believe it's an "agree to disagree issue" with other churches. Thoughts? 33:50 Is the gospel of John trustworthy? I've heard different ideas about its reliability.37:13 Does complementarianism imply that every female pastor has a "more worthy" man somewhere in the congregation? Consdier Debra...39:41 Many Christians argue that much of the Old Testament is 'mytho-history' and that only the spiritual lessons matter. Thoughts?43:30 What are the benefits of a complementarian reading of scripture? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    An Israeli Christian's Perspective on Israel-Palestine: Dr. Dan Sered

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2025 61:21


    Dr. Dan Sered is a COO for Jews for Jesus and overseas the Jews for Jesus teams in Europe, South Africa, Israel, and Australia. With a doctor of ministry from Dallas Theological Seminary, an MA in ministry and leadership from Western Seminary. Dan was born in Israel and had a secular Jewish upbringing. His family relocated to the United States when he was in his teens, where he came to Christ in the late 90's. Dan helped to pastor All Nations Church in Israel for 17 years. He and his family returned to the US in 2020, when Dan was appointed chief operations officer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Living a Jesus Shaped Life: Lisa Harper

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2025 68:28


    Lisa is a world renown speaker and writer with over 30 years of church and para-church ministry leadership experience. She holds a Masters in Theology from Covenant Theological Seminary and is pursuing a Doctorate in Ministry from Denver Seminary. She's the co-host of the popular “Back Porch Theology” podcast and the author of several books including her most recent book: A Jesus Shaped Life: How Diving Deeper into Theology Can Transform Us and Our World with the Radical Kindness of God.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Discipling GenZ in Our Cultural Moment: Dr. Kara Powell

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2025 62:44


    Dr. Kara Powell, PhD, is the Executive Director of the Fuller Youth Institute (FYI), the founder of the TENx10 Collaboration, and the Chief of Leadership Formation at Fuller Theological Seminary (see fulleryouthinstitute.org). Named by Christianity Today as one of “50 Women to Watch”, Kara speaks regularly at national parenting and leadership conferences, and is the author or co-author of a number of books including the recently released: Future-Focused Church Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Recovering from the Death of a Child and Navigating Success in Ministry: Levi Lusko

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2025 56:40


    Levi Lusko is the founder and lead pastor of Fresh Life Church located in Montana, Idaho, Oregon, and Utah. He is the bestselling author of Through the Eyes of a Lion, Swipe Right, I Declare War, The Last Supper on the Moon, and Roar Like a Lion, the 2022 ECPA Christian Book Award winner for young people's literature. Levi also travels the world speaking about Jesus. He and his wife, Jennie, have one son, Lennox, and four daughters: Alivia, Daisy, Clover, and Lenya, who is in heaven. Levi's latest book is Blessed Are The Spiraling: How the Chaotic Search for Significance Can Lead to Joy through Life's Shifting Seasons Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    BONUS Q&A: Does God Allow Evil For His Glory?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2025 22:10


    BONUS Q&A: Does God Allow Evil For His Glory?  0:00 Introduction 0:27 How should I respond to someone who says "Bad things happen for God's glory?" It feels irksome. 11:54 Thoughts and impressions on this year's Exiles conference? 20:06 How should we practice communion? Every week? Young people? Nonbelievers? 32:28 How does assurance of salvation actually work? 37:36 Should Christians do yoga? 41:33 Why respond to Christopher Yuan on 'X'?  46:27 My previous charismatic church claimed that 1 Peter 2:24 meant that Jesus literally carried our diseases as well as sins. Thoughts? 50:26 Can you steelman the argument against DEI, CRT, BLM, and then address its flaws? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Are Catholics and Protestents Really that Different in their Understanding of Salvation? Dr. Matthew Bates

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2025 78:16


    Matthew W. Bates (PhD, University of Notre Dame) is a professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary in Lisle, Illinois. He is the author of Gospel Allegiance, Salvation by Allegiance Alone, and Why the Gospel?, which won a 2024 Christianity Today Book Award and was named the 2024 Resource of the Year by Outreach magazine, and Beyond the Salvation Wars, which forms the topic of our conversation. Bates also cofounded and cohosts the popular Bible and theology podcast OnScript.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    U.S. Foreign Policy, the Genocide in Yemen, and the War in Gaza: Dave DeCamp

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2025 69:01


    Dave DeCamp is the news editor of Antiwar.com--a program that provides a sounding board of interest to all who are concerned about U.S. foreign policy and its implications. Follow his daily podcast “Antiwar.com.”  -- If you've enjoyed this content, please subscribe to my channel! Support Theology in the Raw through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theologyintheraw Or you can support me directly through Venmo: @Preston-Sprinkle-1 Visit my personal website: https://www.prestonsprinkle.com For questions about faith, sexuality & gender: https://www.centerforfaith.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    New Creation, Resurrection, and God's Ultimate Homecoming: N.T. Wright

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2025 57:23


    Dr. Prof. NT Wright is a biblical scholar, professor, former bishop of Durham, and an author who's written 30 billion books. Over the last 25 years, he's been one of the most influential and inspiring NT scholars in my life and in the lives of many others. Click HERE to gain FREE access to the course “Simply Good News” by NT Wright. -- If you've enjoyed this content, please subscribe to my channel! Support Theology in the Raw through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theologyintheraw Or you can support me directly through Venmo: @Preston-Sprinkle-1 Visit my personal website: https://www.prestonsprinkle.com For questions about faith, sexuality & gender: https://www.centerforfaith.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    From Postmodernism to Metamodernism: Paul Anleitner

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2025 62:35


    Paul Anleitner is a cultural theologian that writes and speaks on the intersection of religion, culture, philosophy, and science. He is the host of Deep Talks: Cultural Theology with Paul Anleitner, a YouTube channel and podcast featuring long-form discussions with leading voices and lectures on the cultural theology. Register for the Exiles and Babylon conference: theologyintheraw.com -- If you've enjoyed this content, please subscribe to my channel! Support Theology in the Raw through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theologyintheraw Or you can support me directly through Venmo: @Preston-Sprinkle-1 Visit my personal website: https://www.prestonsprinkle.com For questions about faith, sexuality & gender: https://www.centerforfaith.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Why Is there an Epidemic of Loneliness? Dan White Jr.

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2025 67:56


    Dan White Jr. is the Co-founder of The Kineo Center, a ministry that serves weary and wounded leaders. Dan is also the author of Love Over Fearand co-author of Church as Movement. Register for the Exiles and Babylon conference: theologyintheraw.com -- If you've enjoyed this content, please subscribe to my channel! Support Theology in the Raw through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theologyintheraw Or you can support me directly through Venmo: @Preston-Sprinkle-1 Visit my personal website: https://www.prestonsprinkle.com For questions about faith, sexuality & gender: https://www.centerforfaith.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Christ in the Rubble: Faith, the Bible, and the Genocide in Gaza: Dr. Munther Isaac

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2025 78:19


    Dr. Munther Isaac is a Palestinian pastor, theologian, author, and activist. He has an MA from Westminster Theological Seminary and a PhD from the Oxford Centre for Mission Studies. He pastors the Evangelical Lutheran Christmas Church in Bethlehem and the Lutheran Church in Beit Sahour. He is also the academic dean of Bethlehem Bible College and the author of several books including the recently released: Christ in the Rubble: Faith, the Bible, and the Genocide in Gaza.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Patreon Q&A: What's My Next Book Going To Be About?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2025 19:01


    0:00 Introduction 0:33 Any ideas on your next project after you complete your current book? 3:03 How should speaking in tongues be practiced in our churches today? 9:42 As a pacifist, how do you reconcile God's violent actions and his call to violence in OT and NT? 15:38 Since being saved, when have you felt least certain about the veracity of your faith? 22:07 Is there hierarchy within the Trinity? 24:25 What are you looking forward to the most in the new creation? 27:20 Who is the primary audience in the Sermon on the Mount? The disciples or the crowd? 28:47 Are the qualifications of elder conditional? Some of the "if" statements? 32:00 What would a good Christian response to Nazi Germany in 1935? What do we do if we feel like we're headed toward such times today?  34:06 Is it acceptable to pray imprecatory Psalms for our world leaders? 36:56 Do you believe in the baptism of the Holy Spirit? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Becoming the Pastor's Wife: Dr. Beth Allison Barr

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2025 65:52


    Dr. Barr is the James Vardaman professor of history at Baylor University in Waco, TX, and is the author of several books including her recently released Becoming the Pastor's Wife: How Marriage Replaced Ordination as a Woman's Path to Ministry, which forms the backdrop of our conversation. Register for the Exiles and Babylon conference: theologyintheraw.com -- If you've enjoyed this content, please subscribe to my channel! Support Theology in the Raw through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theologyintheraw Or you can support me directly through Venmo: @Preston-Sprinkle-1 Visit my personal website: https://www.prestonsprinkle.com For questions about faith, sexuality & gender: https://www.centerforfaith.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Experiencing Jesus in an Age of Distraction: John Eldredge

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2025 55:31


    John Eldredge is a New York Times bestselling author, counselor, and teacher who has inspired millions to go deeper in their relationship with Jesus. He's the author of several books including The Sacred Romance, Wild at Heart, and his recently released Experiencing Jesus. Really:Finding Refuge, Strength, and Wonder through Everyday Encounters with God. He is also president of Wild at Heart, a ministry devoted to helping people discover the heart of God, recover their own hearts in God's love, and learn to live in God's kingdom. www.wildatheart.org. Register for the Exiles and Babylon conference: theologyintheraw.com -- If you've enjoyed this content, please subscribe to my channel! Support Theology in the Raw through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theologyintheraw Or you can support me directly through Venmo: @Preston-Sprinkle-1 Visit my personal website: https://www.prestonsprinkle.com For questions about faith, sexuality & gender: https://www.centerforfaith.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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