A biweekly podcast featuring rapid-fire conversations about theology, the Christian faith, and culture. The one thing you should know about the show is that it's unpredictable: four people each bring a theological topic for discussion—who knows what's next!
John and Payton spend their morning chatting about happenings in faith and culture. They begin with a follow up on Hamilton and American exceptionalism, and then John shares a new segment: Technological Difficulties! The guys also weigh in on the recent activities of three leading Evangelical figures: Jerry Fallwell, Jr., John MacArthur, and Eric Metaxas. Lastly, they end the show with some more media recommendations, including a biography, podcast, and even a video game! Technical Difficulties Recommendations: To-Do Software2Do - For All the Power!Things 3 - Power & Elegance Due - For the Relentlessly Forgetful
On our 32nd Episode, John and Payton spend their Tuesday morning discussing faith and culture over much-needed coffee. The guys share their thoughts on a Christian approach to politics, and they also dissect Bethel’s use of Gandalf in a recent church service. They finally give quick reviews of their recent reads, all while “sparing the details.”
John and Payton are back after their short hosting hiatus! The guys share some big life updates, and they discuss the various losses they and others have experienced due to the Coronavirus pandemic, especially the loss of friendship. Payton also ends the show with an abbreviated review of the newly released Hamilton!
On our 29th Episode, John and Payton get back in the booth (quarantined of course) to discuss faith and culture (and soccer too)! They break down the controversy surrounding the life of the late Ravi Zacharias, and they dive in (only ankle deep) into the world of QAnon and conspiracy theories. The guys also share their favorite Quarantine Corner tweets, and Payton gives a final update on #Biscuitgate!Quarantine Corner:Matthew Pierce: Build Your Own Bible StudyMark Rober: Squirrel ProofWhat in the World:Before Evangelicals Canonize Ravi Zacharias...CT: Ravi Zacharias Responds to Sexting Allegations, Credentials CritiqueTGC: Faithful Legacy Amid ControversyThe Atlantic: QAnon Is A New American ReligionEd Stetzer on QAnon
On our 28th Episode, John and Payton hop on the podcasting court for a one-on-one discussion of happenings in the world of theology and faith. The guys lament and share thoughts about the slaying of Ahmaud Arbery and the death of pastor Darrin Patrick, and then they share their media recommendations for the coming summer months.Ahmaud Arbery and the Trauma of Being a Black RunnerAhmaud Arbery and the America That Doesn't ExistPlaying with Fire by Kings Kaleidoscope
John and Payton are back in the podcast saddle and have rounded up new topics to discuss! The guys weigh in on states reopening (specifically their home state of Georgia) as well as new technology from Google and Apple that could help track the spread of COVID-19. They also have an extended discussion about the heart of the Gospel and what various scholarly groups are saying about the themes of justification by faith and Jesus’ kingship in the Bible.The Heart of the GospelGospel Introductions TweetUPDATE on our Apple & Google/COVID-19 section: Contact tracing is newly being referred as to "exposure notification"
On the 26th Episode, John and Payton once again hop on their quarantine mics to discuss things happening in their lives and the world at large! The guys detail concerns with the environmental impact of mass quarantines, and they lament recent storms that caused significant damage throughout the Southeast. They also appraise their experiences of Easter done digitally, and they conclude the episode with Bible verses submitted by listeners!
On our 25th episode, John and Payton hop in the Quarantine Corner to share things happening in the world, including good news from John Mayer and John Krasinski, and Pope Francis’ speech given to an empty St. Peter’s Square. The guys also discuss business during Coronavirus, jails letting inmates out on lowered bails, and NT Wright’s latest article on Christianity and Coronavirus.John Mayer's "Current Mood"John Krasinski's "Some Good News"Pope Francis in St. Peters SquareWashington Post on Incarceration and Coronavirus, updated
On our 24th Episode, John and Payton sit down for a conversation while quarantined! They discuss all things COVID-19, including one of them being on the last pre-quarantine cruise ship and how the world is truly living in “unprecedented” times. Given the importance of social distancing, the guys share media recommendations and spiritual practices to help listeners make the most of their time. John also circles back to the topic of Rhett and Link’s deconstructions from the last episode after listening to Rhett’s telling of his experiences. Click Here to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day!MET OPERA
On our 23rd episode, John and Payton sit down to discuss two concerning stories that emerged over recent weeks. They first talk about the report published by L'Arche International concerning multiple cases of sexual assault by their late founder Jean Vanier, and they consider more generally how we as Christians must deal with egregious actions by Christian leaders. Then they bring up the deconstruction stories of Rhett and Link, two famous Youtubers and former Cru (Campus Crusades) staffers, and the guys share their own experiences with deconstruction and how the process can be ultimately beneficial for one's Christian faith. Jean Vanier, once seen as a Nobel or sainthood candidate, now accused of abusive sexual relationshipsRhett's Spiritual DeconstructionLink's Spiritual Deconstruction
On our 22nd episode, John and Payton hop on the mics to discuss happenings in culture and theology. Payton shares an interesting run in with Stanley Hauerwas, and John takes a deep dive into his insights on social media as news. The guys also share thoughts on Richard Dawkins’ comments on Eugenics as well as schism in the Southern Baptist Church. Where the Conflict Really Lies by Alvin Plantings More in Common!
On Episode 21, John and Payton hop back on the mic to discuss the latest happenings in culture. They share their favorite Super Bowl Commercials, discuss mourning and the loss of Kobe Bryant, think about ministry of presence during epidemics like the novel coronavirus, and examine Dallas Willard's philosophy of discernment.What Martin Luther Teaches Us About Coronavirus
On our 20th episode, John and Payton welcome their friend Blake Trenary to the show! Blake, a student at Reformed Theological Seminary, shares her thoughts about growing up in a charismatic church and how her background shaped her passion for the Bible. She also describes the benefits and challenges of doing theology as a woman, and then gives wonderful reasons for being interdenominational when interpreting the Bible!Reach out to Blake if you're interested in enrollment at Reformed Theological Seminary! Her email is btrenary@rts.edu
John & Payton reflect on the last year of books, movies, albums, and personal theological developments, and then share their hopes for the church's next decade.
In our 2019 Gift Guide, John and Payton offer gift recommendations for friends and family this Christmas! They give their picks for gifts in the categories of books, hobbies, lifestyle and spiritual formation, and they also share their favorite and least favorite gifts from Christmases past!Package Free ItemsModern Liturgic Calendar or PlannerThis Adorable Baby Yoda StickerFountain Pen
In our Thanksgiving Special, John and Payton talk through hot-button issues that may come up around your dinner table, including politics, “creative disruptions,” justice, culture care, and women in ministry. The guys also creatively debate how these topics connect to their favorite thanksgiving dishes and what makes a good sweet potato casserole!
John and Payton are back for Theosations’ Sweet (Episode) 16! The guys discuss responses to Kanye West’s new album Jesus is King, micro churches at Disney World, and James K.A. Smith’s newest book, On the Road With Saint Augustine.Minnie ChurchBig Joe Fuf Bean Bag
Payton and John take a break from their normal episode rundown to answer listener questions! In the first ever Theosations Q&A Draft, the guys picked and answered questions ranging from recent comments about Beth Moore, devotional apps, stoicism, and much more!Daily Prayer AppDevotional Recommendation: Bread and WineWhy I Would Become a Stoic If Jesus Hadn't Risen From the Dead
John and Payton are joined by college minister and board game designer Jonathan Weaver! On the 14th episode they discuss the tension between forgiveness and justice in Botham Jean’s shooting trial, and how to talk about climate change. John and Payton also interview Jonathan on game design as part of his vocation, the place for game groups in college ministry, and the role of storytelling in the Christian faith.A Mother's Call for JusticeKatherine Hayhoe: How to Discuss Climate ChangeBioLogosThe Cardboard Herald: Episode 98 w/Jonathan WeaverD&D Therapy
On episode 13, John and Payton catch each other up with the craziness of seminary and college ministry. In the wake of Jarrid Wilson’s passing, the guys share their thoughts on a theology of suicidal loss, suicide generally, hope, and the resurrection, and they end the episode with some current reads!The Loss of Jarrid WilsonWorld Vision Flips the ScriptReading Recommendations: - Accidental Pastor by Will Willimon- Out of the Silent Planet by CS Lewis- Bible Project interview of Tom Wright
On our 12th episode, John and Payton once again take a deep dive into culture and theology. The boys discuss issues with virtual reality baptisms, the Biebs , and a touching story of redemption featuring Big Daddy Weave. John also shares a practical piece of philosophy from his idol Soren Kierkegaard, and Payton opens up about his thoughts on disagreeing with your church.Virtual Reality BaptismJustin Bieber instagram postMan Confesses to Murder After Hearing "Big Daddy Weave"Mass Message Shortcut
John and Payton are joined by Rev. Dr. Jonathan Huggins for their latest theological conversation! Payton shares an update about his first day at Duke, John brings a fire music recommendation for #WhatsInYourBasket, and the three discuss the recent trend of Christianity without community, leaders leaving the faith, and the nature of theology. "In Christ, Alone: Most Believers Say They Don't Need Others for Discipleship"Skillet Lead Singer Response to Hillsong's Marty Sampson Leaving the Faith
On our 10th episode John and Payton invite listeners to another packed conversation! Payton vents about the state of Chelsea Football Club, John shares #WhatsInYourBasket, and the guys wrestle with recent mass shootings and the difficulties of finding a church home. They also introduce a new segment, Practical Philosophy, and share how philosophy has been beneficial in their faith journeys."More Than Thoughts & Prayers"Explaining the Fish Tube Hauerwas on Niceness, Trump, and the Christian Quest for SafetyA Hauerwas Overview (Mere Orthodoxy)
THEOSATIONS RELAUNCH: On this episode John and Payton are back and ready for another conversation! The guys discuss life changes in recent months, the 50th anniversary of the Moon Landing, Bachelorette drama, and what they are listening to and reading, including Karl Barth and Christena Cleveland. John also has a surprise game planned to test Payton’s knowledge of satire, involving the Babylon Bee and The Onion.Moon Landing linkBachelorette link
On this episode Payton and John wrap up the first run of shows—but they couldn't leave without having some final topics. Here we discuss our podcast recommendations, the burning of Notre Dame and responses to it, "Easter Worshipers," and what we've learned through Theosations.
On Episode 07 we are joined by Taylor Reynolds and Andrew Maxwell—both of St. Louis, Missouri—to discuss evocative works of art, the handling of conflict in the American church, celebrating Easter, and drawing skeptics to Christ.Find us across social media: @theosationsMusic: www.bensound.comMic Icons by Prosymbols from http://www.flaticon.com/Podcast Art by John Anders
On episode 06 John & Payton are joined by Stacie Marshall and Emily Walker to discuss our lenten practices, grief, telling our stories, and what makes for a good sermon.Find us across social media: @theosationsMusic: www.bensound.comMic Icons by Prosymbols from http://www.flaticon.com/Podcast Art by John Anders
On episode 05 John is joined by Ian Allen, Brad Williams, and Will Hawk—three pastors from Columbus, GA—to discuss the importance of worship culture, the callings to ministry and preaching, how to avoid turning our favorite leaders into celebrities, and discipling young people without dumbing things down.Find us across social media: @theosationsMusic: www.bensound.comMic Icons by Prosymbols from http://www.flaticon.com/Podcast Art by John Anders
We are joined by Sarah Bryan and Worship Pastor Marty Reardon of Trinity Anglican Church to talk about our most influential books of the past 5 years, worship leading with an evangelical/Anglican/charismatic influence, how to have a healthy relationship with technology, and workaholism. This episode features a rapid-fire interview with Pastor Marty Reardon to discuss Trinity's three stream approach to worship, leading worship with your own songs, and how to grow as a worship leader.Our most influential books of the past 5 years:- Planet Narnia by Michael Ward- Awaiting the King by James K. A. Smith- Worship, Community, and the Triune God of Grace by James B. Torrance- An Unhurried Life by Alan Fadling- Surprised by Hope by N. T. WrightMarty Reardon's Podcast and Music can be found at:- allthingsworship.org- https://open.spotify.com/artist/5iWzBuj3f0T0PNzA8k4HYI?si=7S-QJm5aQnyP2b75VQeznQFind us across social media: @theosationsMusic: www.bensound.comMic Icons by Prosymbols from http://www.flaticon.com/Podcast Art by John Anders
Payton and John are joined by Blake Dean and Reverend Deacon Erin Moniz to talk about our worst (best?) ministry blunders, Christian friendship, whether Jesus should serve as a model for masculinity, and Churchome and the app-based church model.Find us across social media: @theosationsMusic: www.bensound.comMic Icons by Prosymbols from http://www.flaticon.com/Podcast Art by John Anders
John and Payton are joined by Kaylie Clapp and Dr. Dale McConkey to discuss surprisingly helpful spiritual practices, the United Methodist Church’s Special General Conference, same-sex relationships in American Christianity, and whether Christians should protest.Find us across social media: @theosationsDr. Dale McConkey's United Methodists Divided: Understanding Our Differences Over Homosexuality. Purchase at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07HKLC7M8/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_taft_p1_i0Music: www.bensound.comMic Icons by Prosymbols from http://www.flaticon.com/Podcast Art by John Anders
On episode one Payton and John are joined by Emily Katherine Dalton and the Reverend Dr. Jonathan Parker to discuss books to read in 2019, how millennials are shaping the Church, the function of the Old Testament, and Eugene Peterson's The Message. Find us across social media: @theosationsEmK's website: www.emilykatherinedalton.comOur Books to Read in 2019:- "Culture Care" by Makoto Fujimura- "Sojourner Songs" by Ben Palpant- "I'm Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness" by Austin Channing Brown- "Dare to Lead" by Brené Brown- "Hannah Coulter" by Wendell Berry- The Wingfeather Saga by Andrew PetersonMusic: www.bensound.comMic Icons by Prosymbols from http://www.flaticon.com/Podcast Art by John Anders
On episode zero we discuss what you can expect from Theosations, including the theological hero we want on the pod. The one thing you should know about the show is that it's unpredictable: four people each bring a theological topic for discussion—who knows what's next!Music: www.bensound.comMic Icons: made by Prosymbols from http://www.flaticon.com/Podcast Art: (excluding mic icons) made by John Anders
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