Podcast appearances and mentions of brian zahnd

Pastor Brian Zahnd sits down with host Joey Svendsen and podcast regular Jack Hoey, to talk about heaven and how the concept of an eternal kingdom should inform a Christian's perspective on life. With his newest book, "Unseen Existence: Of Heaven, Earth, and the Divine Mystery in All Things." as the context of the conversation, Brian asserts that many Christians and churches today have disenchanted souls because of their losing sight of heaven, and that this loss is reflected in our culture. In this conversation, Joey, Jack, and Brian also dig into what heaven actually is, whether people continue to learn and grow there, why heaven won't be boring despite being eternal, and how a proper understanding of heaven will radically change everything, including how one engages in prayer, politics, and daily living. To open the episode, Bri, Brian, Joey, and Lynne dig into a handful of quick topics: those times you just feel "off," the criticism that seeker-friendly churches aren't deep enough, how differently we might live if there were no God, and some guesswork on what we'll actually remember once we get to heaven.Brian Zahnd | Instagram | BookHosts | Jack Hoey| Brian Lewis | Brianna McLeod | Joey Svendsen | Lynne StroySeacoast Podcast is now on InstagramBe a Patron of the podcast We have a YouTube Channel for videos of all episodes since Jan. 2024. We'd love to hear from you.  E-mail Joey HERE. Producer/Editor/host: Joey SvendsenSound Engineer/Editor: Katelyn Vandiver

Send us Fan MailWhat if heaven isn't somewhere far away—but a dimension of reality surrounding us right now?To close out the Summer Series, Tim Stewart welcomes back Brian Zahnd for a fascinating conversation about heaven, pilgrimage, wonder, the false self, and his new book, Unseen Existences: Of Heaven, Earth, and the Divine Mystery in All Things.Brian explains why heaven has become an embarrassment in serious theological circles, lumped in with escapist "fly away" thinking, sentimental clichés about departed loved ones on clouds, and sensationalized "I went to heaven and back" books. His pushback: heaven isn't a distant location somewhere past the clouds, but another dimension of reality, "the heavens," that surrounds us right now. Tim and Brian also talk through where Brian gently disagrees with N.T. Wright's caution around Platonic thought, recruiting C.S. Lewis to make his case.The conversation moves into life as pilgrimage. Brian, who has walked the 500-mile Camino de Santiago four times, describes what a spiritual journey teaches that a plane ticket to the same destination never could, and how doubt, wonder, and even losing old certainties along the way can be part of authentic faith rather than a threat to it. He shares one of the sharper lines from the book: "Christianity without transcendence degenerates into politics," and what a "holy ambivalence" toward political partisanship might look like instead.Tim and Brian also dig into one of the book's most striking chapters, "Depart From Me," reconciling Jesus's gentle response to Peter's confession of sin with his far more sobering words at the judgment, "I never knew you." Brian explains why he believes that verdict falls on the false self we try to become, not the person God actually made us to be. Along the way, Brian tells the story behind "The Reverend," a haunting short story cut from the final manuscript about a Puritan pastor who blessed a massacre, and what it imagines happening when that pastor stands before Christ.In This EpisodeWhy heaven has "gone missing" from serious theological conversation, and the three unhelpful ways people talk about it insteadWhy Brian says heaven isn't a distant place but "a different dimension" that is all around us right nowWhere Brian pushes back on N.T. Wright's caution toward Platonic thought, with help from C.S. LewisWhy Brian argues that "Christianity without transcendence degenerates into politics"What walking the Camino de Santiago four times taught Brian about pilgrimage, friendship, and spiritual transformationWhy losing our sense of wonder isn't inevitable, and a simple daily discipline for reclaiming itHow to hold together Jesus's compassion toward Peter and his sobering words, "I never knew you," at the judgmentThe story behind "The Reverend," the short story cut from the book, and its message about mercy at the final judgmentThis wraps thirteen weeks of Summer Series conversations exploring who God really is. If any of these episodes have challenged or encouraged you, follow or subscribe to the Impact Nations Podcast, and share your favorite conversation with someone who'd value it too.Featured ResourcesUnseen Existences by Brian Zahnd (available now from InterVarsity Press): IVP: https://www.ivpress.com/unseen-existences Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Unseen-Existences-Heaven-Divine-Mystery/dp/1514005646“The Reverend” (the short story Brian mentions, plus its audio performance): https://brianzahnd.substack.com/p/audio-performance-of-the-reverendBrian Zahnd's website: https://brianzahnd.comBrian Zahnd on Substack: https://brianzahnd.substack.comWord of Life Church: https://wolc.comExplore Impact NationsWebsite: https://www.impactnations.comJourneys of Compassion (upcoming trips to Zimbabwe, the Philippines, and Nicaragua): https://impactnations.com/jocAll Impact Nations links: https://linktr.ee/impact.nationsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ImpactNationsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/impactnationsministriesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/impact.nationsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impact-nations-international-ministries-incTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@impact_nationsGive: https://www.impactnations.com/donateHashtags#BrianZahnd #UnseenExistences #SummerSeries2026 #ChristianPodcast #ImpactNations #Heaven #Pilgrimage

Send us Fan MailWhat if the truest picture of power we'll ever see isn't a throne or an army, but a baby who can't lift his own head—or a man nailed to a cross who refuses to fight back?In this Summer Series conversation, Tim Stewart welcomes Kenneth Tanner, pastor of Holy Redeemer in Rochester Hills, Michigan, theologian, and author of the new book Vulnerable God: How Jesus Upends Our Assumptions About God—and Shows Us How to Be Human, releasing September 29 with a foreword by Brian Zahnd.Kenneth makes the case that we shouldn't start with abstract ideas about God's power, sovereignty, or holiness and then try to squeeze Jesus into them. We should start with Jesus and let his life rearrange everything else. Tim and Kenneth talk through what it means to call Jesus "the human God," why weakness and humility aren't the opposite of divine power but its actual source, and how the incarnation—from the vulnerability of an infant to the vulnerability of the cross—reveals a strength the world rarely recognizes as strength at all.The conversation moves into what it means to be truly human. Kenneth reframes salvation less as rescue from an angry God and more as restoration of an image already present in us, borrowing Athanasius's picture of a master restorer cleaning centuries of grime off a painting to bring the original colors back to the surface. He also challenges the popular idea of a "sin nature," arguing instead that our nature is good and has been infected by sin—a disease with a cure, not an identity we're stuck with.They also dig into some of the Bible's hardest passages, including violent Old Testament stories, and why reading every text through Jesus—rather than reading Jesus through every text—changes the questions we're even allowed to ask. Kenneth shares two deeply personal stories: one from the day the Challenger shuttle exploded, when a grieving professor's words reshaped his entire theology of suffering, and another about sitting with a family after a young man drowned, that together show what it looks like to trust a God who suffers with us rather than one who causes our suffering.In This EpisodeWhy we should start with Jesus, not an abstract idea of God, when we ask what power really looks likeWhat it means to call Jesus "the human God"Why a woman healed by touching Jesus's robe and a baby lying in a manger reveal the same kind of powerHow Athanasius's image of a master art restorer reframes salvation as restoration rather than rescue from wrathWhy Kenneth rejects the popular idea of a "sin nature"—and what he says insteadHow Irenaeus's mosaic-floor illustration changes the way we read violent Old Testament passagesWhat Kenneth learned about God and suffering the day the Challenger shuttle explodedHow to sit with someone who's suffering without becoming one of Job's unhelpful friendsWhy Kenneth believes Jesus was inside the water with a young man who drowned, not just watching from the shoreIf this conversation gives you a new way to see Jesus, follow or subscribe to the Impact Nations Podcast so you don't miss the rest of the Summer Series. Please share this episode with someone who has ever wondered where God is in their suffering, or who could use a more hopeful picture of who God actually is.Featured ResourcesVulnerable God by Kenneth Tanner (releases September 29 — foreword by Brian Zahnd): Baker Publishing Group: https://bakerpublishinggroup.com/products/9781540902771_vulnerable-god Pre-order on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Vulnerable-God-Reviving-God-Us/dp/1540902773Kenneth Tanner on Substack: https://substack.com/@kennethtannerKenneth Tanner on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kentanner/Holy Redeemer (Kenneth's church): https://www.holyredeemer.usExplore Impact NationsWebsite: https://www.impactnations.comJourneys of Compassion: https://www.impactnations.com/journeys-of-compassionAll Impact Nations links: https://linktr.ee/impact.nationsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ImpactNationsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/impactnationsministriesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/impact.nationsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impact-nations-international-ministries-incTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@impact_nationsGive: https://www.impactnations.com/donateHashtags#KennethTanner #VulnerableGod #SummerSeries2026 #ChristianPodcast #ImpactNations #Incarnation #Restoration #FaithAndSuffering

Does questioning your theology mean you're losing your faith, or could it mean you're finally taking faith seriously? Craig sits down with Jon Kinder of The Geeky Preacher to talk about Christian deconstruction, church hurt, political allegiance, Christian nationalism, pacifism, hell, the rapture, and what happens when inherited beliefs stop looking like Jesus. Jon's deconstruction began in two places: politics and a hospital bed. Growing up in rural Christian culture, Republican politics and Christianity seemed almost inseparable. Then books like Greg Boyd's The Myth of a Christian Nation challenged Jon to judge political power by the teachings of Christ rather than by party loyalty. A few years later, Jon was hospitalized with stage-three lymphoma. While lying in bed, he heard a television preacher claim that sick people were sick because they did not have enough faith.  That hit differently when Jon was the person with cancer. Instead of abandoning Christianity, he began taking his theology apart one question at a time. His picture of deconstruction is not a wrecking ball. It is a home renovation: Christ stays as the foundation. The rooms get examined. Craig and Jon explore: Christian deconstruction without abandoning Jesus Dungeons & Dragons, horror movies, and the Satanic Panic Universal restoration and the fear of hell Christian pacifism and alternatives to violence Greg Boyd, Brian Zahnd, and Christian anarchism The Pledge of Allegiance and loyalty to the state Why honest questions threaten some church cultures Progressive revelation and reading Scripture through Jesus Finding Christ outside a brick-and-mortar church The Ship of Theseus as a picture of changing faith The Geeky Preacher and finding God in movies, games, anime, and culture One line may sum up the whole conversation: “If anything is true, it's gonna survive scrutiny, it's gonna survive questions.” Maybe deconstruction is not about destroying faith. Maybe it is about finding out what was actually built on Jesus.

Neben dem Song geht es heute auch die Gedanken, die Brian Zahnd in „A Farewell to Mars“ nennt –als Christen sollten wir uns vom Kriegsgott Mars verabschieden und auf das Kreuz und Jesus schauen. Bruce Springsteen hat das verstanden. Wenn er “War” bringt, ist das kein Nostalgiekitsch, sondern ein Stoppschild. Ein Moment, in dem die Bühne sagt: “Wir gewöhnen uns nicht an das Unmenschliche.” Übertrag das in den Klassenraum: Gewöhnst du dich an Sprache, die Menschen zu Zielen macht? Gewöhnst du dich an Formulierungen wie “kollateraler Schaden”? Sprache formt Moral. Wenn Worte entmenschlichen, kann Handeln schnell hinterherhumpeln. Unbedingt Videos dieser Tour schauen – erst die Ansprache und dann kommt es knüppeldick – ein Song voller Wucht und Kraft.https://youtu.be/YqYVcgCmd98?is=sRtyOkr0-0uWicx1“War — huh — yeah.” Wir kennen die Hook. Sie ist keine Spielerei. Das ist ein Weckruf. Was taugt Krieg? Nichts. Absolut nichts. Und bevor jemand sagt: “So einfach ist das nicht” — lass uns ehrlich sein. Der Mythos der erlösenden Gewalt verkauft uns alte Ware im neuen Glanz: Erst zerstören, dann angeblich Frieden. Erst entmenschlichen, dann verhandeln. Erst drohen, dann heilen. Das ist keine Lösung, das ist die Spirale. Brian Zahnd nennt das die Mars-Logik. Der Kriegsgott flüstert: “Gewalt rettet.” Das Kreuz antwortet: “Nein.” Nicht weil Leiden heilig wäre, sondern weil Vergeltung niemals Wiederherstellung ist. Das Kreuz entlarvt: Gewalt bringt Gewalt zur Welt. Und die Rechnung zahlen nie die mächtigen Anführer, sondern die Gesichter ohne Namen — Mütter, Kinder, Nachbarn. Genau deshalb ist “War” so wichtig: Der Song bläst die Helden und Kriegs Romantik weg. Keine heroischen Posen. Nur die nackte Wahrheit: Krieg frisst Leben. Daher spielt Bruce Springsteen nach War derzeit oft Born in the USA – auch ein Song, der den Krieg anklagt, denn dieser verheizt Menschen.Foto ©Rob de MartinHomepage: https://7tage1song.dePlaylist Podcast und Song: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/20KHRuuW0YqS7ZyHUdlKO4?si=b6ea0b237af041ecInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/7tage1song/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pg/7tage1song/Kontakt: post@7tage1song.deLink zum Song: https://open.spotify.com/intl-de/track/6qF53MQdzqXXGach8fwkdv?si=fb984a3f766d48fbSpotify Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0M5tOXTC0lM8RVycUBQnjy?si=idKC-CFaRp2ZD992gvWvsQ 

In this conversation, pastor and author Brian Zahnd makes the case that the doctrine of eternal conscious torment isn't the faith once delivered — it's a settlement that won a fight in church history. We trace where the idea actually came from: the Hebrew Sheol, the Valley of Hinnom (Gehenna), the Greek word aiōnios, and how Augustine and Dante's Inferno shaped the fire-and-brimstone hell we inherited.   We also ask the harder question: what does this doctrine DO to us? When you believe billions of your neighbors are already destined for an eternal torture chamber, does it become easier to stop seeing them as fully human? Drawing on his book "Sinners in the Hands of a Loving God," Zahnd argues the traditional view turns the gospel inside out — and reveals a chapter his own publisher refused to print. This is a discussion for believers, exvangelicals, and skeptics alike — anchored in scholarship, biblical languages, and church history, not fear.

In this interview, Spencer Dalke sits down with Brian Zahnd to recover a deeper, richer vision of heaven in Christian thought. Zahnd argues that modern culture—and even much of the church—has drifted into a kind of default materialism, reducing reality to what can be seen and measured, while neglecting the unseen spiritual dimension that Scripture assumes as central. He reframes heaven not as a distant place but as a present, sustaining reality, inviting believers to see their lives as pilgrimages toward life in the presence God. The conversation also explores how this renewed vision reshapes the mission of the church—not to control or “fix” the world through power, but to faithfully embody a foretaste of God's kingdom here and now. Ultimately, Zahnd offers a compelling call to rediscover transcendence, live with eternity in view, and find hope in the promise that what is unseen is more enduring than anything we experience in this present world.  The greater reality of heaven.  Heaven as a dimension “right here.”  Living in light of heaven as Christians in the world.  “Christianity without transcendence degenerates into politics.”  “[Heaven] doesn't mean that we don't think that this life matters. It doesn't mean that we don't care about issues of justice. In fact, rightly understood, heaven actually provides the template of how we should begin to live into the reality of justice here and now.”  “It's Christ who is the Savior of the world. The task of the church is much more modest. It's simply to be that part of the world already transformed by Christ, so that, in its best form, the church becomes a colony of heaven on earth.”  Featured work: Unseen Existences: Of Heaven, Earth, and the Divine Mystery in All Things  Connect with Brian Zahnd on Instagram, Facebook, and Substack.  For more faith-filled, Gospel-centered content, download the Pilgrim Radio app today on Google Play and Apple, or stream at PilgrimRadio.com. 

In this conversation, Pat Kahnke sits down with pastor and theologian Brian Zahnd — one of the most important voices calling the church back from its entanglement with partisan politics. Zahnd argues that MAGA theology has fundamentally misread Scripture: America is not God's chosen nation, not the New Jerusalem. The Bible gives her a different name — Babylon. This is a conversation about discipleship, allegiance, and what it means to follow Jesus in an era when the church has traded transcendence for political power.

There are at least three wrong ways to write about heaven, and Brian Zahnd spent his new book carefully avoiding all of them — too sentimental, too sensational, too escapist to bother caring about the world right in front of us.In this conversation, Brian and Michael talk about why heaven isn't a far-off destination but a realm woven through the space between every atom of this one, and why love and wonder might be the most reliable hints we get of its nearness. Brian shares the mystical moment in Rocky Mountain National Park that reshaped his understanding of the incarnation and makes the case that a faith stripped of transcendence eventually collapses into mere politics — however well-intentioned.They also talk about pilgrimage, the discipline of praying written prayers, and why so many people are having real spiritual experiences with no idea where it's safe to talk about them.Brian Zahnd is a pastor of forty-four years and author of Unseen Existences: Of Heaven, Earth, and the Divine Mystery in All Things.Find Brian Zahnd online here.Support the showENGAGE THE RESTORING THE SOUL PODCAST:- Follow us on YouTube - Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS- Like us on Facebook- Follow us on Instagram & Twitter- Follow Michael on Twitter- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com Thanks for listening!

At age 22, Sydney's Bennett's brain stopped communicating with her body correctly; she was suffering from Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), a condition in which the nervous system stops sending or interpreting signals the right way. Suddenly this bright, beautiful, college girl, recently married, was having seizures, numbness, difficulty moving. Soon she needed a cane, then a wheelchair. But, when we are weak, we are strong, and she found her rock in Jesus our cornerstone. Today she is a faithful and faith-filled advocate, mother of two, and (in the view of your host) present-day Job; and Job reminds us, “The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” Sydney's book, Fearfully and Wonderfully Broken, on Amazon, and also from the publisher, Thomas Nelson, where you can listen to the first chapter of the audio book. The episode of Almost Good Catholics with Mako Fujimura talking about kintsugi (which I excerpted): Mako Fujimura on Almost Good Catholics, episode 14: The Silence of God: The Meaning of Our Suffering and Redemption Other related Almost Good Catholics episodes about the Book of Job and the meaning of suffering: Jonathon Fessenden on Almost Good Catholics, episode 58: The Book of Job: Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People? Brian Zahnd on Almost Good Catholics, episode 112: The Tree of Life: “no one who loves the way of Grace ever comes to a bad end.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

At age 22, Sydney's Bennett's brain stopped communicating with her body correctly; she was suffering from Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), a condition in which the nervous system stops sending or interpreting signals the right way. Suddenly this bright, beautiful, college girl, recently married, was having seizures, numbness, difficulty moving. Soon she needed a cane, then a wheelchair. But, when we are weak, we are strong, and she found her rock in Jesus our cornerstone. Today she is a faithful and faith-filled advocate, mother of two, and (in the view of your host) present-day Job; and Job reminds us, “The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” Sydney's book, Fearfully and Wonderfully Broken, on Amazon, and also from the publisher, Thomas Nelson, where you can listen to the first chapter of the audio book. The episode of Almost Good Catholics with Mako Fujimura talking about kintsugi (which I excerpted): Mako Fujimura on Almost Good Catholics, episode 14: The Silence of God: The Meaning of Our Suffering and Redemption Other related Almost Good Catholics episodes about the Book of Job and the meaning of suffering: Jonathon Fessenden on Almost Good Catholics, episode 58: The Book of Job: Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People? Brian Zahnd on Almost Good Catholics, episode 112: The Tree of Life: “no one who loves the way of Grace ever comes to a bad end.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Understanding For Us All - In this episode Paul reads a piece from Brian Zahnd about the impassibility of GodIntro Music by: Luke Dimond

Voices in My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) Episode 624: Brian Zahnd - Unseen Existences In this episode of Voices in My Head, Rick Lee James welcomes back author, pastor, and theologian Brian Zahnd to discuss his newest book, Unseen Existences: Of Heaven, Earth, and the Divine Mystery in All Things. Together they explore heaven as a present reality rather than merely a future destination, the “serpentine spell” of modern materialism, the lifelong pilgrimage of conversion, and what it means to journey toward our true home in God. Brian also shares insights from his own experiences walking pilgrimage routes such as the Camino de Santiago, reflects on grace, judgment, and the formation of the soul, and discusses The Reverend, a companion piece to the book that was ultimately left out of publication. This conversation is an invitation to recover wonder, embrace mystery, and learn to see the world as charged with the presence of heaven. Follow Brian Zahnd on Substack: Brian Zahnd Founding pastor of Word of Life Church in St. Joseph, Missouri; author of eleven books, including: "The Wood Between the Worlds, " When Everything's on Fire," and "Sinner In the Hands of a Loving God."     The Reverend: Narrated by Boyd Barrett   Unseen Existences: Of Heaven, Earth, and the Divine Mystery in All Things Unseen Existences (Book) Brian Zahnd Books Unseen Existences The Wood Between the Worlds Postcards from Babylon When Everything's on Fire Sinners in the Hands of a Loving God Beauty Will Save the World Connect with Rick Lee James Website: RickLeeJames.com Email: RickLeeJames.Bandcamp.com Streaming: Search “Rick Lee James” on your favorite music platform or on Spotify https://t.co/S7nCRl0xqa Audiobook Out of the Depths: A Songwriter's Journey Through the Psalms (Audible): Audiobook Link Special Offer 10% off at Bandcamp: use code 10off at checkout RickLeeJames.Bandcamp.com Hosted by Rick Lee James — Voices in My Head Podcast

Voices in My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) Episode 624: Brian Zahnd - Unseen ExistencesIn this episode of Voices in My Head, Rick Lee James welcomes back author, pastor, and theologian Brian Zahnd to discuss his newest book, Unseen Existences: Of Heaven, Earth, and the Divine Mystery in All Things. Together they explore heaven as a present reality rather than merely a future destination, the “serpentine spell” of modern materialism, the lifelong pilgrimage of conversion, and what it means to journey toward our true home in God. Brian also shares insights from his own experiences walking pilgrimage routes such as the Camino de Santiago, reflects on grace, judgment, and the formation of the soul, and discusses The Reverend, a companion piece to the book that was ultimately left out of publication. This conversation is an invitation to recover wonder, embrace mystery, and learn to see the world as charged with the presence of heaven.Follow Brian Zahnd on Substack: The Reverend: Narrated by Boyd Barrett Unseen Existences: Of Heaven, Earth, and the Divine Mystery in All ThingsUnseen Existences (Book)Brian Zahnd Books* Unseen Existences* The Wood Between the Worlds* Postcards from Babylon* When Everything's on Fire* Sinners in the Hands of a Loving God* Beauty Will Save the WorldConnect with Rick Lee JamesWebsite: RickLeeJames.comEmail: Rick@RickLeeJames.comListen / SubscribeSubscribe, rate, and review Voices in My Head wherever you listen to podcasts.Music & MerchBandcamp (music + merch): RickLeeJames.Bandcamp.comStreaming: Search “Rick Lee James” on your favorite music platform or on Spotify https://t.co/S7nCRl0xqaAudiobookOut of the Depths: A Songwriter's Journey Through the Psalms (Audible):Audiobook LinkSpecial Offer10% off at Bandcamp: use code 10off at checkoutRickLeeJames.Bandcamp.comHosted byRick Lee James — Voices in My Head Podcast This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rickleejames.substack.com/subscribe

"Theology has real-life consequences." So writes Brian Zahnd in a recent Substack article where he talks about Christian Zionism and the support of the violence of Israel against Palestinians. Last season and a few episodes ago, we dipped into topics surrounding the unconditional Christian support for Israel. It is all tied to Christian Zionism, which is the child of Dispensationalism and Zionism. Confused? Let's explore.

“Your true home is a place you have not yet been but have sensed all along…” - Brian Zahnd, from Unseen ExistencesBrian Zahnd is no stranger to controversy, but it's possible at this time that one of the most controversial things he could say is that there is a reality that neither science nor our senses can reliably define; existences that are unseen. This is the very topic of his latest book, and we that book as a launching pad to talk about the impact of Greek and/or Platonic thought on the New Testament, the microtonal rock of Angine de Poitrine, the potential exhaustion of revivalism, and much much more. While listening to the pod, check out Unseen Existences, Brian's Substack (especially his four-part companion to Unseen Existences, The Reverend), and while you're at it, bookmark The Silent's relevant album, Unseen.To watch instead of just listen, either check it out on YouTube or click below.

Today, we chat with pastor and author Brian Zahnd for a wide-ranging conversation about faith deconstruction, theological reimagining, and the journey of losing — and rediscovering — Jesus. Brian shares how, after 30 years of ministry, he found himself rethinking core evangelical doctrines including hell, the Bible's role as foundation, and the nature of God, ultimately arriving at the conviction that "God is like Jesus." He candidly recounts the painful fallout of losing 1,000 church members through that process, the healing that followed, and why he believes the discomfort of deconstruction is not a crisis of faith but a necessary path to spiritual growth. The episode also touches on his new book Unseen Existences, which is out now! Such a powerful episode. Find Brian's church HERE. Pick up one of Brian's books HERE. Read Brian's Substack HERE. Honoring the Journey is hosted, produced and edited by Leslie Nease and the artwork for the show is also created by Leslie Nease.Pick up Leslie's book, Honoring the Journey: The Deconstruction of Sister Christian here.Interested in working with Leslie as your Life/Faith Transitions Coach? Check out her website and learn more about what she offers! https://www.leslieneasecoaching.comIf you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team on Substack, click here! You can find her work and also support her financially if you desire.Would you like to leave a voicemail for Leslie? Click here!If you are looking for community as you deconstruct or just a place to go and enjoy the company of people who are seekers, learners and who are looking to connect with the Divine without religious baggage, please join the Private Facebook Community! Leslie is very passionate about connection and community, so if that sounds like you, please come join us! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sponsors: Mending the Fracturing Church (https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/mending-the-fracturing-church-9798881806651/); Gardner-Webb University School of Divinity (www.gardner-webb.edu); Baptist Seminary of Kentucky (www.bsk.edu); Baylor's Garland School of Social Work; The Community Transformation Center at Palm Beach Atlantic University (www.pbactc.org); The Center for Congregational Health (healthychurch.org); and The Baptist House of Studies at Union Presbyterian Seminary (www.upsem.edu/). Join the listener community at www.classy.org/campaign/podcast-…r-support/c251116. Music from HookSounds.com.

Brian Zahnd joins me to talk about his new book Unseen Existences — and we get into why modern Western people suffer a kind of spiritual homelessness, how philosophical materialism has convinced us the spiritual world isn't real, and what it looks like to recover a sense that heaven and earth actually overlap. We also dig into the Incarnation as a doorway into mystery, wonder and awe as non-negotiables for living faith, and what it means to hold onto a God who intervenes without turning prayer into a transaction.Brian Zahnd is the founder and lead pastor of Word of Life Church in St. Joseph, Missouri. Known for his theologically informed preaching and his embrace of the deep and long history of the church, Zahnd is a frequent speaker at conferences, universities, and seminaries around the world. As a pastor-theologian, he is the author of numerous titles, including The Wood Between the Worlds, When Everything's on Fire, Sinners in the Hands of a Loving God, A Farewell to Mars, and Beauty Will Save the World.Brian's Book:Unseen ExistencesBrian's Recommendation:Wendell BerryConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@shiftingculturepodcast.comGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeSupport the podcast and the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below NEW PODCAST: American Evangelicals - A History PodcastA thoughtful, deep dive into one of the most talked-about movements in American history.Support the show

Religionen gör sig allt mer påmind i samhället och politiken, hur ska kyrkan förhålla sig till detta? Vad ska kyrkan göra när politiken drar i den?  Till en början talar Joel Halldorf utifrån boken "Makten och det heliga" (på svenska), därefter följer ett samtal mellan Joel Halldorf och Brian Zahnd, modererat av Carl-Henric Jaktlund (på engelska). (Detta är en klippt version av kvällen.) Kvällen anordnades av arrangörerna till Vårmötet Göteborg i samarbete med Föreningen Valv. Foto: Evelin Nyberg/Betlehemskyrkan Göteborg

(översättning: "Skönhet kommer rädda världen") Skönhet argumenterar inte och kräver inget, skönhet attraherar. Tänk om kyrkan, istället för att vara högljudd om sanningen och vad som är rätt, bara kunde vara vacker? Detta är inledningstalet från Vårmötet Göteborg 2026, en ekumenisk helg med fokus på mystik, musik och samhällsengagemang. (Detta är en klippt version av kvällen.) Vårmötet arrangeras av Betlehemskyrkan, Saronkyrkan, tidskriften NOD, Göteborgs domkyrkoförsamling, Kulturkyrkan, Räddningsmissionen och Ekibs. ——— In English: Beauty does not make an argument or a demand, beauty attracts. What if the church, instead of being loud about truth and about what is right, could be beautiful? This is the opening speech from Vårmötet Göteborg (translated: the Spring Meeting in Gothenburg), an ecumenical weekend focusing on the mystical, music and community engagement. (This is an edited version of the evening.) Vårmötet is arranged by Betlehemskyrkan, Saronkyrkan, tidskriften NOD, Göteborgs domkyrkoförsamling, Kulturkyrkan, Räddningsmissionen, and Ekibs. ——— Foto: Einar Säker

What if heaven isn't a distant destination — but a different dimension that's closer than we think? In this conversation, Jason sits down with theologian, pastor, and author Brian Zahnd to explore his new book Unseen Existences — and what it means to recover a vision of transcendence in a world flattened by consumerism, politics, and pragmatism. We talk about why losing sight of heaven turns Christianity into partisan politics. The pilgrimage of the soul — and why nothing real happens fast. What Jesus weeping at Lazarus's tomb tells us about God's co-suffering with us. The prayer Brian prayed on June 4th, 2000 that changed everything. The censored chapter his publisher wouldn't let him include — and where you can find it. Judas, Lazarus, universal hope, and the long arc of loveUnseen Existences, which releases May 19th — Pre-order available now at brianzahnd.comCheck out Brians Substack: brianzahnd.substack.comJOIN our RGWT Subscriber-Based Community:https://promo.fourriversmedia.com/rethinking-god-with-tacos/JOIN A Family Story's Mailing Listhttps://dashing-field-76805.myflodesk.com/pie4be6wtoJOIN the Rethinking God with Tacos Facebook Group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/godandtacosFollow Rethinking God with Tacos on Instagram at:https://www.instagram.com/rethinkinggodwithtacos/Follow Jason's personal Facebook page at:https://www.facebook.com/afamilystory.org/Follow Jason on Instagram at:https://www.instagram.com/jasonclarkis/Follow Jason on X at: https://x.com/jasonclarkis SEND A DONATION!!https://app.moonclerk.com/pay/36393kxxeh8

As we move into Holy Week, the Triduum, Easter and its season, all Christians ask themselves ‘what is this all about?' and why God created such and elaborate salvific economy that relies on our faith and His actions. Why? There's a great Mystery here and the more we appreciate its size and depth, even if we don't understand what we are seeing. Anne Blackwill and I have been talking about doing this interview for the better part of the year and we finally did it this last week, on the day before Palm Sunday. I think it went really well and I'm excited to share it with you. Anne is a wise and wonderful woman, a literature professor who has taught all over he world in universities and colleges and also prisons. She my mother-in-law, the mother of my wife and the grandmother of my children; I've known her for twenty years and during this time she has been working on the book we are talking about today. Its working title is God with Us, that is of course: Emmanuel. Related Almost Good Catholics episodes: Brian Zahnd on Almost Good Catholics, episode 82: The Wood between the Worlds: Why Death on the Cross? David Basile on Almost Good Catholics, episode 39: Why a Savior? The Theology of Sacrifice and Redemption Fr Chris Alar on Almost Good Catholics, episode 61: Master Craftsman, Broken Tools: Why God Works Through Us, Hears Intercessory Prayers, and Grants Divine MercyJesus: Undercover Boss or God with Us? (Anne Blackwill) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

As we move into Holy Week, the Triduum, Easter and its season, all Christians ask themselves ‘what is this all about?' and why God created such and elaborate salvific economy that relies on our faith and His actions. Why? There's a great Mystery here and the more we appreciate its size and depth, even if we don't understand what we are seeing. Anne Blackwill and I have been talking about doing this interview for the better part of the year and we finally did it this last week, on the day before Palm Sunday. I think it went really well and I'm excited to share it with you. Anne is a wise and wonderful woman, a literature professor who has taught all over he world in universities and colleges and also prisons. She my mother-in-law, the mother of my wife and the grandmother of my children; I've known her for twenty years and during this time she has been working on the book we are talking about today. Its working title is God with Us, that is of course: Emmanuel. Related Almost Good Catholics episodes: Brian Zahnd on Almost Good Catholics, episode 82: The Wood between the Worlds: Why Death on the Cross? David Basile on Almost Good Catholics, episode 39: Why a Savior? The Theology of Sacrifice and Redemption Fr Chris Alar on Almost Good Catholics, episode 61: Master Craftsman, Broken Tools: Why God Works Through Us, Hears Intercessory Prayers, and Grants Divine MercyJesus: Undercover Boss or God with Us? (Anne Blackwill) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SummaryPastor Brian Zahnd shares his spiritual journey from the Jesus movement to a more contemplative faith, emphasizing the importance of prayer, pilgrimage, and prophetic witness in today's church. The discussion explores themes of deconstruction, renewal, and the transformative power of slow, intentional spiritual practices.“I try to write what I cannot not write.”Key TopicsSpiritual journey from the Jesus movement to contemplative faithThe role of prayer and prayer school in spiritual renewalPilgrimage as a spiritual discipline and renewal toolThe impact of cultural and political shifts on faith and churchThis book looks even more beautiful in real life!Chapters00:00 Introduction to Brian Zahnd02:51 Brian's Journey and Transformation05:43 Critique of American Christianity08:32 The Role of Prayer in Spiritual Awakening11:09 The Importance of Liturgy and Community13:42 The Future of Brian's Work and Writing16:36 Pilgrimage and Spiritual Practices24:09 The Camino de Santiago: A Journey of Transformation28:33 Walking into Peace: The Impact of Pilgrimage30:03 The Slow Pace of Life: Embracing Simplicity33:36 Contemplative Leadership: A New Model for the Church38:12 Navigating Conflict with Grace: The Cost of Compassion43:16 Finding Wisdom in Stillness: A Prayer for PatienceRight Side Up: Danielle Strickland is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Right Side Up: Danielle Strickland at daniellestrickland.substack.com/subscribe

What does it take to lead for the long haul without losing your soul? In this episode of the AVAIL Podcast, we sit down with pastor and author Brian Zahnd to discuss the inner life of leadership: fear, rejection, spiritual drift, and why formation matters more than platform. If you're carrying the weight of fear-based leadership and craving a deeper center, this conversation offers clarity and courage.

“The movie is a prayer,” says Bryan Zahnd, about Terrence Mallick's 2011 The Tree of Life, his favorite movie of all time. Bryan has seen it forty times (I have seen it three times); Bryan has taken his pastoral team from his Missouri Church to see it; he has shown it to his Congregation in Church. The film follows a family in Texas in the 1950s. Brad Pitt and Jessica Chastain are the parents; they have three sons. Sean Penn plays the oldest boy when he is grown in the 1980s. It's a sermon on theodicy, creation, eschatology, all of it, all of it. And it's just very beautiful and interesting. If you've not seen it, go see it first, and then come back and talk it over with us! Pastor Byran's website. Another talk with Bryan Zahnd about another Terrence Mallick film: Bryan Zahnd on Almost Good Catholics, episode 92: A Hidden Life: The Life and Martyrdom of Bl. Franz Jägerstätter (1907-1943) Another talk with Bryan Zahnd about his books and his theology: Brian Zahnd on Almost Good Catholics, episode 82: The Wood between the Worlds: Why Death on the Cross? A couple more episode of Almost Good Catholics on related themes: Jacob Howland on Almost Good Catholics, episode 65: Idolatry and Idle Hands: From Aaron's Golden Calf to AI Jonathan Fessenden on Almost Good Catholics, episode 58: The Book of Job: Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People? The video of our discussion of The Book of Job on the Missio Dei website and on YouTube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

“The movie is a prayer,” says Bryan Zahnd, about Terrence Mallick's 2011 The Tree of Life, his favorite movie of all time. Bryan has seen it forty times (I have seen it three times); Bryan has taken his pastoral team from his Missouri Church to see it; he has shown it to his Congregation in Church. The film follows a family in Texas in the 1950s. Brad Pitt and Jessica Chastain are the parents; they have three sons. Sean Penn plays the oldest boy when he is grown in the 1980s. It's a sermon on theodicy, creation, eschatology, all of it, all of it. And it's just very beautiful and interesting. If you've not seen it, go see it first, and then come back and talk it over with us! Pastor Byran's website. Another talk with Bryan Zahnd about another Terrence Mallick film: Bryan Zahnd on Almost Good Catholics, episode 92: A Hidden Life: The Life and Martyrdom of Bl. Franz Jägerstätter (1907-1943) Another talk with Bryan Zahnd about his books and his theology: Brian Zahnd on Almost Good Catholics, episode 82: The Wood between the Worlds: Why Death on the Cross? A couple more episode of Almost Good Catholics on related themes: Jacob Howland on Almost Good Catholics, episode 65: Idolatry and Idle Hands: From Aaron's Golden Calf to AI Jonathan Fessenden on Almost Good Catholics, episode 58: The Book of Job: Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People? The video of our discussion of The Book of Job on the Missio Dei website and on YouTube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hope For Us All - In this episode Paul reads a chapter from Brian Zahnd's book Sinners in the hands of a Loving God about what hell truly meansIntro Music by: Luke Dimond

This replay episode features excerpts from a 2017 conversation with author Brian Zahnd, exploring his insights on Christian aesthetics and the role of beauty in faith. The discussion centers on Zahnd's book, "Beauty Will Save the World," and his argument for understanding Christianity through the lens of beauty rather than relying solely on truth claims and moral arguments. Send us a textSupport the show Get Tickets to The Breath and The Clay 2026 featuring Malcolm Guite, Jon Guerra, and Jonathan Pageau! March 20-22 in Winston-Salem, NC. Sign Up for Our Newsletter! http://eepurl.com/g49Ks1

1. How did this week's sermon make you feel? What did it provoke in you? What did it make you think about? To what extent do you feel like you are good or bad at “being spiritual?” Why? Do you ever think about other people in the same way? Considering their supposed “spiritual achievements?” What do you notice about the way you may evaluate yourself in this area and the way you evaluate others? 2. How often do you find yourself feeling like you should try harder at being spiritual? To what extent is your headspace occupied with trying to accomplish things we might consider “spiritual achievements?” How do you feel when you accomplish them? How do you feel when you don't? How has your experience with striving (or not striving) to check religious boxes affected your sense of your own spiritual worth, your connection to God, or your faith in general? 3. What does it mean to build your love in Jesus' words in the Sermon on the Mount, including the beatitudes? What does it mean to build your life on the words of the first beatitude that Tim focused on today? Tim used Brian Zahnd's translation of the first beatitude: “ blessed are those who are poor at being spiritual; for the kingdom of heaven is well suited for ordinary people.” He also said that, “perfection, in God's eyes, is not the elimination of the negative, but the inclusion of the negative… All of life belongs in God's kingdom, even the worst of it.” What is your initial response to these two ideas held together side-by-side? With a moment to reflect, do you think about them differently? Tim also said, “it's not that God is with you in spite of your struggle… Is that the struggle itself is the form God's presence is taking… At this point in your life.” What do you make of this statement? What does it surface for you? What does it prompt you to think or feel or ask?

1. How did this week's sermon make you feel? What did it provoke in you? What did it make you think about? To what extent do you feel like you are good or bad at “being spiritual?” Why?Do you ever think about other people in the same way? Considering their supposed “spiritual achievements?” What do you notice about the way you may evaluate yourself in this area and the way you evaluate others? 2. How often do you find yourself feeling like you should try harder at being spiritual? To what extent is your headspace occupied with trying to accomplish things we might consider “spiritual achievements?” How do you feel when you accomplish them? How do you feel when you don't?How has your experience with striving (or not striving) to check religious boxes affected your sense of your own spiritual worth, your connection to God, or your faith in general? 3. What does it mean to build your love in Jesus' words in the Sermon on the Mount, including the beatitudes? What does it mean to build your life on the words of the first beatitude that Tim focused on today? Tim used Brian Zahnd's translation of the first beatitude: “ blessed are those who are poor at being spiritual; for the kingdom of heaven is well suited for ordinary people.” He also said that, “perfection, in God's eyes, is not the elimination of the negative, but the inclusion of the negative… All of life belongs in God's kingdom, even the worst of it.”What is your initial response to these two ideas held together side-by-side? With a moment to reflect, do you think about them differently?Tim also said, “it's not that God is with you in spite of your struggle… Is that the struggle itself is the form God's presence is taking… At this point in your life.”What do you make of this statement? What does it surface for you? What does it prompt you to think or feel or ask?

Grace & Truth: A Reign of Gritty LovePastor Steve Poole TEXT: Luke 2:22-35 TRUTH #1: King Jesus is God's salvation• Luke 2:29-32 & Exodus 13:2, 12-14• Luke 2:30 –“For my eyes have seen your salvation…”• Galatians 4:4-5 TRUTH #2: King Jesus embodied gritty, sacrificial love• Hosea 13:10-14 • 1 Corinthians 15:51-56 NEXT STEPS1. Believe in King Jesus for salvation2. Reread the “Christmas story” from Luke and Matthew looking for God's gritty love.3. Do a “gritty love” thing for someone this week.4. Slow down this week so you don't miss Jesus ADVENT REFLECTION(This is an excerpt from "The Anticipated Christ" by Brian Zahnd) In our high-tech, high-speed, high-stress age, we're not very good at waiting—it feels too much like doing nothing. But it's not doing nothing. As we wait, we slowly become contemplative enough to discern what God is doing. Unless we intentionally cultivate some contemplative slowness in our soul, it doesn't matter if God acts, because we will most likely miss it. When God entered history definitively in Christ, a lot of people who should have perceived it and rejoiced, missed what God was doing or even resisted it. Quiet contemplatives like Simeon and Anna perceived the arrival of God's salvation because they had learned how to wait. The deeper truth is that God is always acting, because God is always loving his creation. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are always inviting us into their house of love. But when we are consumed by anger, harried by anxiety, and driven by impatience, we are blind and deaf to what God is actually doing in the present moment. God is always about to act in our life and in our world, but if we want to discern the actions of God we must learn to first wait in quiet contemplation. Advent is a season to keep watch and ponder the stars like the ancient magi, to keep vigil in the fields like the shepherds of Bethlehem. God is always about to act and God is always acting. The question is, can we perceive it? Another poem in Isaiah sums it up well: Behold, I am about to do a new thing;now it springs forth.Do you not perceive it?I will make a way in the wildernessand rivers in the desert. ~ Isaiah 43:19 O God, you are always about to act and bring about a new thing; help us to wait patiently, that we might perceive and welcome what you bring to pass. Amen.

Pastor Brian Zahnd joins Johnny Ova to unpack what he calls the kaleidoscopic cross, a bold, multi-layered view of the crucifixion that challenges everything you thought you knew.In this episode, we dive into:Why the cross can't be reduced to one meaningThe problem with penal substitution and transactional theologyHow art, poetry, and ancient voices unlock new angles of the crossWhy Christian nationalism distorts the gospelHow the cross shapes the way we live, not just what we believeThis is a powerful conversation that connects theology, justice, beauty, and mystery, all through the lens of the crucifixion.

Jeremiah 37:7-14 ♦ Matthew 3:13-17 ♦ John 1:29-42 ♦ 1 Corinthians 1:10-18...

Text us your questions!What happens when political labels lose their meaning? Dr. Laurie Johnson, political philosopher and president of the Maurin Academy, joins us to unpack the tangled roots of America's culture wars and explore pathways toward overcoming our divisions. We discuss her book The Gap in God's Country: A Longer View on Our Culture Wars.The conversation begins with a clarification of political terminology. Laurie explains how American understandings of "liberal" and "conservative" have drifted far from historical and global meanings, with both Democrats and Republicans representing different flavors of liberalism while "true" conservatism remains rare in American politics. This terminological confusion reflects a deeper problem: an increasingly narrow political imagination that limits our ability to envision alternatives.In Laurie's view, at the heart of our cultural divisions lies capitalism's continuous transformation of communities and human connections. She describes how economic changes have hollowed out rural areas, separated families, and created profound insecurity. When people feel economically adrift, they become susceptible to scapegoating others rather than recognizing systemic problems. This resentment fuels the political extremism we see today.We also explore potential remedies. Laurie suggests churches could play a crucial role in rebuilding community if they moved beyond superficial fellowship toward genuine cooperation. By creating structures that provide mutual benefit, such as shared childcare, elder support, or time banks, people might rediscover how community offers security that money can't buy.Though unflinching in her assessment of our challenges, Laurie maintains a tempered hope. Perhaps only through experiencing genuine hardship will we rediscover the value of community and cooperation. Her work offers an invitation to attempt this rediscovery before crisis forces our hand.*Note: This episode was recorded before the appalling assassination of Charlie Kirk.=====Want to support us?The best way is to subscribe to our Patreon. Annual memberships are available for a 10% discount.If you'd rather make a one-time donation, you can contribute through our PayPal. Other important info: Rate & review us on Apple & Spotify Follow us on social media at @PPWBPodcast Watch & comment on YouTube Email us at pastorandphilosopher@gmail.com Cheers!

Angel Studios https://Angel.com/ToddJoin the Angel Guild today and stream Testament, a powerful new series featuring the retelling of the book of Acts. Alan's Soaps https://www.AlansArtisanSoaps.comUse coupon code TODD to save an additional 10% off the bundle price.Bizable https://GoBizable.comUntie your business exposure from your personal exposure with BiZABLE.  Schedule your FREE consultation at GoBizAble.com today.  Bonefrog https://BonefrogCoffee.com/toddThe new GOLDEN AGE is here!  Use code TODD at checkout to receive 10% off your first purchase and 15% on subscriptions.Bulwark Capital https://KnowYourRiskPodcast.comBe confident in your portfolio with Bulwark! Schedule your free Know Your Risk Portfolio review. Go to KnowYourRiskPodcast.com today. Renue Healthcare https://Renue.Healthcare/ToddYour journey to a better life starts at Renue Healthcare. Visit https://Renue.Healthcare/ToddLISTEN and SUBSCRIBE at:The Todd Herman Show - Podcast - Apple PodcastsThe Todd Herman Show | Podcast on SpotifyWATCH and SUBSCRIBE at: Todd Herman - The Todd Herman Show - YouTubeThe reality is that this morning, I found myself utterly shamed by the Holy Spirit, for the reason I care about what is happening in Mozambique.Episode links:"It doesn't feel like me. I look like a man in a dress and that's not what I want."This is Danny Lauzon, aka “Krystel,” a trans-identifying man who was released from prison in November of 2023 after serving part of a 4 year sentence for filming a 10 year old girl in the shower and distributing the footage online.I skipped the Holy Post video attacking penal substitution last year (had Vischer fatigue) but just found out it's even more insane than advertised. Brian Zahnd *and* Skye Jethani scoff at the idea that Jesus will conquer his enemies at the 2nd coming. Here's how they break down Revelation 19:Revelation 19 - NIVRep Jasmine Crockett says President Trump is a Low-IQ person and has a problem with people of Color. “I don't care how many Black MAGA out there wit they hats.”Meet Noora Shalash, Director of Government Affairs for CAIR-Kentucky. She really let the mask slip that this is a harmless civil rights organization when she yells “I demand Jihad, I want ISIS to kill all of you.”

CONTENT Alert: Explicit talk about sex. What are churches saying about robust, spirit-led erotic love and sexual flourishing? (If they talk about it at all.) Beyond talk of sexual purity versus fornication or enforcing heteronormativity versus embracing queerness, Queer/Liberative theologian Jon Carl Lewis opens the door to grander conversations to be had about the complexity of human sexuality—including what a Christ-centered sexual ethic looks like, how the integration of the spirit AND the body can lead to a more fully realized divine connection, and why these concepts matter not only to queer Christians but to all Christians who desire to live a life more aligned with the divine. John Carl Lewis describes himself as “your average queer, liberative theologian and spiritual guide.” His work invites” individuals and communities into conversation around how integration of the spiritual and the sexual/erotic can enliven and reconcile people of faith to themselves, the sacred, their communities, and all of creation.” His Substack is called “Ramblints (of a Queer, Christian Contemplative) (queerchristianramblings.substack.com). Find your guides at Quoir Academy! If you've ever deconstructed your faith you know it's not easy. But just imagine if you could have people to guide you through your process? People like, Jim Palmer, Kristin Du Mez, Jennifer Knapp, Brad Jersak, Brian Zahnd, Paul Young, and more? Well, if you head over to Quoir Academy and register for SQUARE 2 using the Promo Code [RAD] you'll get 10% off the regular registration cost of this awesome course and community just for being a fan of our show. Follow this registration link: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction?coupon=RAD

What are churches saying about robust, spirit-led erotic love and sexual flourishing? (If they talk about it at all.) Beyond talk of sexual purity versus fornication or enforcing heteronormativity versus embracing queerness, Queer/Liberative theologian Jon Carl Lewis opens the door to grander conversations to be had about the complexity of human sexuality—including what a Christ-centered sexual ethic looks like, how the integration of the spirit AND the body can lead to a more fully realized divine connection, and why these concepts matter not only to queer Christians but to all Christians who desire to live a life more aligned with the divine.John Carl Lewis describes himself as “your average queer, liberative theologian and spiritual guide.” His work invites” individuals and communities into conversation around how integration of the spiritual and the sexual/erotic can enliven and reconcile people of faith to themselves, the sacred, their communities, and all of creation.” His Substack is called “Ramblings (of a Queer, Christian Contemplative) (queerchristianramblings.substack.com). Find your guides at Quoir Academy! If you've ever deconstructed your faith you know it's not easy. But just imagine if you could have people to guide you through your process? People like, Jim Palmer, Kristin Du Mez, Jennifer Knapp, Brad Jersak, Brian Zahnd, Paul Young, and more? Well, if you head over to Quoir Academy and register for SQUARE 2 using the Promo Code [RAD] you'll get 10% off the regular registration cost of this awesome course and community just for being a fan of our show. Follow this registration link: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction?coupon=RAD

Kelly gets a chance to talk with Josh Patterson, host of the "[Re] Thinking Faith" podcast and scholar of Process/Relational Theology about a whole range of topics about how theology and belief intersect with this current moment. In Part 1, we focus on division--how ideas about theology and politics drive a wedge between us, and ways we can intentionally break out of that binary to connect with others across the divide. In Part 2, we get more philosophical as we delve into Josh's recent work in studying the connections between Process and Radical Theology. It's a fascinating conversation that touches on the many ways our theological thinking shapes our everyday lives. Josh Patterson is a writer, speaker, and thinker whose work includes the [Re]-Thinking Christianity podcast; panelist roles at ORTcon, Theology Beer Camp, and others, and contributions to several books on Process/Open & Relational Theology. Find him and his work at https://www.joshuagpatterson.com and on socials at IG:@rethinking_faith and FB: @josh.patterson.144734. (Note: Also for more info on Theology Beer Camp, visit: https://www.theologybeercamp2025.com -- keep an eye on this space, we'll update it soon with the discount code!) Find your guides at Quoir Academy! If you've ever deconstructed your faith you know it's not easy. But just imagine if you could have people to guide you through your process? People like, Jim Palmer, Kristin Du Mez, Jennifer Knapp, Brad Jersak, Brian Zahnd, Paul Young, and more? Well, if you head over to Quoir Academy and register for SQUARE 2 using the Promo Code [RAD] you'll get 10% off the regular registration cost of this awesome course and community just for being a fan of our show. Follow this registration link: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction?coupon=RAD

Today's conversation is with Pastor and author Brian Zahnd. Brian is the founding and lead pastor of Word of Life Church in St Joseph, MO and the author of 11 books. Brian is not my pastor, but he's one of the voices I look to in this cultural moment. He's a voice of clarity, sanity, […] The post #364: The Rival Religion of America and A Prophetic Call to Pastors with Brian Zahnd appeared first on Beyond Sunday Worship.

Kelly gets a chance to talk with Josh Patterson, host of the "[Re] Thinking Faith" podcast and scholar of Process/Relational Theology about a whole range of topics about how theology and belief intersect with this current moment. In Part 1, we focus on division--how ideas about theology and politics drive a wedge between us, and ways we can intentionally break out of that binary to connect with others across the divide. In Part 2, we get more philosophical as we delve into Josh's recent work in studying the connections between Process and Radical Theology. It's a fascinating conversation that touches on the many ways our theological thinking shapes our everyday lives.Josh Patterson is a writer, speaker, and thinker whose work includes the [Re]-Thinking Christianity podcast; panelist roles at ORTcon, Theology Beer Camp, and others, and contributions to several books on Process/Open & Relational Theology. Find him and his work at https://www.joshuagpatterson.com and on socials at IG:@rethinking_faith and FB: @josh.patterson.144734. (Note: Also for more info on Theology Beer Camp, visit: https://www.theologybeercamp2025.com -- keep an eye on this space, we'll update it soon with the discount code!) Find your guides at Quoir Academy! If you've ever deconstructed your faith you know it's not easy. But just imagine if you could have people to guide you through your process? People like, Jim Palmer, Kristin Du Mez, Jennifer Knapp, Brad Jersak, Brian Zahnd, Paul Young, and more? Well, if you head over to Quoir Academy and register for SQUARE 2 using the Promo Code [RAD] you'll get 10% off the regular registration cost of this awesome course and community just for being a fan of our show. Follow this registration link: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction?coupon=RAD

Send us a textToday we pull out a classic episode from our archives. Mike interviewed Pastor Brian Zahnd about his book “When Everything is on Fire,” which is a deep and thoughtful response to the deconstruction movement. Mike and Ryan break down the interview and explaining their points of agreement and disagreement in this special two part episode!Support the show

Send us a textToday we pull out a classic episode from our archives. Mike interviewed Pastor Brian Zahnd about his book “When Everything is on Fire,” which is a deep and thoughtful response to the deconstruction movement. Mike and Ryan break down the interview and explaining their points of agreement and disagreement in this special two part episode!Support the show

In this episode of Crackers and Grape Juice, Teer checks in with Jason and Todd to reflect on their recent pilgrimage to Turkey (Asia Minor) with Brian Zahnd. They discuss the reasons for the pilgrimage, the historical and theological significance of Asia Minor as the birthplace of Christianity, and how these experiences deepened their faith. The conversation explores the rich history of early Christian sites, the importance of understanding the origins of Christian creeds, and the differences between Eastern and Western Christian traditions. They also share personal insights and observations, such as the absence of crucifixion imagery in Orthodox churches and the challenging terrain early Christians had to navigate. The discussion underscores the value of pilgrimages in connecting modern believers with the broader, ancient Christian community and the complexities of balancing religious and secular life.Find Crackers and Grape Juice on Instagram, Facebook, and Substack.

KALEIDOSCOPE OF THE CROSS Our Enduring Model of Discipleship Matthew 16:24 “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” Matthew 16:22-24 NIV “Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. “Never, Lord!” he said. “This shall never happen to you!” Jesus turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns. Then Jesus said to his disciples, Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” • A theology of glory (victory) “ the theologian of glory does not know God hidden in suffering. Therefore he prefers works to suffering, glory to the cross, strength to weakness, wisdom to folly, and, in general, good to evil." - Martin Luther • A theology of the cross The clearest image of God—the fullness of who God is and the pinnacle of His self-revelation—is the crucified Christ. “In Christian discipleship the cross is not only something Jesus did for us, but also the pattern we are to follow. As Christians we don't just stand on the sidelines and watch Jesus carry his cross. No, we fall in behind and carry our own cross. The cross is the call to self-denial for the sake of imitating Christ.” - Brian Zahnd 1 Corinthians 2:1-5 ESV “And I, when I came to you, brothers, I did not come proclaiming to you the testimony of God with lofty speech or wisdom. For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. And I was with you in weakness and in fear and much trembling, and my speech and my message were not in plausible words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, so that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.”

I'm going to make a big claim: This will probably be the most sweeping, inspiring conversation on beauty you'll hear in your life. I say this with such confidence because Brook Hensley changed the way I understand beauty. And she's about to do the same for you.  Over the next several weeks, we're going to focus deeply on the story of our beauty and our bodies—what the story is, who is telling it to us, and what needs to change. But before we get into the flesh-and-bones of it all, I want to talk about beauty as a concept. Why, oh why, does it matter to us so much? That's where Brook comes in. This brilliant friend of mine is inviting you and me into a surprising and subversive new way of thinking about beauty. Join in on this unmissable conversation to understand… What the “third way” of beauty means for your life Why beauty and vanity are not the same thing How beauty can be an act of resistance and rebellion If you're waiting to unlock a mind-blowing expansion of your relationship to beauty, this episode is for you. Show Notes: Hope Heals Camp - https://hopeheals.com/camp/ Upcoming speaking events: https://hopeheals.com/upcoming-events The Soul of Desire by Dr. Curt Thompson - https://a.co/d/0J89OXU Beauty Will Save the World by Brian Zahnd - https://a.co/d/3N6yPdA Walter Wink - https://a.co/d/4xjwKxz “Why It Matters” by Sara Groves - https://www.saragroves.com/song-lyrics/why-it-matters The Overview Effect - https://www.nasa.gov/podcasts/houston-we-have-a-podcast/the-overview-effect/ Earth rise photo - https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20230511-earthrise-the-photo-that-sparked-an-environmental-movement Blue marble photo - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Blue_Marble “This Is What I Do To Feel Close To You” by John Guerra - https://youtu.be/nSozD9_vHo0?feature=shared Andrew Peterson - https://www.andrew-peterson.com/ On Beauty and Being Just by Elaine Scarry - https://a.co/d/bj0RBTC “The last act is the greatest treason: To do the right deed for the wrong reason.” - T.S. Eliot Scriptures referenced in this episode: 1 Samuel 14:7 Romans 1:20 Psalm 27:4 Psalm 90:17 Matthew 5:30-41 John 8:12 Matthew 5:14-16 *** There's so much more to the story: ⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠ for more messages of hope, free resources, and opportunities to connect with me! Follow me in Instagram: ⁠⁠@hopeheals⁠⁠ Subscribe to The GoodHard Story Podcast! ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ ⁠Spotify⁠ Want a little hope in your inbox? ⁠⁠Sign up for the Hope Note⁠⁠, my monthly digest of only the good stuff, like short reflections from me and a curated roundup of the Internet's most redemptive content. Subscribe here. YouTube Show Notes There's so much more to the story. For more messages of hope, free resources, and opportunities to connect with me, visit https://hopeheals.com/katherine. Follow me in Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeheals/⁠ Subscribe to The GoodHard Story Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-hard-story-podcast/id1496882479 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/0OYz6G9Q2tNNVOX9YSdmFb?si=043bd6b10a664beb Want a little hope in your inbox? ⁠⁠Sign up for the Hope Note⁠⁠, our twice-a-month digest of only the good stuff, like reflections from Katherine and a curated digest of the Internet's most redemptive content: https://hopeheals.com/hopenote Get to know us: ⁠⁠Hope Heals⁠⁠: https://hopeheals.com/ ⁠⁠Hope Heals Camp⁠⁠: https://hopeheals.com/camp ⁠⁠Mend Coffee⁠⁠: https://www.mendcoffee.org/ Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/hopeheals/

This is a different sort of TITR episode. Just three dudes (but mainly Jay and Brian) bantering around about Rock and Roll. Brian Zahnd is a pastor and writer. Jay Newman is a pitmaster and BBQ artist. Both are avid students of music, specifically Rock and Roll, as you'll see. I love Rock and Roll and love the history behind it all. As far as theology goes, we don't really talk about a theology of music, but Jay does give a rather brilliant overview of why Rock music is theologically necessary toward the end of our conversation. Artists we discuss include Led Zeppelin, Bob Dylan, Rush, Elvis, U2, Nirvana, Eric Clapton, Motley Cru, and many others that I can't remember.  -- 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

Bonus Q&A: Does Church Definition of Masculine/Feminine Contribute To Gender Dysphoria?, Are There Single Issues That Should Dictate Voting?, and More! 0:00 Introduction 0:45 Does the strict definition of masculine/feminine by the church contribute to increasing gender dysphoria? 7:07 Since earthly marriage is a picture of the church's eventual marriage to Jesus, why are sex difference and procreation important to earthly marriage? 12:52 What's the difference between the Song of Songs and inappropriate erotica? 16:26 How do I articulate holding a firm conviction on an issue (like abortion) without being a single issue voter? Are there single issues that should dictate voting? 26:17 How do you prefer to hear God's voice? In what ways recently has he been growing you to hear His voice? 32:55 Do you have a webpage or someplace where we can see your reading library, sort out by topic? 34:16 ""Catholic complementarianism""--do you know anything about this? 37:30 Have you read ""The Unseen Realm"" by Michael Heiser? Thoughts? 41:19 Any resources you'd recommend for a seminary student interested in church planting? 42:45 How much of Revelation has actually happened vs. what's yet to come? Thoughts about the writing date of Revelation? 47:53 What is your view on the immaterial soul in light of scientific advancements? 52:39 Have you read ""The Wood Betwen the Worlds"" by Brian Zahnd? What do you think of his comparison of lynchings and the crucifixion? 53:47 How can someone who doesn't fit a church stereotype help break those stereotypes especially regarding interests or careers uncommon for their gender? 56:22 What responsibility do we have to immigrants and refugees if the government starts to separate or deport them? 1:01:44 When does ""cuddling"" become romantic for same sex attracted people wanting to be chaste?" -- 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