Podcasts about Western Christianity

Send us a textThe tension between law and grace forms the cornerstone of authentic Christian theology, yet remains one of the most misunderstood concepts in churches today. When Martin Luther rediscovered Paul's radical message in Galatians 2, it sparked the Protestant Reformation and transformed Western Christianity forever.This powerful episode dives deep into why anything added to the gospel fatally corrupts it. Using a compelling analogy of the law as a threatening "mob boss" pursuing those who've received immunity through Christ, we explore how legalism continually attempts to reclaim territory in believers' lives. Paul's strategic introduction of uncircumcised Titus into Jerusalem becomes a masterclass in theological demonstration—proving that salvation requires nothing beyond grace through faith.Against the backdrop of remembering theological titans like John MacArthur and RC Sproul, we examine how their unwavering commitment to grace-centered theology mirrors Paul's refusal to compromise with the Judaizers. The episode highlights Paul's ingenious rhetorical strategy: bringing living proof (Titus) before the apostles to silence those who insisted circumcision was necessary for salvation.The implications reach far beyond ancient theological disputes. Today's Christians face similar pressures to add requirements to salvation—whether baptism, speaking in tongues, political alignment, or adherence to church traditions. This exploration of Galatians 2 provides clarity on distinguishing between salvation's foundation (grace alone through faith alone) and the Christian's response to that salvation.What core beliefs form your understanding of salvation? Have you unconsciously added requirements to what Christ has already accomplished? Join us for this transformative journey through scripture's clearest defense of salvation by grace alone.Support the show

In my book, I want to draw out two facets of William Blake, which I think get routinely sidelined now. My conversation with Jane Clark and Nikos Yiangou enabled us to explore these dimensions.One is that Blake was a very sharp thinker. He had a very accurate and clear critique of the ideas that were beginning to bed down in his time and have really shaped our times in the modern Christian West. A second is that he is a religious figure, which gets sidelined in two ways. He lived daily with perceptions of angels and other entities: the divine, the dead. I don't explain that away by pathologising Blake. He is also a clear Christian mystic, a very important voice in Western Christianity since the Reformation - connecting us back to a mystical core, which again is very often sidelined.For more about my book, Awake! William Blake and the Power of the Imagination see - https://www.markvernon.com/books/awake-william-blake-and-the-power-of-the-imaginationFor more about Beshara Magazine see - https://besharamagazine.orgA transcript is online here - https://besharamagazine.org/podcast/mark-vernon-awake-william-blake-and-the-power-of-imagination/0:00 Introductions1:57 Blake as thinker and mystic5:20 The power of the imagination14:40 Blake and science21:12 The interconnection of music and poetry26:04 Innocence and wisdom32:29 Blake's Christianity39:57 Blake the philosopher

Send us a textSomething profound has shifted in modern Christianity. What was once considered sacred and non-negotiable—gathering together on Sunday mornings for worship—has become optional, inconvenient, and increasingly abandoned.This candid conversation explores why Sunday worship matters beyond tradition or obligation. We trace the spiritual significance of Sunday as the commemoration of Christ's resurrection and the establishment of the new covenant. More importantly, we examine why this day has become a battleground, with entertainment, sports, and secular events deliberately scheduled to compete with worship time.The contrast is striking: Christians who meticulously plan Super Bowl parties weeks in advance—coordinating food, activities, and spending significant money—but struggle to muster enthusiasm for weekly worship. Some churches even cancel services to accommodate sporting events while hosting elaborate watch parties in the same building later that day. This reveals our true priorities and the spiritual apathy that has infected Western Christianity."You don't have to go," one participant observed, "but why would you not want to?" This question cuts to the heart of our spiritual condition. When believers in countries where church gatherings are illegal risk everything to worship together, while American Christians debate whether fellowship is "necessary," we're confronting a crisis of spiritual desire, not mere scheduling conflicts.The biblical metaphor of believers as a "flock" that naturally stays together stands in stark contrast to today's individualistic approach to faith. Jesus himself, found in the temple at age twelve, reminded his searching parents, "Didn't you know I had to be in my Father's house?" His natural inclination was toward the gathering of God's people.Join us as we challenge the growing acceptance of church absenteeism and recapture the joy that should accompany gathering with fellow believers—not out of obligation, but from a heart that longs to be where God's people meet.Support the show

For centuries, the dominant explanation for the cross in Western Christianity has been rooted in retribution—Jesus taking the punishment we deserved. Is that really the whole story? Does it reflect the true heart of God?In this episode we trace the historical development of the Penal Substitutionary Atonement theory. How did theology, empire, and culture combine to shape a view of God that is more violent than loving? Is it time for a different lens?If this episode challenges or encourages you, drop a comment and share it with a friend. And don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a conversation!

Saint Augustine of Hippo (354–430 CE), a prominent theologian, philosopher, and bishop in Roman North Africa, profoundly influenced Western Christianity and philosophy. Known for works like Confessions, The City of God, and On Christian Doctrine, he developed doctrines on original sin, grace, just war, and ecclesiology. His thoughts shaped medieval theology, inspired Protestant Reformers, and continue to impact Christian teachings.

What are the implications if missionaries don't know their theology? Alex and Scott tackle the essential question of whether every missionary should also be a theologian. Drawing from personal experiences and their work with ABWE, they emphasize that missionaries often find themselves as the primary or sole theological resource in pioneer settings. This reality necessitates a strong foundation in theology, even for those not serving in overt teaching roles. The discussion also explores the challenges missionaries face in cross-cultural theological communication, including the lack of access to theological resources in native languages, differing worldviews, the prevalence of insider movements, and syncretism. Key Topics The importance of theology in missions work and why every missionary must be a theologian Real-world implications of inadequate theological preparation in cross-cultural settings The influence of Greco-Roman thought on Western Christianity and its impact on theological expression Use of systematic theology and story-based biblical teaching to bridge cultural gaps The need for deeper engagement with doctrine to counter heresy and build resilient churches Download the transcript for this episode. God has already called many people to the mission field, but they need your support to get there. Help someone in Prefield get to where God is calling them by prayerfully supporting their ministry at abwe.org/Prefield. Do you love The Missions Podcast? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Podcast and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionspodcast.com/premium The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

This week on The Road to the Cross, Tim and Steve dive into one of the most influential ideas in Western Christianity: original sin. How did a fifth-century theory by Augustine come to dominate our understanding of salvation, the cross, and even our identity?Tracing the theology from Eden to empire, they uncover a progression that reshaped how many Christians understand God's character—introducing fear, shame, and legalism into what was meant to be good news.

ORIGINAL AIR DATE: JUNE 17, 2018With help from his mentor John McMahon, this is the first (and only) session of the New Horizons podcast with Peter Goodgame, talking about the Fatherhood of God and how this concept has been almost completely forgotten in Western Christianity.

Cliffe & Stuart Knechtle Episode: https://youtu.be/ZSf7o3Jel_gDr. Jacobs compares how Eastern and Western Christianity understand Christ's death on the cross, examining the theological differences that emerged over centuries. The discussion traces the Western development from Augustine through the Protestant Reformers and their focus on penal substitution, while exploring Eastern perspectives from church fathers like Gregory of Nyssa. Dr. Jacobs analyzes these competing views of atonement and their implications for how Christians understand salvation and God's justice.All the links: X: https://x.com/NathanJacobsPodSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0hSskUtCwDT40uFbqTk3QSApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nathan-jacobs-podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenathanjacobspodcastSubstack: https://nathanajacobs.substack.com/Website: https://www.nathanajacobs.com/Academia: https://vanderbilt.academia.edu/NathanAJacobs00:00:00 Intro 00:01:43 The average understanding of the crucifixion 00:06:03 The Western evolution (Latin West and Protestant Reformation) 00:31:01 The Christian East and the Church Fathers 

1. One big idea from Cole's sermon today, reflected in the work of Karen Armstrong, is the idea that “the gods we shape, shape us.” In other words, part of the theological work of mankind involves the creation and articulation of images and understandings of God. And those concepts, as they evolve alongside the cultures and contexts in which they exist, have an influence on the spiritual communities we create, and the way we live devout lives of faith. Spend a moment reflecting on this idea. Where might you have seen its fingerprints in your own experiences and/or life? In what ways has your own concept or God evolved as you have grown & changed? In what ways have those evolutions impacted the way you respond to God?2. Cole taught that the texts included in the Bible reflect a time period before early Christians were able to reconcile some important theological ideas:1) the Shema's insistence on oneness2) with the divine identity of Jesus (see Phil 2:6-11) &3) the real presence of the Spirit (see Acts 2)He said, “as the pages of the Bible come to a close…the early Christians had not really landed on a consensus about what in the world was going on with Jesus. They hadn't really come close to anything that resembles the doctrine of the trinity.” Cole shared Jaroslav Pelikan's idea that the dogma of the Trinity didn't have its origins in speculative theorizing, but instead, in the nature of the life that the early church lived as they pursued a deep commitment to Jesus. As they did so, they lived the idea of the trinity before they even understood it as a concept. It was out of that embodied truth that the language and more formed concepts were born. Cole suggested that, like those early Christians, we are constantly living and acting in accordance with something we haven't yet understood. How do you feel about the idea that early Christians lived ideas they didn't have language for or real understanding of, and that it's those ideas we embrace today in our faith? What questions surface for you as you contemplate that reality?In what ways do you see yourself living and acting in accordance with something you don't yet understand? What's challenging about that aspect of living? What's good about it?What do you think we can learn by living and acting in accordance with ideas we don't yet understand? What, if anything, is the value of this dynamic in our lives? 3. Cole also taught about a concept of God, widely embraced in Western Christianity, which is easily used as a convenient tool of empire. This God is pure and cut off from creation, set above the concerns of ordinary life. In this theological paradigm, empire gets to control access to God and how God comes to us. This removed inaccessible God doles out peace the same way empire doles out peace, as a benevolent, fleeting gift for those who can earn or deserve it. In contrast, an authentically communal God, a trinity inseparable from relationality, births communities in which God's presence and peace come by way of common relationship & common life. As Cole said, “this God is a community, and participation in cruciform community is to be caught up in God.” This allows church to be about connection, rather than getting people to accept some idea, behavior, or message. Reflect on these ideas for a moment. How do you feel about the idea that our Western concept of God is very congruent with the empire in which we live and operate? How does that make you feel about your own history with different churches and with the versions of God shaped by those communities? How do you understand the idea that “participation in cruciform community is to be caught up in God?” Do you understand it? What questions do you have about that idea and what it looks like? What parts seem clearer? Where have you seen that in practice in your own experiences?

On today's episode of the Firebrand Podcast David, Scott and Maggie share some updates and discuss a rescent poll that shows the decline of Christianity in the West may be leveling off. In this episode: David F. Watson Scott Kisker Maggie Ulmer

Air Date 5/18/2025 The full quote from today's title is from one of the most celebrated writers of Southern American literature, William Faulkner, who said, "The past is never dead. It's not even past. All of us labor in webs spun long before we were born, webs of heredity and environment, of desire and consequence, of history and eternity.” The new film, Sinners, set in the Jim Crow South, attempts to take on some of the subjects that make up that web of history and consequence. The theme of today's episode is an attempt to dig into many of the subjects of the film. Be part of the show! Leave us a message or text at 202-999-3991 or email Jay@BestOfTheLeft.com Full Show Notes BestOfTheLeft.com/Support (Members Get Bonus Shows + No Ads!) Use our links to shop Bookshop.org and Libro.fm for a non-evil book and audiobook purchasing experience! Join our Discord community! KEY POINTS KP 1: Sinners: Director Ryan Coogler on His Latest Hit, Delta Blues, His Mississippi Roots & Vampires Part 1 - Democracy Now! - Air Date 4-25-25 KP 2: Sinners and the General State of Things - The Morbid Zoo - Air Date 5-10-25 KP 3: Western Christianity and White Supremacy Part 1 - Meant For This - Air Date 3-23-22 KP 4: How Do You Put A Price On America's Original Sin? - Consider This - Air Date 3-27-23 KP 5: Storm and Stress: Jim Crow America Part 1 - History is US - Air Date 6-5-22 KP 6: Trump's first 100 days, but it's just the racism - Garrison Hayes - Air Date 5-2-25 (48:29) NOTE FROM THE EDITOR On how to talk about the interplay between economics and identity politics DEEPER DIVES (57:48) SECTION A: CHRISTIANITY (1:33:29) SECTION B: RACE (2:18:56) SECTION C: CULTURE SHOW IMAGE CREDITS Description: Portion of the 1830s painting “Slave Market” (Brazil) depicting two white men discussing the sale of enslaved, black Brazilian men with a church with steeple and cross in the background and the iconography of the Virgin Mary on the wall above. Credit: “Slave Market” by Johann Moritz Rugendas, New York Public Library Digital Collections | Copyright status undetermined by NYPL | Changes: Cropped with increased contrast and brightness   Produced by Jay! Tomlinson Listen Anywhere! BestOfTheLeft.com/Listen Listen Anywhere!

It may seem crazy to compare fairy tales, which we know are old and made up, to something so true as the Bible, but that depends on what you mean by true. In Pageau's talk "Fairy Tales as the Music of the Spheres," he attempts to show us how there are patterns here that tell us something not just true, but about how the world actually works. Daniel uses this setting to explore how this way of thinking can affect how we view the scriptures, especially its opening pages. Watch the full talk here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nKJuKPB7WYg Follow us on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-belfast-podcast/id1472441982 Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1s3aaP3pUkQKBVXbsP8Y34?si=ca588a6165424c61 Instagram: @thebelfastpodcast Email: belfastpodcast@gmail.com The Belfast Podcast exists to help recapture the Christian imagination. Luke and Daniel see the trend of modernism doing no favors for a vibrant view of scripture. Our goal is to widen the field of vision for modern people reading the Bible as we grapple with its ancient context, literary beauty, and symbolic underpinnings. You may have been taught to read texts with an eye for their literary and symbolic structures in English courses in high school and/or college, but rarely is this taught to seminary students or lay Christians alike when it comes to the Bible. We want to keep this eye for symbolism, repetition, and structure as we investigate the Biblical canon, linking it to modern and old examples that are extemporaneous yet connected to aid in giving the broader field of vision mentioned earlier. Come along with us on our journey to reread your bible for the first time. We hope that through the words of those who have come before us, we can give Western Christianity its imagination back.

The Fellows continue their conversation about Lutheran identity. This time, they discuss the term "evangelical." Lutherans have used the term to describe themselves since the early Reformation. In recent times, confessional Lutherans have turned away from the term. Caleb, Scott, Adam, and Bruce discuss why the word is worth using and qualifying, even though it has come to gain new definitions in Western Christianity.  Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Preorder Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Scott Keith Adam Francisco Bruce Hilman  

Daniel continues his dive into the cultural context of Genesis, trying to understand the way that words and culture affect the transmission of meaning, with help from Tim Mackie and John Walton in an interview they did a few years ago. Listen to the Bible Project with Walton Here: https://bibleproject.com/podcast/genesis-1-2-origins-or-identity/ Follow us on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-belfast-podcast/id1472441982 Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1s3aaP3pUkQKBVXbsP8Y34?si=ca588a6165424c61 Instagram: @thebelfastpodcast Email: belfastpodcast@gmail.com The Belfast Podcast exists to help recapture the Christian imagination. Luke and Daniel see the trend of modernism doing no favors for a vibrant view of scripture. Our goal is to widen the field of vision for modern people reading the Bible as we grapple with its ancient context, literary beauty, and symbolic underpinnings. You may have been taught to read texts with an eye for their literary and symbolic structures in English courses in high school and/or college, but rarely is this taught to seminary students or lay Christians alike when it comes to the Bible. We want to keep this eye for symbolism, repetition, and structure as we investigate the Biblical canon, linking it to modern and old examples that are extemporaneous yet connected to aid in giving the broader field of vision mentioned earlier. Come along with us on our journey to reread your bible for the first time. We hope that through the words of those who have come before us, we can give Western Christianity its imagination back.

In part 1 of the conversation with Jocelyn Matthews, Daniel and her discuss the implications of AI for Christians and, more importantly, artists. Find Jocelyn's art here: https://www.jocelynmathewes.com 0:00-6:13- What have you been reading? 6:13-18:20- What is underneath AI? 18:20-What does AI mean for Christians and Artists? Follow us on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-belfast-podcast/id1472441982 Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1s3aaP3pUkQKBVXbsP8Y34?si=ca588a6165424c61 Instagram: @thebelfastpodcast Email: belfastpodcast@gmail.com The Belfast Podcast exists to help recapture the Christian imagination. Luke and Daniel see the trend of modernism doing no favors for a vibrant view of scripture. Our goal is to widen the field of vision for modern people reading the Bible as we grapple with its ancient context, literary beauty, and symbolic underpinnings. You may have been taught to read texts with an eye for their literary and symbolic structures in English courses in high school and/or college, but rarely is this taught to seminary students or lay Christians alike when it comes to the Bible. We want to keep this eye for symbolism, repetition, and structure as we investigate the Biblical canon, linking it to modern and old examples that are extemporaneous yet connected to aid in giving the broader field of vision mentioned earlier. Come along with us on our journey to reread your bible for the first time. We hope that through the words of those who have come before us, we can give Western Christianity its imagination back.

In episode 2 of Daniel's conversation with Jocelyn, they discuss how art changes our perception of the world and what can get in the way of our ability to have a great imagination. Find Jocelyn's art here: https://www.jocelynmathewes.com Follow us on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-belfast-podcast/id1472441982 Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1s3aaP3pUkQKBVXbsP8Y34?si=ca588a6165424c61 Instagram: @thebelfastpodcast Email: belfastpodcast@gmail.com The Belfast Podcast exists to help recapture the Christian imagination. Luke and Daniel see the trend of modernism doing no favors for a vibrant view of scripture. Our goal is to widen the field of vision for modern people reading the Bible as we grapple with its ancient context, literary beauty, and symbolic underpinnings. You may have been taught to read texts with an eye for their literary and symbolic structures in English courses in high school and/or college, but rarely is this taught to seminary students or lay Christians alike when it comes to the Bible. We want to keep this eye for symbolism, repetition, and structure as we investigate the Biblical canon, linking it to modern and old examples that are extemporaneous yet connected to aid in giving the broader field of vision mentioned earlier. Come along with us on our journey to reread your bible for the first time. We hope that through the words of those who have come before us, we can give Western Christianity its imagination back.

With some help from mythologist Martin Shaw, Daniel explores how mythology can tell the truth. It is easy to think that the truth is just what can be realized by our five senses, but what if this is just a symptom of our modern hallucination rather than a perception of reality? Follow us on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-belfast-podcast/id1472441982 Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1s3aaP3pUkQKBVXbsP8Y34?si=ca588a6165424c61 Instagram: @thebelfastpodcast Email: belfastpodcast@gmail.com The Belfast Podcast exists to help recapture the Christian imagination. Luke and Daniel see the trend of modernism doing no favors for a vibrant view of scripture. Our goal is to widen the field of vision for modern people reading the Bible as we grapple with its ancient context, literary beauty, and symbolic underpinnings. You may have been taught to read texts with an eye for their literary and symbolic structures in English courses in high school and/or college, but rarely is this taught to seminary students or lay Christians alike when it comes to the Bible. We want to keep this eye for symbolism, repetition, and structure as we investigate the Biblical canon, linking it to modern and old examples that are extemporaneous yet connected to aid in giving the broader field of vision mentioned earlier. Come along with us on our journey to reread your bible for the first time. We hope that through the words of those who have come before us, we can give Western Christianity its imagination back.

If you've ever thought, "Jordan Peterson just doesn't get it" when it comes to Christ and mythology, this is for you. Follow us on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-belfast-podcast/id1472441982 Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1s3aaP3pUkQKBVXbsP8Y34?si=ca588a6165424c61 Instagram: @thebelfastpodcast Email: belfastpodcast@gmail.com The Belfast Podcast exists to help recapture the Christian imagination. Luke and Daniel see the trend of modernism doing no favors for a vibrant view of scripture. Our goal is to widen the field of vision for modern people reading the Bible as we grapple with its ancient context, literary beauty, and symbolic underpinnings. You may have been taught to read texts with an eye for their literary and symbolic structures in English courses in high school and/or college, but rarely is this taught to seminary students or lay Christians alike when it comes to the Bible. We want to keep this eye for symbolism, repetition, and structure as we investigate the Biblical canon, linking it to modern and old examples that are extemporaneous yet connected to aid in giving the broader field of vision mentioned earlier. Come along with us on our journey to reread your bible for the first time. We hope that through the words of those who have come before us, we can give Western Christianity its imagination back.

In episode THREE HUNDRED AND TWENTY-TWO, Wade and Jason discuss Italy, its role in Western history and church history, its culture, and why we are so excited to be leading a trip there in March 2026. You can find out more about the trip here. The guys discuss all this and more. We hope you enjoy the episode! Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Celebrate 2,000 Episodes of Christian History Almanac! The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi More from the hosts Michael Berg @ 1517 Wade Johnston @ 1517 Let the Bird Fly! website Thanks for listening! Attributions for Music and Image used in this Episode: “The Last One” by Jahzzar is licensed under an Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 International License. “Gib laut” by Dirk Becker is licensed under an Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives (aka Music Sharing) 3.0 International License. “Whistling Down the Road” by Silent Partner. “Not Drunk” by The Joy Drops is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.

Dive deep with Ivan Roman as he challenges traditional Western Christian perspectives, revealing the transformative power of God's kingdom. Learn how salvation is more than fire insurance, and discover your role as a kingdom ambassador who can bring heaven's culture to earth right now. Get ready to shift from passive Christianity to an empowered, purposeful faith! Check out the video here Thank you for tuning in to the Empowered Living Podcast. Here are some different ways to connect with us- https://empoweredlifechurch.org https://www.facebook.com/ELCtalent https://www.instagram.com/elctalent/

In this episode of The Catholic Heritage Hour, Thomas considers rogations which are days of prayer and fasting in Western Christianity. L'articolo The Catholic Heritage Hour – Rogations proviene da Radio Maria.

Dr. Jacobs gives feedback on the recently viral Cliffe & Stuart Knechtle clip with an Orthodox college student. You'll get a rundown of some specific differences between Eastern and Western Christianity and why they can't be ignored in discussions like this. Specifically you'll hear about basic misunderstandings of grace and works. All the links: YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheNathanJacobsPodcastX: https://x.com/NathanJacobsPodSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0hSskUtCwDT40uFbqTk3QSApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nathan-jacobs-podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenathanjacobspodcastSubstack: https://nathanajacobs.substack.com/Website: https://www.nathanajacobs.com/Academia: https://vanderbilt.academia.edu/NathanAJacobs 

In this multifaceted and emotionally charged episode of Alphas Make Sandwiches, Ashe in America and Abbey Blue Eyes welcome back guest Kelly McCulloch for a long-awaited reunion that dives headfirst into faith, justice, and narrative warfare. The trio opens with a sharp breakdown of President Trump's rebranded COVID.gov site, now LabLeak.gov, and explore how the revamped language and imagery signal a narrative shift. They unpack the strategic framing of the COVID-19 origin story, the role of gain-of-function research, and Fauci's years of deceit. As Ashe and Abbey emphasize, this isn't just about retroactive blame, it's about setting the stage for justice. Kelly's Catholic faith brings depth to the second half of the show, as she reflects on the death of Pope Francis and the Vatican's long entanglement with corruption, Gladio networks, and spiritual disillusionment. Together, they examine the politicization of the Church, the failure of Western Christianity to defend the culture, and how Trump's war against globalism intersects with a potential shake-up in Rome. With honest laughs, personal testimony, and fiery conviction, this episode weaves together the sacred and the strategic, reminding us that spiritual courage and political clarity go hand in hand in the fight to reclaim truth.

pWotD Episode 2908: Good Friday Welcome to Popular Wiki of the Day, spotlighting Wikipedia's most visited pages, giving you a peek into what the world is curious about today.With 466,574 views on Friday, 18 April 2025 our article of the day is Good Friday.Good Friday, also known as Holy Friday, Great Friday, Great and Holy Friday, or Friday of the Passion of the Lord, is a solemn Christian holy day commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus and his death at Calvary (Golgotha). It is observed during Holy Week as part of the Paschal Triduum.Members of many Christian denominations, including the Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Lutheran, Anglican, Methodist, Oriental Orthodox, United Protestant and some Reformed traditions (including certain Continental Reformed, Presbyterian and Congregationalist churches), observe Good Friday with fasting and church services. In many Catholic, Lutheran, Anglican and Methodist churches, the Service of the Great Three Hours' Agony is held from noon until 3 p.m.—the hours the Bible records darkness covering the land until Jesus' death on the cross. In the Catholic, Lutheran and Anglican traditions of Christianity, the Stations of the Cross are prayed in the evening of Good Friday, as with other Fridays of Lent. Communicants of the Moravian Church have a Good Friday tradition of cleaning gravestones in Moravian cemeteries.The date of Good Friday varies from one year to the next in both the Gregorian and Julian calendars. Eastern and Western Christianity disagree over the computation of the date of Easter and therefore of Good Friday. Good Friday is a widely instituted legal holiday around the world. Some predominantly Christian countries, such as Germany, have laws prohibiting certain acts—public dancing, horse racing—in remembrance of the sombre nature of Good Friday.This recording reflects the Wikipedia text as of 03:01 UTC on Saturday, 19 April 2025.For the full current version of the article, see Good Friday on Wikipedia.This podcast uses content from Wikipedia under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License.Visit our archives at wikioftheday.com and subscribe to stay updated on new episodes.Follow us on Mastodon at @wikioftheday@masto.ai.Also check out Curmudgeon's Corner, a current events podcast.Until next time, I'm neural Emma.

In this session, biblical scholar John Dominic Crossan explores his proposal to reconstruct Easter, focusing on Paul's understanding of "the mystery of God." Crossan argues that this mystery refers to how God allowed Jesus, as Messiah, to be executed by Roman civilization to reveal its inherent injustice, while simultaneously vindicating Jesus through resurrection to reveal the justice of creation. He proposes that historically, the earliest interpretations of Jesus's exaltation were likely focused on individual ascension rather than resurrection, and that it was Paul who transformed this understanding into universal resurrection as an in-time process rather than merely an end-time event. Crossan contrasts Western Christianity's individual resurrection imagery with Eastern Christianity's universal resurrection imagery, arguing that the Eastern tradition is more faithful to Paul's original vision. He concludes by suggesting that Paul's cosmic justice concept serves as a metaphor for humanity's evolutionary challenge of sustainability, and proposes that both theists and atheists should focus on cosmic evolution rather than debating God's existence. You can WATCH the conversation on YouTube To access all 5 of Crossan's lectures, submit questions, and join future live streams, head here to join the class. John Dominic Crossan, professor emeritus at DePaul University, is widely regarded as the foremost historical Jesus scholar of our time. Previous Podcast Episodes with Dom & Tripp Paul, Josephus, & the Challenge of Nonviolent Resistance Paul, Rome, & the Violent Normalcy of Civilization Paul & the Fictional History of Luke-Acts Paul & Thecla Ask JC Anything Diana Butler Bass & John Dominic Crossan: The Resurrection of Jesus Brian McLaren & John Dominic Crossan: The Message of Jesus & the Judgement of Civilization Brian Zahnd & John Dominic Crossan: God, Violence, Empire, & Salvation Why the Biblical Paul is Awesome Christian Resurrection & Human Evolution The Cross & the Crisis of Civilization The Coming Kingdom & the Risen Christ The Parables of Jesus & the Parable of God How to think about Jesus like a Historian the Last Week of Jesus' Life Jesus, Paul, & Bible Questions Saving the Biblical Christmas Stories the most important discovery for understanding Jesus The Bible, Violence, & Our Future Resurrecting Easter on the First Christmas   From Jesus' Parables to Parables of God  Render Unto Caesar on God & Empire Join Dom Crossan at ...Theology Beer Camp | St. Paul, MN | October 16-18, 2025 3 Days of Craft Nerdiness with 50+ Theologians & God-Pods and 600 new friends. ONLINE CLASS ANNOUNCEMENT: The Many Faces of Christ Today The question Jesus asked his disciples still resonates today: "Who do you say that I am?" Join our transformative 5-week online learning community as we explore a rich tapestry of contemporary Christologies. Experience how diverse theological voices create a compelling vision of Jesus Christ for today's world. Expand your spiritual horizons. Challenge your assumptions. Enrich your faith. As always, the class is donation-based (including 0), so head over to ManyFacesOfChrist.com for more details and to sign up! _____________________ Hang with 40+ Scholars & Podcasts and 600 people at Theology Beer Camp 2025 (Oct. 16-18) in St. Paul, MN. This podcast is a Homebrewed Christianity production. Follow the Homebrewed Christianity, Theology Nerd Throwdown, & The Rise of Bonhoeffer podcasts for more theological goodness for your earbuds. Join over 80,000 other people by joining our Substack - Process This! Get instant access to over 45 classes at www.TheologyClass.com Follow the podcast, drop a review, send feedback/questions or become a member of the HBC Community. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the Sunday before Easter is the Christian moveable feast of Palm Sunday that commemorates Christ's triumphal entry into Jerusalem, an event mentioned in each of the four canonical Gospels. Its name originates from the palm branches waved by the crowd to greet and honor Jesus of Nazareth as he entered the city. Palm Sunday marks the first day of Holy Week and the beginning of the last week of the solemn season of Lent, preceding Eastertide in Western Christianity. Keith Nester books available at https://amzn.to/4hmQylq Gospel of Matthew available at https://amzn.to/3LEeP8F Historical Jesus books available at https://amzn.to/43rnYbq ENJOY Ad-Free content, Bonus episodes, and Extra materials when joining our growing community on https://patreon.com/markvinet SUPPORT this channel by purchasing any product on Amazon using this FREE entry LINK https://amzn.to/3POlrUD (Amazon gives us credit at NO extra charge to you). Mark Vinet's HISTORY OF NORTH AMERICA podcast: www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-of-north-america Mark's TIMELINE Video channel: https://youtube.com/c/TIMELINE_MarkVinet Website: https://markvinet.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.vinet.9 Twitter: https://twitter.com/HistoricalJesu Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denarynovels Mark's books: https://amzn.to/3k8qrGM Audio credit: Unpacking the Mass podcast with Keith Nester, (30mar2023, Palm Sunday). Audio excerpts reproduced under the Fair Use (Fair Dealings) Legal Doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, teaching, education, scholarship, research and news reporting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's episode Tom introduces Saint Anselm, one of the most influential Western theologians whose impact remains significant on Western Christianity in particular. The pugs discussion of this founding teacher of scholastic Christianity lead into some of the riches of Christian history and theology, as well as into such fascinating territories of faith and reason, the ontological proof of God in particular, and the nature of the atonement. The relevance of the Saint for engaging our times is also discussed from many important angles. Support the Pugcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thetheologypugcast?fbclid=IwAR17UHhfzjphO52C_kkZfursA_C784t0ldFix0wyB4fd-YOJpmOQ3dyqGf8

On today's episode Tom introduces Saint Anselm, one of the most influential Western theologians whose impact remains significant on Western Christianity in particular. The pugs discussion of this founding teacher of scholastic Christianity lead into some of the riches of Christian history and theology, as well as into such fascinating territories of faith and reason, the ontological proof of God in particular, and the nature of the atonement. The relevance of the Saint for engaging our times is also discussed from many important angles.Support the Pugcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thetheologypugcast?fbclid=IwAR17UHhfzjphO52C_kkZfursA_C784t0ldFix0wyB4fd-YOJpmOQ3dyqGf8

Western Christianity often approaches artificial intelligence with anxiety rooted in dualistic thinking that separates the spiritual from the material, human from machine. Non-dualistic elements within Christian traditions, particularly Ignatian spirituality, offer a more integrated vision that can help us engage with AI as a potential extension of divine creativity rather than a threat to human uniqueness.

On today's episode Tom introduces Saint Anselm, one of the most influential Western theologians whose impact remains significant on Western Christianity in particular. The pugs discussion of this founding teacher of scholastic Christianity lead into some of the riches of Christian history and theology, as well as into such fascinating territories of faith and reason, the ontological proof of God in particular, and the nature of the atonement. The relevance of the Saint for engaging our times is also discussed from many important angles. Support the Pugcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thetheologypugcast?fbclid=IwAR17UHhfzjphO52C_kkZfursA_C784t0ldFix0wyB4fd-YOJpmOQ3dyqGf8

Send us a textWe explore the stark difference between having a relationship with a church versus a relationship with Christ, highlighting how true discipleship happens through authentic relationships rather than religious rituals.• Christians are commissioned to make disciples, not just church attendees• The Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20) gives believers clear direction to baptize and teach others• Many Christians develop a genuine passion for souls only after years of spiritual growth• Effective discipleship requires consistency between our words and actions• The "soft gospel" of Western Christianity contrasts with the persecution faced by believers in other countries• True discipleship follows Jesus' example of compassion rather than harsh judgment• We must view others as souls in need of salvation, not just people to be converted• Building relationships is essential for effective discipleship—people won't listen if they don't feel connected• The Word of God—not our arguments—is what actually convicts people of truthOur challenge to you: Look at people as souls rather than just individuals, and ask yourself if your words and actions align in a way that draws others to Christ. Support the showSocial Media/Follow Us: Website:https://www.calledbygodpodcast.com/IG: https://www.instagram.com/cbg.podcast/Twitter: https://twitter.com/CalledbyGodPodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@calledbygodpodcast

On today's episode Tom introduces Saint Anselm, one of the most influential Western theologians whose impact remains significant on Western Christianity in particular. The pugs discussion of this founding teacher of scholastic Christianity lead into some of the riches of Christian history and theology, as well as into such fascinating territories of faith and reason, the ontological proof of God in particular, and the nature of the atonement. The relevance of the Saint for engaging our times is also discussed from many important angles. Support the Pugcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thetheologypugcast?fbclid=IwAR17UHhfzjphO52C_kkZfursA_C784t0ldFix0wyB4fd-YOJpmOQ3dyqGf8

April 2 2025The discussion focused on the latter chapters of the Book of Acts, highlighting Paul's journey to Jerusalem despite repeated warnings of persecution. ​ Paul's unwavering commitment to the gospel, even at great personal cost, was emphasized as a model of faithfulness. Will Dyer contrasted modern Western Christianity's focus on prosperity with Paul's willingness to suffer for his mission. Key themes included the challenges of proclaiming the gospel in a changing cultural landscape, the importance of embracing God's timing, and the need for churches to avoid inward-focused preservation and instead boldly embrace God's movement. The session also touched on Paul's interactions with Jewish and Roman authorities, his imprisonment in Caesarea, and his proclamation of the resurrection as the foundation of Christian hope. Will Dyer encouraged the audience to reflect on their own faithfulness and passion for the gospel.

Much of Western Christianity places a high focus on orthodoxy (right beliefs) and will even explore orthopraxy (actions/behaviors). What about our passions, desires, and fires within (orthopathy)? These realities within our souls can lead us into all kinds of bondage and create pain for ourselves and our neighbors, but the love of God is always inviting them back home into his refuge and care. This allows our passions and desires to be shaped in right ways for our own healing and that of the world.Scriptures: Psalm 32:1-7, Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32 

In episode 90 of the Eyes on Jesus Podcast, we sit down with Gary Wilkerson, speaker, author, and president of World Challenge, for an eye-opening conversation on faith, ministry, and seeing Jesus in a new way. Gary shares powerful insights on what's missing in Western Christianity, the struggles and victories he's experienced in his own family, and the urgent call to serve the marginalized. We also explore the themes of his latest book, The Jaw-Dropping Beauty of Jesus, and how a clearer view of Christ can radically transform our faith. Whether you're wrestling with personal challenges, seeking deeper purpose, or longing to encounter Jesus afresh, this episode will challenge and encourage you!Key Questions to Consider:What if we've been missing a core aspect of true Christianity all along?How do we balance personal ambition with Jesus' call to care for the orphan and widow?Have you ever felt like your faith has become routine? What would it take to reignite your awe of Jesus?How does God bring redemption even in the most broken family situations?What does it mean to not just believe in Jesus but to truly see His beauty?Be sure to connect with Gary Wilkerson at https://www.worldchallenge.org/Get the most comfortable shirts we've ever worn with powerful Christian messages! And support the show! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kingdomandwill.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code: EYESONJESUS for 15% off Get all our links in one easy place! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/eyesonjesuspodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our Group on Facebook- Eyes on Jesus podcast community ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/eyesonjesuspodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Email feedback, questions or show topic ideas to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠eyesonjesuspodcast@outlook.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠For more information on Drew Barker: Follow Drew on ⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/pastordrewbarker⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Drew's church's website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://yes.online/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠For more information on Tim Ferrara: ⁠ ⁠ Get all his links in one place- to his social media, all 3 of his books, and more ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/discerning_dad⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠00:00 Introduction 01:36 Gary Wilkerson's Personal Journey02:40 Miracles and Family Struggles04:25 Legacy of David Wilkerson06:25 Challenges in Pastoral Ministry12:42 Baptism of Love and Ministry20:21 The Jaw Dropping Beauty of Jesus23:16 Eras of Ministry: From Traditional to Modern23:38 A New Generation's Quest for Authentic Faith24:15 The Hunger for Biblical Understanding25:24 The Shift Away from Superficial Worship26:22 Revival and the Youth's Search for Realness29:20 The Power of Preaching: Insights and Inspirations31:33 Honing the Craft of Preaching34:44 World Challenge: A Mission to Serve35:40 The Call to Pure Religion37:55 Revival and the Heart of Giving43:37 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

As Daniel starts his set of videos on Genesis, he picks up where we have left off, going over, more in-depth, things we have talked about before-the cultural context of Genesis. With help from Tim Mackie and John Walton in an interview, they did a few years ago. Listen to the Bible Project with Walton Here: https://bibleproject.com/podcast/genesis-1-2-origins-or-identity/ Follow us on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-belfast-podcast/id1472441982 Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1s3aaP3pUkQKBVXbsP8Y34?si=ca588a6165424c61 Instagram: @thebelfastpodcast Email: belfastpodcast@gmail.com The Belfast Podcast exists to help recapture the Christian imagination. Luke and Daniel see the trend of modernism doing no favors for a vibrant view of scripture. Our goal is to widen the field of vision for modern people reading the Bible as we grapple with its ancient context, literary beauty, and symbolic underpinnings. You may have been taught to read texts with an eye for their literary and symbolic structures in English courses in high school and/or college, but rarely is this taught to seminary students or lay Christians alike when it comes to the Bible. We want to keep this eye for symbolism, repetition, and structure as we investigate the Biblical canon, linking it to modern and old examples that are extemporaneous yet connected to aid in giving the broader field of vision mentioned earlier. Come along with us on our journey to reread your bible for the first time. We hope that through the words of those who have come before us, we can give Western Christianity its imagination back.

In this compelling episode of Bleeding Daylight, Rodney Olsen speaks with Kari Hunnicutt, a passionate advocate for international missions and author of "Dormant Faith." Kari shares her transformative journey from simply sponsoring a child to becoming deeply involved with Christian education in Senegal through Go On The Mission. Her experiences witnessing persecuted believers' unwavering commitment contrasted sharply with Western Christianity's struggles to move beyond passive church attendance.   Kari challenges listeners to examine their own spiritual lives, discussing how modern distractions create what one Iranian believer called a "satanic lullaby" that dulls Western Christians' spiritual senses. Through personal stories of witnessing the Holy Spirit's power in remote African villages and her own family's busy life balancing four children and multiple passions, Kari offers practical insights for keeping faith active and responsive to God's invitations in our hectic world.   WEBLINKS Devoted Explorer Dormant Faith (Book) Go On the Mission

Recently, the 'sin of empathy' has taken hold of some extreme parts of Western Christianity, and has fed into the rise of Christian Nationalism. What is it, and why is it so damaging?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tertullian, a significant figure in early Western Christianity, is examined for his pivotal role in shaping theological language and defending Christian doctrines. His life, from his Roman upbringing and conversion to Christianity, is explored, highlighting his contributions to Trinitarian and Christological thought. The text also investigates his polemical writings against heresy and his unique perspectives on sacraments and ecclesiology. His later embrace of Montanism, which led to conflict with the mainstream church, is scrutinized. Ultimately, the text assesses Tertullian's complex and enduring legacy, recognizing his lasting influence on Christian thought despite his controversial views and schismatic tendencies. for more in depth video teachings check our online courses: www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

There's something profoundly liberating about peeling back the layers of history and finding the raw, untamed wisdom beneath. On today's episode, we welcome Neil Douglas Klotz, a scholar and mystic whose journey into the Aramaic roots of Jesus's teachings unveils a radically different understanding of the man, his message, and the world he lived in.The Jesus many of us have encountered is a product of centuries of translation, political maneuvering, and cultural adaptation. The blue-eyed, English-speaking figure who stands at the center of Western Christianity is a far cry from the Aramaic-speaking mystic who roamed the hills of ancient Palestine. Neil Douglas Klotz takes us back to the beginning, to the words that Jesus actually spoke, words that vibrate with an entirely different rhythm than those found in the King James Bible. “If you read ‘spirit' in the New Testament,” he says, “just put ‘breath' over that word, because that's what the Aramaic also means.”It is in this forgotten wisdom that we find a Jesus who wasn't simply demanding belief but rather inviting participation.One of the most profound mistranslations, according to Klotz, is the oft-quoted phrase “believe in me.” In Aramaic, the more accurate translation is “believe like me.” This shifts the message entirely—Jesus wasn't asking for blind devotion but instead urging people to embody faith in the way he did, to step into the divine flow as he had.The Aramaic worldview, Klotz explains, did not divide existence into rigid dualities. There was no separation between body and soul, breath and spirit, heaven and earth. The kingdom of heaven, Jesus said, is not some far-off celestial domain but something “within and among” us. The words for “within” and “among” are the same in Aramaic—suggesting that the divine is not a place to go but a way to be, something alive in the interconnected web of existence.And what of hell? Another grand misunderstanding, says Klotz. Jesus never spoke of a fiery pit of eternal torment but rather referred to Gehenna, a literal burning trash heap outside of Jerusalem. The idea of an eternal damnation was a much later addition, a political tool used to control through fear. The Jesus of Aramaic tradition wasn't threatening souls with punishment—he was urging people to purify their burdens, to release what weighs them down, to transform their suffering rather than be consumed by it.Even the crucifixion, Klotz suggests, is layered in mystery and translation errors. The idea of Jesus returning, he argues, is not about a second coming in the clouds but rather about a recognition of Christ's presence in one another. “We will see Jesus in each other and in nature,” he says. “That's the Second Coming.” Perhaps the greatest tragedy of organized religion has been its insistence on externalizing the divine, when all along Jesus was saying: It's here, now, inside you.SPIRITUAL TAKEAWAYSBreath is Spirit – In Aramaic, the word for spirit and breath are the same. Every inhale and exhale connects us to something greater, a reminder that we are not separate from the divine but are continuously part of its unfolding.Faith is Participation, Not Belief – Jesus didn't ask people to believe in him; he asked them to embody faith as he did. It's about stepping into a way of being rather than subscribing to a doctrine.Heaven is Within and Among Us – The kingdom of heaven is not a distant place but a lived experience, something we create through our relationships, actions, and awareness.It's a wild thing, to realize how much has been hidden in plain sight. The Aramaic Jesus is not a figure of power and punishment, but a guide toward deep presence, compassion, and awakening. It is in the breath, in the heart, in the connection between beings that his true teachings still whisper through time.Please enjoy my conversation with Neil Douglas Klotz.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/next-level-soul-podcast-with-alex-ferrari--4858435/support.

https://www.theosisbooks.net/https://www.innerworkforspiritualawakening.net/"Wisdom and Practices of the Ancient Faith" is on Amazon, Kindle, Aubible.

Full Text of ReadingsFriday of the Fourth Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 327The Saint of the day is Saint ColetteSaint Colette's Story Colette did not seek the limelight, but in doing God's will she certainly attracted a lot of attention. Colette was born in Corbie, France. At 21, she began to follow the Third Order Rule and became an anchoress, a woman walled into a room whose only opening was a window into a church. After four years of prayer and penance in this cell, she left it. With the approval and encouragement of the pope, she joined the Poor Clares and reintroduced the primitive Rule of St. Clare in the 17 monasteries she established. Her sisters were known for their poverty—they rejected any fixed income—and for their perpetual fast. Colette's reform movement spread to other countries and is still thriving today. Colette was canonized in 1807. Her liturgical feast is celebrated on March 6. Reflection Colette began her reform during the time of the Great Western Schism (1378-1417) when three men claimed to be pope and thus divided Western Christianity. The 15th century in general was a very difficult one for the Western Church. Abuses long neglected cost the Church dearly in the following century. Colette's reform indicated the entire Church's need to follow Christ more closely. Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Today on the Believe Big podcast, Dr. Rob Reimer returns to talk about his new book, Authentic, which explores the connection between addressing our soul's issues and deepening our intimacy with God. Rob shares how unresolved wounds, bitterness, and spiritual barriers can block the flow of the Holy Spirit, and encourages us to seek healing for a fuller relationship with God. He also challenges the knowledge-driven approach of Western Christianity, urging us to focus on meaningful spiritual practices that actually transform our lives rather than mere rituals or habits. With thought-provoking insights, he emphasizes asking better questions, like whether our faith practices are genuinely working, rather than simply whether we're checking them off of our daily to-do list. Today's conversation offers a fresh perspective on discipleship, and encourages you to pursue authenticity and freedom in your spiritual journey.  Join us for an empowering discussion that will help you strengthen your connection with God.Learn more about Dr. Rob Reimer:https://renewalinternational.org/rob-reimerSuggested Resources:BOOK:  Authentic: Cultivating Authentic Relationship with God – Dr. Rob ReimerBOOK:  Soul Care, by Dr. Rob ReimerRenewal International (home page)Dr. Reimer's recorded sermonsYour donations power our podcast's mission to support cancer patients with hope, insights, and resources. Every contribution fuels our ability to uplift and empower. Join us in making a lasting impact. Donate now!

Episode Summary:Dr. Rachel Wheeler joins me today on Holy Heretics to discuss ecospirituality and the practice of rewilding both our life and faith.Let's be honest, Christians have a horrendous relationship with the natural world, best understood through a combination of harmful historical, theological, and cultural influences. Growing up evangelical meant believing the world was bad and, as a result, ecological well-being and the health of the planet were seen as secondary or unimportant compared to “getting saved.” In addition, an overt emphasis on the afterlife as well as a history of colonialism has often led to a devaluation of our earthly home.From a theological perspective, one of the most influential ideas shaping Christian attitudes toward nature is the concept of dominion described in Genesis 1:28, where humans are given authority over the Earth and its creatures. Historically, this idea was interpreted as humans being granted the right to exercise control over nature and exploit its resources. Western Christianity interpreted "dominion" not merely as stewardship but as mastery or ownership over creation. This led to an anthropocentric (human-centered) worldview, where human needs and human desires were placed above the health of ecosystems and non-human creatures.Thankfully, we are evolving.Ecospirituality has gained significant attention and popularity in the modern world due to a convergence of ecological, spiritual, political, and social challenges. It refers to a spiritual perspective that recognizes the interconnectedness of all life and emphasizes the sacredness of the natural world. It involves an awareness of the Earth's ecosystems, the understanding that human beings are part of a larger web of life, and the recognition that spiritual growth is inherently tied to the health and well-being of the planet.Ecospirituality often incorporates elements from various spiritual traditions, including indigenous wisdom, pantheism, animism, Buddhism, and environmental ethics. It seeks to address the environmental crises through spiritual practices, such as reverence for nature, rewilding, meditation, forest bathing, and radical kinship with all sentient beings.This rising interest reflects a growing recognition that environmental issues cannot be addressed solely through scientific or political means, but also require a profound shift in our worldview, values, and spirituality.So, where do you start? How can you change your relationship with the natural world as an integral part of your faith journey?Dr. Rachel Wheeler invites us to see ourselves and the world around us in radically new, yet ancient ways. Drawing from the deep wisdom of the Desert Mothers and Fathers, Dr. Wheeler reminds us that we humans aren't separate and distinct from creation, but in fact we are mutually dependent. While still emphasizing our human responsibility to steward the Earth and its resources, Dr. Wheeler sees human beings not as masters but caretakers and co-creators with nature. Her book, Radical Kinship: A Christian Ecospirituality, is available now!Bio:Professor Rachel Wheeler teaches courses on the Bible, Christian spirituality, ecospirituality, and spiritual practices at the University of Portland. She earned a PhD in Christian Spirituality from the Graduate Theological Union Berkeley and her other degrees reflect interests in monastic studies, literature, and music. She is particularly interested in the so-called desert Christians who lived in Egyptian, Palestinian, and Syrian deserts during late antiquity and her first book, Desert Daughters, Desert Sons: Rethinking the Christian Desert Tradition, offers a feminist critique of these Christians' practices. She is also interested in how people interpret their pro-environmental behavior as spiritual. An enthusiastic knitter and cyclist, she enjoys very much living in Portland, Oregon, with her spouse and two cats.Please follow us on social media (use the buttons below) and help us get the word out! (Also, please don't hesitate to use any of these channels or email to contact us with any questions, concerns, or feedback.)If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and a review, or share on your socials

This week we share a “For the Journey” conversation between Bill Haley (Coracle Executive Director) and Mariah Humphries (Executive Director for The Center for Formation, Justice and Peace). Their conversation focuses on Native American spirituality and the role of divine revelation in North America prior to the arrival of Christianity. As we hope you'll discover, there are many ways Native American spirituality can re-attune and instruct our Western forms of Christianity.Explore the conference co-hosted by Coracle and CFJP: "Do You Want to Be Well? Diagnosis, Treatment, and Healing for the Church in America"inthecoracle.org  |  @inthecoracleSupport the show

In this long-form discussion, Daniel and I walk through ways of seeing and ways of being, our mission for this podcast. Follow us on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-belfast-podcast/id1472441982 Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1s3aaP3pUkQKBVXbsP8Y34?si=ca588a6165424c61 Instagram: @thebelfastpodcast Email: belfastpodcast@gmail.com The Belfast Podcast exists to help recapture the Christian imagination. Luke and Daniel see the trend of modernism doing no favors for a vibrant view of scripture. Our goal is to widen the field of vision for modern people reading the Bible as we grapple with its ancient context, literary beauty, and symbolic underpinnings. You may have been taught to read texts with an eye for their literary and symbolic structures in English courses in high school and/or college, but rarely is this taught to seminary students or lay Christians alike when it comes to the Bible. We want to keep this eye for symbolism, repetition, and structure as we investigate the Biblical canon, linking it to modern and old examples that are extemporaneous yet connected to aid in giving the broader field of vision mentioned earlier. Come along with us on our journey to reread your bible for the first time. We hope that through the words of those who have come before us, we can give Western Christianity its imagination back.

Homeschooling is no panacea, and exceptional challenges are present here and there. . . but homeschooling still introduces the most positive news in Western Christianity — when it comes to generational faith. Another comprehensive study just released confirms that homeschooling is two times to four times more effective than Christian schools for "passing on the faith. Here we review these outstanding comparisons between homeschooling and Catholic and Protestant schools. The Cardus study confirms the initial results we obtained with the Gen-2 study done ten years ago.This program includes:1. The World View in 5 Minutes with Adam McManus (Scripture-engaged people gave $2,000 on average in 2023, Violence against Mexican Catholics and Evangelicals rises, California forced to allow pastor to evangelize in public)2. Generations with Kevin Swanson

Friends, “fools rush in where angels fear to tread”—and this week, I am going to go once more into the issue of faith and works, which has been dividing Western Christianity since the Reformation. Our second reading from the Letter of James is a key text on this issue, and its metaphor of healing—together with Paul's forensic metaphor—orient us to the Catholic view of justification.