Theology in the Raw

Pastor Efrem Smith is an internationally recognized leader who uses motivational speaking and preaching to equip people for a life of transformation. He consults on issues of multi-ethnicity, leadership, and community development. Efrem is the former president and CEO of World Impact: an urban mission, church planting and leadership-development organization. He’s the author of several books, including his latest, “Killing Us Softly.” Efrem is a graduate of Saint John’s University and Luther Theological Seminary, and received an honorary doctor of ministry degree from Ashland Theological Seminary, and most recently earned his Doctor of Ministry degree in Church Leadership and Reconciliation Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary. Efrem's latest book is The Post-Black and Post-White Church: Becoming the Beloved Community in a Multi-Ethnic World. In this podcast conversation, we talk about how 2020 opened up many important race conversations and how the church dealt with--and continues to deal with (or not deal with)--those important conversations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Max Lucado is a pastor, speaker, and author of more than 40 books that have sold over 140 million copies. Most of all, Max is a humble Christian leader who's built his legacy on being addicted to grace. His latest book God Never Gives Up On You: What Jacob's Story Teaches Us About Grace, Mercy, and God's Relentless Love releases Sept. 12th and forms the background for our conversation about God's scandalous grace. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Carol Tanksley practiced medicine as an OB-Gyn physician and Reproductive Endocrinologist for over 29 years. While continuing to practice medicine, I also obtained an M.Div. (Master of Divinity), and then a D.Min. (Doctor of Ministry) from Oral Roberts University, focusing on Christian leadership. She’s an author of several books that focus on mental, physical, and sexual health from a Christian perspective. In this episode, we talk about the challenges facing Christian women in the wake of purity culture. We talk about shame, body positivity, challenges to female sexual satisfaction and desire, Christian marriages, lust, modesty and clothing, menopause, and many other topics related to female sexual health: To learn more, visit https://www.drcarolministries.com/about/ TITR merch: https://form.jotform.com/232197346089162 Noonday: https://chrissprinkle.noondaycollection.com/onlinetrunkshow/?cl=61E75885-36AD-4960-A4D6-E7575EA172FE&onlinetrunkshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

00:00 Introduction 0:48 What’s the best definition you have for blasphemy of the Holy Spirit? 4:26 What was the Most compelling part of your interview with Rick Warren? 11:14 Are we certain as Rick Warren claimed that women Christians did teach or preach at Pentecost? 11:53 What are your thoughts about MLK jrs history with adulteries and why it isn't talked about more given todays metoo movement especially in the church. 16:52 Were there examples of female leadership in churches in the second and third century? 22:44 Church services often feel like a weekly event or performance and like the main way of being part of a church. How do we practically move away from this? 33:38 Might all be vegetarian in the New Heaven and New earth because creation will be restored and death will be defeated? 37:10 I just found out my wife is pregnant. Any advice for a new dad? 41:13 It's clear that sex within marriage should stay within that marriage, but where in the Bible does it say that sex before marriage is wrong? 44:52 What are your thoughts on Christians watching movies with some nudity (e.g. Oppenheimer)? Is just looking away enough or do you think they should be avoided? 48:09 I’ve heard people use the phrase “spiritual covering” in reference to pastors/churches and husbands/families. Not sure what that means or the Biblical basis. 49:13 I'm leading a small discipleship group of students at a Christian HS. Where do I start with conversations around sexuality and gender? 53:16 How strongly have you and your family considered joining a house/micro church network, and why have you not so far? 57:10 What are your thoughts on “aliens” with recent disclosures in the media and from “Babylon”? How should the Church and Christian’s be thinking about these beings 1:00:28 How do I know what is a spiritual gift versus more traits and skills related to personality type, education, or job/volunteer experience? 1:01:56 Why did the Church decide that only believers are welcome at God’s table? The feeding of the 5,000 uses similar Greek to the LS passages. Isaiah 55 - everyone? 1:04:57 Rapid fire responses… 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 My Facebook public page: https://www.facebook.com/Preston-Sprinkle-1528559390808046/?pnref=story My Facebook private page: https://www.facebook.com/preston.sprinkle.7 Twitter: @PrestonSprinkle Instagram: preston.sprinkle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Pastor Léonce B. Crump Jr. is an author, international speaker, and co-founder—along with his wife Breanna—of Renovation Church in Atlanta. Before committing his life to pastoral ministry, and civil rights activism, Léonce was a collegiate All American in wrestling, nearly made the World Team in wrestling and a professional football player. He has been in ordained ministry for nearly 20 years and holds multiple graduate degrees. He and Breanna reside in Atlanta with their three daughters and son. Leonce is the author of the recently released: The Resilience Factor, which forms the basis for our conversation. We talk about leadership, self-censorship, the low view that people have of leaders, abuse of power in the church and how to still be a leader in the midst of all the accusations, and the pros and cons of highlighting leadership failures in the church and what this does for leaders who are not narcissistic, power mongering, domineering men who cover up abuse in order to save face and keep their positions of power. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Branson Parler (Ph.D., Calvin Theological Seminary) is Director of Theological Education and Professor of Theology at The Foundryin Grand Rapids, Michigan and a pastor, author, and speaker. He teaches and writes on a wide variety of topics in theology, philosophy, and biblical studies. He serves on the collaborative leadership team for The Center for Faith, Sexuality, and Gender and as Director of Faith Formation at Fourth Reformed Church in Grand Rapids. In this conversation, we talk about Branson’s latest book: Every Body’s Story: 6 Myths About Sex and the Gospel Truth about Marriage and Singleness. Learn more about Branson from his website: http://www.bransonparler.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. John Hammett is the John L. Dagg Senior Professor of Systematic Theology at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, where he has taught since 1995. Dr. Katie McCoy serves as director of Women’s Ministry at Texas Baptists (Baptist General Convention of Texas). She holds a Ph.D. from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, where she previously served on faculty. Katie and John are co-authors of the book Humanity (releases Sept. 1, 2023) with B&H Academic. Dr. Marc Cortez is a professor of Theology at Wheaton college and an expert on the topic of theological anthropology, which is the topic that we discuss in this conversation. We begin by talking about what theological anthropology is, why it’s important, and then we interact with why theological anthropology is important for understanding philosophical and theological issues related to transgender identities and questions related to AI. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. W. Lee Warren, M.D. is a brain surgeon, inventor, Iraq War veteran, and author of several books including his recently released Hope Is the First Dose: A Treatment Plan for Recovering from Trauma, Tragedy, and Other Massive Things. Dr. Warren practices neurosurgery at Great Plains Health and loves to make connections between faith, science, and the realities of life. In this conversation, Lee and I talk about the brain, how the brain responds to trauma, how to recover from trauma in a healthy way, a theology of suffering, the relationship between our limbic system and our prefrontal cortex, and other things related to the brain, body, and the trials of life. Learn more about Lee from his website: https://wleewarrenmd.com If you would like to support Theology in the Raw, please visit patreon.com/theologyintheraw for more information! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Rick Warren is a pastor, author, speaker, and the executive director of "Finishing the Task"--a global network that exists to convene and to catalyze the global body of Christ towards the goal of ensuring that everyone, everywhere has access to a Bible, Believer and Body of Christ. In this podcast conversation, Rick explains why he shifted his view on women pastors and why he thinks the SBC was wrong to kick Saddleback church out of the denomination. Support Theology in the Raw through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theologyintheraw Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Josh smith is a pastor, author, and scholar who specializes in a theology of robotics and technology. He holds a Ph.D. in theology from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and is the autohr of three books including his most recent book: Violent Tech: A Philosophical and Theological Reflection. In this conversation, we talk about all things related to AI. Will it kill us all? Or improve our humanity (including our sermons)? Or will it be a complex bland of both. Josh is somewhat hopeful about the future of AI, but is also realistic about how it can be easlily abused if we don't regulate it carefully. Learn more about Josh from his website: https://www.joshuaksmith.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This is an episode hosted and produced by the Ruslan's Bless God Podcast Original Aired Date: 7/16/23 Almost a decade into his career, San Diego-based rapper Ruslan is Christian hip hop’s jack of all trades. When he isn’t writing and producing original music, he develops compelling content on Youtube, mentors up-and-coming artists, and runs his own podcast at Bless God Studios. Support Theology in the Raw through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theologyintheraw Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Michael Fn. Bird is deputy principal and Lecturer in Theology at Ridley College in Melbourne, Australia, and has authored more than 30 books. Mike is a world renown New Testament scholar and theologian, and he's recently engaged modern questions surrounding politics and Christian identity, which has been captured in his more recent book Religious Freedom in a Secular Age, which forms the backdrop to our current podcast conversation. In this dialogue, we talk about evangelicals and politics, Christian Nationalism, Secularism (and why Christians should celebrate it), transgender ideologies and the public sphere, and many other politically related topics. If you would like to support Theology in the Raw, please visit patreon.com/theologyintheraw for more information! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Patreon Monthly Q&A Welcome to a sneak peek of the Bonus Q&A episode, part of the Theology in the Raw premium subscription. In the full episode, we discuss: 00:00 Introduction 00:55 What are your thoughts on the SBC kicking out church’s that have woman pastors? 8:30 ish How would you best steel man Rosaria Butterfield's critique of your book Embodied, which she thinks is dangerous? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqBFEhkwaJg 22:27 When Paul says “I do not permit a woman…” why do we not treat that similarly to when he says that about “I say it’s good not to marry” 26:47 a simple Q, but i’d love to know - as much as I love podcasts I basically only listen to this one - what are YOUR go-to podcasts, theology or otherwise? 34:09 What is your relationship with John MacArthur? I would love to hear you interview him because you are willing to push back and ask real questions. 37:29 Is social nudity always sinful? Does the Bible have an absolute minimum dress code that would cover all cultures? 42:27 Why do we ignore 1 Corinthians 11:5-6 about head coverings? How do you feel about people using that as a reason to ignore Paul’s stance on homosexuality? 48:25 What are your thoughts on David Platt and his teachings about evangelism? People are currently going to hell and it is your fault for not spreading the Gospel 52:00 When Paul lists qualifications for elders, why should we assume that would be the same for the church today? Why all people all time? 55:39 What are your thoughts around a pastor posting on social media/youtube about “false teachers” & name dropping them as well? 59:06 At the conference, Gary Breshears talked about Levels of Certainty (issues we DIE, DIVIDE, DEBATE, & DECIDE for). Where do sexuality issues fall on this scale? 1:02:31 Does 1 Corinthian 7:1-7 give grounds for divorce in an absolutely sexless marriage? 1:04:42 I've read that Paul's prohibitions on sexual immorality apply more to adultery & sex w/ prostitutes, not premarital sex in committed relationships. Any merit? 1:08:01 What is the meaning of the horrific story of the concubine in Judges 19. Why do you think this seemingly random story is included in scripture? 1:12:23 Do you think Christians (particularly pastors/elders) have a responsibility to speak publicly (outside the church) on social issues? 1:14:20 How did the NT writers and early church fathers understand "the authority of Scripture" 1:16:19 My church co-workers un-ironically and negatively use the word woke all the time. How can I convince them to stop? 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 My Facebook public page: https://www.facebook.com/Preston-Spri... My Facebook private page: https://www.facebook.com/preston.spri... Twitter: @PrestonSprinkle Instagram: preston.sprinkle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Justin Brierley is a freelance writer, speaker and broadcaster known for creating dialogues between Christians and non-Christians. Justin is passionate about conversations around faith, science, theology and culture. Through creative use of podcast, radio, print, video and social media, he aims to showcase an intellectually compelling case for Christianity, while taking seriously the questions and objections of skeptics. Justin has worked in radio, podcast and video for over two decades. Until April 2023 he was Theology & Apologetics Editor for Premier Christian Radio, and hosted the Unbelievable? radio show and podcast as well as the Ask NT Wright Anything podcast. Justin was also editor of Premier Christianity magazine from 2014-2018, for which he continues to contribute articles. Justin's first book Unbelievable? Why, after ten years of talking with atheists, I'm still a Christian (SPCK) was published in 2017. Justin currently co-hosts the Re-Enchanting podcast for Seen & Unseen, and is a guest presenter for the Maybe God podcast. His next book The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God (Tyndale) will be published in Sep 2023. In this podcast conversation, Justin and I talk about the subtitle of his forthcoming book: "Why new atheism grew old and secular thinkers are considering Christianity again." Learn more about Justin from his website: https://justinbrierley.com Support Theology in the Raw through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theologyintheraw Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

nobigdyl. (born Dylan Philips) is an artist from Middle Tennesee and part of the "indie tribe" collective. Personally, he's one of my favorite musicians. Learn more about dyl from his website: https://www.dyllie.com/about In this conversation, we talk about the Christian hip hop industry, his decision to go independent, the pros and cons of "making it" in the music scene, and we walk through several of my favorite songs of his: "One Way," "What a Day," "Lighter Fluid," and "Willy." Check out the upcoming "SmokeFest23!" in Nashville, TN August 18-19 https://indietribe.us Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Mark A. Yarhouse, Psy.D., is a clinical psychologist who specializes in conflicts tied to religious identity and sexual and gender identity. He assists people who are navigating the complex relationship between their sexual or gender identity and Christian faith. He is the Dr. Arthur P. and Mrs. Jean May Rech Chair in Psychology at Wheaton College, where he runs the Sexual and Gender Identity (SGI) Institute. He is an award-winning teacher and researcher and is the past recipient of the Gary Collins Award for Excellence in Christian Counseling. He has published over 80 peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters and is author or co-author of several books, including Understanding Sexual Identity: A Resource for Youth Ministers and Understanding Gender Dysphoria: Navigating Transgender Issues in a Changing Culture. His most recent books are Sexual Identity & Faith and Costly Obedience: Listening to and Learning from Celibate Gay Christians. In this conversation, Mark and I talk about many things related to his journey in the sexuality/gender conversation over the last 25 years including sexual orietnation change efforts, the cause of same-sex attraction, the complexity of gender dysphoria and gender identity, the role that social influence plays in the rise in teens identifying as trans, and many other questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Does the Bible Support Same Sex Marriage, part 2, continues our discussion from the last episode. In this episode, I address the top 5 arguements (that my Patreon suppporters voted on) agianst the traditional view of marriage, which include: 1) Is this simply a secondary "agree to disagree" issue? 2) does the ethical trajectory regarding women and slavery suggest that same-sex sexual relationships are on the same trajectory toward acceptance? 3) did consenual same sex sexual relationships even exist in biblical times? 4) Love is love; why can't gay people experience love? 5) isn't the traditional view of marriage harmful toward LGB poeple? You can preorder my book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Does-Bible-Support-Same-Sex-Marriage/dp/0830785671/ref=zg_bs_271630011_sccl_1/147-3145573-9069658?psc=1 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

I recently wrote a book titled Does the Bible Support Same-Sex Marriage? 21 Conversations From a Historically Christian Perspective, which releases on Aug 1, 20223, but you can preorder on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Does-Bible-Support-Same-Sex-Marriage/dp/0830785671/ref=zg_bs_271630011_sccl_1/147-3145573-9069658?psc=1 In this first of a two part series, I talk about why I wrote the book, how it's different from my previous book People to Be Loved, and I give an oveview of the first two chapters (or Foudnations): 1) How to Have a Profitable Conversation, and 2) The Historically Christian View of Marriage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Michael Allen is Co-Founder & Co-CEO of Together Chicago—an organization that exists to be a catalyst for lasting change by reducing gun violence and increasing thriving communities in Chicago. In this conversation, we talk all about the issue of gun violence and how Together Chicago has addressed this complex issue through 5 strategic areas: economic development, educational achievement, violence reduction, gospel justice, and faith-community mobilization. Michael was born in Kingston, Jamaica and immigrated to Fort Lauderdale, Florida with his family in 1977. In 1986 he became a naturalized U.S. citizen. Early in his professional career, Michael was called into ministry under the leadership of Dr. O.S. Hawkins, First Baptist Church – Ft. Lauderdale (1989). In 1997, Michael served as Assistant Pastor of Urban Outreach and Evangelism at The Moody Church in Chicago, IL . Michael also served as the Associate Pastor at Sagemont Church in Houston, TX (2002) and most recently as the Senior Pastor at Uptown Baptist Church. He also serves as Vice Chairman of the board of the Pacific Garden Mission. Michael holds a Masters in Divinity from Trinity International University, a Bachelors of Arts in Biblical Studies from Trinity College – Miami, FL and an Associates in Computer Electronics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Terry M. Wildman (Ojibwe and Yaqui) is the lead translator, general editor, and project manager of the First Nations Version of the Bible. He serves as the director of spiritual growth and leadership development for Native InterVarsity. He is also the founder of Rain Ministries and has previously served as a pastor and worship leader. In this conversation, I wanted to get Terry's perspecive on how Native Americans feel about the 4th of July. Not trying to spoil your fire works celebration. Just trying to help us have a more thorough--indeed, Christian--perspecive on the liturgies of the empire. https://www.ivpress.com/terry-m-wildman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kevin Kim is the executive director of Crazy Love Ministries and the CEO of Basil Technologies, a faith-based technology nonprofit. He is an elder of We Are Church, a network of simple churches in the Bay Area. He is a graduate of the University of Virginia and received his Masters of Divinity from Biblical Theological Seminary in Philadelphia. He lives in Northern California with his wife and 3 children. This episode is a recording of Kevin's killer talk at this year's "Exiles in Babylon" conference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kyla is a former pro hockey player, who experiences same-sex attraction, lived as a man for several years and then detransitioned back to her birth sex several years ago after meeting Jesus all over again. In this conversation, Kyla shares her story and we discuss how the church can do a better job loving trans people with both truth and grace. Learn more about Kyla by visiting her website: https://kylagillespie.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Zach Wagner is a writer, researcher, ordained minister, and is currently pursuing a DPhil (PhD) in New Testament studies at the University of Oxford. He also serves as the editorial director of the Center for Pastor Theologians, where he co-hosts the CPT Podcast. His first book, Non-Toxic Masculinity: Recovering Healthy Male Sexuality, was published in 2023 with Intervarsity Press and is the topic of our conversation. In this episode, we talk about the pros and (mostly) cons of purity culture, explicit and implicit messaging from that movement, the damage its done, and what healthy male sexuality looks like. If you would like to support Theology in the Raw, please visit patreon.com/theologyintheraw for more information! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Patreon Monthly Q&A Welcome to a sneak peek of the Bonus Q&A episode, part of the Theology in the Raw premium subscription. In the full episode, we discuss: 0:50 Thoughts on boycotting Target (and/or Budweiser)? Or more precisely, thoughts on doing so publicly/encouraging others to? Is it unloving to LGBT community? 8:01 I work in marketing. How would you respond if your company asked you to run a pride campaign? 13:37 I heard Paul was so sure that Jesus was going to come back in his lifetime, that most of his mandates for churches were supposed to be short term. Thoughts? 17:03 Thoughts on the 'Divine Counsel'? Do you think there are many created beings besides angels and earthly creatures? Are there any implications for evil etc? 23:13 Any thoughts on how to incorporate / improve theological education in the church? Or do we just outsource that to seminaries? 29:13 Do you think the OT gods are actual demons? I thought they were just inanimate objects but recently heard they were fallen angels / beings. 31:11 What’s Jude 1:9 about? The Devil and Angel Michael arguing about Moses’ body? Is this an extra-biblical account? 34:38 What do you think of Campbell's reasoning around divorce? (Not God's ideal, but permissible) Could you apply the same reasoning to abortion? Apples and oranges? 37:55 There seems to be a belief that not affirming transgendered people increases the chance of suicide. Are you aware of research to back this up? How to respond? 48:19 My dechurched sister doesn’t take issue with NT about Jesus/God but takes issue with epistles’ moral commands (LGBTQ, sex roles, etc) Thoughts/advice/resources? 51:46 What parts of Eastern Orthodoxy do you really wish we did in evangelical churches? 54:25 Any encouragement for a couple who can't decide if they want kids? 57:06 Do you think the Bible's seeming endorsement of levirate marriage and calling polygamy marriage informs our conversations about LGBT marriage today? 59:53 How do you handle people, if any, that would call you transphobic because you don’t affirm or agree with them? 1:03:17 Is "speaking in tongues" and being "filled with the Holy Spirit" synonymous? If not, is the teaching of that damaging + how should we respond to those churches 1:05:11 Protestants seem to divide a lot. How do you determine which doctrinal issues are worth dividing over? 1:09:25 (Rapid Fire Questions…) If you've enjoyed this content, please subscribe to my channel! Support Theology in the Raw through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theologyintheraw Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Julia is a transgender woman from Toronto, Ontario, who's determined to bridge the divide that’s forming on transgender matters. In this conversation, we discuss many things related to the transgender conversation including gender dysphoria, transitioning, Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria among teens, navigating the pronoun debate, dead naming, biological sex and gender identity/expression, autogynephilia, biological males in female sports, and other related topics. You can follow Julia on Twitter (@AlottaMalotta) and through her website: https://alottamalotta.com Support Theology in the Raw through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theologyintheraw Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dallas Jenkins is an American film and television director, writer and film producer. He is best known as the creator, director and co-writer of The Chosen, the first multi-season series about the life of Jesus. In this conversation, we talk about his heart and philosophy behind The Chosen, including the role that creativity plays in opening up the biblical account Christ. We also discuss the recent controversy over Christians being upset that a gay cameraman had a 3 inch pride flag on his own equipment on set. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Holly Catterton Allen retired in 2022 from her position as Professor of Christian Ministries and Family Science at Lipscomb University in Nashville. Her most recent books include Intergenerational Christian Formation: Bringing the Whole Church Together in Ministry, Community, and Worship, 2nd edition (InterVarsity Academic, 2023) and Forming Resilient Children: The Role of Spiritual Formation for Healthy Development (InterVarsity Academic, 2021). In this conversation, we talk extensively about the need for intergenerational ministries in our churches. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Brad Vaughn is a theologian in residence with Global Training Network and marketing manager for William Carey Publishing. He lived and worked in East Asia for almost two decades, teaching theology and missiology for Chinese pastors. He serves on the Asian/Asian-American Theology steering committee of the Evangelical Theological Society and is the author of Saving God's Face, One Gospel for All Nations, Reading Romans with Eastern Eyes, Seeking God's Face, and The Cross in Context. You can find his articles and resources at savinggodsface.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Naghmeh has one of the most incredible stories I’ve ever heard. Raised in a Muslim family, converted to Christ through her brother’s dream at age 9, helped start a massive house church movement in Iran where she faced tremendous persecution, which eventually landed her husband in prison. She then found herself on a national stage fighting to get her husband out of prison—talking to major news outlets (CNN, Fox, etc.) and to presidents Obama and Trump. She then had to face some hard truths about her abusive husband, and when she spoke out against abuse, she faced a backlash from some high-profile American church leaders. Naghmeh currently lives in Boise, ID and speaks out against the abuse of women in the church and continues to serve the house church movement in Iran. Even though that culture devalues women, the church in Iran is growing rapidly through the leadership of women, of which Naghmeh is a part. Naghmeh has written about her story in a forthoming book: I Didn't Survive: Emerging Whole After Deception, Persecution, and Hidden Abuse. You can learn more about Naghmeh from her website: https://www.tahriralnisa.org/about/naghmeh-panahi/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Craig Greenfield is the founder of Alongsiders International, a grassroots youth discipleship movement that has now spread to more than 30 countries. He is the author of Subversive Jesus, and his latest book is titled Subversive Mission: Serving as Outsiders in a World of Need. Craig has served alongside the poor in Cambodia for 2 decades and has learned a ton about effective (an ineffective) cross-cultural ministry. In this podcast conversation, we talk about the shift approaches to orphan care, meaningful cross culuteral ministry, whether the terms missionary/missions are helpful, and the pros and cons of short term mission trips. Learn more about Craig from his website: https://www.craiggreenfield.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tiffany Bluhm is the author of Prey Tell: Why We Silence Women who Tell the Truth and How Everyone Can Speak Up and the co-host of the popular podcast, Why Tho. She speaks and writes at the intersection of women’s issues and faith with her work featured in Publisher’s Weekly, Sojourners, Red Letter Christians, the YouVersion Bible app, Jenny McCarthy Show, and more. She lives in the Seattle area with her husband and two sons. In this podcast conversation, we talk about the content of her book Prey Tell, which addresses the abuse of power in the church. What constitutes an abuse of power? Why do more people not speak up? How can you spot a leader exhibiting narcissistic tendencies? What kind of ecclesiological structures help enable the abuse of power? And what can we do to help lessen cases where people abuse their power? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Nilay Saiya is associate professor of public policy and global affairs at Nanyang Technological University. He holds research interests in religion and global politics, international security, and American foreign policy. He is author of two books: Weapon of Peace: How Religious Liberty Combats Terrorism (Cambridge University Press, 2018) and The Global Politics of Jesus: A Christian Case for Church-State Separation (Oxford University Press, 2022), the later of which forms the discussion of our podcast conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

0:00 Introduction 1:22 What was your perspective on the divorce conversation with Constantine? Did anything he said push you to re-evaluate your current stance? 8:28 With a non-violent stance (which I share), how do you see church security? To me, it seems to be suspicious of others and prioritizes the lives of believers. 14:41 Is it possible that Adam was not sexed before Eve was created? Thinking through how Adam renamed himself and wasn't "man" until woman was created. 20:18 How involved are supernatural forces in our daily lives? The ancient world recognized much more than we do. Is this important for believers today? 28:30 With all your research into the NT church, do you see any benefits to keeping church sizes intentionally smaller and more localized? 43:57 Given that circumcision was given as a sign of the covenant in Genesis 17, what does this say about women? Did God not make a OT covenant with them? 48:46 Age of accountability. Is this really a thing?? 53:59 Have you maintained a relationship with the Revoice people and what direction do you think it and the Side B movement is going? 1:00:53 Is it sinful for Christians to save money for retirement or other personal financial goals) in light of Scripture’s commands to be generous/care for the poor? 1:07:26 I recently asked ChatGPT to make a biblical case for universalism and for eternal torment. Both were compelling. How might AI impact the future of theology? 1:11:55 Thoughts on churches like North Point hosting an LGBTQ conference with primarily affirming speakers, and Saddleback partnering with “The Reformation Project”? 1:17:58 Dino episode: Was God's creation imperfect if death existed before the fall of man? Did God create death? What about Romans 8 talking about creation groaning? 1:26:38 What do you think of rewards in Heaven? To me, it seems to imply inequality in Heaven. And Matt 20:1-16 could be seen as pushing back on it. 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 My Facebook public page: https://www.facebook.com/Preston-Spri... My Facebook private page: https://www.facebook.com/preston.spri... Twitter: @PrestonSprinkle Instagram: preston.sprinkle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Carmen Imes earned her Ph.D. in Old Testament from Wheaton College and currently serves as an Associate Professor of Old Testament at Biola University. She's the author of two books: Bearing God's Name and Being God's Image--both published by IVP. Imes has appeared on more than 50 podcasts and radio shows and launched her own YouTube channel where she releases weekly "Torah Tuesday" videos. She is a guest blogger for Christianity Today, The Political Theology Network, and The Well (InterVarsity's blog for women in the academy and professions). Imes is also a frequent speaker at churches, conferences, and retreats. Before earning her Ph.D. from Wheaton College, Carmen and her husband served as missionaries in the Philippines with SIM International, reaching out to ethnic minorities. Imes loves introducing students to the rich insights of the global church. In this podcast conversation, Dr. Imes talks about what it means to be--not bear--God's image and why it matters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

George was born and raised by the shadow of the Acropolis in Athens, Greece, and moved to the United States after highschool. He recieved his Ph.D. from Northwestern University and currently serves as a professor of Theology at Wheaton College. George is the author of several books and peer reviewed articles, including the book that forms the basis of our conversation: Caesar and the Lamb: Early Christian Attitudes on War and Military Service. https://www.wheaton.edu/academics/faculty/george-kalantzis/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Rebekah Lyons is an author, speaker, mother of four, co-host of the Rythmns of Life podcast and co-founder of THINQ, both with her husband Gabe Lyons. Rebekah has written several books about mental health and the Christian faith that flow from her own raw journey. Her most recently book is Building a Resiliant Life: How Adversity Awakens Strengh, Hope, and Meaning. In this podcast conversation, Rebekah shares her life journey, which include various seasons where she has battled depression, anxiety, and panic attacks, and has also experience God's victory in these areas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Addison Bevere is the COO of Messenger International, a ministry founded by John and Lisa Bevere in 1990 that exists to develop uncompromising followers of Christ who transform our world. Addison is also the author of the recently released Words with God: Trading Boring, Empty Prayer for Real Connection, which forms the basis for our discussion on this podcast. What I love about Addison is that he's super honest, real, wise, and super intune with God. That's a rare combination! This episode is all about prayer, connecting with God, how to pray for miracles, and how respond to God when it seems like he's terribly absent and nonresponsive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Gorman has held the Raymond E. Brown Chair in Biblical Studies and Theology since 2012. He has taught at St. Mary’s since 1991, first in St. Mary’s Ecumenical Institute and then, beginning in 1993, in both the Ecumenical Institute and the Seminary (School of Theology). He's a New Testament scholar who specializes in the theology and spirituality of the apostle Paul, the Gospel of John, the book of Revelation, and the theological and missional interpretation of Scripture. He is the author of nearly twenty books and numerous articles, including the one we discuss in this podcast (one of my favorites on Revelation): Reading Revelation Responsibly: Uncivil Worship and Witness: Following the Lamb into the New Creation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Constantine Campbell is Professor and Associate Research Director at the Sydney College of Divinity, and previously served as Professor of New Testament studies at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Chicago and Moore Theological College in Sydney. His doctorate is in ancient Greek language and linguistics (Macquarie University, 2007). Dr. Campbell is the author of 16 books, included the recently released Jesus v. Evangelicals: A Biblical Critique of a Wayward Movement. In this conversation, we look at the question of divorce; specifically, what are the biblical allowances (if any) for divorce. Constantine takes a more generous view, which argues that the text of Scripture allows for more than just two reasons (adultry and abandonment) for divorce. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Mallon is the head of Palaeobiology and Research Scientist at Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa, Canada. He specializes in dinosaur ecology and systematics. He recieved his Ph.D. from University of Calgary and was a post-doctoral fellow at the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa, Ontario. In this conversation, we talk about the history of research on dinasaurs, what we used to know, what we know now, how our previous assumptions and knowledge has changed, how we go about daiting dinasaur fossils, how dinasaurs (which went extinct around 66 million years ago) relates to the age of the earth, and what do we do with "death" (among dinasaurs) happening long before the sin of Adam. https://nature.ca/en/our-science/science-experts/jordan-mallon/ Twitter Handle @Jordan_Mallon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ryan is a Canadian Police Officer trained in advanced alcohol and drug impairment recognition which includes being a certified Drug Recognition Expert. He is passionate about following God and working about how to apply God's wisdom and rules for life to the poverty, addiction, and justice issues he encounters daily. Ryan believes that a person can ingest/inhale THC and not necessarily be impaired and therefore marijuana can be used recreatonally by Christians. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

00:00 Introduction 1:31 Your thoughts on Rosaria Butterfield's recent post: https://www.reformation21.org/blog/why-i-no-longer-use-transgender-pronouns-and-why-you-shouldnt-either 16:35 Thoughts on Dr. James Dobson, and Focus on the Family? Specifically around LGBTQ issues or in general. 19:32 What was your biggest takeaway from your interview with Sheila and Rebecca? 32:58 What are your thoughts on there being no Male pronouns for elder qualifications in the Greek in 1Tim3 and Titus 1? Is that accurate to say? 38:34 Is church membership Biblical? Does NT stress membership or fellowship? How can we deny church membership to people who are in Christ? Affirming gay Christian 48:08 17YO is affirming LGBTQ. Should we encourage her to attend affirming church when she is older? She struggles with the conservative church, can't see attending one 55:40 You are privy to a lot of info that you can't make public. Generally speaking, if we knew what you knew, how would this change how we would see things? 1:03:23 Would Paul’s own singleness disqualify him from his own (alleged by some) criteria of eldership based on a “plain text” interpretation of 1 Tim 3:2/Tit 1:6? 1:07:09 Your thoughts on why scripture speaks so much of the adulterous woman - it is always the woman's fault. We never read "Beware of the adulterous man" 1:12:20 You’ve mentioned the idea that someone can live without sex, but not intimacy. Do we focus too much on the family? Good resources on the theology of friendship? 1:14:20 Is God gendered? We always call him Father, but how much of that is our Western lens? Also, is the Holy Spirit gendered? 1:21:38 Some argue that Adam naming Eve implies authority over her. If that is true, what do we do with Hagar giving a name to God? 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 My Facebook public page: https://www.facebook.com/Preston-Spri... My Facebook private page: https://www.facebook.com/preston.spri... Twitter: @PrestonSprinkle Instagram: preston.sprinkle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Drew is the co-author (with his Dad, Brad) of the book Space at the Table: Conversations Between an Evangelical Theologian and His Gay Son. Drew has been on a wild journey--a journey far from other. Raised as an evangelical Christian, came out as gay around 13, left the faith at 17, lived in New York, Egypt, Los Angeles, and Portland for a number of years. Fell into a severe drug addiction, lived homeless for a while, but has now been in recovery for a couple years and is now on a spiritual journey that has led him to idenitfying as a Christian again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Shaunti received her graduate degree from Harvard University and was an analyst on Wall Street before unexpectedly becoming a social researcher, best-selling author and popular speaker. Today, she applies her analytical skills to investigating eye-opening, life-changing truths about relationships, both at home and in the workplace. Shaunti has written several books (including several with husband, Jeff), including For Women Only, The Kindness Challenge, Thriving in Love & Money, and the recently released Secrets of Sex & Marriage: 8 Surprises That Make All the Difference, which she coauthored with dr. Michael Sytsma. In our conversation, we talk about sexual abuse in the church and how to respond. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Vincent Lloyd is Associate Professor of Theology and Religious Studies and the Director for the Center for Political Theology at Villanova University. Dr. Lloyd has a B.A. from Princeton University and an M.A. and Ph.D. from UC Berkley. He’s the author of many scholarly books including Black Natural Law (Oxford University Press, 2016), Religion of the Field Negro (Fordham University Press, 2017), Break Every Yoke (Oxford University Press, 2019), and the recently released Black Dignity: The Struggle Against Domination (Yale University Press, 2022). Dr. Lloyd also wrote a provocative article for Compact Magazine titled: “A Black Professor Trapped in Anti-Racist Hell” (https://compactmag.com/article/a-black-professor-trapped-in-anti-racist-hell). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tara-Leigh is a speaker, writer, and podcaster, whose “Bible Recap” podcast is one the most downloaded Christian podcasts in the world. Tara-Leigh is passionate about studying, teaching, and helping others understand the Bible, especially how to reveal God’s character to us. She is also passionate about the land of Israel and leads bi-annual trips there every year. Find out more about Tara-Leigh at www.taraleighcobble.com If you would like to support Theology in the Raw, please visit patreon.com/theologyintheraw for more information! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Gupta teaches New Testament courses at Northern and works closely with the Master of Arts in New Testament and the Doctor in Ministry in New Testament Context cohorts. Dr. Gupta has been teaching for more than a decade, is the author of the recent important study, Paul and the Language of Faith and the forthcoming Tell Her Story, which addresses women’s roles in the church from an egalitarian perspective, which forms the topic of our conversation. Nijay currently serves as the Editor-in-Chief of the Bulletin for Biblical Research, Co-Editor of The Bible in God’s World series with Scot McKnight, and as a member of the Editorial Board of both Ex Auditu and of the Biblical Interpretation Series. He is a graduate of Miami of Ohio University, Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary, and the University of Durham. Support Theology in the Raw through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theologyintheraw Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sheila Wray Gregoire is the founder of Bare Marriage (baremarriage.com) and the author/co-author of several books, including the great breaking The Great Sex Rescue, which she co-authored with her daughter, Rebecca Lindenbach, my other guest. Rebecca also works for Bare Marriage and is the co-host of the bare marriage podcast. Rebecca and Sheila are coming out with their latest book She Deserves Better: Raising Girls to Resist Toxic Teachings on Sex, Self, and Speaking Up. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Chris is the VP of Operations for The Center for Faith, Sexuality & Gender and the COO of Theology in the Raw. She's also the mother of our four kids and my wonderful wife. Chris and I talk about the joyful challenges of parenting and ministry, and we also debrief about our recent Exiles in Babylon conference. If you've enjoyed this content, please subscribe to my channel! Support Theology in the Raw through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theologyintheraw Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This is a live TITR podcast that Patrick and I recorded at this year's "Exiles in Babylon" conference. Patrick Miller is a pastor at The Crossing Church in Columbia, MO. He's also the co-host of the Truth over Tribe podcast and the co-author (with Keith Simon) of the book Truth Over Tribe: Pledging Allegiance to the Lamb: Not the Donkey or the Elephant. In this live podcast conversation, Patrick and I talk about the problem of evil, various highlights and challenges from the conference, and what it means to live as an exile in Babylon. If you would like to support Theology in the Raw, please visit patreon.com/theologyintheraw for more information! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.