This episode is a little different than our normal podcast. In this episode, I chat with Dr. Jeremy D. Sims who is the professor of Spiritual Formation at Southeastern University. We talk about what spiritual direction is and why it's needed today. After exploring the topic, I asked Dr. Sims to take me through what a session of spiritual direction might look like. I got quite personal for me as he directed me into what God might be saying to me during this time of pastoral transition. He made quite a few book recommendations and I've included them below.
In this episode of the Ask a Theologian podcast, I chat with Dr. Wolfgang Vondey, a professor of Christian Theology and Pentecostal Studies at Birmingham University in the UK. We delve into the unique aspects of Pentecostal systematic theology, focusing on the metaphor of the altar. Dr. Vondey explains that the altar serves not as an abstract concept but as a metaphor rooted in concrete experiences, such as worship, preaching, and personal encounters with God. He also discusses how the altar symbolizes a threshold experience that is central to Pentecostal spirituality and theology. We explore the importance of narrative and testimony in Pentecostal practice, and how these aspects influence a lived, experiential theology. Finally, Dr. Vondey recommends continuing your journey with works on Pentecostal worship, liturgy, and history to fully grasp the richness of the tradition. If you’re interested in Pentecostal scholarship and theology, this episode is packed with insights.
In this episode of The Ask a Theologian podcast, I had the pleasure of hosting Dr. John Newton, a professor and scholar from Alpha Crucis University College in Melbourne, Australia. We jumped right into the complexities of the Book of Revelation, especially focusing on debunking dispensationalism within Pentecostal theology. Dr. Newton shared his journey from a classical Pentecostal background to rejecting dispensationalism, explaining that it is fundamentally incompatible with Pentecostal beliefs and practices. He argued that dispensationalism, which emerged in the 19th century, imposes a rigid, literal interpretation of scripture that doesn't align with the more dynamic and mission-oriented nature of Pentecostal faith. Dr. Newton has authored several books on this topic, including 'Revelation Reclaimed,' 'The Revelation Worldview,' and a Pentecostal commentary on Revelation, all available on Amazon. We discussed how the Book of Revelation should be interpreted in a way that inspires and aligns more closely with Pentecostal values, focusing on its missional and gospel-oriented aspects rather than using it as a tool for predicting future events. Dr. Newton emphasized that Revelation is about the ongoing spiritual struggle and the ultimate victory of Christ and his followers, encouraging a more hopeful and active engagement in spreading the gospel. This conversation was a deep dive into rethinking how we approach Revelation and its relevance to today's Pentecostal church.
In today's episode, we dive into the fascinating world of comparative theology with Dr. Veli-Matti Kärkkäinen from Fuller Theological Seminary. Dr. Kärkkäinen, who also teaches at the University of Helsinki, explains that comparative theology involves engaging with multiple religious traditions, often positioning Christianity in dialogue with another faith like Islam. We discuss how this differs from comparative religion, with the former being confessional and rooted in one's own faith tradition.Dr. Kärkkäinen shares his personal experiences and insights from living in the predominantly Buddhist country of Thailand, which enriched his understanding of both Buddhism and his own Christian faith. We explore how comparative theology can build bridges, foster interfaith dialogue, and deepen one's theological insights. There’s also a discussion about practical applications, like visiting religious sites and having meaningful encounters with people of other faiths.We also touch on Paul’s approach at Mars Hill, emphasizing the importance of being open-minded and engaging with other religions thoughtfully. The conversation extends to how comparative theology can help us understand and connect with the growing category of 'nones'—individuals with no religious affiliation—in a pluralistic world.
To learn more, check out Dr. Kärkkäinen's books on Amazon, including his latest, I Believe. Help My Unbelief!
On today's episode, we're diving into the fascinating topic of post-colonial perspectives on Pentecostalism with Dr. U-Wen Low from the University of Birmingham in the UK. The conversation is facinating as Dr. Low sheds light on the importance of decolonizing efforts within theology. We discuss how post-colonial thinking aims to dismantle oppressive structures, drawing from historical contexts, like the impact of empires, and how these ideas intersect with the study of Pentecostalism. Dr. Low touches on his research on the Book of Revelation and its dramatic, subversive elements against empire. We also tackle the surprising roots of Pentecostalism beyond Azusa Street, highlighting its anti-colonial nature and the historical moments where these inclusive, radical beginnings started to shift. The conversation explores the value of diverse perspectives in biblical scholarship and warns against reading scriptures solely through the lens of dominant cultures. This episode is packed with insights into how we can engage more meaningfully with theology and our collective past.
In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Marty Mittlestadt from Evangel University about the intriguing concept of reception history and its significance in theology. We explored how various groups throughout history have interpreted scripture, particularly focusing on the transition from historical criticism to a reader-centred approach known as reception history. Dr. Mittlestadt emphasized that Pentecostals, influenced by their experiences, often interpret the Bible in distinctive ways, resulting in diverse understandings and practices. Through examples from the book of Acts, we discussed how different Pentecostal traditions fill in gaps in the text to align with their beliefs. We also examined the broader implications of these varied interpretations for modern theology, highlighting the importance of humility and the value of learning from different traditions. Finally, we discussed the potential of reception history to enhance our understanding of scripture moving forward. The conversation was both enlightening and engaging. I enjoyed it and I hope you will too.
In this episode, I have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Mark Lau Branson, a practical theologian at Fuller Theological Seminary and a member of La Fuente, a multicultural, multiethnic, and multigenerational church. We discuss the complexities and insights of multicultural church life based on Dr. Branson's book 'Churches, Cultures, and Leadership,' co-authored with Juan Martinez. Key topics include the integration of different languages and cultural expressions in worship, understanding diverse cultural perspectives, and practical theology's role in discerning God's work in diverse communities. Dr. Branson emphasizes the need for open communication, storytelling, and humility in leadership to navigate cultural differences effectively. We also touch on the challenges and necessary adjustments for a church to become genuinely multicultural, highlighting the importance of viewing neighbours as subjects, not objects. Together, we delve into communication theories by Habermas, the pitfalls of power dynamics, and the importance of collaboration with other clergy. Dr. Branson offers a final encouragement to listeners to engage actively with the diverse spiritual movements in their communities.
You can listen to more from Dr. Branson on his YouTube channel.
Find out more about La Fuente here.
In this episode I sat down with Dr. Tanya Riches of Eastern College Australia. Dr. Riches shares her journey growing up in the Hillsong Church, being part of its music scene, and how those experiences shaped her creatively and spiritually. She talks about her academic pursuits, including her degrees in psychology, political economy, and theology, and how she’s integrated traditional liturgical practices into modern worship. The conversation also dives into her fascinating research on Aboriginal Pentecostal churches, where she discovered the rich wisdom and inclusive practices of indigenous leaders. Dr. Riches emphasizes the importance of learning from and engaging with marginalized communities, offering tips for non-Aboriginal churches on how to connect meaningfully with local leaders. Our chat wraps up with a look at her current work and future plans, including potential publications to share her insights.
On this episode, I sat down with Dr. W. David O. Taylor, an Associate Professor of Theology at Fuller Theological Seminary and Anglican priest, to chat about his book A Body of Praise. Our conversation led us into how he met Bono, the lead singer of the band U2, and his connection with Eugene Peterson. We also talked about theological anthropology, full sensory worship, the disabled, art and the body, and so much more. I hope you find our conversation beneficial.
In this episode I sat down with Dr. Marshall Clark, president of the Society for Pentecostal Studies and lecturer at Vanguard University and the London School of Theology. Dr. Clark shared her background growing up in a migrant church in England, her PhD research on female spirituality within Pentecostalism, and the significant roles women have played as 'disruptors' in religious history. Our conversation touches on biblical figures like Deborah and modern disruptors such as Amy Semple McPherson and Mary Woodworth Etter, highlighting their impact without engaging in theological debates about their roles. The episode explores how these women overcame societal and racial barriers to fulfill their callings, and how contemporary leaders can support and empower women in ministry.
In this episode, I chatted with Dr. Susan Maros, associate professor of Christian leadership at Fuller Theological Seminary and author of Calling in Context and Power, Agency, and Women in the Mission of God.' We discussed how identities shape our calling and vocation, especially for women in conservative evangelical circles. Dr. Maros shared her experiences and insights into how context, culture, and gender impact one's sense of calling. The conversation also explored practical aspects of fostering diverse, intercultural communities within churches. We discussed the challenges of integrating different voices and cultures into church leadership and practice, moving beyond tokenism to genuine interdependence. As an educator, Dr. Maros highlighted the importance of formation in theological education and the need for seminaries to focus on disciple-making beyond credentialing. This vital conversation underscores the complex interplay between personal vocation, community contexts, and broader cultural dynamics in church and educational settings.
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Richard Park, an Associate Professor of Theology at Vanguard University, to chat about his book 'Calling, the Blueprint.' Dr. Park shares his journey and passion for helping people discover their calling, whether it's in ministry, dentistry, or any other field. He helps unpack the biblical concept of calling, the importance of mentorship, and how everyday tasks can be acts of worship. He also breaks down the difference between interests and passions and why it's crucial to know the difference. Tune in for practical advice on living out your calling and making every day meaningful!
You can find Dr. Park's non-profit, The Renaissance @ TheRen.org
Show Notes:
01:13 Dr. Richard Park's Publications01:26 Children's Book and Personal Motivation02:19 Nonprofit Work: The Renaissance02:45 Exploring the Concept of Calling04:57 Biblical Foundations of Calling08:11 The Sacred and the Secular13:51 Mentorship and Its Importance16:26 Personal Reflections on Family and Faith16:56 The Importance of Intergenerational Relationships17:44 Passion and Suffering: A Deeper Connection21:01 Understanding Liturgy in Worship26:34 Recommended Resources for Further Reading
In this episode, I had the privilege of talking with Dr. Lisa Bowens, Associate Professor of New Testament at Princeton Theological Seminary and author of 'African American Readings of Paul.' We discuss her inspiration for writing the book and its roots in her doctoral dissertation. Dr. Bowens shares insights on how African Americans have historically interpreted Paul's texts, revealing both positive receptions and critical perspectives. We discuss the impact of reception history on scripture interpretation, the ingenious ways African American interpreters have reclaimed Paul's texts from slaveholder misinterpretations, and the influence of hermeneutics on understanding Paul's message. Our conversation also touched on broader themes of love, unity, and the church's role in society, enriched by powerful historical examples like Frederick Douglass and William Seymour. Dr. Bowens emphasizes how her research highlights the intersection of faith with liberation and justice. Just in case it's not obvious, I absolutely loved her book.
You can get her book here on Amazon.Show Notes:01:58 Inspiration Behind the Book03:11 Reception History and Its Impact04:51 Interpreting Paul's Letters07:21 African American Biblical Exegesis15:21 Women Interpreters and Equality17:39 Azusa Street and Racial Unity20:07 Frederick Douglass and Modern Relevance
In this episode, I welcome Dr. Tania Harris from God Conversations. Dr. Harris shares insights from her extensive experience in church planting, academia, and leadership training. We discuss the Pentecostal understanding of contemporary revelatory experiences and how it aligns with New Testament teachings. Dr. Harris also addresses common theological concerns, the role of scripture, and the need for proper discernment within the Pentecostal community. Key points include the importance of Jesus' teachings, community validation, and the presence of spiritual signs. Dr. Harris advocates for an intentional approach to training leaders and fostering a culture that embraces the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit.
Dr. Harris's resources are available atGodConversations.com.
Show Notes:01:12 Dr. Harris's Background and Work02:11 Exploring Contemporary Revelatory Experiences02:47 Theological Questions and Practical Challenges03:37 Pentecostal Perspectives on Hearing God's Voice05:02 PhD Journey and Protestant Tradition09:14 Prophetic Experiences and the New Covenant12:42 Scripture and the Role of the Holy Spirit17:00 The Gap Between Theology and Practice18:27 The Gift of Scripture and the Spirit's Guidance18:54 The Early Church and the Spirit's Revelations19:46 The Importance of Discernment20:41 Pentecostal Practices and Catholic Traditions21:35 Peter's Vision and the Inclusion of Gentiles22:22 Principles for Discerning God's Voice23:28 The Role of Community in Hearing God24:22 Training and Humility in Discerning God's Voice28:41 Embracing the Spirit's Work in Different Traditions
In this episode, I welcome Dr. Alicia Jackson, an assistant professor of Old Testament at Vanguard University, who specializes in the book of Ezekiel. We explore the concepts of eschatology (end times) and missiology (mission of the church), particularly within the Pentecostal movement. Dr. Jackson explains the inherent eschatological nature of Pentecostalism and the urgency for gospel witness. We discuss the early Pentecostal views, how they evolved, and their implications on modern beliefs, particularly concerning Israel and Palestine. Dr. Jackson emphasizes the importance of keeping a heart for mission and gospel witness, regardless of one's eschatological views. Our conversation also touched on Dr. Jackson's research on Ezekiel and her current work on Israel and Palestine.
Recommended resources:
" Jesus the Spirit Baptizer" by Frank Macchia
"Kingdom Come" by Matthew Thomson
Show Notes:
01:46 Defining Eschatology and Missiology
02:24 Pentecostal Eschatology and Its Implications
07:21 Dispensationalism in Early Pentecostalism
10:23 Israel, Palestine, and Eschatological Views
14:40 Ezekiel's Prophecies and Their Significance
Dr. Gary Tyra from Vanguard University joins me as we discuss the nature of spirituality. Dr. Tyra emphasizes a biblically informed, theologically realistic approach. He contrasts secular versus theistic spirituality and highlights the importance of a holistic spiritual lifestyle over episodic practices. Our conversation delves into Paul's theological realism, the essence of mission-oriented spirituality, and the significance of integrating ethical decision-making with Christian discipleship. I really enjoyed it and I hope you will too.
Show Notes:
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jacqui Grey, a Professor of Biblical Studies at Alphacrucis University College in Sydney, Australia. We explore the enduring significance of the Old Testament in contemporary faith and theology. Dr. Grey addresses common misconceptions about the Old Testament and explains how its ancient stories, laws, and teachings are essential for understanding the broader narrative of Christianity and God's ongoing work in the world.
Join us as we uncover the deep connections between the Old and New Testaments and gain fresh insights into how the timeless wisdom of the Old Testament continues to inform and enrich modern spiritual practices and beliefs. Whether you are a seasoned theologian or a curious seeker, this episode promises to provide valuable perspectives on the relevance of these ancient texts today.
Show Notes:
In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Dale Coulter from the Pentecostal Theological Seminary. We discuss the importance of the church fathers and explore the historical context and the evolution of prophecy and mysticism. We also examine how these elements have influenced modern Pentecostalism. Key themes include the connection between ecstasy and prophecy, and we explore the roles of early Christian and medieval mystics. Throughout our conversation, we delve into the rich theological heritage that informs contemporary Pentecostal practices.
Show Notes:
In this episode, I discuss theological anthropology with Dr. Lisa Stephenson from Lee University. We delve into the concepts of Imago Dei, Imago Christi, and Imago Spiritus, emphasizing the importance of being created in God's image and its implications for gender roles in ministry. Dr. Stephenson shares her insights into the historical and scriptural challenges of integrating women into ministry roles, advocating for a comprehensive understanding and reinterpretation of biblical texts. We also talk about how gender issues change when viewed from a global and historical Pentecostal perspective.
Show Notes:
In this episode I interview Dr. Frank Macchia, a professor of systematic theology at Vanguard University. We delve into the intricacies of the Trinity, exploring the revolutionary idea of God as a communion of love. Dr. Macchia shares insights on how the Trinity relates to creation, redemption, and the essence of communion. The conversation also addresses the challenges of articulating the Trinity. It covers the differences with the oneness Pentecostal viewpoint and includes practical implications for theology and spiritual disciplines. Dr. Macchia also recommends his book, 'The Trinity Practically Speaking,' for further reading.