In this solo episode of the Christianity Without Compromise podcast, host Jake Doberenz explains why Christians need to cultivate joy—and exactly how they can do that. Using the example of the movie Elf, Jake explores how joy can change people and the world. Drawing from the work of Willie James Jennings, he defines joy as a way of life, outlines three ways to cultivate joy, and shares how choosing joy doesn’t mean you ignore reality.
Important Links:
“Theology of Joy: Willie James Jennings with Miroslav Volf”, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1fKD4Msh3rE
“Willie James Jennings on joy that joins”, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1fKD4Msh3rE
“The Code of the Elves: A Primer for Joy” by Jake Doberenz, Popular Culture, https://popularcultureandtheology.com/2020/12/07/the-code-of-the-elves-a-primer-for-joy/
Jake Doberenz is the founder of the podcast production company Theophany Media and host of Christianity Without Compromise. He holds multiple degrees in Bible and communication studies and is passionate about Christians finding Jesus outside of the Culture Wars.