Shows
Wright StewWright Stew (Daily Stew) "Brian was at the Doak, last games, and Canes win!"Brian got to take in a little ball at the Doak. Brian shares what he saw, what he liked, and what he wasn't a fan of in the NC State vs. UNC Wilmington game.Paul is getting a little nostalgic as it is tournament time for his daughters college softball teams. While not having a Senior this year, it is always hard to see an athlete play their last game.Let's talk some hockey! The Canes win in double overtime! Is Stanley Cup play off hockey the best thing in sports?Send us a te...2025-05-0126 min
GEORGE FOX TALKSBREAKING Stereotypes One Photo at a Time!Scottish photographer Kieran Dodds and biblical scholar Brian Doak talk about the making and viewing of photographs. How do photos shape the narratives we hold about the world around us, and how can they be used to subvert those narratives? What does it mean to tell a story with a picture—and what would it mean to tell a lie with a camera?Kieran Dodds is a Scottish non-fiction photographer known for his research-driven photo stories and portraiture.Check out Kieran's Gingers photo series.Dr. Brian Doak is an Old Testament scholar and pr...2025-03-1830 minGEORGE FOX TALKSWHAT is the REAL Reason we are here on Earth?Do you feel the pressure to clearly know your own purpose, to identify your personal mission in this world? Ekemini and Brian discuss the anxiety many young people feel around this issue, placing the conversation in context of the volatile environment in which young people are growing up. Is the intense focus on the individual’s unique purpose an artifact of our modern time, or does it run deeper than that? How are Christians to hold on to a sense of purpose when life seems out of control?“Millennials in Better Financial Condition Than Prev...2025-01-2138 minGEORGE FOX TALKSWhat's REALLY Behind the Homelessness Crisis in America?Substance abuse, mental health, lack of trauma-informed care - what is at the root of the homeless crisis in United States cities? Can changes in social policy fix the problem? Dr. Brian Doak and social worker Steffanie Altenbern discuss the barriers to overcoming poverty and the mindsets that tend to keep people stuck there.Check out Bridges out of Poverty.Steffanie Altenbern is a social worker in Portland, OR and teaches at George Fox University.Dr. Brian Doak is an Old Testament scholar and professor.If you enjoy listening to the...2025-01-0732 min
Weird Religion124 THE IMPOSSIBLE (is it OK now to believe in every miracle?)Today we’re discussing a book by religion and philosophy professor Jeffrey Kripal (Rice University), called How to Think Impossibly: About Souls, UFOs, Time, Belief, and Everything Else (University of Chicago Press, 2024). He seems to be suggesting…that we should believe…in impossible things. Miracles. Levitation. UFOs. Archetypes. And many other things Leah and Brian were told not to believe in during their time in secular graduate programs, of the type that Kripal himself would seem to teach in. What is happening here? We explore. Join us. “Authentic” was the 2023 Merriam-Webster word of year: https://www.georgefamilyfoundation.org/news/b...2024-12-2030 minGEORGE FOX TALKSThis is the Problem with Christian ArtDr. Brian Doak talks with film critic and theology professor Dr. Joel Mayward about art, faith, incarnation, and the image of the Divine in humanity’s creativity. Can the word “Christian” be used as an adjective to describe any kind of art? How should Christians discern what kind of films or music to engage with, and are there any that should be avoided outright? Is art necessary?Check out Francis Schaeffer’s Art and the Bible.Dr. Joel Mayward is a film critic and theology professor.Dr. Brian Doak is an Old Testament scholar...2024-12-1733 min
Weird Religion122 THE SPIRIT (why is that man running and yelling)When, and why, did Catholics stop saying “and also with you” in response to “The Lord be with you,” and instead start saying, “and with your spirit”? And how would you respond to the ecstatic worship practice of “running the aisles”? We discuss the aesthetic we’d want—in heaven. Brian gaslights himself and all academics about “change.” Leah sings several times and claims to be a “pilgrim.” Some very serious talk about the communion ritual. And craniosacral therapy.And with you vs. And with your spirit: https://www.npr.org/2008/08/11/93419478/catholics-will-no-longer-recite-and-also-with-you Let Google google for you!! https://blog.google...2024-12-1330 min
Weird Religion121 THE OLIGARCHS (the Swiss create a new way to confess sins)The Swiss have created a new way to confess sins. Brian does something he vowed he would never do. Digital oligarchs will rule our future. A mysterious man passes by outside dressed like a priest of the Pacific Northwest. The Film Her (2013): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1798709/ “Hey Alexa, Are You Sexist?”: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/02/12/us/alexa-bots-female-voice.htmlOligarch for Sort Of Post-Evangelicals Peter Enns: https://www.eastern.edu/peter-enns AI Jesus hears confessions (Vice article): https://www.vice.com/en/article/ai-jesus-is-now-taking-confessions-at-a-church-in-switzerland/ AI Jesus hears confessions in Sw...2024-12-1029 minGEORGE FOX TALKSCan CHRISTIANITY and Education REALLY Mix?“For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe” (1 Corinthians 1:21). How can Christian students and scholars reconcile statements like this with the earnest pursuit of understanding that is encouraged elsewhere in the Bible? Is it possible to openly engage with the honest exchange of ideas while adhering to doctrinal standards and remaining committed to faith? Dr. Brian Doak and Dr. Joseph Clair weigh in on these questions while evaluating the purpose and value of a Christian university....2024-12-1032 minGEORGE FOX TALKSHere’s why Christian College students are STRUGGLINGHas the average church-kid Christian college student actually read through the Bible? Brian talks with theologian and professor Lindsey Hankins about the University's role in catechizing young people toward a thoughtful and durable life of faith. How is the decline in church attendance affecting students' Biblical literacy and understanding of Church history? What should professors expect their freshmen to already know about the Bible and Christianity, and what counsel can they offer when students are struggling with faith?Dr. Brian Doak is an Old Testament scholar and professor.Dr. Lindsey Hankins is the Director of...2024-11-2632 minGEORGE FOX TALKSIs THIS the most terrifying problem a person can face?Why is there evil and suffering in a world governed by an omnipotent, benevolent God? Filmed live in an introductory theology class at George Fox University, Dr. Brian Doak defines the problem of suffering and examines the Bible's several responses to this question with which humanity has struggled from the beginning.Dr. Brian Doak is an Old Testament scholar and professor.If you enjoy listening to the George Fox Talks podcast and would like to watch, too, check out our channel on YouTube! We also have a web page that features all of our podcasts...2024-11-1244 minGEORGE FOX TALKSIs THIS the key to defending the Christian Faith?Brian talks with apologist Andrew del Rio about the experience of doubt in a life of faith. What are Christian parents supposed to do when their children begin to evaluate faith for themselves? What does the Bible say about doubt, and is it a sin? Is apologetics really about defending the faith, or is it about helping Christians to navigate their own questions? Dr. Andrew del Rio directs the Apologetics Initiative at George Fox University.Dr. Brian Doak is an Old Testament scholar and professor.Check out Christian Smith and Amy Adamczyk's book.2024-10-2933 minGEORGE FOX TALKSIs THIS our Real Problem with Voting?Brian talks with political advisor & author Michael Wear about the moral weight of the American vote. If the average American is really opposed to inflammatory campaign strategies and provocative public discourse, why do we keep seeing increasingly harsh political ads and growing polarization? Does moral knowledge have a place in our government? Where can a Christian find a home in our political environment?Dr. Brian Doak is an Old Testament scholar and professor.Michael Wear is the Founder, President and CEO of the Center for Christianity and Public Life.Check out Michael's book...2024-09-1735 minGEORGE FOX TALKSWhy Christians Must Pay Attention to Artificial IntelligenceIn this reissue episode, Sho and Brian dig into theology and tech. AI is booming and we’re on the verge of significant integration between our bodies and our technology (read: Neuralink). In response to this new era of consciousness, it’s time for Christians to revisit the eternal values and principles found in scripture and allow our reactions to be shaped by the things that do not change.Dr. Brian Doak is an Old Testament scholar and professor.Sho Baraka is a polymath writer and hip hop artist.If you enjoy listening to t...2024-08-1322 minGEORGE FOX TALKSAre Christians Ready for a FEMALE President?With the first female VPOTUS in history running in the US presidential race, Lindsey and Brian dig into the cultural implications of electing a woman as the executive head of our nation. Does competency speak louder than identity? Do thoughtful Christians need to step away from their moderate political posture and start picking sides? How can we avoid an anti-intellectual attitude in our faith?Dr. Brian Doak is an Old Testament scholar and professor. Dr. Lindsey Hankins is a theologian and the director of the School of Theology at George Fox University. If...2024-08-0629 minGEORGE FOX TALKSDoes Trump Believe God actually SAVED him?Messianic hopefulness, substitutionary sacrifice, spiritual forces at work—Brian and Jason unpack the theological imagery being harnessed in the continually evolving presidential campaign rhetoric. As people with ultimate allegiance to Jesus Christ, what pitfalls should Christians look out for during this race and what is our counter-cultural social & political responsibility?Dr. Brian Doak is an Old Testament scholar and professor.Jason Fileta is a Christian activist.If you enjoy listening to the George Fox Talks podcast and would like to watch, too, check out our channel on YouTube! We also have a web pa...2024-07-3026 min
Weird Religion118 THE COTTON (academic conference attire, Cotton Mather, and the Bible in America)We prepare to engage in the yearly ritual of scholars in our field: the annual meeting of the American Academy of Religion (AAR) and Society of Biblical Literature (SBL), abbreviated AAR-SBL…or is it SBL-AAR? The order makes all the difference. Quality tips are shared to survive an academic conference of this type. Brian shares the tale of his first panic attack, and leaks crucial details from one of his conference presentations—about the Puritan leader Cotton Mather and his belief that the bones of biblical giants had been uncovered in America. The Society of Biblical Literature (SBL...2023-11-1529 min
Weird Religion117 THE BOOKS (live episode! books that have changed our lives)Gather ‘round for an episode recorded in front of a LIVE AUDIENCE in Portland, Oregon! We take a piece of listener (e)mail and answer the call: to talk about books that have been deeply impactful for our lives and research—books that anyone could read and learn a lot. From classics in the early history of sociology to ritual to women in the church to child sacrifice, it’s a magic carpet ride of books. Max Weber, The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Protestant_Ethic_and_the_Spirit_of_Cap...2023-11-0930 min
Weird Religion116 THE MH370 (this year's weirdest airplane-UFO conspiracy so far)The aftermath of the July 2023 Congressional UFO hearing has been fascinating, infuriating, mysterious, and ominous. We get you caught up, and present a chilling conspiracy theory about what has become already one of the most famous airplane disappearances of the past several decades—Malaysian Airlines Flight 370 in 2014. The Congressional UFO hearing on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/KQ7Dw-739VY?si=7iKLViEo9ZS-iy8_ Wikipedia page for the whistleblower (David Grusch) claims: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Grusch_UFO_whistleblower_claimsNPR summary of the UFO hearing: https://www.npr.org/2023/07/27/1190390376/ufo-hearing-non-human-biologics-uaps 2023-11-0130 min
Weird Religion114 THE AYNRAND (what is it like to grow up in an Objectivist household?)What would it be like to grow up in a household guided by the principles of Ayn Rand’s Objectivist philosophy? We talk to Things Not Seen radio host Dr. David Dault, of Loyola University Chicago, about being expoed to the ideology of Ayn Rand at a young age. If you’ve ever wanted to know about Rand’s “Objectivist” idea but were too afraid to ask, we’ll take you there. Along the way, Brian mispronounces Ayn’s name, David shares several fascinating and vulnerable personal stories, and we review the dystopian novella Anthem, ending with the hard question: Are...2023-08-3030 min
Weird Religion038 THE TRUTH (Ancient Aliens, the History Channel, and all of the possibilities) [September 2019]Rebroadcasting a popular season finale from several years ago. Aliens are the quintessential sci-fi topic. Leah admits she used to watch Alf. Brian watched Alf too! We all did. Was The History Channel ever really respectable? The true utopian technology prophets will tell us when everything has been illuminated at the same time. Is it possible that…UPDATED SHOW NOTESAncient Aliens is doing live shows now, on tour: https://bit.ly/46rjfsE Ancient Aliens on the History Channel: https://www.history.com/shows/ancient-aliens 2023-08-1631 min
Weird Religion113 THE X (why are the clothes on floor and Real Talk Kim)To celebrate what appears to be a departure of people of some amount from “Twitter” (now “X”?!), we run to the new “Threads” app and find dueling weird religious stories to share: (1) Leah finds a joke that leads to rumination on “premillennial dispensationalism” (2) and Brian offers an engaging TikTok sermon by “Real Talk Kim.”Threads has lost 80% of its daily users: https://gizmodo.com/threads-has-lost-more-than-80-of-daily-active-users-1850707329 Musk erodes Twitter’s brand with X thing: https://time.com/6297303/twitter-x-rebrand-cost/ Leah’s rapture joke Thread: https://www.threads.net/@drleahpayne/post/Cvca3OrACHj/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3DOne third of...2023-08-0926 min
GEORGE FOX TALKSWhy the Old Testament is Dying | THEOLOGYIn this episode, Biblical scholars and Drs. Brian Doak & Brent Strawn dive into the common questions they receive about their field of study. They also discuss the reasons the Old Testament seems to be losing popularity and how it ought to be read and applied in our day. They analyze different views and provide insights into the present and future state of the Old Testament.Dr. Brian Doak is Vice President of George Fox Digital and a professor of Biblical Studies.Dr. Brent Strawn is a Professor of the Old Testament and a Professor of L...2023-06-2032 min
Saved by the CityThe Nationalists feat. Weird Religion • Leah Payne & Brian DoakSaved By The City is proud to present an episode for the excellent podcast Weird Religion!In which our guests Leah Payne & Brian Doak discuss Deuteronomy Ch. 32, Moses Sings, and how Republicans want a Christian Nation.Moses sings a song that takes us…deep into the problem of Christian nationalism. Come for the most secretly controversial passage in the Bible; stay for Leah trying to be a therapist for Brian on the problem of hating Christian nationalism but fearing that we need it for social cohesion. And a scholarly theory on the ev...2023-06-1532 min
Weird Religion109 THE EXPERIENCERS (shocking developments in the UFO community)We’re here this week to discuss potentially shocking revelations in the UFO “disclosure” community, and get you fully caught up on what has been said recently about aliens and such things. Brian went to a UFO festival and heard a specialist talk about “UFO Experiencers” for MUFON (yes, the same MUFON as referenced on the X Files!). Leah attended the free parade. A new government whistleblower claims we are in possession of multiple and even full “crafts” of non-human origin. Garry Nolan, scientist at Stanford, says that he is “100%” certain extraterrestrials are here. And respected Australian journalist Ross Coulthart has some...2023-06-0733 min
GEORGE FOX TALKSInjuries and How to CONQUER Them | BODYIn this installment, Dr. Jaydee and Brian Doak delve into Brian's shoulder injury and the path he took to complete recovery. They also examine various people's experiences with physical therapy and why some avoid it entirely. If you're apprehensive about undergoing PT due to an injury, this episode will be helpful for you.Jaydee is a physical therapist with expertise in orthopedics, health and wellness, and nutrition.Dr. Brian Doak is Vice President of George Fox Digital and a professor of Biblical Studies.If you enjoy listening to the George Fox Talks podcast...2023-06-0635 min
Weird Religion106 THE HIGHLIGHTER (on reading and erasing the Bible)It’s the end of the semester, which means it’s time for a chance hallway encounter that leads to a strange memory and then to reflections on the theological meaning of the proliferation of the codex (i.e., our modern physical book form). Matchbox Twenty, “Downfall” (2002): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6aQWA_fAu8M Walmart, “Bible Highlighters and Pens”: https://www.walmart.com/c/kp/bible-highlighters-and-pens The orchestral piece Brian mentioned that brought a jaded chapel audience roaring to its feet at the end: Wojciech Kilar, “Orawa” (with Kristjan Järvi): https://youtu.be...2023-05-1030 min
Weird Religion104 THE CALLMEMAYBE (Third Eagle of the Apocalypse rises with Carly Rae Jepson analysis)Leah and Brian try the no-dunking challenge to talk about some weirdly religious videos by William Tapley, AKA “The Third Eagle of the Apocalypse.” First up: The Eagle uncovers Satanic messages in Carly Rae Jepsen’s “Call Me Maybe.” Then, other things are REVEALED. William Tapley, AKA “The Third Eagle of the Apocalypse” in YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thirdeaglebooks Some background on the obscure William Tapley: http://www.jnordstrom.ca/blog-ideas-and-updates/bill-tapley-third-eagle-of-the-apocalypse-and-co-prophet-of-the-end-times William Tapley’s description of himself on his own website: https://www.thirdeaglemedia.com/about-me CORRECTION: Apparently William Tapley is not aga...2023-04-1928 min
Weird Religion102 THE CONSULTANT (does Jesus look at you with compassion...or anger!)When you put religion on TV, you have to get religion consultants. Why even bother being accurate? Does Jesus look at someone to be healed with compassion—or anger? We end with a conversation about the term “minoritized” (vs. “minority”). Review of Brian’s appearance on a Travel Channel show debunking a Phoenician inscription: https://www.jasoncolavito.com/blog/review-of-america-unearthed-s04e05-phoenicians-in-america“Horror Shows Like Mayfair Witches Hire Occult Consultant”: https://religionnews.com/2023/03/07/horror-shows-like-mayfair-witches-hire-occult-consultants-to-cast-their-spells/ Supernatural S2E18: https://www.netflix.com/watch/70223069 The Chosen: “Jesus Heals at the Pool” (clip): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v...2023-03-2930 min
Weird Religion100 THE NATIONALISTS (Deuteronomy ch. 32, Moses sings, and Republicans want a Christian nation)Moses sings a song that takes us…deep into the problem of Christian nationalism. Come for the most secretly controversial passage in the Bible; stay for Leah trying to be a therapist for Brian on the problem of hating Christian nationalism but fearing that we need it for social cohesion. And a scholarly theory on the evolution from polytheism to monotheism in ancient Israel. Deuteronomy ch. 32: sons of Israel, or sons of GODS?! https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy%2032&version=NIV The new survey, showing 50% of Republicans like Christian Nationalism: https://www.npr.org/2023/02/14/1156642544/more...2023-03-1531 min
Weird Religion098 THE BREAKFAST (Brian scores an exclusive and mysterious invitation)Despite not being known fundamentalist or evangelical influencer royalty, Brian scored an invitation to the 2023 National Prayer Breakfast in Washington D.C. We discuss the sights, sounds, beliefs, dress code, costs, content, scandal, and music of the event. Was Brian inducted into The Family? We reveal. Axios article on the new Prayer Breakfast format: https://www.axios.com/2023/01/29/national-prayer-breakfast-congress-leadership Slate on the National Prayer Breakfast schism: https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2023/02/national-prayer-breakfast-family-fellowship-gathering.html Netflix documentary: The Family: https://www.netflix.com/title/80063867 Kenyan Civil War avoided through staged hug, facilitated by “The Fa...2023-03-0129 min
GEORGE FOX TALKSThe Reason Behind VIOLENCE In the Bible | THEOLOGYIf you've spent much time reading the Bible, you know that it is no children's book. What are we supposed to do with Scriptural texts that describe terrible acts of violence--sometimes even commanded by God? Dr. Brian Doak offers a few possible ways to deal with this reality while holding fast to the Christian assurance that violence was not part of God's plan for the world.Dr. Brian Doak is a professor of Biblical Studies with teaching and research interest in the Hebrew Bible & language, and he also serves as vice president of George Fox Digital, GFU's...2023-02-2845 min
Weird Religion092 THE SKULLS (creepy but maybe comforting neolithic plastered skulls from Jericho)Veering wildly between reflections on death and bodies in the contemporary world, jokes about professional wrestling, ambulances passing by, rumination on how ancient people thought about burial and the afterlife, and with a major and free idea for others for a publication (hint: where do people who attend megachurches get buried?)—this is what you need for Halloween. Or any time. We’re back for the 8th season and 4th year of new podcast episodes from Weird Religion. The skulls we’re talking about have their own Wikipedia page: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plastered_human_skulls ...2022-10-2927 min
Weird Religion087 THE HOARD (News Roundup--Brian offers a stunning confession)Brian has a confession that will shock the world of the News Roundup. Leah offers absolution. Give us a shout on Twitter if you finished this ep and we will celebrate you. STORIES DISCUSSED (yes actually)Mythical root axe: https://www.npr.org/2022/05/13/1098545920/kansas-man-finds-ax-tree-root-handle-reddit-thor Far Right American Christians converting to Orthodoxy: https://www.npr.org/2022/05/10/1096741988/orthodox-christian-churches-are-drawing-in-far-right-american-converts Spilling blood in fake tiger fighting for rain: https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20220508-mexican-tiger-fight-ritual-draws-blood-to-bring-rain Exorcisms have gone mainstream: https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/wellness/exorcism-is-something-we-cant-quite-quit/ar-AAX12Wr Quasi-religious ceremonies for...2022-05-2546 min
Weird Religion084 THE BSG (Battlestar Galactica and the politics of polytheism)With Brian having finally finished BSG, it is now time for Leah to guide him through thinking about its meaning and weird religious implications. Along the way, we’re offering a sampler of highlights from the world of religion and pop culture scholarship engaging with the show. We consider the gritty political context of the BSG universe and the show’s spiritual messages, and we ponder the fate of polytheism as a concept. SOURCES CITED AND TO ENJOYProfessor Juli Gittinger: https://www.gcsu.edu/artsandsciences/philosophy/faculty-staff-department-of-philosophy-religion-and-liberal-studies Dr. Shayna Sheinfeld: https://twitter.com...2022-04-1345 min
Weird ReligionBONUS: Ambush Session on Megachurch Pastor Comparing Jesus to "Old Town Road"An age-old historical and theological question: Why was Jesus crucified? We explore a shocking theory, as Leah engages in a rare (for her) ambush session on Brian with an unexpected twist. The 19-second sermon clip: https://youtu.be/0fVt7eR1o_w Steven Furtick’s controversial tweet: https://images.app.goo.gl/rUotpKingcWMtUgw5 2021-12-0714 min
Weird ReligionBONUS: Checking in on Battlestar, Lost, Leo as Jim Jones, QAnon is backWEIRDOS: peeking our heads into your life with a substantive check-in on these things: (1) Brian is still watching Battlestar Galactica, and the last ep (S4E11) was bananas (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AIV5UqIV0a0&t=248s)(2) Many of us are still wounded by the ending of Lost (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JH0DigVw1bA) (3) Leo DiCaprio in talks to play Jim Jones (https://ew.com/movies/leonardo-dicaprio-jim-jones-biopic-movie/)(4) QAnon thought JFK Jr. was coming back (https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2021/11/02/qanon-jfk-jr-dallas/)(5) If you enjoy the show, or even if you...2021-11-1625 min
Weird Religion077 THE FACECHURCH (Should anyone be going to church on Facebook?)Facebook has gathered church leaders for a conference to ask how they can have church on Facebook. It’s all about “connection.” Peanut allergies and Netflix’s new dating show Sexy Beast and Brian not having a son are discussed, as well as theories of brand dilution and holiness. And the revelation: We speculate about how Facebook is promoting a particular version of the internet and its new product idea through this effort.“Facebook’s Next Target: The Religious Experience” (New York Times): https://www.nytimes.com/2021/07/25/us/facebook-church.html “Facebook decided faith groups are good for busines...2021-09-0728 min
Weird Religion075 THE FORGERIES (Biblical controversy around the Shapira Scroll and Gospel of Jesus' Wife)Biblical forgery cases get everyone riled up—here are the two hottest controversies of the moment, covering both Old and New Testaments: “The Shapira Scroll” and the “Gospel of Jesus’ Wife.” Brian goes off. Come for the juicy details on both documents, and stay for the hard discussion of “history” and meditation on intellectual humility. The pandemic never ends joke: https://twitter.com/mattbooshell/status/1422589796828987395?s=10 The Rylands Papyrus (which Brian erroneously called the “Rowlands” Papyrus): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rylands_Library_Papyrus_P52 New York Times article on the Shapira Scroll controversy: https...2021-08-2442 min
Weird Religion072 THE LAMB (Brian subjects Leah to an intriguing art-horror film trailer)You know how you do that thing where you watch an intriguing trailer for an artsy horror film and then make all your friends watch it? Here we are. In The Lamb, forthcoming this fall, a couple tries to raise a lamb (?) as if it is their own child (?), and the lamb then morphs into something like a human (?), and some difficult things happen when the lamb parents come to reclaim their own (?). With a side discourse on Israel’s experience in the desert with flying snakes. Watch the trailer and join in our confused glee: The La...2021-08-0320 min
Weird Religion069 THE MOTHER! (Darren Arnofsky's 2017 film mother!, Leah not impressed, Joel Mayward enlightens)We take a deep breath and watch Darren Arnofsky’s maybe brilliant maybe dumb yet deeply religiously inspired and definitely provocative 2017 film mother! Film critic Joel Mayward joins us for support. Brian tries to ex(man)splain. Leah is not having it. (Warning: this episode contains some disturbing content, and also a heaping of razor sharp film criticism by Dr. Joel Mayward.)Trailer and other clips from mother!: https://bit.ly/35RV2xE Darren Arnofsky’s mother! and Cinematic Parables, by Joel Mayward: http://www.transpositions.co.uk/darren-aronofskys-mother-cinematic-parables/ Joel Mayward’s review of mot...2021-07-1342 min
Weird Religion068 THE JAVIER (remembering our friend and colleague Javier Garcia, who died recently)A very short episode dedicated to our friend Javier Garcia, who died recently. He was 34 years old, a Bonhoeffer scholar, director of an Honors program, a surfer, mountain climber, brother, son, and friend. With the flare-up of a long-brewing and continuing and still bitter disagreement between Brian and Leah about the quality of the show Battlestar Gallactica. Obituary for Javier Garcia: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BZo3zlxU7itzSDufQgl3RsjPW6WpWBr4/view?usp=sharing Recovering the Ecumenical Bonhoeffer, by Javier Garcia: https://www.amazon.com/Recovering-Ecumenical-Bonhoeffer-Thinking-Tradition/dp/1978700067 YouTube playlist of Javier Garcia...2021-07-0615 min
Weird Religion066 THE BAPTISTS (newsdesk deep dive: SBC convention, history, gender, #metoo, voting)Conservatives take on Super-Conservatives. Major drama just went down at the annual convention for the nation’s most prominent Protestant “denomination,” the Southern Baptists. Who are “Baptists”? And how did Joe Baptist create the modern Baptist movement? What is happening with Moore and Moore? Brian interviews Leah and if you listen to this, you will have a decent starter kit to understanding Baptists. Ruth Graham, New York Times, “Southern Baptist Vote Signals Further Fractures in American Evangelicalism”: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/06/16/us/southern-baptist-convention-evangelicalism.html Anthea Butler, White Evangelical Racism: https://uncpress.org/book/9781469661179/white-evangelical-racism/ Shout-outs...2021-06-2237 min
Weird Religion064 THE ERUV (was Mother Theresa a cult leader, and an 18 mile wire above Manhattan)A religion in the news roundup with some surprising stories. Mother Theresa a cult leader. Interpreting the Torah. Your face will become a skull. Rachel Hollis is out of touch. Zaprudurian. This UFO thing is not going away and Brian is getting excited. A lot going on. Links below to each story. Some covered more in depth, and some in the lightning round. Was Mother Theresa a cult leader? https://www.getreligion.org/getreligion/2021/5/25/another-trial-by-media-in-defense-of-mother-teresa-why-she-is-a-saint-not-a-cult-leaderRachel Hollis who is something of a guru is saying dumb things: https://aninjusticemag.com/the-rachel-hollis-drama-is-why-i-dont-trust-influencers-586eef3c2a15 2021-06-0136 min
I BELIEVETHEO 102 POP CULTURE SMACKDOWN FINALTraditional church or something new and different? Dr. Payne and Dr. Doak debate what it would take for the Christian church to thrive in the future!2021-04-1700 minI BELIEVETHEO 102 POP-CULTURE SMACKDOWN: HIGHER CRITICISMIs higher criticism helpful or unhelpful for the church? Dr. Doak and Dr. Payne debate it here and you’ll weigh in this week!2021-04-1000 minI BELIEVEI NEED TO KNOW MORE PIETYHow can Christians remain faithful to God in the industrial era? What does it mean to be truly holy like God is holy? Dr. Payne and Dr. Doak talk about how John and Charles Wesley and the Methodists answered those questions and more!2021-04-0300 minI BELIEVETHEO POP-CULTURE SMACKDOWN: MOD ROCK OR KEEP IT TRADITIONAL?Charles Wesley was one of the great hymn writers of the Christian tradition. What is the right way that Christians should worship through music? Keep it traditional or get with the times? Dr. Doak and Dr. Payne debate and we want to hear from you!2021-04-0300 minI BELIEVETHEO POP-CULTURE SMACKDOWN: TIKTOK?Should TikTok evangelists be a thing? Do media innovators trivialize the gospel? Or, are they moving the church into the 21st century? Dr. Doak and Dr. Payne debate whether or not TikTok preaching helps or hurts the Christian movement.2021-03-2700 minI BELIEVEI NEED TO KNOW MORE: RENEWALHow did Roman Catholics respond to the modern world? Dr. Doak and Dr. Payne talk about Catholic renewal in the modern age and read a timeless poem & prayer from St. Teresa of Avila!2021-03-2700 minI BELIEVEI NEED TO KNOW MORE: REFORMWhat happens when reform spreads? How do you know when you’ve reformed enough? This week, Dr. Payne and Dr. Doak tackle some of the critical questions facing early modern Christians & the founding of the Church of England.2021-03-1900 minI BELIEVETHEO POP-CULTURE SMACKDOWN: MAGISTERIAL OR RADICAL?How should a believer relate to the wider world? Should they follow the example of the magisterial traditions or the radicals? Dr. Payne and Dr. Doak debate it here and then we want to hear from you in the discussion. Would you be a radical or magisterial?2021-03-1900 minI BELIEVETHEO POP-CULTURE SMACKDOWN: BELIEF OR ACTION?Here it is: What comes first? Christian belief or action? Dr. Payne and Dr. Doak consider a classic "chick or egg" Christian conversation this week. Weigh in with your thoughts this week!2021-03-1300 minI BELIEVEI NEED TO KNOW MORE: MODERNITYWelcome to the modern world! Dr. Doak and Dr. Payne talk about how the world was changing in the early modern era, the cantankerous and unforgettable Martin Luther, and they even trade a few classic Lutheran insults!2021-03-1300 minI BELIEVETHEO POP-CULTURE SMACKDOWN: CELIBACYShould priests/pastors be celibate? Dr. Doak and Dr. Payne debate - and you might be surprised at what the REALLY believe!!2021-02-2700 minI BELIEVEI NEED TO KNOW MORE: SACRAMENTThis week we are learning about how Christians worshipped in the Middle Ages, and the important role that the church played in the daily lives regular people. This week, Drs. Doak and Payne talk about their favorite sacraments, how Christians read the Bible in the Middle Ages, and the writings, art, and theological visions of Hildegard von Bingen!2021-02-2029 minI BELIEVETHEO 102 POP-CULTURE SMACKDOWN: RELICDo physical objects have spiritual power? Dr. Doak and Dr. Payne debate whether or not things like relics have power from God. Listen in and share your thoughts in this week’s discussion!2021-02-2000 minI BELIEVETHEO SMACKDOWN RULEWould you be a monk or a nun? Dr. Doak and Dr. Payne explore whether or not monastic life is for them - and this week, we are inviting you to think about it too!2021-02-1100 minI BELIEVETHEO POP-CULTURE SMACKDOWN: CREEDS???This week, Dr. Doak & Dr. Payne tackle the question: do Christians need creeds, those handy distillations of Christian teaching and theology? Do they help Christians or are they out of date? Listen in and make your case on Flipgrid!2021-02-0600 minI BELIEVETHEO 102 NEED TO KNOW MORE COUNCILThis week, Drs. Payne & Doak talk about the development of Christian creeds, councils, and how Christians decide what they are and what they are not. Then, we read the sermon of a famous ancient preacher with a reputation for solid-gold preaching!2021-02-0600 minI BELIEVETHEO POP CULTURE SMACKDOWN: CONSTANTINE - HERO or VILLAIN?Was Constantine a hero or a villain? Did he help Christianity flourish or did he set the church on a course of corruption? Dr. Payne & Dr. Doak try to convince one another in this week’s smackdown!2021-01-3000 minI BELIEVEI NEED TO KNOW MORE: EMPIREIt was one thing to be faithful under persecution - what happens when Christians gain legal rights, social power, and wealth? Dr. Doak & Dr. Payne explore the challenges facing Christians when their religion becomes the religion of empire in the 4th century.2021-01-3000 minI BELIEVETHEO 102 POP-CULTURE SMACKDOWN: NEW TESTAMENT CHURCHThis week, Dr. Doak & Dr. Payne explore how early Christians wrestled with who they were when they were expelled from Jerusalem, and they tackle the question: should churches be just like they were in the New Testament? Or, should they adapt to the times? Listen in and then share your thoughts with your discussion group!2021-01-2300 minI BELIEVEI NEED TO KNOW MORE: SCATTEREDWhat happens when the early church is forced out of Jerusalem and scattered across the world? How do they survive? And how do they remain faithful when put to the test of persecution? Dr. Doak and Dr. Payne talk about what life was like for the earliest Christians.2021-01-2300 minI BELIEVETHEO POP-CULTURE SMACKDOWN: EVANGELISM - BUT HOW??Just google “Christian sandwich board” and you’ll see a lot of pictures of Christians standing with giant signs proclaiming a version of the Christian message. But should they? Most Christians agree that getting the good news out to the world is important. How should evangelism be done? Public preaching like in the book of Acts? Or should we let our actions speak first? Dr. Doak and Dr. Payne take up the question of getting the news about Jesus out in the world - one way or another!2021-01-1628 minI BELIEVETHEO POP-CULTURE SMACKDOWN: IS THE RAPTURE A THINGHave you heard of “the rapture”? Maybe, maybe not! But we’re going to tell you all about it, and then debate it. A fitting end to our journey through the Bible, arriving, finally, at the APOCALYPSE. Our artifact: A poster Dr. Doak saw at Fred Meyer, for a rapture-themed paintball contest2020-11-2147 minI BELIEVEI NEED TO KNOW MORE: PRACTICEWe invite Dr. Joseph Clair into the podcasting bunker because we need to know more about his lecture on the topic of Christian PRACTICE as it appears in the New Testament. We think together about the concept of Christian ethics and moral behavior. Dr. Payne asks an uncomfortable question which Dr. Clair and Dr. Doak struggle to answer.2020-11-1432 minI BELIEVEI NEED TO KNOW MORE: SAVIOR“Jesus saves”—OK, but what does that mean? And what is the role of doubt? We go deeper, building on Dr. Doak’s lecture, SAVIOR. We read a famous and often misunderstood text. Join us.2020-10-2443 minI BELIEVEI NEED TO KNOW MORE: EXILEDr. Doak and Dr. Payne sit down to talk about how they felt when they first left home for college, and imagine, inspired by our material from the Bible this week, what it might be like to experience EXILE (be sure to watch the main lecture video on EXILE before listening to this podcast!). We discuss numerous texts and issues, haggle about the politics of people left in the land vs. people taken away from the land, converse about the tears that flow when the new Temple construction begins, and read a provocative text loaded with double entendre.2020-10-1043 minI BELIEVETHEO POP-CULTURE SMACKDOWN: ACTS AND CONSEQUENCESWhy do people suffer? The painful problem of the exile raises this question in numerous ways. See the video lecture on EXILE for this week. Do people suffer because of their own actions, or are there other mysterious forces at work? Is the “act-consequence nexus” the best way to think about morality? Dr. Doak and Dr. Payne debate, and we provide a bonus discussion at the beginning about the issue of how and why Christians can debate with each other. Our artifact for the week: “Five natural disasters God sent to punish us,” an article discussing different times Christians and othe...2020-10-1031 minI BELIEVEI NEED TO KNOW MORE: KINGDOMFollowing up on Dr. Doak’s lecture, KINGDOM, we take another shot at summarizing and discussing this wide range of materials, all telling the story of Israel once they enter the land in 1 Samuel all the way through the demise of the kingship and the nation at the end of 2 Kings. And then there are a lot of books authored or spoken by “prophets,” also. Our close reading engages with a classic prophetic scene. Join us.2020-09-2600 minI BELIEVEI NEED TO KNOW MORE: LANDYour professors gather around the podcasting table to discuss this week’s topic, LAND (please watch the lecture on this topic before listening to this podcast!). We ask Dr. Edwards to say more about some specific points in the lecture, Dr. Doak offers alternate ways to think about the justifications for war in the book of Joshua, and we engage in a close reading of a strange little story.2020-09-1900 minI BELIEVEI NEED TO KNOW MORE: EXODUS + LAWThis week we’re tackling two topics and lectures! First, the EXODUS, the story of Moses and the freeing of the Hebrew slaves from Egypt. Second, the LAW, the set of commandments the people receive at Mt. Sinai. Dr. Payne and Dr. Doak engage in an extended close reading of a strange ritual. Here is the lecture on the EXODUS that you need to watch first, and here is the one on LAW. 2020-09-1200 minI BELIEVETHEO POP-CULTURE SMACKDOWN: RING BY SPRINGThis week we’re discussing one of the most dreaded and revered concepts at Christian colleges: the “ring by spring” phenomenon. Students talk about it at George Fox. They talk about it at Gonzaga. And it is apparently also the title of a Hallmark movie. We use the concept as a bridge to thinking about the romantic relationships between the ancestors in Genesis chs. 12–50: Abraham and Sarah, Isaac and Rebekah, Jacob and Rachel and Leah, Joseph and Asenath. And…others. Were these marriages “good” marriages? What should we make of their methods of engagement (often in arranged marriages)? Dr. Doak and Dr. P...2020-09-0500 minI BELIEVEI NEED TO KNOW MORE: CREATIONDr. Doak and Dr. Payne follow up on this week’s lecture, which covers Genesis chs. 1-11. In particular, they read Genesis ch 3, verses 1-7, in search of knowledge about the snake, gender, and who is at fault for humanity’s first sin.2020-08-2900 minI BELIEVETHEO POP-CULTURE SMACKDOWN: THE SEARCH FOR NOAH'S ARKShould readers of the Bible expect to find Noah’s ark, in reality, on top of a mountain in the Middle East? What might be the advantages and disadvantages of such a quest? Dr. Payne and Dr. Doak debate. Our artifact for the week is the “Ark Encounter” exhibit in Kentucky: https://arkencounter.com/And also related phenomena, like this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-kAgfh_-oSY2020-08-2900 minI BELIEVEI NEED TO KNOW MORE: BIBLEFor this first in the series of “I Need to Know More” weekly podcasts, your four teaching professors all get together to kick things off! We discuss this week’s main video lecture by Dr. Brian Doak on the BIBLE. What is the text, physically? How does it get presented to us? How do Christians uphold their view that the text is sacred and holy? Dr. Doak gives another shot at going deeper on some concepts around canon and translation. These “I Need to Know More” podcasts are predicated on listeners have already watched the corresponding main lecture video for the we...2020-08-2100 minI BELIEVETHEO POP-CULTURE SMACKDOWN: SPECIALITY BIBLESWelcome to our end-of-week teaching and podcast element! We’re calling it the “THEO POP-CULTURE SMACKDOWN.” Each week, we’ll debate a different topic at the intersection of (a) our week’s topic, (b) pop culture, and (c) the Bible and faith. This week: it’s Dr. Payne vs. Dr. Doak on the question: Are “specialty Bibles” good or bad for faith? Here are some examples of the “speciality Bibles” we’re talking about: New Everyday Life BibleThe Athlete’s BibleTim Lahaye’s Prophecy Study BibleFaith Girlz2020-08-2100 min
Weird Religion048 THE DICTATOR (BRIAN AND LEAH DISCUSS HOT NEW CAREER FIELDS IN THE 2020S)In which Brian suggests a rising career field for his daughters to enter, and Leah comments on how Pentecostal and charismatic churches are handling the pandemic2020-05-0406 minWeird Religion046 THE CARPET (A DREAM INVOLVING HERACLITUS)In which Leah takes on the mantle of dream interpretation and Brian recounts a mysterious saying from Heraclitus.2020-05-0205 minWeird Religion045 THE CHARACTERS (BRIAN REVEALS THAT HE HATES MOST BATTLESTAR CHARACTERS SO FAR)In which Brian checks in on his first viewing of the TV series Battlestar Galactica and reveals views that leave Leah in total horror2020-05-0207 minI BELIEVEDEBATE (4/10/2020): Dr. Brian Doak vs. Dr. Leah Payne (RESURRECTION OF THE BODY)Is “the Rapture” a thing? We debate!2020-04-1000 minI BELIEVEPANEL (4/3/2020): Brian Doak, Dominc Done, Leah Payne (FORGIVENESS OF SINS)We bring back Pastor Dom and let him have it with some of the most difficult questions we can think of regarding the issue of forgiveness!2020-04-0400 minI BELIEVEDEBATE (3/18/2020): Dr. Leah Payne vs. Dr. Brian Doak (COMMUNION OF SAINTS)Do we have too many churches? The debate is on!2020-03-1900 minWeird Religion040 THE DREAM (LIVIN IN THE LAND OF NOD)Leah and Brian attempt to interpret a dream about the virus2020-03-1706 minI BELIEVEPANEL (2/26/2020). Joseph Clair, Brian Doak, Javier Garcia, Lydia Shepard-Kiser (THE HOLY CATHOLIC CHURCH)What is the Church, exactly? Is the Church corrupted by money? Should ministers be paid? Should anyone profit off of working at a Christian institution of any kind? Would Jesus have approved of our churches? What is “low church” and “high church”? Dr. Joseph Clair, our Monday lecturer, along with Pastor Lydia and Dr. Garcia are back as panelists to tackle these questions—and, as always, much more.2020-02-2600 minI BELIEVEDEBATE (2/19/2020): Dr. Brian Doak vs. Dr. Leah Payne, with Dr. Sarita Edwards (I BELIEVE IN THE HOLY SPIRIT)How active is the Holy Spirit in our world today? What should Christians expect—in terms of gifts, miracles, and even people being raised from the dead? Our two course directors, Dr. Leah Payne and Dr. Brian Doak, clash on this topic! Moderated by our Monday lecturer Dr. Sarita Edwards.2020-02-1900 minI BELIEVEDEBATE (2/12/2020): Joseph Clair, Brian Doak, Leah Payne, Kenji Yokoy (JUDGE THE LIVING AND THE DEAD)Hell: Will it be eternal conscious torment, or will God eventually redeem everyone somehow? All Christians must affirm the words of the Creed, believe that Jesus will come and be the judge. Sin and punishment are very real and have serious consequences in the Christian vision. But what will that look like, exactly? Dr. Joseph Clair and Dr. Brian Doak duke it out in this week’s debate.2020-02-1200 minI BELIEVELECTURE (2/10/2020): Dr. Brian Doak (HE WILL COME TO JUDGE THE LIVING AND THE DEAD)“…and he will come to judge the living and the dead.” Despite being a massively frequent biblical theme, God’s judgment sometimes gets little airplay in Christian circles today. Why? And what does judgment entail and require? What does it look like in the Bible? Dr. Doak takes us through several scenes of Judgment, from the book of Genesis through the New Testament.2020-02-1100 minI BELIEVEDEBATE (2/7/2020): Brian Doak, Javier Garcia, Nijay Gupta, Tony Huynh (ON THE THIRD DAY HE ROSE AGAI“Jesus saves”—yes, but how? Today we have a DEBATE, between Dr. Javier Garcia and Dr. Nijay Gupta on the question of “atonement.” How does God become “at one” with humanity? How can Jesus save us? Dr. Garcia promotes an idea called “penal substitution,” and Dr. Gupta promotes a “participatory” model that leads to “theosis.”2020-02-0700 minI BELIEVEDEBATE (1/17/2020): Brian Doak v. Dominic Done, hosted by Insil Kang (SUFFERED)We’re back with a new format for this spring—DEBATE! Dr. Brian Doak and Pastor Dominic Done take up two different approaches to the problem of evil and duke it out: Is the problem of suffering more like a school or a battle? Is suffering primarily for teaching us lessons, or primarily to be fought against?2020-01-1700 minI BELIEVELECTURE (1/13/2020): Dr. Brian Doak (SUFFERED UNDER PONTIUS PILATE)We’re back for the spring, continuing our lectures through the Apostles’ Creed! This week Dr. Brian Doak takes on the phrase, “…suffered under Pontius Pilate.” Did Jesus really have to suffer? How should Christians think about suffering—indeed, the larger “problem of evil”—in the world today in light of our profession that God is “good” but also “all powerful”?2020-01-1400 minI BELIEVEPANEL (12/6/2019): Dr. Brian Doak, Dr. Nijay Gupta, Dr. Leah Payne, Pastor Trisha Welstad (BORN OF THE VIRGIN MARY)Our final panel of the fall semester features Dr. Nijay Gupta, back to answer questions about his lecture on the creedal phrase “born of the Virgin Mary,” as well as our usual cast of guests. Was Jesus a “difficult child”? How do we keep Christmas sacred amidst the profane commercialism of the season?2019-12-0600 minI BELIEVEPANEL (11/22/2019): Dr. Brian Doak, Pastor Insil Kang, Father Stephen Kenyon, Dr. Sunggu Yang (WHO WAS CONCEIVED BY THE HOLY SPIRIWe’re back to reflect on Dr. Abigail Favale’s moving lecture on the creedal phrase “who was conceived by the Holy Spirit” (Dr. Favale could not join us today on the panel). We discuss not only some points from the lecture and the virgin Mary, but also a “wild card” set of issues: How would Jesus respond to us if he walked in the door of this room, today? How can Christians love people with pure hearts and not just see sin everywhere? Should we be talking about whether or not God exists?2019-11-2200 minI BELIEVEPANEL (11/1/2019): Dr. Joseph Clair, Dr. Brian Doak, Pastor Marc le Roux, and Dr. Melissa Ramos (HIS ONLY SON)Dr. Melissa Ramos is back with yet another unique cast of THEO panelists to discuss Jesus. Why did Jesus not show off his powers more clearly, and make his identity known in a different way? Are we in danger of over-emphasizing or under-emphasizing either Jesus’s divinity or humanity? How should we pray?2019-11-0100 minWeird Religion039 THE PREMIUM (class war; bigfoot; Jordache jeans; expensive shirts; sneakers; mean girls)Brian and Leah hit the road to look for Bigfoot. On the way, Brian ambushes Leah in the who-is-more-working-class battle, but Leah strikes back. We discuss the fear of wearing expensive clothing, pastors wearing expenses sneakers, and mean girls, and Leah’s desire for a pair of Jordache jeans2019-10-3113 minI BELIEVEPANEL (10/25/2019): Dr. Brian Doak, Dr. Javier Garcia, Pastor Hannah Souter, and Dr. Meghan Sullivan (I BELIEVE IN JESUS CHRIST)Dr. Garcia is back, along with a philosophy professor visiting from Notre Dame, our special guest pastor, and panel host Dr. Doak for the usual wide ranging discussion--this time focusing on the meaning and relevance of Jesus.2019-10-2600 minI BELIEVEPANEL (10/18/2019): Dr. Joseph Clair, Dr. Brian Doak, Pastor Gabby Viesca, and Dr. Graedon Zorzi (OF HEAVEN AND EARTH)We welcome back our Monday lecturer Dr. Graedon Zorzi and two other wonderful panelists to engage with some very difficult questions about the Bible, science, dinosaurs, evolution, leaving church, suicide, and more.2019-10-1900 min
I BELIEVEPANEL (10/11/2019): Pastor Ashley Bell, Dr. Brian Doak, Pastor Dominic Done, and Dr. Leah Payne (CREATOR)We bring back Dr. Brian Doak from the Monday lecture and continue talking about our creedal word for the week, “Creator.” What does it mean to be a creator, to be creative? What do our own creative pursuits and appreciation of beauty tell us about God, if anything? Have we over-interpreted the Bible when it comes to creation, or any other theme?2019-10-1200 min
THE BIBLE & THE CREED(20) Panel: DESCENDED TO THE DEAD (two scholars of the Old Testament / Hebrew Bible)Lisa Cleath (PhD, UCLA) and Melissa Ramos (PhD, UCLA) join this week’s panel, held outside the classroom in Brian’s office with no audience, for a broad conversation on the Old Testament story. What should we make of Israel’s story, now that it has ended in the Old Testament? Or did it really end? Does God’s covenant continue on—and how? Is the Old Testament God “mean”? Join us for these questions and more!2019-03-2000 min