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Happy *almost* Easter everyone!  For this episode Pastor A.J. and Pastor Melissa dive into the Gospel lesson for Easter Sunday: Luke 24:1-12 and some death and resurrection theology.  What does it mean to be people of faith living in the wake of the resurrection? What is our focus?Discussion Questions:1.  What does it mean for your faith to live in the light of the resurrection?2. What's at the front of your worship space? What is the focus?3. What does it mean to you that “the beauty of grace is that it makes life not fair”?4. What does this tell us about God?

Two ADHD pastors talk about the morals of Judas, Mary, Martha, Lazarus, and Jesus.  Everything from bad boyfriend behavior to some questions of sexuality.  Join for this fun and funny conversation on John 12:1-8 for Sunday, April 6t, 2025. Discussion Questions:1.  What is your working resurrection theology around Jesus and Lazarus?2. How have you thought about Jesus’ rebuke of using the expensive oil before?3. Do you think Jesus is commanding us to “keep the poor with us always”?4. What benefits of doubt do you give to Judas?5. What have you learned about Jesus’ singleness or marriedness?6. What does this tell you about God?

Pastor Colby is the author of Unclobber and The Shift. Check out Ep 3.26 for our conversation on Unclobber.  Today, Pastor Colby and Pastor A.J. unpack some differences between conservative evangelical perspectives and a more Lutheran one, some sacramental theology, and sin from different perspectives. Pastor Colby shares different perspectives on theology and what were things that were “shifted” in his discernment away from conservative evangelicalism.Discussion Questions:1. What have you been taught about different kind of Christians?2. What is your working sacramental theology?3. What do you think humans have done with this knowledge to know what is “good and evil”?4. What is your working definition of sin? How does what Pastor Colby explains about hamartia change your understanding of sin?5.  What does this tell us about God?

The Queer Bible Study group at the Jacksonville Campus Ministry unpack Paul.  They talk about different perspectives on Paul, his personality, his faith, and his potential queerness.  Dive into hear these amazing college students share their faith, theology, and perspectives on one of our Biblical writers! Episode guests include: Rev. Sarah Locke, Sam Rakita, Annaliese Trammel, & Geo Peterson.Discussion Questions:1. Have you ever thought about Paul’s personality and how it influences his writings?2. Can you relate to the queer experience of “the thorn in my side”?3. How can this queer perspective on Paul’s work help us to make space for people’s beliefs and feelings?4. The group mentions that Paul is a baby Christian, what gives us authority?5.  What does this tell you about God?

Pastor Carla and Pastor A.J. dive into Philippians 3:17—4:1 for Sunday, March 16, 2025. Paul is talking to Roman colonizers in Philippi and challenging them to look to Christ and the apostles for behavior guidance for living out their calling as followers of Christ.  What is their emphasis? Their nation? Their privileges? Or looking towards equity for all people in the body of Christ?Discussion Questions:1.  How can we use our privilege to move forward the body of Christ?2. What does it mean to be an ally to you?3. What is your understanding of equity in the Body of Christ?4. What would imitating the early church leaders look like to you?5. What is the Good News?

Pastor Sarah and Pastor A.J. dive into the “Gospel according to Paul in a nutshell” from 1st Corinthians 15.  What does it mean to believe in vain? What does a faith that lives out the Gospel look like? Paul brings us into the word, speaking about how he was lifeless and in the promise of Jesus’ death and resurrection, he is given new life. Discussion Questions:How do you understand Paul’s comment of being “lifelessly born”?Is your theology rooted more in Jesus’ ministry or in Jesus’ death and resurrection?What would it look like to you to “believe in vain”?How do you view who is included in the Body of Christ?What is the Good News?Other Notes:Link to Bishop Ortiz response to Bishop Budde’s sermon: https://metrodcelca.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/As-dawn-broke-over-D.C.%E2%80%94Reflecting-on-Bishop-Buddes-Sermon.pdf

This week, we are diverging from the Bible to address the most uncomfortable conversation: Religion and Politics.  What’s going on right now in the religious state of the union? Seems like a lot, what do we listen to and what is even true?  I don’t know where you get your religious news, but let me introduce you to Jack Jenkins.  Here’s just a little interview with my favorite religion reporter in DC.  Jack has access to a lot of events and people to keep us up to date on the current state of our religious situation in the United States. A lot has been happening and we brought Jack in just to give us a little insight into what is going on.

The story of Joseph’s reunion with his brothers is filled with hope, despair, and lots of tears.  Dr. Chan and Pastor A.J. dive into this uncomfortable reunion and ask the big questions about God’s interventions in our midst.  We tackle everything from Divine Providence, theodicy, and even predestination theology. Join us for this deep conversation! We discuss Genesis 45:3-11, 15 for Sunday, February 23, 2025.Discussion Questions:1.  What is your working theology on how God intervenes in our lives?2. Where is God in the midst of suffering?3. Does God have a “predetermined” path for our lives?4. Where do you see hope in God’s intervention in our lives?5. Where is the Good News?

Good News? Pastor Jesse and Pastor A.J. dive into the Sermon on the Plain from the Gospel of Luke.  Blessed are you and woe to you! How does this compare to the Beatitudes in the Gospel of Matthew? What is the author of Luke really getting at?  And for goodness sakes, where is the hope?!  Luke 6:17-26 for Sunday, February 16, 2025.Discussion Questions:1.  How do you hear the Blessings and Woes? Is it hope or warning?2. How do you understand this in context of Jesus’ greater message?3. What do you think the implications of the “y’all” are in Jesus’ words?4. What does collective hope mean to you?5. What is the Good News?

Surprise episode! Hello from Athens! Pastor A.J. is on a Footsteps of Paul trip in Greece and Turkey this January. During this late night clergy chat episode we dive into what we are learning about Paul and our discernment with Pauline theology. We’ve got some good questions, nuggets of theology to share, and some VERY contagious laughter! Pastor A.J. is joined by the Rev. Samm Melton-Hill, the Revs. Sarah and Daniel Locke, and the Rev. Emily Lloyd as we stare at the Acropolis and work through Pauline theology. Discussion Questions:​What is your working theology around the doctrine of justification or conversion?​Where do you discern transformation in your faith journey?​What do you take from these pastors’ comments on this theology?​What does this tell us about God?

It’s almost Christmas!  We dive into the Magnificat.  The story where a teenage girl who recently found out she’s pregnant runs to her bestie to share the news.  In the words of Debie Thomas, “let’s linger here for a minute.”  Linger with Pastor Allison and Pastor A.J. in this moment of dangerous hope for the world to come!  Advent 4, December 22, 2024.  Discussion Questions: What relationships do you have that are just loving and not competitive? Where do you see God turning things upside down or doing some “holy leveling”? Where do you see this dangerous hope in the world? What power is in this hope? What does this tell us about God?

John the Baptist comes to share the good news of some fire and brimstone and pave the way for Jesus.  But is John really that harsh? Could it be that John is calling everyone into the kingdom of God rather than calling people out?  Check out this conversation with Pastor Becca Seely for Advent 3, December 15, 2024. Discussion Questions: What has been your working theology around John the Baptist’s purpose in the beginning of the gospel? Calling out versus calling in When is the Good News uncomfortable for you? What prayerful Advent practices do you have? What do you think John is asking of his listeners compared to Jesus? What does this tell us about God?

Pastor Lori and Pastor A.J. talk about John the Baptist in our Advent 2 Gospel lesson. We dive into equity, our baptismal promises, and what repentance means in our lives today.  Join us for this conversation on Luke 3:1-6 for Sunday, December 8th, 2024. Discussion Questions: Where do we see God entering the world? What is significant for our understanding of this text to understand “world” as the political, powerful realm? What does repentance mean to you? How often do we look at our own individual repentance? What are your baptismal promises? What do they mean to you? What does this tell us about God?

We are diving into our Gospel lessons from Luke for the Advent Season.  It’s quite apocalypsy and we are challenged by what Jesus says.  Is it the end of everything? Maybe not.  Maybe Jesus is just calling for the end of the empire.  What is the hope in this? What are we supposed to do with this message?  Dive into Luke 21:25-36 with us for Sunday, December 1, 2024. Discussion Questions: What can we take from these words of Jesus about our today world? Jesus is the opposite of the empire in this and most of the Gospels.  What do we do in our fractured Christianity in regards to government? Where do you see hope in the message? Where do you see Jesus in scripture challenging you? What is our call in a time such as this? What does this tell us about God?

The pinnacle text of terror, buckle up.  Pastor Andrew and Pastor A.J. dive into our last installment of the Judges study with the hardest violence for us to wrestle with: violence where God does not show up.  What do we make of this in our faith and our lives? This discussion is about the Levite’s concubine in Judges 19.  Discussion guide is available at www.tenfootpolepodcast.com/judges Discussion Questions: Do we accept this treatment of women as just a part of history? Or something systemic still at play? What do you make of the silence of God in this story? What do you make of the question of “theodicy”? The age old question of where is God? When and how does God show up? What agency is on us? Do we need to ask for help to receive it from God? How do we use the law to create our own society and what we want even if it’s contrary to what God may want for us? I.e. pick and choose Old Testament laws to enforce? Who is sacrificed at the altar of the phallocentric world? What is your wo

In our 4th installment of our Judges Study, we take a look at the second part of Samson’s story: the part where Delilah tricks him, cuts his hair, and he commits mass murder with his own suicide.  Where does God fit into all of this? Join Pastor Bre and Pastor A.J. in this heavy conversation about Samson’s final vindictive act.  Discussion guide is available on our website: tenfootpolepodcast.com/judges Discussion Questions: If Samson’s story is a literary story for the need for a hero in exile, what is the point of this story? What do you think Delilah’s agency is in this situation? The Devil? Saving her people? Just between a rock and a hard place as a woman? Does it matter who Delilah is or what her motivations are? Do you think that Samson’s actions are an act of deliverance? Does God allow these bad things to happen to them? Why? What does this mean for us? What does this tell us about God?

We are in week 3 of our special Judges study about God-Ordained Violence.  We pick up this week with Samson.  Samson is a figure that has been held in high regard as a hero of Israel… but is he? Tune into this conversation with Pastor Elise to learn more about his story and the violence that surrounds this iconic biblical figure. Study guide for this episode is available at tenfootpolepodcast.com/judges Discussion Questions: 1. What have you learned about Samson in Sunday School?  How did this reading and discussion change your image of Samson? 2. Do you see Samson as a deliverer? Why would God ordain Samson’s actions of violence? 3. The slippery slope, what is the point of all of these stories in our scripture? 4. Is this violence God’s way or is it our way? 5. God still cares for Samson through all of his ups and downs.  What does this tell us about how God relates to us?   6. What does this tell us about God? Downloadable discussion guide: tenfootpolepodcast.com/judges

In week 2 of our Judges: A Study of God-Ordained Violence, we pick up with the judge: Gideon.  Gideon has a large army to defeat their enemies but God wants them to do it with a smaller army to get all the glory.  Pastor Kyle gives us some great grace-filled insight into God and our relationship with the divine during troubled times.  Discussion guide at: www.tenfootpolepodcast.com/judges Discussion Questions: 1. How have you experienced the conditioning of men versus women and glorifying violence? 2. How do you hear that God wants them to get glory with a small army so they can’t have it themselves? Is this God ordaining this violence? Or is it what Pastor Kyle says, “if you want violence, I’ll give it to you,but it’s not what you need.” 3. “Power and violence are the things people want more than they want true wisdom, God offers the better and we keep taking the worse. We have as much free agency as we want and God says you can keep taking the bad as much as you want until you realize it’s

Rabbi Evan and Pastor A.J. dive into the first part of our new study of God-ordained Violence.  We outline some background information for Judges, talk about the specific story that takes place under the leadership of the Judge Deborah, including a tent stake through the head.  The next 5 weeks will include uncomfortable conversations around violence that happens in the Bible, God’s role in this, and how do we respond.  This episode talks about Judges 4:12-24.  You can download the study guide materials at https://www.tenfootpolepodcast.com/judges  Discussion Questions: 1. Before we start, how do you perceive violence in the Bible? 2. How do you theologically understand “God-ordained” violence in the Bible? 3. How do you perceive Jael’s actions? Hospitality? Hospitality in times of war? 4. What is your theological understanding about the 5th commandment? In times of war? 5. Listening to Rabbi’s perspective on this violence, what differences do you notice in your own theology? 6. What does this

We have reached the end of season 3 and with it, some tough questions.  The "circumcised" or "uncircumcised"? Who is in, who is out, and who is closer to God?  Spoiler alert, no one.  The author of Ephesians draws us in to ask some very important questions of our time and face head on what it means to put the hostility in our world to death on the cross. This is no small feat.. join with us in this hard conversation.  Pastors A.J. and Bishop Gohl discuss Ephesians 2:11-22 for Sunday, July 21, 2024. Discussion Questions: 1. What hostilities do we (you) need to put to death? 2. What do Paul's words say to us in our current reality? 3. How do we understand the grace that is given to both sides? 4. What is our role in the storm as followers of Jesus? 5. Where is the Good News? DISCLAIMER: This episode was recorded before the shooting at former President Trump's campaign rally. Though, I think it should be taken into consideration in light of these words from Ephesians.

Pastors A.J. and Andrew go on some long tangents but bring us home to some super powerful topics.  John the Baptist is beheaded on a sacrificial altar of power.  Many people in our world are sacrificed on similar altars. Who is sacrificed? What privileges do we have and how do we recognize them and understand them in our world? What does it mean to be a follower of Jesus in the world filled with altars of power?  We dive into Mark 6:14-29 for Sunday, July 14th, 2024.  Discussion Questions: 1. Who is being sacrificed in the story? 2. Who gets sacrificed in your community? 3. What is your privilege biography? 4. How does this affect how you see the world? 5. What is our call as followers of Christ? 6. What's the Good News?

Pastor Emily and Pastor A.J. veer away from the lectionary once again to talk about a bit of an uncomfortable topic: the destruction of Sodom.  Join in this conversation as we dispel the homophobia in this text and discuss the true issue at play here: hospitality.  What does it mean for us to be hospitable as children of God? Dive into our conversation about radical welcome in the name of Christ. Discussion Questions: 1. What does hospitality mean to you? 2. What does it mean that God values hospitality so highly? 3. What are grey area decisions that we have to make? 4. What does it mean to be hospitable in the church? 5. What covenant would you come up with as a community?

So grateful to welcome back Pastor Kelsey to bring home our Pride Month showcase episodes.  Pastor Kelsey came out as queer and then was led into ministry.  Pastor Kelsey shares that even in the midst of judgment and discrimination, Jesus loves you and makes space for you.  We briefly talk about Mark 5:21-43 for Sunday, June 30th, 2024.  Discussion Questions: 1. What parts of your identity were you scared others would not accept? 2. What Bible story or character do you identify with in your life? 3. What have you been carrying for you? 4. Who paved the way for you to get to be you in the world? 5. What is the Good News?

Pastor Colby is the author of Unclobber: Rethinking our Misuse of the Bible on Homosexuality. He joined Pastor A.J. for the amazing recording in front of a live audience at the Delaware-Maryland Synod Assembly in June 2024.  Pastor Colby shares his story and “coming out of the theological closet”.  Unclobber walks through the 6 passages of scripture that are commonly used to exclude and abuse the LGBTQ+ community at the hands of “Good Christians”.  Well, as Pastor Colby shares with us, they are wrong.  Join us as we dive deep into these clobber verses and click on the link below to get your copy of Unclobber! Discussion Questions: 1.  When has your heart and your head been out of alignment? 2.  What have you been historically taught about some of these passages? 3. Have you studied them extensively? What did you learn? 4. What do you think the church should do with LGBTQ+ folks in our midst? 5. What is the Good News? Other notes: Buy “Unclobber: Rethinking Our Misuse of the Bible on Homose

On this week’s episode, Pastor A.J. welcomes Jamie Bruesehoff, author of “Raising Kids Beyond the Binary: Celebrating God’sTransgender and Gender-Diverse Children”.  Transgender and gender-diverse humans are the target of so much hate and political stigma, and as called followers of Christ, what can we do to protect, advocate, and welcome those beloved children of God in our midst?  Jamie shares her story, some tips, and what all those out there who are allies can do to include and welcome our gender diverse siblings in Christ.  Discussion Questions: 1. Has your congregation spent time in conversation about transgender and gender-diverse folks? 2. Where are you in your personal journey, mile marker 2 or 17? 3. What are steps that your church/community can or has taken to create an inclusive space? 4. What work do you see in your community that still needs to be done? And how can you help? 5. How is God calling you share the Good News? Other notes: More about Jamie: https://www.jamiebruesehoff.co

Pastor A.J. and Rabbi Evan dive into the “fall” of humanity.  What are the different perspectives and theological meanings to this story in Judaism and Christianity?  What are the differences? We talk about how this story affects our understanding of good and evil and our very relationship with our creator God.  For those that follow the RCL this episode talks about Genesis 3:8-15 for Sunday, June 9th, 2024. Discussion Questions: 1. What’s your working definition of sin? 2. Where does sin come from? 3. How does the perspective that Rabbi gives challenge your traditional beliefs? 4. Does God need humanity? 5. Do you do good things to “make up” for sin or something else? 6. How do you feel about the concept that God may have lied to them? Other notes: Correction: *Jesus’ genealogy is taken back all the way to Adam in the Gospel of Luke not Matthew.

Is the Sabbath for us or are we for the Sabbath? Jesus challenges us once again by breaking the rules and paves the way for us to evaluate how we do church.  Who is church for? How important are your giant stained glass windows? Pastor Andrea and Pastor A.J. dive into the gospel lesson, Mark 2:23-3:6, for Sunday, June 2nd, 2024.  Discussion Questions: 1. Does your church have very strong feelings about where things are located in the church? 2. What would happen if you moved stuff around? 3. How does this challenge our communities? 4. What would it say to the world around us to make changes? 5. Where is the Good News?

What’s it like to be heirs to the kingdom? Or have you been told that your “sins of the flesh” keep you out?  Well, my friends, Pastor Jon and Pastor A.J. talk about what it means to be a part of the body of Christ, a member of the second part of the Trinity, and who it’s for.  Guess what, it’s you!  This episode talks about Romans 8:12-17 for Trinity Sunday, May 26, 2024 with some Galatians 5 scattered in there.  Discussion Questions: 1. What does it mean to you to be seen as part of the Trinity body? 2. What have you been told about the “sins of the flesh”?  3. How have you internalized this? 4. What does it mean to be heirs of the promise? 5. What theological ideas have you been engrained with in your life that you have had to un-learn? 6. What embodied experiences do you experience God? Live Recording Event Info: “Unclobber: Rethinking our misuse of the Bible on homosexuality” by Pastor Colby Martin. https://a.co/d/axRhIYV Live Recording Event page: https://www.facebook.com/even

“Maybe that’s the real gift of the Spirit: to hear and discern God’s Good News.” Is Pentecost really just the disciples' graduation from disciple school? Or is it more like their “confirmation”? Where it’s really the beginning of the next chapter of their faith and ministry. All glitter ashes aside, Pastor A.J. and Pastor Joe dive into some Pentecost, graduation, new wine, and confirmation based conversation about Acts 2:1-21 for Pentecost Sunday, May 19, 2024. Discussion Questions: 1. Is linguistic diversity a curse from God or a gift? 2. What does Pentecost share with us about diversity? 3. We hear that God breaks down barriers. What is to prevent you (anyone) from hearing the good news? 4. When is change in our faith good? Or when should we push back at change? 5. As we discuss diversity of language and culture, what are church culture differences that are good?

Is Judas a bad guy? Why or why not?  Pastor Kyle and Pastor A.J. dive into all the possibilities and offer some grace for our faith’s biggest villain. Judas Iscariot is the guy who sells out Jesus, but he also was included as a chosen disciple.  What does it mean that Jesus chose him? Is it a mistake? Or is he just a part of the story because we need a villain? Let’s talk about it.  Pastor Kyle and Pastor A.J. dive into Acts 1:15-26 for Sunday, May 12, 2024.  Discussion Questions: 1. Do you think Judas is bad? Why or Why Not? 2. Is there a need to have a bad guy in the story of Jesus? 3. Who do we scapegoat in our faith? 4. The super hard question: who deserves grace? 5. Is there anyone outside of God’s grace? 6. What does it mean to “cloak them in our own honor” to you? 7. What does it mean that God chooses to partner with us? Even as flawed people that we are? 8. How does it reframe the story of Judas reco Other Notes: The Nonviolent Atonement - J. Denny Weaver https://www.amazon.com/Nonviolen

Down the rabbit hole we go!  We finally found a topic that makes Pastor A.J. uncomfortable! What if Jesus’ last commandment to the disciples is not what it seems? What does that mean for us? Is there a Johannine "messianic secret commandment" that we missed? Does it mean anything to us a couple thousand years later? Join Pastor A.J. and Brother Ryan as we venture down the rabbit hole where things may not be what they seem, but maybe we still come out beloved and renewed on the other side.  This episode talks about John 15:9-17 for Sunday, May 5th, 2024. Discussion Questions: 1. “I give you a new commandment that you love one another” or “I give you a new commandment in order that you love one another.”  Do you think this translation difference changes the meaning? 2. If it does change the meaning, what does that mean to you? 3. What does it mean to love as Jesus asks? 4. What does this commandment mean in light of Jesus fulfilling God’s commandments on our behalf? 5. How are we to live knowing

Happy *almost* Mental Health Awareness Month! To kick off Mental Health Awareness month, Pastor A.J. shares part of the story of the prophet, Elijah.  Elijah experiences some trauma, burnout, depression, and some suicidal ideation.  It’s uncomfortable stuff. Frequently, the response to mental health from Christianity has been less than helpful.  Sometimes pastors act like psychiatrists and sometimes the “Christian” approach is just to pray more. This is not the divine response that Elijah receives.  Elijah is treated in mind, body, and spirit in his time of need.  Let’s dive into 1st Kings 19:1-18 and talk about what God may want for us to be happy and healthy. Discussion Questions: 1. What have you been taught about mental health from your family? 2. What are your experiences of mental health conversations and the church? 3. What things would you like to learn more about during Mental Health Awareness Month? 4. What in the story of Elijah do you resonate with? 5. How do you feel God’s response

Archivist and historians, Melinda and Andy, share a dark secret from St. Matthew's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Charleston, South Carolina: St. Matthew's was an enslaver. Melinda and Andy dive into what we know and don't know about Alexander, his life, and work here. We talk about the implications of a church-owned slave. What does this mean for us today? Why is this important for us to talk about? Tune in for this 20-Foot-Pole episode of German church folk in the 1800s in the south. (*acknowledgement: we are three white people talking about slavery and racism in an attempt to learn from our past to inform our future) Discussion: 1. Does it suprise you that a Lutheran church (or church in general) owned a slave? 2. What are the implications of this kind of history? 3. What does it mean for us to be church in the wake of this revelation? 4. What do we do now? Let us pray, Gracious and merciful God, we repent of our sins of the institution of slavery, hatred, racism, and continued negligence to work for

This week Pastor Kelsey and Pastor A.J. dive into 1st John again.  We will discuss sin, who sins, who gets forgiveness, and what it all means.  We will look at different perspectives on sin and grace, and ultimately, find the good news in Jesus.  This episode talks about 1st John 3:1-7 for Sunday, April 14, 2024. Discussion Questions: 1. What are experiences that you have had that have made you more compassionate towards others? 2. Do you think God desires us to be perfect? Or do you think God is looking for something else from us? 3. What is the good news? WHy does the good news set us free? 4. What will you do with this good news?

We are back!  Our season 3 part 2 premiere’s with a podcast favorite guest, Pastor Allison.  She and Pastor A.J. discuss light and dark and the problem with some of this language in the Bible. Do you get uncomfortable with light and dark imagery in the Bible? No? Well let’s open ourselves up to other perspectives of why this language is harmful and who it harms. Pastor Allison and Pastor A.J. will explore other ways to express these images.  We will talk about 1 John 1:1--2:2 for Sunday, April 7, 2024. Discussion Questions: 1. Where have you seen light and dark imagery used in church? 2. How have you felt about this imagery? Did you notice? 3. Why is it important to acknowledge and address how this has been used? 4. What does it mean for you to be in “abundant community”? 5. Where is the hope?

Thank you for patiently (or not so patiently) waiting for TFP to return for the rest of season 3! Well that wait is almost over! Look for Episode 3.15 on Tuesday, April 2, 2024!

Bathsheba is certainly another matriarch that makes lemonade out of lemons. Is it to protect her family and future children? She is a victim on a sexual power move and scandal that costs her husband his life. What is she to do in the midst of such horror and trauma? With God’s help, she becomes a queen and wise leader. Let’s talk about it. Find downloadable materials for your Advent study group on our website! www.tenfootpolepodcast.com/unladylike Discussion Questions: 1. Sit with the story of how Bathsheba becomes David’s wife. What sticks out to you as uncomfortable? 2. What power structures and disparities are in play in this story? 3. Does power hinder our ability to let God in? 4. What do you think of how David chooses to deal with his sin? 5. What do you think about how Bathsheba responds in her new circumstance? 6. How does this conversation between Pastor Carla and Pastor A.J. change your view of King David? 7. What parallels do you see between Bathsheba and Mary? 8. Where is God at work in thi

Ruth is one of only two women who have a book dedicated to them in our scriptures. Ruth’s story tells us a lot more about Naomi than Ruth. Naomi orchestrates a marriage proposal to secure a good life for her widowed daughter-in-law through deceit and indecency. Let’s talk about it. Find downloadable materials for your Advent study group on our website! www.tenfootpolepodcast.com/unladylike 1. Dr. Wiseman says, “These women had little outside relationships, and use THEIR relationship to claim their place in the world.” Ruth and Naomi travel hundreds of miles to find security and a better life. Where else do we see this happening in scripture? In the world? 2. What risks do we take for our family? 3. Naomi acts with some indecency and puts Boaz in an awkward position. What does this tell us about her character? What do you think of how Naomi orchestrates this marriage proposal? 4. Does Naomi’s actions in the face of survival justify her actions? 5. Pastor A.J. says, “The foreigners, the sex work

It is unusual that Rahab be included in Jesus’ genealogy because she is not referenced in a genealogy anywhere else, in fact, Rabbinic tradition has her marrying Joshua, not Salmon. So what is the significance of Rahab being here? It could be because of her faith in God and covenant with the people of Israel. It could be because she is a foreigner in Jesus’ family uplifting this God and faith above just those who are ancestrally Israelites. Let’s talk about it. Downloadable discussion guide at www.tenfootpolepodcast.com/unladylike Discussion Questions: 1. Rahab is singled out as a prostitute, adding her un-ladylike quality. What is the significance of her occupation and beginning it up over and over? 2. How do you feel about the people of God committing genocide? And that it seems to be God ordained? 3. Does this justify glorifying violence in the name of our faith? 4. What are Rahab’s motivations to convert? Is it pure faith? Is it something else? 5. Martin Luther says (paraphrased), “O what a bus

Tamar is our first “un-ladylike” Matriarch.  She takes matters into her own hands in a scandalous sex story.  She subverts the societal norms that keep her in her place.  Join Pastor Tuhina and Pastor A.J. in this deep conversation about one of our Biblical Matriarchs and her story of scandal, betrayal, and redemption.  Find downloadable materials for your Advent study group on our website! www.tenfootpolepodcast.com/unladylike Discussion Questions: 1. What does it mean to be “ladylike”? 2. How is this image of women oppressive? 3. How does Tamar break this mold? 4. What systems and structures are in play that cause Tamar’s situation? 5.  Pastor Tuhina says “the most vulnerable some can be is in a place a space of non-existence”, what are examples of this in our society? 6. What does it mean to fulfill what God calls us to be beyond our gender? 7. What does it mean for us to have the story of God’s people so explicit? 8. “What is often one of the biggest yearnings for people who wander?

Christ the King Sunday seems like a long standing tradition, right? Well, it was instituted not nearly as far back in history than you may think.  In a world that is overrun with leaders who put themselves first and highest of all, here’s your quick reminder: Christ is above all.  This Sunday and it’s meaning is an invitation into God’s coming empire.  Join Pastor Jason and Pastor A.J. in this conversation about what God’s kingdom is, what is our expectation, and who is invited into this empire. We look at Matthew 25:31-46 for Sunday, November 26, 2023.  Discussion Questions: 1. What are your experiences with Christ the King Sunday? 2. What does the word “empire” make you feel? “Kingdom”? “Commonwealth”? 3. How do you interpret what Jesus asks us to do for this kingdom/empire? 4. How do you read and interpret the Bible in your life? 5. Where is the good news? Remember: next week starts out Advent Matriarch Study!  Look for materials online at www.tenfootpolepodcast.com/unladylike

In this episode we dive into a deep conversation around complacency fueled by the prophet, Zephaniah.  When are we complacent in the church? In our lives? How is this prophet drawing us out into the world and challenging this complacency?  We chat about Zephaniah 1:7-18 for Sunday, November 19, 2023.  Discussion Questions: 1. Why is complacency bad? 2. Do you think Zephaniah’s heritage matters here?  3. What is the opposite of complacency?  4. What are we being drawn out to do? 5. How does Zephaniah teach the broadening of the family of God? 6. What does it mean to you to be “called, gathered, and sent for the sake of the world”? 7. When are we complacent in church?

Join Pastor Elise and Pastor A.J. as we read some of Paul’s mail.  1st Thessalonians is one of the earliest letters of Paul and it’s very pastoral.  The big question from this community is “what if we die before Jesus comes back? Do we still get to go to Heaven?”  Seems like a weird questions to us now, but it was a very scary reality they were living with.  Let us dive into what is our theology around death, the afterlife, and the second coming of Jesus.  This episode talks about 1st Thessalonians 4:13-18 for Sunday, November 12, 2023. Discussion Questions: 1. What aspects of our faith do we struggle with and wish we had someone like Paul to write a letter to? 2. When and how did you develop your working theology around the afterlife? 3. What was the most uncomfortable part of the afterlife conversation for you? 4. How often do you talk about death in your study of the Bible? 5. What do you want to look back on your life and see? How do you get there? 6. What is the good news?

Looking for a Bible study for Advent? Well look no further... the TFP has got you covered! This Advent we will bring in four amazing female theologians to talk about the four Matriarchs that are called out in the genealogy of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew and the scandal around their stories. Look for materials on our website: tenfootpolepodcast.com/unladylike and look for the first episode starting November 28th at 7AM EST!

This is an introspective one.  When we look in the mirror, what are our big phylacteries and long fringes?  What do we need to take a moment to examine in ourselves as a church that Jesus may be calling out?  If Jesus were to walk in your church, what would he be upset about?  Pastor Ray and Pastor A.J. dig deep into what Jesus might be calling us out on and calling us into as people of God.  This episode is about Matthew 23:1-12 for Sunday, November 5, 2023. Discussion Questions: 1.  Do you ever suffer from “Princess Syndrome” in the church? 2.  Where do we get caught up in “teams” in our faith? 3. What are things about your church that you think Jesus would be upset about? 4. What do you think are Jesus’ expectations of us?

Get your hammers out folks, it’s reformation time!  Pastor Ralen Robinson joins us to discuss some history and theology around the Protestant Reformation and it’s roots.  We name some historical roots to the Reformation other than Martin Luther and we dive into what it means to be a continually reforming church.  This episode discusses Romans 3:19-28 for Reformation Sunday 2023. Discussion Questions: 1. What can you recall about how you have been taught about the Reformation? 2. What does Pastor Ralen’s stained glass imagery draw to mind for you? 3. What does it mean to be a “reformation church”? 4. How do you see justice and righteousness tied together? 5. What are the gifts of the Reformation that you see in the church?   Additional Notes: Interview with Dr. David Daniels discussing the African roots of the Reformation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=62X8xc3nbIs

Render unto Cesar what is Cesar's.... How many times have we heard this? Well what does it really mean? What does it not mean? How has this shaped how we view the separation (or not) of church and state in the United States? Join Pastor Brad and Pastor A.J. in this conversation about the Gospel Lesson, Matthew 22:15-22, for Sunday, October 22, 2023. Discussion Questions: 1. What is your theology around paying taxes? 2. Give to Cesar what is Cesar’s… How have you heard this used before? 3. And give to God what is God’s… How have you heard this used before? 4. How does it change the meaning to hear “Cesar’s likeness” and “God’s likeness”? 5. How do you view our relation of “church and state”? 6. What does it mean to render what is God’s to God mean to you after this conversation? 7. What is the Good News?

Jesus is hot and hangry, strong-arming his way into the temple again. The church leaders are not having it today, a verbal scuffle breaks out and so, like he does, Jesus argues with another parable. Join Fr. Will Berry and Pastor A.J. as they discuss this brazen argument, the violent parable, and ultimately, the care God shows to even the "wicked" ones. This episode discusses Matthew 21:33-46 for Sunday, October 8th, 2023. Discussion Questions: 1. What are your thoughts on supersessionism? 2. How do you explain your faith? Is it at the expense of others? 3.  What do you think Jesus is calling us (and the audience) to do in caring for God’s vineyard? 4. What does it mean to you how the vineyard owner takes care of the tenants? 5. Why is the radical welcome of Jesus so dangerous? 6. Where is the Good News?

We meet up with Jesus again arguing with the authorities.  Who gives authority? What is good authority?  Jesus seemingly has an 8th grade argument and tells them to get at the back of the line for recess.  Deacon Julie and I dive into a tough conversation around authority, sacrifice, and atonement for the gospel lesson, Matthew 21:23-32, for Sunday, October 1st, 2023. Discussion Questions 1. Where have you struggled with institutional authority in your life? 2. What does Jesus say about authority? (here or other places too) 3. “We often sacrifice the most vulnerable people on the altar of unity” - Bp. Bill Gohl.  Discuss Bp. Gohl’s words, who do we sacrifice for “Christian Unity”? 4. What do you think it means to be a “Good Christian”? 5. What does it mean to you that we are simultaneously saint and sinner? 6. Have you spent a lot of time thinking about: did Jesus have to die? What atonement theories do you understand best? 7. What is the Good News?

A book of the Bible we’ve all heard about but not ever usually on a Sunday is the book of Jonah.  Jonah is the “anti-prophet”, who does everything in his power not to follow the will of God.  And well, God gets God’s way anyways.  This episode talks about the broader themes of the book of Jonah, its satirical qualities, the reluctant prophet, and a fish who changes gender in the story.  Dive in with Pastor Bre Roberts for this Old Testament lesson for Sunday, September 24th, 2023. Discussion Questions: 1. Does it matter to you if the book of Jonah is 100% factual or a satire? Why or why not? 2. When is God’s grace offensive? 3. When do you get angry with God? 4. What do you think about the author’s choice to change the fish’s gender? What does this tell us about the fish? 5. Where have you experienced the belly of the fish moments? What came next (when you were spit out on shore)? 6. What does this story tell us about God?

We are diving head first into the uncomfortable in this season 3 premiere! Pastor Jealaine Marple brings her wisdom to this conversation to discuss the hard stuff like all the slavery talk Jesus does, what is the difference between the cycles of abuse and forgiveness, and what Jesus is actually talking about. We talk about Matthew 18:21-35 for Sunday, September 17, 2023. This season you are invited into Bible studies, small groups, and groups of brewery buddies to listen and share together in conversations about the uncomfortable Bible! Discussion Questions: 1. What is your experience in your life with forgiveness? As a kid? 2. What kind of forgiveness do you associate with Christ? 3. What were you raised to think about money at home? In the government? 4. What would Christ-like spending and debt forgiveness look like? 5. What is your experience with the cycle of abuse and systems of oppression?  How has false forgiveness played a role? 6. Slavery and the Bible. How do you feel about the slavery language i

Pastor Chris Schaefer is back again for this very special season finale! This episode was recorded in front of a live studio audience at the Delaware-Maryland Synod Assembly. Pastor Chris and I share with the audience some background to the story of the "almost sacrifice of Isaac". Why would God tell Abraham to do this? Isn't killing prohibited? Let's put this all in context! This episode talks about Genesis 22:1-14 for Sunday, July 2, 2023.

"I have not come to bring peace, but a sword" are words we hear Jesus say in our lesson for today. The use of these words have done much harm from theology like "I love you so much I want you to know you are wrong" to violence, hate crimes, and actual wars in the name of Christ. Pastor John and Pastor A.J. get real and deep and even a little teary as they dive into this uncomfortable speech from Jesus. Come dwell in lament with us and hear words of wisdom from Pastor John mostly in this touching episode. We look at Matthew 10:24-39 for Sunday, June 25, 2023, the 4th Sunday after Pentecost.

In this episode, Pastor A.J. talks to the newly ordained Jon Fry! Pastor Jon shares his journey to ministry and what brought him to become a pastor... *cough* *cough* me ;) And we dive into Philippians 4:13, which is a particular Bible verse that has made Pastor Jon uncomfortable throughout time. How does this verse get used? How do we use it to minimize people's suffering? Come chat with us! This episode does not follow the Revised Common Lectionary.

In this special episode, we hear the story of Drake. Drake shares his story of his journey through faith as a Pastor's Kid and what his faith and church life means to him as an adult. Drake shares about the joys and challenges of moving to a seminary campus as a kindergartener. He shares about his journey to finding his own faith at camp, meeting his wife in college, and what their young family of four is looking for in a congregation. This episode does not follow the revised common lectionary.

Pastor A.J. could talk about creation all day and for one of her favorite topics, she is joined by an amazing pastor friend, Rev. Allison Johnson. Pastor A.J. and Pastor Allison talk about the different creation stories (yes, there is more than one), what God created and how, and all the different genders. Genesis calls us into understanding that all of creation is good. The parts we like, the parts we don't (like fleas), and it is wild and wonderful. Creation is diverse, non-binary and non-homogeneous, oh and not all about humans. For those following along at church, we talk about Genesis 1:1-2:4a for Sunday, June 4, 2023.

Should women be silent in church?? This is the hardest and most uncomfortable passage for Pastor A.J. in the Bible. Pastor A.J. dives into how this passage and its conversations helped shape her calling to ministry and who she is. For this conversation we dive into 1st Timothy 2:8-15 and take head on this silencing rhetoric. We take a deep look into the society and times of first century Ephesus and maybe with what Timothy needed some help from Paul. Who is this chatty lady he is addressing? What does Paul say about women in the church elsewhere? It's a contradiction for sure.

Bad things happen in this world, where is God when they do? Should we suffer for our faith? What is a faithful response to suffering? Pastor Lauren Jenkins joins us for this uncomfortable conversation. Join us as we wrestle with these and more tough questions and hear words of wisdom from Pastor Lauren. We dive into 1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11 for Sunday, May 21, 2023.

Paul is hanging out in Athens and seeing the sites, when, just like Paul does, finds himself as the center of attention talking about God. Who is this God that is unknown to them? "WELL," Paul says, "Let me tell you." In this episode, Pastor A.J. and Pastor Rebecca Boardman talk about some of the hard stuff like public profession of faith and what and how we should share it. We discuss hope, idolatry, and Bud Light. There is so much happening in our 21st century world for Christians to understand what and how we are supposed to share our faith. What kind of faith are we sharing or inviting people into? We dive into Acts 17:22-31 for Sunday, May 14, 2023.

When Jesus says "I am the way", it means you are not. This is some pretty comforting words from Jesus!  In this episode, Pastor A.J. is joined by Rev. Dave Glenn-Burns from the ThreeHouse collaborative ministries at the University of Northern Iowa.  He shares with us about the hope in Jesus' words in their inclusion, rather than in the exclusion with which they can sometimes be associated. Dave also shares a little bit about the inclusion versus exclusion conversation in the United Methodist Church from his experiences as a United Methodist minister.  We chat about John 14:1-14 for Sunday, May 7, 2023 for our lectionary listeners.

"Mm, guys, how many different ways do I have to say it? Love."  - Jesus, once again explaining his figure of speech for the crowd. (As paraphrased by Pastor A.J. in this episode.)  Jesus hits us with another big metaphor, being a gate.  But what if it has felt like the gate to the kingdom has been slammed in your face?  Pastor A.J. and Albie dive into John 10:1-10 for Sunday, April 30, 2023. Books mentioned: The Queer Bible Commentary by Mona West and Robert Shore-Goss (2022 edition) The Book of Longings by Sue Monk Kidd

Our special 20th episode takes us on a powerful faith journey with my friend, Jessica Carlson.  Jess shares her faith journey through a conservative Christian school, alcoholism, coming out, and sobriety.  She asks a question that has been haunting her since her confirmation about the uncomfortable theology she was taught.  Who is worthy of receiving communion? Are you eating to your own damnation? What does Jesus really say? We chat about John 6:47-58 and what Jesus says about being the bread of life and the life-giving grace through this meal.

Thomas gets a bad rep for being the one that "doubted". Well, don't we all sometimes? A blessing for us then that God does the heavy lifting in faith! In their post crucifixion trauma, the disciples are hiding and scared trying to make sense of their world, their faith, and their God. They hear Mary and the other women but can't seem to allow themselves to believe. They can't allow themselves to hope, because if it isn't true, it's just too much to bear. So when Thomas exlcaims, "My Lord and my God!" It's with relief of his spiritual anxiety. Tune in for more chat about John 20:19-31 for Sunday, April 16, 2023.

Happy Easter! Well, almost. The Gospels tell different stories, but they all agree on how Easter morning went: the women were the first bearers of the Good news. Was this by chance? Was it accidental? Or did God specifically choose these women with the most precious, world-changing news? Probably that, but why? In this episode Pastor A.J. is joined by Pastor Aimée Pakan of the musical group: Tangled Blue and of Brandon and Pine Rock Lutheran Churches in South Dakota. We discuss Matthew 28:1-10 for Easter Sunday, April 9, 2023.

Deacon Margaret has a background in music and shares with us about the Bible's songs aka the Psalms. The Psalter encompasses a huge range of emotion from praise and thanksgiving to uncomfortably dark lament, and all of it is in the Bible and OK to say to God! Join us as we explore the language and emotions of the Psalms, how they relate to our faith and worship. We will take a closer look at Psalm 31 for Sunday, April 2, 2023 Palm Sunday/The Sunday of the Passion.

Have you ever spent time wondering about God's name? All the names that get used for God by Biblical figures? Names and descriptions that are masculine and feminine, gender fluid and inanimate objects? We hear most of the time that God's pronouns are he/him/his, but is that the only way to talk about God? Are there other pronouns that might be more authentic to your understanding and relationship of who the creator of the universe is? Pastor Colleen and I dive into the Bible to explore who God is and how they are described, and even, what pronouns God uses for themselves! Pastor Colleen comes to us from the All Places Together ministry and podcast, learn more at www.allplacestogether.org Resource mentioned: "A Women's Lectionary for the Whole Church" by the Rev. Dr. Wilda Gafney

There's a story of a woman who meets Jesus in the middle of the day in a place that they shouldn't be.  This unnamed woman has the longest conversation with Jesus in the Gospels. This woman often gets smeared by preachers as a lustful, adulterous woman... but maybe there's a bit more to her and a bit more to the story.  Is Jesus really the scandalous one? Is all the church's judgment misplaced? (the answer to that is almost always "yes" btw).  Join Bishop Bill Gohl and I as we explore this woman, Jesus, and the scandalous story.  This Gospel Lesson is John 4:5-42 for Sunday, March 12, 2023.

Aubrey Thonvold, Executive Director of ReconcilingWorks, joins me to dive into Nicodemus' midnight chat.  He seeks "is this Jesus for real?"  How are we born again? What is love?  How do we understand God's love or how we live into this love? Who is included in this love and how do we live into this promise? So many questions, so little time.  Join us on our conversation of John 3:1-17 for Sunday, March 5, 2023. Children's Book: "Love Makes A Family" by Sophie Beer

Author and Religious Politics Reporter, Jack Jenkins, is back for this spectacular episode about the first humans in the garden, "original sin", and how this all plays out in modern Christianity today. Whose fault is it? How does this blame game manifest in religious politics? This episode is about Genesis 2:15-17, 3:1-7 for Sunday February 26, 2023.

Is Jesus a Transformer, a wizard, or a Power Ranger? What's happening on the mount with a few disciples, a couple of legends, and the son of God?   Pastor Kirsten and I dive into the Transfiguration story!  This episode talks about Matthew 17:1-19 for Sunday, February 19, 2023 of the RCL.

Pastor Drew and I talk about the concept of curses and blessings from Deuteronomy 30:15-20 for Sunday February 12, 2023.  Life's big questions cannot really be answered, but we give some voice to tough questions, our relationship with God and others, and how we can choose life for all.  Books mentioned: - 4D Formation: Exploring Vocation in Community by Rev. Drew Tucker  https://www.amazon.com/4D-Formation-Exploring-Vocation-Community/dp/1506473989/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2YLOU5WOMY9X2&keywords=4d+formation+exploring+vocation+in+community&qid=1675695686&sprefix=4+d+formation%2Caps%2C190&sr=8-1 - Everything Happens for a Reason: And Other Lies I've Loved by Dr. Kate Bowler  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0399592067/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_2?smid=A2DFBWXSCVB7EJ&psc=1

So Noah, Abraham, and Isaac are these patriarchal figures in the Biblical history that we are told to look up to... but are they really men we should revere? In this special guest-less episode, Pastor A.J. dives into some stories around these men and talks about things that often go unnoticed and under the radar in our efforts to put these men on Biblical pedestals.  How do these stories fit into the Biblical narrative? And how do they impact us as 21st century followers?

God brings a lawsuit against the God's people who aren't holding up their end of the contract. What is it that the Lord requires of you? Listen to Rev. Melissa Woeppel and I dive into Micah 6:1-8 for Sunday, January 29, 2023.

Jesus starts his ministry selecting some guys to be his first follows at random, or does he? His notoriety and following grows quickly... almost like a cult? Pastor Tamika and I talk about the beginning of Jesus' ministry, where he serves, who he calls, and how he authentically engages in creating the Kin-dom come. We talk about Matthew 4:12-23 for Sunday, January 22, 2023.

Pastor Corey and I talk about Paul's first letter to the Corinthians. There's a lot going on in this letter about marriage, meat, and more suggestions from the apostle, Paul.  Tune in to hear what's happening!  We loosely talk about 1st Corinthians 1:1-9 for Sunday, January 15th.

In this episode Pastor Taylor Berdahl and I dive into this weird ritual of Baptism that Christians have.  We ask some of the questions: who does what and why? who gets included? why do some many churches believe such different things about Baptism? why was Jesus baptized?  Listen now to learn more! Article Mentioned: https://themokenamarian.com/2019/01/19/immersion-or-pouring-what-is-the-right-way-to-baptize/

Merry Christmas!  In this episode Pastor Joe and I talk about Christmas... but maybe not the story you were thinking!  We talk about the Christmas from the Gospel of John which is poetic about light and dark and the Word, but no baby!  John 1:1-14 for Sunday, December 25th, 2022.

Do you remember the nativity story from the Gospel of Matthew? Probably not because it includes none of the things that just came to your mind.  Let's dive into the real story with Pastor Sarah Garrett Krey.  For those that follow along in church, this is the gospel lesson for Sunday, December 18, 2023, Advent 3.

Pastor Jason and I dig deep into some hard topics in this episode.  Topics like Jim Crow laws, incarceration, school shootings, and our uncomfortably offensive God.  The God that liberates and fights oppression.  The conversation discusses Psalm 146:5-10 for Sunday December 11, 2022, Advent 3.

Repent or die!  Becoming raw and uncomfortable is what John the Baptist is calling for, but like, how raw?  Being vulnerable is hard with others, with ourselves, and with God.  Pastor Kelsey and I dig into Matthew 3:1-12 for Sunday, December 4, 2023.

Season 2 kicks off with Advent!  Preparing for baby Jesus... right? Maybe? Maybe it's something else!  We chat about Matthew 24:36-44 and the real Noah's ark story, rapture theology, and preparing for the coming Christ.

Season 2 is finally here and you might notice some changes!  Listen to our exciting update for your favorite Bible podcast.  Check out our new website at tenfootpolepodcast.com and sign up for email notifications of new episodes and online content.  Season 2 starts on November 22nd, stay tuned!

Jesus talking about those birth pangs. Can we relate? Things may be hard, but it will get better! Pastor Bre Roberts and I talk about Mark 13:1-8 for Sunday, November 14th, 2021.  This is the final episode of season 1.  Happy holidays and see you in 2022!

Joining me on this episode is Bishop Bill Gohl.  We talk about the upcoming church holiday of Reformation, it's meaning and how it can continue to shape our lives.  We talk about the gospel lesson, John 8:31-36, for Reformation Sunday, October 31, 2021.

Bart owns his needs to be healed and Jesus sees him.  What are our needs that need to be seen? Where are we silenced by social norms?  We dive into Mark 10:46-52 for Sunday, October 24, 2021 to find out.

Conversations about the money and the Bible are uncomfortable... So is what Jesus has to say.  Let's dive into Mark 10:17-31 with Pastor Kelsey Brown for Sunday October 10, 21 on this uncomfortable topic!

We take on a tough topic that makes most people uncomfortable: divorce and the church. What does Jesus say? And maybe how Jesus can give a word of grace and hope. We talk about Mark 10:2-16, the Gospel lesson for Sunday, October 3, 2021.

What does it mean to lament? These are our complaints.  Did you know there's a whole part of the Psalms that is lamenting? We dive into lament Psalms with Pastor Angie Hammer talking about Psalm 54 for Sunday, September 19, 2021.

Words matter.  What we say and how we say it matter.  Let's talk about it.  The Rev. Dr. Karyn Wiseman and I dive into this topic based on James 3:1-12 for Sunday, September 12, 2021.

In this episode we dive into the gifts of God, doing the good things for others, and when that gets hard.  We are talking about James 2:1-17 for Sunday, September 5th.

This episode dives into purity culture, some things that Jesus says about actually what not to do, and really about how we use the Bible.  The Bible lesson is Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 for Sunday, August 29th.

This is the last episode in our mini series.  We dive into another area of Liberation Theology, taking a look at Feminist Theology with the Rev. Dr. Kristin Johnston Largen.

Pastor Chris is back to help us with an introduction to Queer Theology in our mini series.  We discuss the history of homophobic language inserted into the Bible and the beauties and joys that queer folks can bring to Christianity.   Resources Mentioned: “Radical Love: Introduction to Queer Theology” - Patrick Cheng “Introducing Liberative Theologies” - Miguel De La Torre “Queer Virtue” - Elizabeth M. Edman “Transforming: The Bible and the Lives of Transgender Christians” - Austin Hartke “Outside the Lines” - Mihee Kim-Kort “Walking the Bridgeless Canyon” - Kathy Baldock “Our Lives Matter: A Womanist Queer Theology” - Pamela Lightsey Debunking Clobber Verses: https://postbarthian.com/2017/10/11/clobber-verses-six-scriptures-cited-gays-lesbians-sex-relationships-lgbtq/

This episode is part 3 of a 5 episode mini series veering away from the RCL.  Pastor Lenny and I talk about liberation theologies and more specifically Black Theology.   Resources: "Stand Your Ground: Black Bodies and the Justice of God" by Kelly Brown Douglas "The Cross and the Lynching Tree" by James Cone and Pastor Lenny's Book, "United States of Grace"

This episode is part 2 of a 5 episode mini series veering away from the RCL.  Pastor Jason Chesnut joins us as we break down this "bible" that was chopped up and given to enslaved persons in the Caribbean in the 1800s.

This episode is part of a 5 episode mini series veering away from the RCL.  Author/Journalist Jack Jenkins joins us for this hot topic.   *Book Mentioned: "One Nation Under God: How Corporate America invented Christian America" by Kevin M. Kruse

This is a wild episode digging into Ephesians 2:11-22 for Sunday, July 18th, 2021.

This week we dive into the beheading of John the Baptist at Herod's birthday party... it is a scandalous affair.  We talk about the most vulnerable people in the story and looking at the world from other perspectives. Bible text is Mark 6:14-29 for Sunday, July 11, 2021.

This episode talks about the 4th of July, American culture of strength and weakness, not having it all together, and our identity as children of God for Sunday, July 4th, 2021 based on 2 Corinthians 12:2-10.

This episode is pretty much what the title says.  We dive into Mark 5:21-43 and talk about how Jesus helps a woman who has had a period for 12 years.  There is a lot that we don't talk about and this is definitely at the top of the list.  RCL for Sunday, June 27, 2021.

In this episode we talk about views of creation, God's role, and how humans just might not be the center of the universe... gasp!  Our reading for this episode is Job 38:1-11 for Sunday, June 20th.

This episode dives into some deep questions about the after life, different historical perspectives, and what the Bible has to say about it.  We will talk about 2 Corinthians 5:6-17 for Sunday, June 13, 2021.

This episode dives into the story where the first couple eat the forbidden fruit and how this has played out in sexism throughout history.  The Bible passage is Genesis 3:8-15 for Sunday, May 6, 2021.  Link to article mentioned by Dr. Shawna Dolansky: https://www.thetorah.com/article/the-immortal-myth-of-adam-and-eve

This episode dives into the story of Nicodemus and the John 3:16, concepts of being born again, and views from Queer Theology.  This coincides for the Gospel lesson of the RCL for May 30, 2021.  The two book recommendations mentioned are: Reforming Sodom: Protestants and the Rise of Gay Rights by Heather White and Walking the Bridgeless Canyon: Repairing the Breach Between the Church and the LGBT Community by Kathy Baldock.

This episode is about Pentecost Sunday, May 23, 2021 focusing on Acts 2:1-21.  We will dive into the history of Pentecostalism in the United States, the origins of their version of speaking in tongues, and the conservative Evangelical presence in the military with 1st Lieutenant Andrew Berdahl, Army Chaplain Candidate. *Andrew’s opinions are his own and he in no way speaks on behalf of the Army, the Chaplain Corps, or the PA National Guard

This episode talks a lot about life: our current situation, Christian Nationalism, and our calling as followers of Jesus with Pastor Brad Fuerst from LuMin at the University of Texas.  We talk about 1 John 5:9-13 for Sunday May 16, 2021, Easter 7B.

This episode dives into the topic of "speaking in tongues" and the first gentiles to have this super power.  This is based on Acts 10:44-48 for Sunday May 9, 2021, Easter 6B.

This episode dives into the Gospel of John 15:1-8 about some vines and branches for RCL 5th Sunday after Easter Year B, May 2, 2021.

This episode dives into Psalm 23 for RCL 4th Sunday after Easter Year B, April, 25, 2021.

Conversation about Acts 3:12-19 for the 3rd Sunday after Easter Year B, April 18, 2021

This episode is on the Gospel lesson for Sunday, April 11th, John 20:19-31, in the RCL

Introduction to this new podcast with Pastor A.J. Houseman and guests to talk about the uncomfortable parts of the Bible.  Here's a short intro and teaser about what will be coming up in a few weeks.  First episode comes out April 6th!