Rethinking Faith

In this episode of the Rethinking Faith podcast, I welcome Micah Voraritskul, author of "Human is the New Vinyl." The conversation dives into Micah's diverse background, including his experiences as a teacher, pastor, and founder of the organization Verified Human, which aims to differentiate human-created content from AI-generated material. Micah discusses the implications of AI on creativity and education, expressing concerns about how generative AI could impact the arts and learning processes. He emphasizes the importance of human authenticity in a world increasingly dominated by technology, drawing parallels between the resurgence of vinyl records and the value of human creativity in the face of AI advancements. Enjoy! RESOURCES: Human is the New Vinyl (Book) Human is the New Vinyl (Audio Book) VerifiedHuman Join my Patreon for just $5.00 / month! Join my Substack for FREE! *Special thanks to Josh, Marty, and Dan. Love you guys! <3* Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week I had the privilege of talking with Bill Kole about his new book, 'In Guns We Trust.' The conversation delves into the complex relationship between White Evangelicals and firearms, exploring themes of hypocrisy, fear, and the political landscape surrounding gun ownership. Kole shares his personal journey from Evangelicalism to investigative journalism, highlighting the challenges and contradictions within the Evangelical community regarding gun culture. The discussion also touches on international perspectives on gun violence, the role of Christian Nationalism, and hopeful initiatives aimed at reducing gun violence in America. Enjoy! RESOURCES: Bills Website Join my Substack. It's Free! Join my Patreon for $5 a month. *A special thanks to Josh, Marty, and Dan. Love you guys <3* Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy New Year! We made it... we made it somehow to 2026. To help me bring in the new year, I invited my friend Tim Whitaker to come hang out and play my little 20ish Q's game. As fate would have it, Billie Hoard texted me 45 minutes before Tim and I were set to record... so of course I invited her to join us on the podcast! We had a great time and covered a lot of ground! Enjoy! RESOURCES: Billie's Substack Tim's Substack Josh's Substack *Special thanks to Josh, Marty, and Dan. Love you guys <3* Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joshua Noel and Josh Patterson dive into the graphic novel "The Goddamned" by Jason Aaron in this episode, exploring its audacious take on biblical narratives. Right from the get-go, they challenge the conventional interpretations of Cain's story, discussing how Aaron flips the script on themes of punishment and divinity. The hosts share their thoughts on the graphic novel's raw portrayal of a dark, violent world and how it reflects real-life struggles with faith and morality. They engage in a lively banter about the implications of the narrative, examining how the depiction of characters and their actions raises questions about the nature of God and the morality of those who claim to act in His name. With a mix of humor and insight, they invite listeners to rethink not just the comic, but the very foundations of belief and the narratives that shape our understanding of good and evil. (RE)thinking Comic dives deep into the world of radical theology and comic book narratives in their latest episode, where hosts Josh Patterson and Joshua Noel explore the chaotic themes in Jason Aaron's graphic novels, "The Goddamned: Before the Flood" and "The Goddamned: Virgin Brides". With a casual vibe and plenty of witty banter, they tackle heavy topics like the nature of God, the implications of biblical narratives, and the intersection of theology and popular culture. Patterson, a former pastor turned brewer, shares his journey of reconciling faith with radical theology, while Noel, a comic book aficionado, highlights how stories from graphic novels often resonate on a personal level more than traditional religious texts. The hosts invite listeners to engage in a thoughtful dialogue about these complex themes, emphasizing that while they may not always agree, they respect the diverse narratives that shape their understanding of God and humanity. This episode showcases their unique approach to examining how ancient stories still hold relevance in contemporary society, making for an engaging listen for theology nerds and comic book geeks alike. Takeaways: Joshua and Josh delve into Jason Aaron's 'The Goddamned', exploring its themes of morality and divine justice. The podcast highlights the contrast between the biblical narrative and Aaron's provocative retelling of Cain's story. Listeners are invited to consider how personal interpretations of scripture influence their understanding of comics. The discussion reveals the complex relationship between faith, literature, and the human condition, showcasing how stories shape belief. The hosts share their thoughts on the impact of graphic novels as a medium for exploring deep theological questions. The episode emphasizes the importance of questioning traditional narratives, urging listeners to rethink their own perspectives on faith and storytelling. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week I welcomed my friend Dr. Andrew Davis back to the podcast! Andrew recently finished a new introduction to the philosophy of Alfred North Whitehead and it is fantastic! In my experience introductions to Whitehead are either too philosophically dense and hard to follow for a beginner or they water down his thought so much that vital aspects of his philosophy are lost. Andrew managed to bridge the gap and write an intro that is approachable without sacrificing philosophical depth and rigor. We take a deep dive into Andrew's prismatic approach to Whitehead's philosophy viewing it from the Historical, Philosophical, Cosmological, Theological, and Civilizational perspectives. Enjoy! RESOURCES: Andrew's Website WhiteheadsUniverse.com *special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3* Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week I was happy to welcome back my friend Jonathan J. Foster. We talk about The Curian Network (formerly the Open Table Network). We also take a look at Jonathan's new Micro-Theology series and take a deep dive into his working definition of love. Enjoy! RESOURCES: The Curian Network Jonathan's Substack *A special thanks to Marty, Josh, and Dan. Love you guys <3* Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week Dr. Thomas Jay Oord returns to the podcast to discuss his latest project... A Systematic Theology of Love. Tom proposes 15 new ideas for Systematic Theology and I invited my former student Julian Oetinger on to help keep Tom honest... Enjoy! RESOURCES: Tom's Substack *A special thanks to Josh, Marty, and Dan. Love you guys <3* Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the (Re)thinking Faith podcast, I had the privilege of reconnecting with Dr. Drew Hart, an associate professor of theology and an author deeply engaged in discussions around racial justice and faith. Our conversation delves into Dr. Hart’s journey through the Black church, Anabaptism, and how these experiences shape his understanding of justice in today’s world. Through personal stories and academic insights, Hart invites us to rethink our faith in light of the challenges facing our communities today. Key takeaways include the importance of community engagement, the need for honest conversations about race within faith traditions, and the potential for combining different theological perspectives to foster a more just world. Enjoy! RESOURCES: DrewGIHart.com Inverse Podcast Making it Plain (Book) *Special thanks to Marty, Josh, and Dan. Love you guys <3* Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alright friends this week I have a special treat for you... Emogelicals is a show I record once a month with my good buddy Jed over at Church and Other Drugs. Typically this is released for Patrons only, but this week you get a sneak peek into what you are missing out on. Enjoy! JOIN MY PATREON: Click HERE to join. <3 *Special thanks to Marty, Josh, and Dan! Love you guys <3* Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So we're LIVE at the Common Market in Charlotte, drinking craft beverages and fielding questions from the Speaking to a Modern World conference, which means we're ping-ponging between topics faster than your algorithm-addled attention span. Josh starts us off playing voice of the people, then we trade him for Leah Robinson, who's delightfully willing to interrupt me when I get too deep in the philosophical weeds. We tackle everything from what the hell "modernity" actually means (hint: it's not just Protestants arguing about beliefs), to why religion emerged before language as a solution to mammalian cooperation problems, to how process theology offers a different way through deconstruction than Nietzsche's lonely child-making. Tom and I explain why we think classical theism's omnipotent God is actually less helpful than you'd think, we get into the weeds on sacrificial language and atonement theory, and Leah keeps us honest about whether all our philosophical specificity is just academic masturbation or actually useful for people trying to figure out how to live. Plus we discover that getting kicked out of the Nazarenes gives you mixed feelings but doesn't automatically make you drink beer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rethinking Comics kicks off with a deep dive into the emotional rollercoaster of Ice Cream Man issue #5, aptly titled "Ballad of a Falling Man." Right off the bat, the hosts, Josh and Joshua, explore the heavy themes of suicide, existentialism, and the complexity of human relationships, all wrapped in the chilling narrative of a man plummeting from a corporate skyscraper. As they dissect the juxtaposition between the protagonist's reflective descent and the obliviousness of those trapped in their mundane office lives, they shine a light on the often-ignored reality of mental health and the weight of our choices. With a blend of insightful commentary and personal anecdotes, they invite listeners to ponder what it means to live authentically in the face of mortality. This episode serves as a sneak peek into a special series, (Re)thinking Comics, enticing fans to join both the (Re)thinking Faith Patreon community and to become an official member Systematic Geekology for deeper, exclusive content that promises to challenge and engage comic lovers and theology nerds alike. Rethinking Comics kicks off with a fascinating discussion about Ice Cream Man #5, where the hosts dive into the existential themes woven into this horror comic. Joshua Noel and Josh Patterson explore the complex characters that confront life, death, and the meaning behind their choices, particularly focusing on the character Bill, who jumps from a corporate building contemplating his life and the relationships he’s left behind. The juxtaposition between Bill's last moments and Veronica's frantic quest for survival serves as a poignant reminder of the weight of our choices and how we live our lives. With humor and heart, the hosts engage in a deep conversation about the implications of suicide, mental health, and how our lives are intertwined with those we love, even after they are gone. Throughout the episode, listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own lives, the choices they make, and the legacy they leave behind, making it a compelling and thought-provoking listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week I have something a little bit different for you... Recently I was invited to present at the "Speaking to A Modern World" Conference in Charlotte North Carolina. I was tasked with giving a talk putting Open and Relational Theology in conversation with some of the biggest critiques of theism offered by Atheists today. In my presentation, I critique the god of Classical Theism and take the side of the Atheists. I then offer Radical Theology followed by Anathesim as two possible steps back toward a healthy Theism. I conclude by offering a Process-Relational image of God that I find both compelling and deeply meaningful. Finally we wrap things up with a Q&A. Enjoy! RESOURCES: JoshuaGPatterson.com *A special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3* Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week I am joined by Theologian and Ethicist Brandon Ambrosino to talk about his new book, "Is it God's Will? Making Sense of Tragedy, Luck, and Hope in a World Gone Wrong". Together we explore deep theological topics, including the nature of God, the significance of hope, and the role of love in understanding faith. We look at the metaphor of the basement in theology, and the importance of Theopoetics. The conversation also critiques traditional views of God, particularly the Omni God, and examines the implications of the cross and resurrection in light of suffering and justice. Throughout, we emphasize the need for practical applications of theology in addressing societal issues and generating flourishing for all. Enjoy! RESOURCES: Is it God's Will? (Book) *Special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3* Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week I was joined by my friend the Rev. Dr. Shaleen Kenrick for a fun and insightful conversation about her work around her Neuro-Relational Integration Model. Dr. Kendrick's wrote a fantastic dissertation titled, "Neuro-Relational Spirituality: Salvation as Experiential Wholeness-Making Through the Integration of Mind-Body-Spirit". I have heard her present on this model multiple times and I finally had the opportunity to bring her on the podcast!   She explores the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, emphasizing the importance of emotional regulation and the impact of authoritarian images of God on our neurobiology. Through storytelling and healing, Dr. Kendrick provides insights into human evolution and the process of integrating our experiences to create new abilities and navigate the complexities of modern life. We explore the intersection of faith, neuroscience, and personal transformation and discuss the importance of rethinking traditional God stories, the process of deconstruction and reconstruction of faith, and the need for context-responsive neuro-theological models. Enjoy! RESOURCES: ShaleenKendrick.Com *Special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3* Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Swami Padmanabha joins the podcast to share his spiritual journey and his insights into the nature of love, spirituality, and the divine. Swami has a new book out titled "Evolution in Divine Love: The Eternal Becoming of God, Soul, and Matter", that we used as our jumping-off point for the conversation. He discusses the concept of Bhakti, the yoga of love, and emphasizes the importance of understanding love as a profound and intentional act. The dialogue explores the evolving nature of God, the interplay between personal and impersonal aspects of the divine, and the significance of seeing potential in ourselves and others. Swami Padmanabha also addresses the relationship between science and faith, advocating for ongoing conversations that bridge these realms. The discussion culminates in practical ways to embody these ideas in daily life, emphasizing the importance of listening and being present. Enjoy! RESOURCES: SwamiPadmanabha.com THEOLOGY BEER CAMP 2025: Come nerd out with your geek out! Get your tickets HERE. *Special thanks to Marty Fredrick, Josh Gilbert, and Dan Koch. Love you guys! <3* Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the podcast, Dr. Aaron Simmons returns for yet another fun and nerdy conversation. Aaron takes us on a deep dive into phenomenology, exploring its implications for consciousness, intentionality, and the human experience. We discuss the historical context of phenomenology, its connection to hermeneutics, and its relevance in contemporary philosophical and political discourse. The conversation also touches on the importance of perspective and the shared nature of human experience, emphasizing how phenomenology can inform our understanding of the world and our interactions within it. We also delve into the complexities of phenomenology, exploring themes such as givenness, love, beauty, justice, and the intersection of theology and philosophy. We discuss the nature of experience and its implications for theism and atheism, emphasizing the importance of humility and hospitality in understanding diverse perspectives. Finally this conversation highlights the challenges of cognitive ambiguity and the need for rigorous inquiry into what we take for granted in our beliefs and communities. Enjoy! RESOURCES: JAaronSimmons.Com The New Phenomenology: A Philosophical Introduction (Book) Camping With Kierkegaard (Book) Philosophy For Where We Find Ourselves THEOLOGY BEER CAMP 2025: There's still time... You Know You Want To Nerd Out With Your Geek Out! Get Your Ticket(s) HERE. *Special thanks to Marty Fredrick, Josh Gilbert, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3* Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week I was joined by my friend the Pediatrician and Theologian Dr. Chris Hanson to talk about his new book, "Open and Relational Parenting: Loving Parents Reflecting a Loving God". We take a deep dive into Open and Relational Theology and the insights it has into our parenting techniques. Enjoy! RESOURCES: Open and Relational Parenting (Book) OpenAndRelationalParenting.Com THEOLOGY BEER CAMP 2025: Nerd out with your geek out! Get your tickets HERE. *Special thanks to Marty Fredrick, Josh Gilbert, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3* Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week I am happy to share a conversation that was recorded live at UNION Craft Brewing in Baltimore Maryland. My friend Nia Chiaramonte returned to the podcast to talk about her new book, "I Hardly Knew Me: Following Love, Faith, and Skittles to a Transgender Awakening". We take a deep dive into Nia's story of discovering who she is as a transgender woman. Nia interweaves her experiences of faith, friendship, and family as she invites us deep into her own story offering up a beautiful place of courage, love, and belonging. Enjoy! RESOURCES: I Hardly Knew Me: Following Love, Faith, and Skittles to a Transgender Awakening (Book) THEOLOGY BEER CAMP 2025: Camp is only one month away! Get your tickets HERE and come hang out! *Special thanks to UNION Craft Brewing, Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch. <3* Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week I would like to share a recent conversation I got to have on a different podcast called "The Unraveler". The host, Alan Bondar had me on for a conversation he titled "Does Process Theology Save Christianity?". We had a great conversation that was a lot of fun for both of us. I offered up both Process Theism and Radical Theism as viable options for conceiving of the Divine. Did I do a good job? Not sure... let me know! Enjoy. RESOURCES: The Unraveler Podcast THEOLOGY BEER CAMP 2025: Come nerd out with your geek out! Get your tickets HERE. *Special thanks to Marty Fredrick, Josh Gilbert, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3* Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week my good friend Dan Koch joins the show once again for a conversation I was a bit nervous about... my growing disillusionment with pop-deconstruction and Progressive Christianity. I specifically wanted to talk to Dan about this because he is always careful with his language and also does a good job not buying into the ideology of either side of the aisle. We have an honest chat and it turns out we share a lot of the same concerns. Let us know what you think! Enjoy. RESOURCES: You Have Permission Podcast Dan's Psychology Work THEOLOGY BEER CAMP 2025: Nerd out with your geek out! Get your tickets HERE. *Special thanks to Josh Gilbert, Marty Fredrick, and Dan Koch. Love you guys <3* Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices