Theology Lab

In this Theology Lab conversation, Dr. Amy Peeler (Wheaton College), New Testament scholar and theologian, helps us explore what the Bible says about gendered language for God. Is God male? Does God transcend gender? How can Christians approach Scripture, theology, and gender with both faithfulness and curiosity? This video is perfect for those interested in Christian faith, theological learning, and reflecting on traditional images of God and how to think about God today. If you're asking how gender, the Bible, and God intersect—this is for you. Ideal for people exploring faith, feminist theology, and nuanced biblical interpretation, this conversation invites you to consider how we speak of God, and why it matters.Amy will be at Highrock for a Theology Lab hosted event with the Holy Post on November 23! Check it out here (tickets available): https://www.eventbrite.com/e/an-evening-with-the-holy-post-arlington-ma-tickets-1758214911129?aff=oddtdtcreatorCheck out Amy's book! Women and the Gender of God: https://www.eerdmans.com/9780802879097/women-and-the-gender-of-god/Podcast includes original music ("Imagination") written by Dean Payla, produced by PALA.

In this Theology Lab podcast, Drew Jackson, author of God Speaks Through Wombs and Touch the Earth (linked below) discusses his poetry and how to read the Bible. Drew's Theology Lab interview connects reading Scripture, interpreting the Bible, and theological insights into poetry with the questions that many are asking about God and living faith. How does God show up in surprising places? How is it possible to think about God and salvation through being 'brought low', as in the open chapter's of Luke's gospel. #poetryandthebible #everythingbelongs #drewjackson Check out Drew's book here: God Speaks Through Wombs: https://www.ivpress.com/god-speaks-through-wombs Touch the Earth: https://www.ivpress.com/touch-the-earthPodcast includes original music ("Imagination") written by Dean Payla, produced by PALA.

In this Theology Lab episode Greg and Scott talk to Brad East, theology professor at Abilene Christian University. Brad recently published (September/October 2025) an article in Christianity Today called 'The Way We Debate Atonement Is a Mess.' It tracks why some people love penal substitutionary atonement (PSA), why some are harshly critical of this idea of salvation, and then steps back and asks how we can have a better conversation. Greg, Scott and Brad get into a host of other conversations about the Bible and interpreting Scripture and theology, like whether penal substitution could ever become the definitive expression of salvation or whether there is something so mysterious about the cross and resurrection of Jesus that defies a singular explanation.Check out Brad's article at CT here: https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/09/penal-substitutionary-atonement-debate-theology/Also, Brad recently published the book, Letters to a Future Saint, available here: https://www.eerdmans.com/9780802883872/letters-to-a-future-saint/Podcast includes original music ("Imagination") written by Dean Payla, produced by PALA.

In this Scripture & Tradition Theology Lab episode (podcast version only!), Theology Lab's host Scott Rice shares a sermon relevant to this series. The sermon is on engaging the challenging parts of the book of Revelation, Scripture's final book that contains images of wild beasts, great destruction and cosmic warfare. Perhaps more difficult than some of this imagery is the portrayal of retributive justice and vengeance, the culmination of a much awaited new creation through violence and bloodshed. How should we understand these different elements of Revelation? Can a wider reading of Scripture or a perspective on the incarnation of Jesus, also an important theme in Revelation, assist us? Scott explores these questions and more -- all in hopes of reading sacred Scripture to become more like Christ, discern God's will, and become a people of greater hope in what God will do. #revelation #scripture #theologyLearn more about Riverwalk church (Brookline, MA) here: https://riverwalkboston.church/Podcast includes original music ("Imagination") written by Dean Payla, produced by PALA.

In this Theology Lab podcast Bible scholar, author of Reading While Black, and Holy Post podcast host Esau McCaulley invites us to read the Bible through the lens of ethnic and cultural diversity, showing how Scripture speaks powerfully into today’s conversations on race, identity, and justice. What does it mean to bring your whole cultural self to the task of Bible interpretation? McCaulley invites viewers to embrace a more inclusive, faithful approach to biblical study—one rooted in the rich traditions of the global church. If you’re interested in Christian faith, reading the Bible, and exploring how theology and diversity intersect, this video offers fresh insight and deep encouragement. Check out this edited volume, a biblical commentary, on the New Testament here: https://www.ivpress.com/the-new-testament-in-color 👍 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more on faith, Scripture, and cultural identity. #EsauMcCaulley #BibleInColor #BibleStudy #TheologicalLearningPodcast includes original music ("Imagination") written by Dean Payla, produced by PALA.

Here's the introduction episode, with some exciting teasers, from Theology Lab's Scripture and Tradition series. Episodes will come out at least every other week. This series is meant to help us think about how we approach the Bible, deal with challenges in Scripture reflect on questions like ethnicity, race, sexuality and gender, and more when it comes to reading the Bible and thinking theologically. The work of Theology Lab, an offering of Highrock church, is about furthering a more nuanced and curious faith. Check out more with Theology Lab at www.theologylab.orgPodcast includes original music ("Imagination") written by Dean Payla, produced by PALA.

Theology Lab's 2025/26 discussion series! Learn more/Register: Deliver Us From Evil: Faith In the Face of Human Sufferinghttps://www.highrock.org/theologylab/theology-lab-2025?mc_cid=aba046ddd1&mc_eid=30ec3d28f8This year’s Theology Lab – Deliver Us From Evil – features Dominique Gilliard, Tim Mackie, Nicholas Kristof, Kaitlyn Scheiss, Russell Moore, Janette Ok, Willie Jennings, Munther Isaac, Miroslav Volf, Matthew Ichihashi Potts, Mary Speta, Drew Jackson, Brian McLaren, and Yi-An Huang! This free online series, open to individuals, groups and churches, reflects on Scripture, theological questions, and what faithful responses to suffering might look like.The series runs live, is free, and is open to all individuals, groups, and churches.Learn more about Theology Lab at www.theologylab.orgPodcast includes original music ("Imagination") written by Dean Payla, produced by PALA.

💬 Faith and Family Conflict: Patriarchy, Guns, and more with Kellie Carter Jackson (Wellesley College, author of We Refuse) & Edward Jackson (instructor and owner of 333 Jiu Jitsu). In this honest and powerful conversation, Kellie Carter Jackson and Edward Jackson (brother-and-sister-in-law) dive into the real-life tensions many Christians face around faith and family conflict. From disagreements over patriarchy, guns and gun ownership, and political divides, to navigating tough topics with love and wisdom, this video offers a nuanced, faith-based approach to handling difficult relationships. Rooted in biblical principles, theological learning, and curious faith, this discussion is perfect for anyone exploring how to engage family and faith with both conviction and compassion. If you're interested in Christian faith, the Bible, and how to have hard conversations about gender roles, topics like family values, this video offers practical insight and spiritual encouragement.Youtube version of this conversation: https://youtu.be/4yOq1RWGQzYCheck out Kellie's book, We Refuse: https://www.kelliecarterjackson.com/booksEdward Jackson's studio: https://www.333jiujitsu.com/👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more content on faith, family, and meaningful conversations. #FaithAndFamily #ChristianFaith #gunownershipLearn more about Theology Lab at www.theologylab.orgPodcast includes original music ("Imagination") written by Dean Payla, produced by PALA.

How should Christians engage with the pro-life and pro-choice conversation in a way that reflects both faith and reason alongside reference to the Bible and theology? In this video, we explore different Christian perspectives on this deeply personal and ethical issue, considering how Scripture, theology, and science shape beliefs. Rather than reinforcing division, we seek a thoughtful, compassionate approach that moves beyond the usual arguments. Can people of faith find common ground? How do science, ethics, and biblical interpretation influence these views? If you're interested in Christian faith, open-minded theological discussions, and ethical questions, this video is for you. Join the conversation as we navigate faith, morality, and complex ethical issues with grace and understanding. 📚 Check out Mako's book: https://wipfandstock.com/978172527189... 👀 Elizabeth is the director of the Boston Faith & Justice Network. Check out their resources here: https://www.bostonfaithjustice.org/ 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more discussions on faith, theology, and nuanced Christian conversations! #ChristianFaith #ProLife #ProChoice Learn more about Theology Lab at www.theologylab.orgPodcast includes original music ("Imagination") written by Dean Payla, produced by PALA.

This Theology Lab video looks at what it means to be Gay and Christian from two different views. Moreover, it considers what friendship and church looks like across differences. In this respectful and thoughtful conversation, authors and faith leaders Sally Gary and Gregory Coles share two distinct perspectives on LGBTQ+ identity, Christian faith, and the Bible. This video is ideal for those exploring theological learning, curious faith, and more nuanced conversations around sexuality within the church. Perfect for folks looking for a different kind of conversation being gay, Christianity, and the church, or those looking to engage Scripture and identity with honesty, compassion, and depth. If you're navigating questions of faith, sexuality and how two thoughtful Christians who care about the Bible and deep thinking life speak into these topics, this video offers a space for thoughtful reflection and respectful dialogue. Check out Greg's book, Single, Gay Christian: https://www.gregorycoles.com/book-single-gay-christian/ Check out Sally's book, Affirming: https://www.eerdmans.com/9781467460880/affirming/ Check out Sally's organization: https://www.centerpeace.net/about #GayAndChristian #LGBTQLearn more about Theology Lab at www.highrock.org/theologylabPodcast includes original music ("Imagination") written by Dean Payla, produced by PALA.

In this Theology Lab conversation with author and activist Shane Claiborne (Red Letter Christians) looks at the Bible explores the tensions between Christian faith, war, politics, and justice and more. What does it mean to follow Jesus and engage the Christian scriptures in a world of violence and division? Can Christians support peace while engaging in public life? This video is perfect for those pursuing theological learning, nurturing a curious faith, or rethinking how Scripture, justice, and politics intersect. It also engages questions about using social media critically. Ideal for both evangelical Christians and post-evangelicals, for justice-minded believers, and anyone exploring a deeper, more nuanced Christian faith. #ShaneClaiborne #ChristianFaith #TheologyAndPolitics Follow Shane's group, Red Letter Christians: https://redletterchristians.org/ Learn more about Theology Lab at www.highrock.org/theologylabPodcast includes original music ("Imagination") written by Dean Payla, produced by PALA.

Rev. Tammy Swanson-Draheim is the president of the Evangelical Covenant Church. In this Theology Lab interview she answers questions about how she navigates conflict within her leadership role, how she works to build trust amidst conflict and challenging relationships. She also reflects on other pressing questions, like how to respond to the rise in Christian Nationalism and how this church tradition handles biblical or scriptural interpretation -- how do we understand the Bible as God's word to us alongside our imperfect interpretations of Scripture? She is the first woman to serve as the president of the Evangelical Covenant Church. The conversation is moderated by Pastor Meghan DeJong. #faithleadership #conflictsolutions #churchleadershipLearn more about Theology Lab at www.highrock.org/theologylabPodcast includes original music ("Imagination") written by Dean Payla, produced by PALA.

In this Theology Lab video podcast with Matthew Soerens of World Relief, we look at how Christian faith, the Bible, and public policy intersect in the ongoing immigration debate. What does the Bible say about welcoming the stranger? How should followers of Jesus engage immigration with both truth, justice and compassion? This conversation is ideal for those interested in theological learning, curious faith, and rethinking immigration from a Christian perspective. Perfect for viewers exploring Scripture, God’s heart for justice, and navigating politics and faith in a more nuanced, compassionate way. #ImmigrationAndFaith #WorldRelief #immigrationdebate Learn more about World Relief here, and help support the work that Matt is doing to help resettle refugees: https://worldrelief.org Welcoming the Stranger, Jenny Yang and Matthew Soerens: https://worldrelief.org/welcoming-the-stranger/Podcast includes original music ("Imagination") written by Dean Payla, produced by PALA.

This is the second installment in Theology Lab's Critical Conversations series. In this session, Lanhee Chen (fellow at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University, former chief policy advisor for Mit Romney's 2012 presidential campaign, and former member of the George W. Bush administration) and Yi-An Huang (the City Manager of Cambridge, Massachusetts, engage in a conversation about politics, faith, and friendship. This topic addresses: politics and difference, the challenges and opportunities of political engagement, how faith informs one's approach to politics and issues of political conflict, and how faith informs our approach to relationships that can help navigate political differences. The Theology Lab series will continue this year will interviews with Shane Claiborne, Sally Gary, Kellie Carter Jackson, Gregory Coles, and others. Learn more about Theology Lab at www.highrock.org/theologylab#politics #christianity Podcast includes original music ("Imagination") written by Dean Payla, produced by PALA.

The YouTube version (with subtitles) of this interview with Stanley Hauerwas and Jonathan Tran: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TbJaZ5B9IugIn this interview with Stanley Hauerwas, named by Time Magainze as "the best theologian" in America, and Jonathan Tran, author of Asian Americans and the Spirit of Racial Capitalism, two theologians offer their perspectives on how Christians engage in political life as Christians. This interview covers topics such as faith and theology, Scripture, how Christians might approach voting, political parties, baptism as a way of life and a marker of polity, and the meaning of truth telling, honesty, and faithfulness in public life.Check out Jonathan Tran's book, Asian Americans and the Spirit of Racial Capitalism: https://www.amazon.com/Americans-Spirit-Capitalism-REFLECTION-RELIGION/dp/0197617913Stanley Hauerwas's, the Peaceable Kingdom: https://undpress.nd.edu/9780268015541/the-peaceable-kingdom/#Hauerwas #church #politicsLearn more about Theology Lab highrock.org/theologylabPodcast includes original music ("Imagination") written by Dean Payla, produced by PALA.

Welcome to a new season of Theology Lab: Critical Conversations - Conflict, Disagreement & Christ-centered Community. This series explores topics that tend to divide Christians, like abortion, LGBTQ+ and same-sex relationships and the church, politics and family dynamics. We have guests like Shane Claiborne, Stanley Hauerwas, Sally Gary, Kellie Carter Jackson and many more! #theology #scripture #lgbtq #churchLearn more about Theology Lab highrock.org/theologylabPodcast includes original music ("Imagination") written by Dean Payla, produced by PALA.

In this Theology Lab podcast, Notre Dame theologian David Cloutier introduces viewers to Pope Leo XIV, the newly elected Pope and head of the Roman Catholic church. Prof. Cloutier introduces us to Pope Leo XIV, the significance of his choice of name (Leo) and some things to expect in his papacy. The conversation also touches on his American roots and American politics. Whether you’re curious about Catholic social teaching, the history of Christian faith, or how theology and culture shape the Church’s mission today, this conversation offers rich insights. Check out David's award winning book, The Vice of Luxury: https://press.georgetown.edu/Book/The-Vice-of-Luxury 👍 Subscribe for more podcasts on theology, church history, and Christian learning. #PopeLeo #PopeLeoXIV #CatholicSocialTeaching #ChristianFaithLearn more about Theology Lab highrock.org/theologylabPodcast includes original music ("Imagination") written by Dean Payla, produced by PALA.

This episode features Dean Dennis Edwards, New Testament Professor and dean of North Park Theological Seminary. In this final episode in Highrock's Black Theology course, Dennis speaks to the dynamic nature of Black faith and its endurance over time. He also addresses resistance to the idea of Black Lives Matter and shows how a focus on the particularity of Black lives leads us to greater concern for justice everywhere.This episode is part of Highrock Church's Black Theology Class. Email theologylab@highrock.org to learn more. Here's a free discussion guide: https://live-highrock-network.pantheonsite.io/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/DiscussionGuideBlackTheology2022v2-1.pdfIf you (or your small group) use this resource, we'd love to know! Email Scott @ theologylab@highrock.orgLearn more about Highrock church at www.highrock.orgLearn more about Theology Lab highrock.org/theologylabCheck out a co-edited volume by Dr. Edwards, Do Black Lives Matter? here: https://www.revdrdre.com/do-black-lives-matter#:~:text=This%20volume%20is%20a%20collection,of%20Scripture%20to%20this%20resilience.Podcast includes original music ("Imagination") written by Dean Payla, produced by PALA.#theology #BlackLivesMatter #BlackTheology #ChristianFaith #biblestudy

This theology related episode explores how Womanist theology emerges. It is part of Highrock's Black theology course, featuring Prof. M. Shawn Copeland. This episode dives deep into how faith, Scripture, and theology speak to the lived experiences of Black women, addressing themes of justice, liberation, and resilience. Rooted in Black theology and African American faith traditions, Womanist Theology centers the voices of Black women in the fight for equality within both the church and society. How does the Bible inform this movement? What role does Christian faith play in the pursuit of justice and wholeness? Perfect for those studying the Bible, African American theology, and Black women's faith, this video unpacks transformative theological perspectives. Subscribe for more on faith, theology, the Bible and justice.This episode is part of Highrock Church's Black Theology Class. Email theologylab@highrock.org to learn more. Here's a free discussion guide: https://live-highrock-network.pantheonsite.io/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/DiscussionGuideBlackTheology2022v2-1.pdfIf you (or your small group) use this resource, we'd love to know! Email Scott @ theologylab@highrock.orgLearn more about Highrock church at www.highrock.orgLearn more about Theology Lab highrock.org/theologylabPodcast includes original music ("Imagination") written by Dean Payla, produced by PALA.#theology #womanism #BlackTheology #ChristianFaith #biblestudy

Rev. Dr. Dennis Edwards (dean, North Park Seminary) teaches the faith underpinnings that fueled the Civil Rights Movement. In this powerful and thought-provoking episode, Dr. Edwards explores the spiritual roots of the movement, revealing the ways in which Black theology and faith informed the actions and decisions of its leaders. From the role of the Black Church to the intersection of faith and activism, Prof. Edwards sheds light on the crucial yet often-ignored theological underpinnings of this pivotal moment in American history. Deepen your understanding of the Civil Rights Movement and how faith played a key role in it. This episode is part of Highrock Church's Black Theology Class. Email theologylab@highrock.org to learn more. Here's a free discussion guide: https://live-highrock-network.pantheonsite.io/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/DiscussionGuideBlackTheology2022v2-1.pdfIf you (or your small group) use this resource, we'd love to know! Email Scott @ theologylab@highrock.orgLearn more about Highrock church at www.highrock.orgLearn more about Theology Lab highrock.org/theologylabPodcast includes original music ("Imagination") written by Dean Payla, produced by PALA.#BlackTheology #CivilRightsMovement #ChristianFaith #FaithAndJustice #BibleStudy #theology