The Intersection with Dr. J + Friends

In this episode of The Intersection, Dr. J is joined by Dr. Lee C. Camp—author of Scandalous Witness: A Little Political Manifesto for Christians, professor, speaker, and host of the No Small Endeavor podcast—for an honest conversation at the crossroads of Christian faith, nationalism, and public life—a crossroads often crowded with slogans, pride, and selective memory.Rather than treating Christian nationalism as a new cultural outbreak, the conversation situates it as an old reflex with deep historical roots. Together, Justin and Lee explore the persistent tension between the gospel and the nation-state, probing how faith becomes distorted when it is conscripted into political projects. Along the way, they challenge the myth of America as a “Christian nation,” arguing that honest historical accountability is not an act of disloyalty but a form of love; one that refuses nostalgia in favor of truth-telling. Drawing from theology, history, and social ethics, the episode presses toward a nonpartisan Christianity shaped by orthodoxy rather than fallen ideology. Lee makes the case that the gospel is not merely publicly relevant but inherently political in its demands for justice, mercy, and love of neighbor—especially when those demands unsettle myths and arbitrary boundaries of belonging.This conversation resists both culture-war outrage and disengaged piety. It calls listeners to historical awareness, civic humility, and faithful presence, reminding us that the past is never past—and that Christian witness becomes most compelling when it refuses power grabs in favor of costly truth. If you’re tired of syncetism, shallow patriotism, or faith reduced to tribalized stories, this episode offers clarity, conviction, and a more honest way forward.Podcast: No Small Endeavor https://www.nosmallendeavor.com/Website: https://www.leeccamp.com/Book: Scandalous Witness: A Little Political Manifesto for Christians: https://www.amazon.com/Scandalous-Witness-Political-Manifesto-Christians/dp/0802877354Books: https://www.leeccamp.com/books

In this episode of The Intersection, Dr. J talks with Dr. Michael Shi, a Silicon Valley AI researcher, for a clear-eyed conversation at the crossroads of artificial intelligence, faith, and human responsibility—a crossroads typically crowded with hype, fear, and hot air. Rather than treating AI as either savior or saboteur, the conversation frames it as a powerful tool that inevitably reflects the values, intentions, and limits of its creators.Drawing from technology, ethics, and theology, the episode traces AI’s evolution from rigid rules to data-driven models, addressing common anxieties around hallucinations, plagiarism, creativity, and education. Justin and Michael press listeners toward discernment over panic, emphasizing integrity, verification, and wisdom—especially for leaders, educators, and people of faith navigating a rapidly changing landscape.AI may extend our capacities, but it cannot replace conscience, relational presence, or moral responsibility. Framed by the Christian vision of humans as co-creators under God, the episode resists both techno-utopianism and reactionary fear, calling for faithful, humble engagement. If you’re curious about AI but allergic to panic, hype, or shortcuts—and interested in what thoughtful engagement actually looks like—this episode offers clarity, balance, and just enough details to be productive.

In this episode of The Intersection, Dr. J sits down with Colleen Davenport for a thoughtful, clear-eyed conversation at the crossroads of Christianity, culture, and power—an intersection often cluttered with bad history, louder opinions, and the assumption that faith is most faithful when it’s in charge. Together, they bring historical depth and wisdom to a topic many Christians lean on confidently, but define poorly: dominionism. The talk explores how certain visions of cultural “victory” can quietly distort the gospel, especially when political influence begins to masquerade as spiritual faithfulness.Drawing from Scripture, church history, and lived experience, the episode unpacks the biblical idea of exile—what it means to follow Jesus faithfully in a world that does not share our assumptions, priorities, or allegiances. Rather than defaulting to fear, withdrawal, or conquest, the conversation presses toward a Christ-centered posture marked by humility, discernment, and love of neighbor. Justin and Colleen wrestle honestly with wonky syncretism, cultural engagement, and the temptation to place misplaced hope in politics, naming how easily tribalism can eclipse discipleship.Along the way, they return again (and again), to Jesus—not as a mascot for ideology, but as the crucified and risen King whose cause advances through peacemaking, service, and faithfulness rather than domination. The result is a conversation that challenges easy answers without collapsing into cynicism, reminding listeners that Christians are called to be ambassadors, not conquerors—and that the church’s credibility is most compelling when it is rooted in love for the marginalized rather than proximity to power.If you’re weary of cable-news-shaped theology, suspicious of baptized political ambition, and curious about what faithful presence actually looks like in a polarized age, this episode offers clarity, conviction, and just enough discomfort to be spiritually productive.LINKS:Jake Meador, Mere Orthodoxy: Four Types of Christian Cultural Engagement (Shameless) Plug: ColleenDavenportPhoto.com Abortion Statistics, Pew Research

In this episode of The Intersection, Dr. J chats with microbiologist and educator Dr. Rachel Morris for a rich conversation at the crossroads of science and faith; two worlds people often pit against each other, usually because they’re too busy doomscrolling culture-war headlines. Rachel brings both expertise and empathy as the two explore how socialisation shapes our understanding of complex issues, why misinformation spreads with the speed of a sneeze in a crowded room, and how listening (real listening—not the “waiting to reply” version) can transform even the most strained relationships.Drawing from her experiences as a scientist, a woman in male-dominated spaces, and a Christian navigating the academy, Rachel reflects on the historical forces that shape our assumptions about belief, evidence, and authority. Together, she and Justin examine how compassion can bridge divides, how difficult knowledge requires both courage and nuance, and how engaging ideas we disagree with can actually strengthen our convictions rather than threaten them. The conversation moves easily between history and microbiology, discipleship and public discourse, touching on everything from the sneaky power of misinformation to the quiet heroism of women whose contributions to science and faith go unnoticed. Through it all, all truth belongs to God, and a key thread remains: humility is not timidity, nor is it weakness; it’s the posture that makes real dialogue possible.If you’re hungry for a conversation (with a laugh or two) that disarms the noise, honors complexity, and offers a little hope in an age of unproductive hot takes, this episode is for you.

In this episode of The Intersection, Dr. J sits talks with Steve Sommerlot, one of the original planters of Riverview Church back in 1977 (and one of Dr. J’s personal Yodas), for a deep dive into identity, grace, and what it actually means to live from your position in Christ. Drawing from the roots of the Jesus Movement and the early days of Riv, Steve reflects on a cultural moment that impacted American Christianity and continues to influence how believers understand calling, community, and the Gospel today. Together, they dig into one of the most foundational (and most overlooked) themes of the Christian life: the distinction between our condition and our position. Through conversations about Romans, sanctification, and the relentless tug-of-war between feelings and truth, Steve traces how embracing our identity in Christ frees us from guilt, loosens the grip of individualism, and creates space for transformation that sticks.The discussion moves between history and discipleship, personal stories and theological clarity, returning often to the freedom that comes when Christians see themselves as God does. From the no-condemnation reality of Romans 8 to the gritty work of forgiveness, Steve shows how grace reshapes our relationships, empowers our witness, and steadies the church for the future.If you’re drawn to conversations that mix wisdom with a laugh, this episode offers grounding, hope, and a reminder that your position in Christ isn’t just a doctrinal footnote; it’s the engine that drives everything else.- Book: The Church in an Age of Secular Mysticisms (Ministry in a Secular Age): Why Spiritualities without God Fail to Transform Us by Andy Root- Book: The Complete Green Letters by Miles Stanford

In this episode of The Intersection, Dr. J sits down with Alex Stoehr of Oregon Humanities for a thoughtful and creative exploration of what it means to live out faith in public life. Drawing from her work fostering community through conversation, Alex reflects on how art, poetry, and storytelling can become bridges of understanding in an increasingly divided culture.Together, they unpack the unique cultural landscape of the Pacific Northwest—its contrasts with the Midwest, its ambivalence toward organized religion, and its surprising openness to authentic expressions of faith. The conversation moves through themes of calling, creativity, and civic participation, offering a vision of ministry that values shared language, deep listening, and the arts as sacred spaces for connection.From the complexity of personal vocation to the hope that arises when faith shows up humbly in public, Alex reminds listeners that pursuing artistic passions often sparks curiosity more than contention. Her insights invite Christians to step into their communities not as conquerors of culture, but as cultivators of beauty, empathy, and understanding.If you’re drawn to conversations that blend theology, culture, and creativity, this episode offers encouragement for engaging your neighborhood, inspiration for integrating art and faith, and a hopeful reminder that small acts of creativity carry deep spiritual weight.Biola Center for Christianity, Culture & The Arts

In this episode of The Intersection, Dr. J sits interviews Paul Taylor, Director of Unify at TBC and Co-Founder of the Bay Area Center for Faith, Work & Tech, for a wide-ranging conversation on what it means to follow Jesus at the crossroads of faith, work, and technology in Silicon Valley and beyond. Together, they explore how the post-COVID landscape has created surprising openness to Christianity in the Bay Area, the need for church unity, and the challenges and opportunities of being a Christian in one of the most innovative and secular regions of the world.From exilic discipleship—embracing life as exiles in a pluralistic culture—to the way work shapes our personal identity and mission, Paul highlights how Christians can faithfully engage the workplace as culture makers and image bearers of God. The discussion also turns to technology, including AI, and its role in extending human capabilities, shaping society, and embedding values that demand careful discernment from people of faith.While “revival” may not be the best word for what’s happening in the Bay Area, Paul points to signs of spiritual awakening, where the gospel is taking root in unexpected ways. With a blend of theological reflection, cultural analysis, and practical insight, this episode offers a hopeful vision of how the church can engage the future—not by retreating, but by stepping into the spaces where faith, work, and technology converge.If you’re looking for a conversation that connects theology to real-world challenges in the workplace and beyond, this episode provides wisdom for navigating cultural change, encouragement for living faithfully in exile, and a reminder that God’s work often advances in surprising ways.The Bay Area Center for Faith, Work, & TechChristianity Today article co-authored by Paul Taylor: The Silicon Valley Revival Has Come Contrasting the Exilic vs Jerusalem Posture: Exilic Discipleship by David Kim

In this episode of The Intersection, Dr. J talks with Dr. Jared Huntsinger, lead pastor of Discovery Christian Community Church in Salt Lake City, Utah, for a candid conversation on the legacy of Christendom, the church’s posture in society, and evangelism in a post-Christian world. Together, they trace the movement from Christendom’s cultural dominance to today’s pluralistic landscape, unpacking how that shift reshapes the way Christians live and share their faith. From the mixed legacy of traditional evangelism methods to the need for humility, listening, and dialogue, the conversation wrestles with what it means to bear faithful witness without grasping for power. Along the way, they explore contextualizing the Gospel for diverse settings, the surprising hope to be found in a society that no longer assumes Christianity at its center, and the enduring call to embody Jesus’ way through dialogue, relationship, and community engagement. If you’re looking for a conversation that weaves history, pop-Christianity, and theological insight with on-the-ground wisdom—one that’s as honest about the past as it is hopeful for the future—this episode offers practical guidance, cultural awareness, and a timely reminder that evangelism begins with love and humility.Book Recommendations: Post-Christendom, 2nd Edition: Church and Mission in a Strange New World by Stuart MurrayChurch After Christendom by Stuart MurrayExiles: Living Missionally in a Post-Christian Culture by Michael FrostRecapturing the Wonder: Transcendent Faith in a Disenchanted World by Mike CosperHow (Not) to Be Secular: Reading Charles Taylor by James K.A. SmithDiscovery Christian Community Church:  https://discoverychristian.churchcenter.com/home

In this episode of The Intersection, Dr. J welcomes back sociologist Dr. Brad Vermurlen for an insightful and discerning conversation at the crossroads of faith, culture, and secular life. Together, they trace the historical and philosophical currents that shaped secularism, unpack its defining features, and confront the forces (re)shaping belief today—from the rise of doubt and indifference to the pull of hyper-individualism. They explore why meaning feels elusive in a society that keeps transcendence at arm’s length, and what it takes to find a concrete anchor in a pluralistic, hypermodern world.Drawing on Brad’s sociological research and insights from philosophy and history, the discussion moves from theory to lived experience, digging into the public–private divide, the crisis of meaning, and the enduring role of rituals and traditions. If you’ve ever wondered why belief feels harder now—and how to live honestly and with conviction—this episode offers clarity, challenge, and hope for navigating the secular age with integrity.Book: Reformed Resurgence: The New Calvinist Movement and the Battle Over American EvangelicalismWebsite: https://bradvermurlen.comBook: How (Not) to Be Secular: Reading Charles Taylor by James K.A. Smith

In this episode, Dr. J sits down with Brad Kidder—pastor, comic, church planter, and deeply unserious person (in the best possible way)—to talk about something the church doesn’t always know what to do with: humor. Specifically, how it works, why it matters, and what it’s doing in public, our pews, pulpits, and, yes, even in our hearts.Together, they explore how absurdity shows up not just in comedy clubs, but in Scripture itself—from talking donkeys to over-the-top parables to the strange, beautiful tension of a crucified the resurrected King. They reflect on how laughter can be more than a punchline; it can be medicine, connection, release, and sometimes even a theological foretaste of hope.With sharp insight and a mutual love for the unexpected, Brad and Justin examine how comedy opens space for difficult conversations, diffuses defensiveness, and builds bridges across difference. They also talk about the power of shared experience (especially in a disembodied age), the art of sermon-crafting with a wink, and why Christians need laughter more than they might first think.If you’ve ever felt like faith and laughter are strange bedfellows, or wondered whether comedy might sometimes be a reverent response to living in the wildness of grace… Come for the jokes, stay for the theology. Or vice versa. We won’t judge.River City Church - https://www.rivcitychurch.com/Brad Kidder’s ‘socials’: Instagram, Tik Tok

In this episode, Dr. J talks with Dr. Michael Wittmer—pastor, professor of theology, and professional taker-of-fun-seriously—about the big question few Christians say out loud: Can I serve Jesus and still enjoy my life? (Spoiler: Yes. And you should.)Pulling from his book Becoming Worldly Saints, Wittmer challenges the tired assumption that “holy” and “enjoyment” are mutually exclusive. Together, he and Justin dive into the tensions many believers feel between heaven and earth, calling and career, joy and guilt, grilled meat and spiritual disciplines. You know—the usual.With theological depth and just enough irreverence to keep things interesting, they explore why our desire for good food, real friendships, and laughs isn’t a distraction from faith—it might actually be part of it. They take aim at Gnostic and legalistic tendencies in church culture, offer a few needed corrections to pop spirituality, and make a solid case for living fully human, not just ‘spiritually sanitized.’If you’ve ever felt guilty for loving your life—or confused about how your weekday existence fits into God’s big plan—this one’s for you. Come for the theology, stay for the common sense. And maybe laugh once or twice along the way.Book: Becoming Worldly Saints: Can You Serve Jesus and Still Enjoy Your Life? BLOG: https://mikewittmer.blog/Website: https://www.cornerstone.edu/faculty/michael-wittmer/

In this episode, Dr. J sits talks with Christine Kite—counselor, trauma specialist, and thoughtful guide at the crossroads of faith and psychology—for a compassionate and eye-opening conversation on mental health and the church. With vulnerability and clarity, Christine unpacks the weight of trauma, the realities of PTSD, and the healing power of being seen, known, and supported.Together, Christine and Justin explore the complicated relationship many Christians have with mental health—where stigma still lingers, silence can be spiritualized, and professional help is sometimes seen as a lack of faith. Through honest storytelling, theological reflection, and clinical insight, this conversation invites listeners to reimagine healing as both sacred and scientific.From cognitive behavioral therapy to community care, from cultural shifts to the power of empathy, this episode doesn’t shy away from hard truths—but it also refuses to abandon hope. Christine challenges us to integrate our spiritual convictions with emotional honesty and to become communities where people don’t have to hide their pain to belong.Whether you’re a skeptic of therapy, a trauma survivor, or someone walking alongside those who suffer, this episode offers a gentle but firm reminder: healing is holy, and asking for help is not weakness—it’s wisdom.The Soul of Shame: Retelling the Stories We Believe About Ourselves by Curt ThompsonAnatomy of the Soul: Surprising Connections between Neuroscience and Spiritual Practices That Can Transform Your Life and Relationships by Curt ThompsonGetting Unstuck from PTSD: Using Cognitive Processing Therapy to Guide Your Recovery by Patricia A. Resick, Candice M. Monson, and Kathleen M. ChardChildhood Disrupted: How Your Biography Becomes Your Biology, and How You Can Heal by Donna Jackson Nakazawa Side by Side, Riverview Church Care MinistryThe American Psychological Association (APA) Cognitive Processing (CPT) Therapists in Lansing, MIMayo Clinic, Psychiatry and Psychology

In this episode, Dr. J dialogues with Jahshua Smith—educator, leader, and hip hop sage—for a wide-ranging and layered conversation at the crossroads of Jesus and justice. With wisdom, candor, and insight, Jahshua helps unpack the historical and spiritual significance of Juneteenth, not just as a commemorative event, but as an invitation to deeper discipleship and authentic community.From the power of education to the pain of church hurt, from hip hop pedagogy to healing, this episode explores how scripture speaks into oppression and calls the church to be more than a Sunday sanctuary. Through personal stories, theological reflection, and cultural critique, Jahshua and Justin challenge us to imagine a church that truly embodies the freedom it proclaims.Whether you're new to understanding Juneteenth or have long wrestled with the intersections of faith, race, and justice, this episode offers needed clarity and loving provocation. If you’ve ever wondered what justice has to do with Jesus—or how the gospel informs equity, community building, and collective hope—this conversation is for you.The Historical Legacy of JuneteenthAll of the Above Hiphop Academy

In this episode of The Intersection, Dr. J chats with Adsum Try Ravenhill for a rich and down-to-earth conversation about the role of theology in the everyday life of faith. Together, they explore three major types of theology—biblical, systematic, and historical—and why understanding them matters not just for scholars, but for everyday believers seeking to grow in wisdom, worship, and wonder.With clarity and insight (+ a few laughs), Adsum helps unpack how each theological lens contributes to our understanding of who God is and what that means for how we live. From the storyline of Scripture to the doctrines that hold our faith together to the legacy of the saints who have gone before, theology is not just abstract ideas but a practical and powerful invitation into deeper discipleship.Whether you're a curious newcomer or a seasoned thinker, this episode offers an accessible entry point to the world of theology. If you’ve ever wondered how theology connects to real life or how studying God leads to worship and mission, this conversation is for you.Raven’s Writing DeskGospel Centered Discipleship 

In this episode of The Intersection, Dr. J speaks with sociologist Dr. Brad Vermurlen for a wide-ranging conversation at the crossroads of faith, culture, and political life. Together, they unpack the historical roots and consider/contested features of evangelicalism, examine current trends within the church and society, and explore how sociological patterns shape—and are shaped by—religious identity.Drawing on Brad’s research into various movements and American religiosity, the conversation moves from academic insight to practical reflection. Along the way, they tackle big questions around political morality, the evolving cultural landscape, and the ways history informs today’s divisive discourse. If you’re looking for a conversation that blends social science with spiritual wisdom—one that neither avoids nuance nor abandons conviction—this episode offers thoughtful guidance, honest reflection, and a timely challenge to live out faith with integrity.Book: Reformed Resurgence: The New Calvinist Movement and the Battle Over American EvangelicalismWebsite: https://bradvermurlen.com/Mere Orthodoxy - The Six Way Fracturing of Evangelicalism, Part 1 (Michael Graham) & Part 2 (Skyler Flowers & Michael Graham), How America Fractured into Four Parts (George Packer)

In a culture where sexual addiction is normalized and the Church is often silent, how can communities become places of healing rather than hiding? In this episode, Justin chats with pastor and author Noah Filipiak to confront the reality of pornography—its widespread impact, its (spiritual) cost, and the hope of recovery rooted in Christ.With honesty and pastoral insight, they explore how pornography distorts intimacy, fuels cycles of shame, and deceives both men and women—often starting from a tragically young age. They unpack how addiction alters the way we view relationships, why conversations about sex and accountability should be regular parts of discipleship, and how the Church’s reluctance to engage these topics leaves many struggling alone. From the link between porn and human trafficking to the dangerous myth of “harmless” consumption, Justin and Noah advocate for grace-filled honesty, vulnerable community, and the kind of practical support that makes sobriety sustainable.If you're looking for a conversation that doesn’t shy away from the hard stuff—and believes in the transforming power of grace and truth—this episode offers challenge and hope.Books + Alumni Community www.beyondthebattle.netPodcast - The Flip Side with Noah Filipiak Formal bio & website: https://www.noahfilipiak.comResources: Covenant Eyes https://www.covenanteyes.comAccountable2You: https://accountable2you.com/Canopy: https://canopy.us/SheRecovery: https://sherecovery.com/Her Freedom Journey: A Guide Out of Porn and Shame to Authentic Intimacy by Juli Slattery Book 

In an age where identity feels like a hyperbolic battleground, how can churches be places of belonging instead of barriers? In this episode, Justin and Young Yi talk through the tensions of unity and difference, exploring how faith communities can resist the pull of tribalism without compromising conviction.From social identity theory to Scripture, they unpack how political affiliations and cultural camps often overshadow the gospel, how inadvertent echo chambers form, and why the authority of Christ is best expressed through grace, not dominance. With honesty and insight, Justin and Young offer a vision of community where kindness leads to repentance, drawing lines doesn't mean drawing swords, and turning neighbors into friends becomes the norm, not the exception.If you’re feeling the strain between conviction and compassion, this conversation might be worth your time.IG: @brotheryoungSubstack: www.becomingdust.comChurch plant IG: @kindredchurchmi

Ever had an evangelism conversation go sideways—like, spectacularly sideways? You’re not alone. In this episode of The Intersection w/ Dr. J + Friends, Justin and Jordan Allen explore the fine art of sharing faith without making people wish they had an emergency escape plan.Jordan unpacks the five spiritual thresholds—trust, openness, curiosity, etc—highlighting how understanding someone’s (spiritual) journey can make all the difference. They dig into the power of genuine relationships, the role of spiritual warfare, and the messy realities of faith deconstruction, all while swapping stories of evangelism gone cringe (because, let’s be honest, we’ve all seen it). Through it all, they point to the compelling person of Jesus and why being present in people’s lives matters far more than a stale pitch.If you’ve ever wondered how to have meaningful spiritual conversations without making them (unnecessarily) awkward, this one’s for you.

What happens when factories replace farms and time clocks take over family life? Justin & Alex McGraw dive into the seismic shifts of the Industrial Revolution, unpacking how it redefined gender roles, community bonds, and even our understanding of work itself. Along the way, they highlight the often-overlooked contributions of women to social movements and the church, making a case for reclaiming these narratives. The conversation weaves through themes of dignity, shared humanity, and the vital roles of both children and the elderly in society—because wisdom isn’t just for the old, and purpose isn’t just for the young. Ultimately, they challenge us to embrace intergenerational relationships and live out the gospel with a renewed sense of mission, faith, and community.John Green - The Industrial Revolution: Crash Course European History #24Theology & Raw Podcast - The Beauty of Complementarity: Dr. Gregg AllisonBook -  Complementarity: Dignity, Difference, and Interdependence by Dr. Gregg AllisonBook - Nobody's Mother: Artemis of the Ephesians in Antiquity and the New Testament by Sandra L. Glahn

In part two of this discussion, Justin and Colleen Davenport consider the impact(s) and complexities of faith in a media-saturated world. Drawing parallels between modern media consumption and historical distractions like “bread and circus”, they explore how technology shapes discipleship, identity, and community. This episode invites listeners to examine their relationship with technology and consider practical ways to stay rooted in spiritual formation.Bread & Circus: Panem et circenses Article: Australia’s Social Media Ban for Children Under 16Internet Protection Software: Circle Internet Protection Software: Canopy