The Deconstructionists

Guest Info/Bio: This week we continue our series on religious pluralism with the incredible Rabbi David Wolpe. Rabbi Wolpe is the Max Webb senior Rabbi of Sinai Temple in Los Angeles, California. He’s been named one of the most influential rabbis in America by Newsweek Magazine and one of the 50 most influential Jews in the world by the Jerusalem Post. He’s taught at the Jewish Theological Seminary of America in New York, The American Jewish University in Lose Angeles, Hunter College, and UCLA. Rabbi Wolpe writes for many publications, including regular columns for the New York Jewish Week, Washington Post “On Faith”, as well as periodic contributions to the Jerusalem Post, The Los Angeles TImes, Time Magazine, The Atlantic, and many others. He has been on television numerous times, featured on series on PBS, A&E, as well as serving as a commentator on Face The Nation, The Today Show, CNN, and CBS This Morning. Rabbi Wolpe is the author of multiple books, including the National Bestseller “Making Loss Matter: Creating Meaning in Difficult TImes.” HIs most recent book is “Why Faith Matters.” Guest (Selected) Published Works: “David: The Divided Heart (Jewish Lives), Teaching Your Children About God: A Modern Jewish Approach, Making Loss Matter: Creating Meaning in Difficult Times, Why Be Jewish?, In Speech and in Silence: The Jewish Quest for God, and Why Faith Matters.” Guest Links: www.sinaitemple.org Facebook: @RabbiWolpe Twitter: @rabbiwolpe To hear Rabbi Wolpe’s sermons: iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/off-the-pulpit-with-rabbi-david-wolpe/id1112396528?mt=2 Special Music by: Drew Holcombe & The Neighbors www.drewholcomb.com Twitter: @drewholcomb Instagram: @drewholcomb Facebook: @drewholcombmusic Enjoy the songs? Songs featured on this episode were: “New Year; Rowdy Heart, Broken Wing; & Wild World” from the album “Souvenir.” “Ain’t Nobody Got It Easy” & “Sisters, Brothers” from the album “Medicine.” And “Another Man’s Shoes” from the album “Good Light.” You can find Drew Holcomb & The Neighbor’s music on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube, Pandora, and anywhere good music is sold. The Deconstructionist’s Podcast is mixed and edited by Nicholas Rowe at National Audio Preservation Society: A full service recording studio and creative habitat, located in Heath, Ohio. Find them on Facebook and Twitter or visit their website for more information. www.nationalaudiopreservationsociety.weebly.com www.facebook.com/nationalaudiopreservationsociety Twitter: @napsrecording Donation: If you’re digging what we’re doing here consider making a small donation. Maintaining a podcast isn’t cheap and every dollar donated helps us to keep this thing going. Money donated goes to helping to purchase research materials, maintenance of the website, storage of episodes, etc. Click the link below to donate: Https://squareup.com/store/thedeconstructionists Brand new unisex T-Shirts now available! Pint glasses available now in 3 cool packages! https://squareup.com/store/thedeconstructionists Find us on social media! If you enjoy our show consider leaving us a nice 5 star review on iTunes. It helps new people find us! www.thedeconstructionists.com Twitter: @deconstructcast Facebook: deconstructionistsanonymous Instagram: deconstructionistspodcast Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-deconstructionists/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Guest Info/Bio: This week we kick off our series on religious pluralism with the incredible Sumbul bol Ali-Karmali! Sumbul grew up in Southern California in an ethnically Asian Family. She earned her undergraduate degree in English, with Distinction, from Stanford University. After working as an editor in a publishing company, she attended law school and graduated with her J.D. from the University of California Davis. She practiced corporate law in San Francisco for several years. Although always a practicing Muslim, Sumbul began the formal study of Islam when she attended the University of London’s School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS). She graduated from SOAS with her L.L.M. in Islamic Law, with Distinction. She has taught Islamic law as a teaching assistant at the University of London, worked as a research associate at the Centre of Islamic and Middle Eastern Law in London, and lectured on Islam and Islamic law. She has had many articles published, both in mainstream news publications and legal journals. Her first book, an accessible yet scholarly, anecdote-filled introduction to Islam and Islamic law written for the lay reader, was published by White Cloud Press in September of 2008 and is called The Muslim Next Door: the Qur’an, the Media, and that Veil Thing. Sumbul is currently spending her time on speaking engagements, radio and television interviews, writing, raising her two children, and volunteering her time to various causes. She serves on the board of trustees of a nonprofit educational institution that teaches multicultural education and environmental education to children and youth. She also serves on the steering committee of Women in Islamic Spirituality and Equality (WISE), an initiative dedicated to mobilizing a movement for social justice. Guest (Selected) Published Works: “The Muslim Next Door: The Qur’an, the Media, and That Veil Thing” and “Growing Up Muslim: Understanding the Beliefs and Practices of Islam.” Guest Links: www.themuslimnextdoor.com Special Music by: Birdtalker www.birdtalkermusic.com Twitter: @birdtalkermusic Instagram: @birdtalkermusic Facebook: @birdtalkermusic Enjoy the songs? Songs featured on this episode were: “Want, Heavy, Just This, & Blue Healer” from the Just This E.P. and the single “My Lover.” You can find Birdtalker’s music on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube, Pandora, and anywhere good music is sold. The Deconstructionist’s Podcast is mixed and edited by Nicholas Rowe at National Audio Preservation Society: A full service recording studio and creative habitat, located in Heath, Ohio. Find them on Facebook and Twitter or visit their website for more information. www.nationalaudiopreservationsociety.weebly.com www.facebook.com/nationalaudiopreservationsociety Twitter: @napsrecording Donation: If you’re digging what we’re doing here consider making a small donation. Maintaining a podcast isn’t cheap and every dollar donated helps us to keep this thing going. Money donated goes to helping to purchase research materials, maintenance of the website, storage of episodes, etc. Click the link below to donate: Htps://squareup.com/store/thedeconstructionists Brand new unisex T-Shirts now available! Pint glasses available now in 3 cool packages! https://squareup.com/store/thedeconstructionists Find us on social media! If you enjoy our show consider leaving us a nice 5 star review on iTunes. It helps new people find us! www.thedeconstructionists.com Twitter: @deconstructcast Facebook: deconstructionistsanonymous Instagram: deconstructionistspodcast Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-deconstructionists/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Guest Info/Bio: This week we welcome back one of our personal heroes Archbishop N.T. Wright! N.T. Wright is the former bishop of Durham in the Church of England and one of the world’s leading Bible scholars. He is now serving as the Chair of New Testament and Early Christianity at the School of Divinity at the University of St. Andrews. For twenty years he taught New Testament studies at Cambridge, McGill and Oxford Universities. As being both one of the world’s leading Bible scholars and a popular author, he has been featured on ABC News, Dateline, The Colbert Report, and Fresh Air. Guest (Selected) Published Works: His award-winning books include: Simply Jesus, After You Believe, Surprised by Hope, Simply Christian, The Meaning of Jesus (co-authored with Marcus Borg), as well as being the translator for The Kingdom New Testament. He also wrote the impressive Christian Origins and the Question of God series, including The New Testament and the People of God, Jesus and the Victory of God, and most recently The Day The Revolution Began: Reconsidering the Meaning of Jesus’ Crucifixion. Guest Links: www.ntwrightpage.com www.ntwrightonline.org Facebook: @OfficialNTWright Special Music by: Darlingside www.darlingside.com Twitter: @darlingside Instagram: @darlingside Facebook: @darlingside Enjoy the songs? Songs featured on this episode were: “The Ancestor, Clay & Cast Iron, and Go Back” from the album Birds Say. “Whippoorwill” from the EP “Whippoorwill.” You can find Darlingside’s music on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube, Pandora, and anywhere good music is sold. The Deconstructionist’s Podcast is mixed and edited by Nicholas Rowe at National Audio Preservation Society: A full service recording studio and creative habitat, located in Heath, Ohio. Find them on Facebook and Twitter or visit their website for more information. www.nationalaudiopreservationsociety.weebly.com www.facebook.com/nationalaudiopreservationsociety Twitter: @napsrecording Donation: If you’re digging what we’re doing here consider making a small donation. Maintaining a podcast isn’t cheap and every dollar donated helps us to keep this thing going. Money donated goes to helping to purchase research materials, maintenance of the website, storage of episodes, etc. Click the link below to donate: Htps://squareup.com/store/thedeconstructionists Brand new unisex T-Shirts now available! Pint glasses available now in 3 cool packages! https://squareup.com/store/thedeconstructionists Find us on social media! If you enjoy our show consider leaving us a nice 5 star review on iTunes. It helps new people find us! www.thedeconstructionists.com Twitter: @deconstructcast Facebook: deconstructionistsanonymous Instagram: deconstructionistspodcast Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-deconstructionists/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Guest Info/Bio: This week we welcome Jay “Freakin’” Bakker to the show! Jay is a pastor, author, speaker, and theologian who co-founded Revolution Church back in 1994. We talk about our mutual love of Pete Rollins, the Christian rock festivals of the 90s, and other fun topics. Guest Selected Works: Son of a Preacher Man: My Search for Grace in the Shadows; Fall to Grace: A Revolution of God, Self & Society; and Faith, Doubt, and Other Lines I’ve Crossed: Walking with the Unknown God. Guest Links: www.revolutionchurch.com Twitter: @jaybakker Instagram: @jaybakker Facebook: Jay.Bakker.Friends Special Music by: MewithoutYou Enjoy the songs? Songs featured on this episode were: “East Ender’s Wives,” from East Ender’s Wives Maxi Single; “Four Fires & Julian the Onion” from Other Stories; “Bear’s Vision of St. Agnes” from the album “10 Stories”; and “Chaplecross Towns” from the album “Pale Horses: Appendix.” You can find MewithoutYou’s music on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube, and anywhere good music is sold. The Deconstructionist’s Podcast is mixed and edited by Nicholas Rowe at National Audio Preservation Society: A full service recording studio and creative habitat, located in Heath, Ohio. Find them on Facebook and Twitter or visit their website for more information. www.nationalaudiopreservationsociety.weebly.com www.facebook.com/nationalaudiopreservationsociety Twitter: @napsrecording Donation: If you’re digging what we’re doing here consider making a small donation. Maintaining a podcast isn’t cheap and every dollar donated helps us to keep this thing going. Money donated goes to helping to purchase research materials, maintenance of the website, storage of episodes, etc. Click the link below to donate: Htps://squareup.com/store/thedeconstructionists Brand new unisex T-Shirts now available! Pint glasses available now in 3 cool packages! https://squareup.com/store/thedeconstructionists Find us on social media! If you enjoy our show consider leaving us a nice 5 star review on iTunes. It helps new people find us! www.thedeconstructionists.com Twitter: @deconstructcast Facebook: deconstructionistsanonymous Instagram: deconstructionistspodcast Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-deconstructionists/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Guest Info/Bio: This week we welcome Paul Janeway! Paul is the lead singer of St. Paul and The Broken Bones, the incredible six-piece soul band from Birmingham, Alabama. We talk about music, faith, race, art, books, and everything in-between. You don’t want to miss their live show if they happen to be coming to a town near you! For tour dates go to the show link on their website. Guest Links: www.stpaulandthebrokenbones.com Facebook: @St.PaulandTheBrokenBones Twitter: @StP_BrokenBones Instagram: stpaulandthebrokenbones Enjoy the songs? Songs featured on this episode were: “Crumbling Light Posts - Pt. 1, Flow with It (You Got Me Feeling Like), Burning Rome, Is It Me, Brain Matter, & Midnight on the Earth” from the album Sea of Noise and “Broken Bones & Pocket Change” off the album Half the City. You can find St. Paul and The Broken Bone’s music on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, SoundCloud, YouTube, and anywhere good music is sold. The Deconstructionist’s Podcast is mixed and edited by Nicholas Rowe at National Audio Preservation Society: A full service recording studio and creative habitat, located in Heath, Ohio. Find them on Facebook and Twitter or visit their website for more information. www.nationalaudiopreservationsociety.weebly.com www.facebook.com/nationalaudiopreservationsociety Twitter: @napsrecording Donation: If you’re digging what we’re doing here consider making a small donation. Maintaining a podcast isn’t cheap and every dollar donated helps us to keep this thing going. Money donated goes to helping to purchase research materials, maintenance of the website, storage of episodes, etc. Click the link below to donate: Htps://squareup.com/store/thedeconstructionists Brand new unisex T-Shirts now available! Pint glasses coming soon! https://squareup.com/store/thedeconstructionists Find us on social media! If you enjoy our show consider leaving us a nice 5 star review on iTunes. It helps new people find us! www.thedeconstructionists.com Twitter: @deconstructcast Facebook: deconstructionistsanonymous Instagram: deconstructionistspodcast Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-deconstructionists/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Guest/Bio:This week we welcome the incredible Timothy Morton! Tim is a professor and Rita Shea Guffey Chair in English at Rice University. A member of the object-oriented philosophy movement, Morton's work explores the intersection of object-oriented thought and ecological studies. Morton's use of the term 'hyperobjects' was inspired by Björk's 1996 single 'Hyperballad', although the term 'Hyper-objects' (denoting n-dimensional non-local entities) has also been used in computer science since 1967. Morton uses the term to explain objects so massively distributed in time and space as to transcend localization, such as climate change and styrofoam. He has collaborated with Björk, Laurie Anderson, Jennifer Walshe, Hrafnhildur Arnadottir, Sabrina Scott, Adam McKay, Jeff Bridges, Justin Guariglia, Olafur Eliasson, and Pharrell Williams. Morton co-wrote and appears in Living in the Future’s Past, a 2018 film about global warming with Jeff Bridges. He is the author of the libretto for the opera Time Time Time by Jennifer Walshe. Morton has authored numerous books and 250 essays on philosophy, ecology, literature, music, art, architecture, design and food. Morton’s work has been translated into 10 languages. In 2014, Morton gave the Wellek Lectures in Theory.Morton received a B.A. and D.Phil. in English from Magdalen College, Oxford.Their doctoral dissertation, "Re-Imagining the Body: Shelley and the Languages of Diet," studied the representation of diet, temperance, and consumption in the works of Percy Bysshe Shelley. Guest (Selected) Works: Being Ecological (Penguin, 2018), Humankind: Solidarity with Nonhuman People (Verso, 2017), Dark Ecology: For a Logic of Future Coexistence (Columbia, 2016), Nothing: Three Inquiries in Buddhism (Chicago, 2015), Hyperobjects: Philosophy and Ecology after the End of the World (Minnesota, 2013), Realist Magic: Objects, Ontology, Causality (Open Humanities, 2013), The Ecological Thought (Harvard, 2010), Ecology without Nature (Harvard, 2007), and Hell: A Christian EcologyGuest Links:https://ecologywithoutnature.blogspot.com/ X: @timmorton2 BlueSky: @timmorton2Instagram: @tim303Special Theme Music:Forrest ClayX: @clay_kInstagram: @forrestclaymusicYouTube: www.youtube.com/claykmusicEnjoy the music?Songs used on this episode were from the Recover EPYou can find Clay’s music on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube, or anywhere good music can be found!This episode of The Deconstructionists Podcast was edited, mixed, and produced by John WilliamsonStay on top of all the latest at www.thedeconstructionists.org Go there to check out our blog, snag a pint glass, or follow us on social media! We now have a brand new webstore with faster shipping, new products, new designs, and international shipping!Join our Patreon family here: www.patreon.com/deconstructionstsWebsite by Ryan BattlesAll photos by Jared HevronLogos & Designs are all created by Joseph Ernst, Chad Flannigan, Colin Rigsby, and Jason TurnerSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-deconstructionists/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

🔍 Episode SummaryIn this episode, we step into one of the most emotionally and politically charged issues in modern history—the war in Gaza and the roots of Zionism. With so much confusion around the history, theology, and current events, we take a step back to examine how we got here and why it matters.We trace the origins of modern Zionism, the rise of the state of Israel, and how Western Christianity—particularly American evangelicalism—has shaped both the theology and the politics that continue to impact real people on the ground. This episode isn’t about taking easy sides. It’s about understanding the deeper story beneath the headlines.🎧 Key Topics CoveredWhat is Zionism and where did it come from?The Balfour Declaration and British colonial influenceThe founding of the state of Israel in 1948The Nakba and its lasting impact on Palestinian peopleHow American evangelicalism helped shape U.S. foreign policy toward IsraelThe role of Dispensationalism and the Scofield BibleChristian Zionism vs. ethical Christian responsibilityThe ongoing humanitarian crisis in GazaWhy understanding this history matters for people of faith today📚 Resources & Recommended ReadingBooks & Articles“The Ethnic Cleansing of Palestine” by Ilan Pappé“A Wall in Palestine” by René Backmann“Zionism: The Real Enemy of the Jews” by Alan Hart“Blood Brothers” by Elias Chacour“The Bible and Zionism” by Nur Masalha“The Iron Cage: The Story of the Palestinian Struggle for Statehood” by Rashid Khalidi“Christian Zionism: Road-map to Armageddon?” by Stephen Sizer“The Bible, The Jews, and the Death of Jesus” by Adele ReinhartzDocumentaries & MediaThe Law in These Parts (documentary)Al Nakba (Al Jazeera English documentary series)Occupation 101 (2006 documentary on the Israeli–Palestinian conflict)With God On Our Side (Christian Zionism documentary by Porter Speakman Jr.)Other ResourcesB’Tselem – The Israeli Information Center for Human Rights in the Occupied TerritoriesJewish Voice for PeaceIfNotNow MovementKairos Palestine Document (2009)🧠 Listener ChallengeAsk yourself: What narratives have shaped the way I view this conflict? Whose voices have I been taught to prioritize—and whose have I never heard?🙏 Support the ShowIf this episode challenged or inspired you, please consider leaving a review and sharing it with a friend.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

📌 Episode Summary:In this deeply insightful episode, John sits down with Dr. Paula Swindle—a licensed therapist and professor who has spent a career studying religious trauma —to unpack the concept of spiritual bypass, the psychological consequences of religious trauma, and the subtle ways churches often silence dissent.Dr. Swindle brings decades of experience working at the intersection of psychology and faith, offering a compassionate and deeply informed perspective for anyone trying to untangle their religious experience from their identity and healing journey. If you’ve ever been told to “just forgive and move on,” this conversation is for you.Originally recorded for Spoiled Fruit: Faith & Power, this interview felt too important not to share here as well. For the full series: www.spoiledfruitpodcast.com🔑 Topics Covered:• What is spiritual bypass and how does it show up in churches?• Why “positive vibes only” culture can be harmful in religious spaces• The long-term impact of suppressing anger, grief, and doubt• How faith communities often retraumatize survivors of abuse• Practical ways to reclaim your story and find safe support📚 Recommended Resources:• Our boy Dan's podcast: You Have Permission: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/when-religion-hurts-you-229/id1448000113?i=1000640316552🗣️ Join the Conversation:Have you experienced spiritual bypass or church-related trauma? We’d love to hear your story. Tag us on social media or reach out privately.#DeconstructionistsPodcast #SpiritualBypass #ChurchTrauma #ReligiousRecovery #FaithAndHealingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

📌 Episode Summary:In Part 2 of this powerful and emotional interview, Adey and Tom Wassink continue their story of navigating faith, integrity, and exclusion. After years of dedicated service in the Vineyard Movement, their decision to affirm LGBTQ people came with real consequences—not just within the church, but in their community, friendships, and calling.They speak candidly about the silence that followed, the weight of institutional disappointment, and how they found freedom on the other side. This is a story of courage, conviction, and ultimately—hope.📚 Recommended Follow-Up:• Spoiled Fruit: Faith & Power – Episode 6• Resources on LGBTQ-affirming theology• [Music by Q Jones] "Before I Go Home"🙏 Support the Show:If this conversation moved you, consider sharing it with a friend, leaving a review, or tagging us on social media. These stories matter—and your voice helps amplify them.#DeconstructionistsPodcast #FaithAfterEvangelicalism #SpiritualIntegrity #AffirmingFaithAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

📌 Episode Summary:In Part 1 of this deeply moving conversation, John sits down with Adey and Tom Wassink—former Vineyard pastors who found themselves quietly pushed to the margins for their commitment to LGBTQ inclusion.The Wassinks share their story of faithful ministry, their transformation toward a more affirming theology, and the difficult choices they faced as a result. Through heartbreak, resilience, and deep spiritual reflection, they illuminate the cost of integrity within systems resistant to change.This episode originally aired as part of Spoiled Fruit: Faith & Power, but their story resonated so powerfully that we wanted to share it here as well.🎵 Special Note:The song featured at the end of this episode "Before I Go Home," was written and performed by Q Jones, worship leader at John’s church. The song reflects Q’s own journey and felt especially fitting for this story. Used with permission.📚 Recommended Resources:• Spoiled Fruit: Faith & Power – Episode 6🗣️ Share the Conversation:If this story resonates with you, please consider rating and reviewing the podcast, sharing this episode on social media, and continuing the dialogue with us online using:#DeconstructionistsPodcast #FaithAndInclusion #LGBTQAffirmingFaithAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of the Deconstructionist Podcast, host John Williamson sits down with Dr. Garrick Allen to delve into his groundbreaking book, Words Are Not Enough: Paratexts, Manuscripts, and the Real New Testament. Discover the fascinating journey of how early biblical texts evolved through centuries of meticulous manual transcription, revealing the rich history behind the Gospels. Join us as Dr. Allen shares insights from his research, exploring topics such as the early Christian manuscripts, the influence of Eusebius of Caesarea, and the significance of paratexts in shaping how we read the Bible today. Gain a deeper understanding of the Bible's transformation from ancient manuscripts to the bound volumes we know today. Don't miss this enlightening conversation about the intricate dynamics of textual transmission and the vibrant world of biblical manuscripts. Garrick V. Allen is professor of divinity and biblical criticism at the University of Glasgow. He has written dozens of academic articles, popular pieces, and multiple award-winning monographs, including The Book of Revelation and Early Jewish Textual Culture, which won a Manfred Lautenschlaeger Award for Theological Promise, and Manuscripts of the Book of Revelation, which won the Paul J. Achtemeier Award for New Testament Scholarship.   (Select) Publications: Manuscripts of the Book of Revelation: New Philology, Paratexts, Reception; Son of God: Divine Sonship in Jewish and Christian Antiquity; Words Are Not Enough: Paratexts, Manuscripts, and the Real New Testament.    Guest Links:  https://kephalaia.com/  X: https://x.com/garrick_v_allen?lang=en BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/garrickvallen.bsky.social    Special Theme Music: Forrest Clay X: @clay_k Instagram: @forrestclaymusic YouTube: www.youtube.com/claykmusic (http://www.youtube.com/claykmusic) Enjoy the music? Songs used on this episode were from the Recover EP You can find Clay’s music on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube, or anywhere good music can be found!   This episode of The Deconstructionists Podcast was edited, mixed, and produced by John Williamson   Stay on top of all the latest at www.thedeconstructionists.org (http://www.thedeconstructionists.org/)  Go there to check out our blog, snag a pint glass, or follow us on social media! We now have a brand new webstore with faster shipping, new products, new designs, and international shipping! All photos by Jared Hevron Logos & Designs are all created by Joseph Ernst, Chad Flannigan, Colin Rigsby, and Jason Turner Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Guest/Bio: This week I welcome Nora Creech to talk about the Shroud of Turin! Nora has been interested in the Shroud of Turin since the 1970s and has extensively studied the linen cloth. As an experienced lecturer on the history, science, and pastoral implications of the Shroud, she is passionate about sharing the facts related to the mysterious image and connecting it to the Gospel message.    Guest Links:  www.nationalshroudofturinexhibit.org  www.shroudeducator.com    All photos by Jared Hevron Logos & Designs are all created by Joseph Ernst, Chad Flannigan, Colin Rigsby, and Jason Turner Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Guest Info/Bio: This week we bring you a Christmas treat! This is a re-release of one of our absolute favorite guests in one of our absolute favorite interviews! This is a special Christmas episode we recorded with our dear friend Alexander Shaia back in 2017.   Dr. Alexander Shaia is an international speaker, author, and teacher. He studied cultural anthropology at Notre Dame University, and also has a PhD in Clinical Psychology. Alexander is the author of the revolutionary book, “Heart and Mind: The Four-Gospel Journey for Radical Transformation” which is now available in its 2nd Edition. Grab a copy on Amazon now! (Selected) Guest Publications: Heart and Mind: The Four-Gospel Journey for Radical Transformation Guest Website/Social   Media: www.quadratos.com  Facebook: @walkwithheartandmind   Special guest music on this episode provided by: Nicholas Rowe  https://nicholasrowe.bandcamp.com www.nicholasrowemusic.com  Twitter: @_NicholasRowe_ Facebook: @nicholasrowemusic Instagram: @_nicholasrowe_   AND Clay Kirchenbauer https://claykmusic.bandcamp.com  Twitter: @ clay_k Facebook: @ClayKmusic Instagram: @theclay_k   Enjoy the songs? Songs featured on this episode were: “It’s Christmastime Again, It Feels Like Christmas, & Silent Night” from the E.P. “It’s Christmastime Again” by Nicholas Rowe & Friends AND the “Telling the Story” single by Clay Kirchenbauer available everywhere music is sold! Nick and Clay’s music is available on iTunes, Spotify, BandCamp, etc. Pick up their music anywhere good music is sold!   The Deconstructionist’s Podcast is mixed and edited by John Williamson   Check us out at our website www.thedeconstructionists.org  to join, listen to all of our episodes, subscribe to make sure you never miss a new episode, connect with us on social media, read our blog, or get your hands on one of our many cool t-shirts or pint glasses. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Join host John Williamson in this enlightening episode of the Deconstructionist Podcast as he sits down with Tucker Esferda, Associate Professor of New Testament at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. Tucker shares insights from his new book, "Jesus and His Promised Second Coming: Jewish Eschatology and Christian Origins," offering a thought-provoking discussion on the historical Jesus, eschatology, and the origins of Christian beliefs. Discover how centuries-old interpretations and habits of reading shape our understanding of biblical texts and how modern scholarship is shedding new light on ancient beliefs. The episode also promises a trip down memory lane with a planned re-release of classic, Christmas-themed episodes that capture the essence of the season. Tune in for part one of this captivating conversation as John and Tucker challenge commonly held assumptions and invite listeners to reconsider what they believe about Jesus' second coming and its implications in both ancient and contemporary contexts.   Guest/Bio: This week I welcome Dr. Tucker S. Ferda! We talk about his brand new book, "Jesus and His Promised Second Coming: Jewish Eschatology and Christian Origins" and what the New Testament has to say about Jesus return.  Tucker is associate professor of New Testament at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. His research interests include the Gospels, the history of New Testament research, Second Temple Judaism, eschatology, and hermeneutics.    Guest (Selected) Works: Jesus, the Gospels, and the Galilean Crisis; Jesus and His Promised Second Coming: Jewish Eschatology and Christian Origins   Special Theme Music: Forrest Clay X: @clay_k Instagram: @forrestclaymusic YouTube: www.youtube.com/claykmusic   Enjoy the music? Songs used on this episode were from the Recover EP You can find Clay’s music on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube, or anywhere good music can be found!   This episode of The Deconstructionists Podcast was edited, mixed, and produced by John Williamson   Stay on top of all the latest at www.thedeconstructionists.org Go there to check out our blog, snag a pint glass, or follow us on social media! We now have a brand new webstore with faster shipping, new products, new designs, and international shipping!   All photos by Jared Hevron Logos & Designs are all created by Joseph Ernst, Chad Flannigan, Colin Rigsby, and Jason Turner Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Guest/Bio:This week I welcome back Dr. Thomas Kazen for part 2 of our conversation on same-sex sexuality and the bible. Dr. Kazen is professor and research chair of biblical studies at Stockholm School of Theology, University College Stockholm. He has authored numerous books and articles in English and Swedish, including Moral Infringement and Repair in Antiquity and Impurity and Purification in Early Judaism and the Jesus Tradition. Guest (Selected) Works: Moral Infringement and Repair in Antiquity; Impurity and Purification in Early Judaism and the Jesus Tradition; Dirt, Shame, Status: Perspectives on Same-Sex Sexuality in the Bible and the Ancient World.Guest Links:https://thomaskazen.se/Special Theme Music:Forrest ClayX: @clay_kInstagram: @forrestclaymusicYouTube: www.youtube.com/claykmusicEnjoy the music?Songs used on this episode were from the Recover EPYou can find Clay’s music on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube, or anywhere good music can be found!This episode of The Deconstructionists Podcast was edited, mixed, and produced by John WilliamsonStay on top of all the latest at www.thedeconstructionists.org Go there to check out our blog, snag a pint glass, or follow us on social media! We now have a brand new webstore with faster shipping, new products, new designs, and international shipping!Join our Patreon family here: www.patreon.com/deconstructionstsWebsite by Ryan BattlesAll photos by Jared HevronLogos & Designs are all created by Joseph Ernst, Chad Flannigan, Colin Rigsby, and Jason TurnerSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-deconstructionists/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Guest/Bio:This week I welcome Dr. Thomas Kazen! Dr. Kazen is professor and research chair of biblical studies at Stockholm School of Theology, University College Stockholm. He has authored numerous books and articles in English and Swedish, including Moral Infringement and Repair in Antiquity and Impurity and Purification in Early Judaism and the Jesus Tradition. Guest (Selected) Works: Moral Infringement and Repair in Antiquity; Impurity and Purification in Early Judaism and the Jesus Tradition; Dirt, Shame, Status: Perspectives on Same-Sex Sexuality in the Bible and the Ancient World. Guest Links:https://thomaskazen.se/ Special Theme Music:Forrest ClayX: @clay_kInstagram: @forrestclaymusicYouTube: www.youtube.com/claykmusicEnjoy the music?Songs used on this episode were from the Recover EPYou can find Clay’s music on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube, or anywhere good music can be found!This episode of The Deconstructionists Podcast was edited, mixed, and produced by John WilliamsonStay on top of all the latest at www.thedeconstructionists.org Go there to check out our blog, snag a pint glass, or follow us on social media! We now have a brand new webstore with faster shipping, new products, new designs, and international shipping!Join our Patreon family here: www.patreon.com/deconstructionstsWebsite by Ryan BattlesAll photos by Jared HevronLogos & Designs are all created by Joseph Ernst, Chad Flannigan, Colin Rigsby, and Jason TurnerSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-deconstructionists/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Guest/Bio:This week I welcome back Dr. John Dominic Crossan for part 2 of our conversation on Paul. Dr. Crossan is considered one of the foremost New Testament scholars today. He's an Irish-American New Testament scholar, historian of early Christianity and former Catholic priest who was a prominent member of the Jesus Seminar, and emeritus professor at DePaul University. His research has focused on the historical Jesus, the theology of non-canonical Gospels, and the application of postmodern hermeneutical approaches to the Bible. Guest (Selected) Works: The Historical Jesus: The Life of a Mediterranean Jewish Peasant; The Essential Jesus: Original Sayings and Earliest Images; How to Read the Bible and Still Be a Christian: Struggling with Divine Violence from Genesis Through Revelation; esurrecting Easter: How the West Lost and the East Kept the Original Easter Vision; Render unto Caesar: The Struggle over Christ and Culture in the New Testament; Paul the Pharisee: A Vision Beyond the Violence of Civilization.Guest Links:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johndominic.crossan/Special Theme Music:Forrest ClayX: @clay_kInstagram: @forrestclaymusicYouTube: www.youtube.com/claykmusicEnjoy the music?Songs used on this episode were from the Recover EPYou can find Clay’s music on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube, or anywhere good music can be found!This episode of The Deconstructionists Podcast was edited, mixed, and produced by John WilliamsonStay on top of all the latest at www.thedeconstructionists.org Go there to check out our blog, snag a pint glass, or follow us on social media! We now have a brand new webstore with faster shipping, new products, new designs, and international shipping!Join our Patreon family here: www.patreon.com/deconstructionstsWebsite by Ryan BattlesAll photos by Jared HevronLogos & Designs are all created by Joseph Ernst, Chad Flannigan, Colin Rigsby, and Jason TurnerSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-deconstructionists/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Guest/Bio:This week I welcome back Dr. John Dominic Crossan! Dr. Crossan is considered one of the foremost New Testament scholars today. He's an Irish-American New Testament scholar, historian of early Christianity and former Catholic priest who was a prominent member of the Jesus Seminar, and emeritus professor at DePaul University. His research has focused on the historical Jesus, the theology of non-canonical Gospels, and the application of postmodern hermeneutical approaches to the Bible. Guest (Selected) Works: The Historical Jesus: The Life of a Mediterranean Jewish Peasant; The Essential Jesus: Original Sayings and Earliest Images; How to Read the Bible and Still Be a Christian: Struggling with Divine Violence from Genesis Through Revelation; esurrecting Easter: How the West Lost and the East Kept the Original Easter Vision; Render unto Caesar: The Struggle over Christ and Culture in the New Testament; Paul the Pharisee: A Vision Beyond the Violence of Civilization.Guest Links:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johndominic.crossan/Special Theme Music:Forrest ClayX: @clay_kInstagram: @forrestclaymusicYouTube: www.youtube.com/claykmusicEnjoy the music?Songs used on this episode were from the Recover EPYou can find Clay’s music on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube, or anywhere good music can be found!This episode of The Deconstructionists Podcast was edited, mixed, and produced by John WilliamsonStay on top of all the latest at www.thedeconstructionists.org Go there to check out our blog, snag a pint glass, or follow us on social media! We now have a brand new webstore with faster shipping, new products, new designs, and international shipping!Join our Patreon family here: www.patreon.com/deconstructionstsWebsite by Ryan BattlesAll photos by Jared HevronLogos & Designs are all created by Joseph Ernst, Chad Flannigan, Colin Rigsby, and Jason TurnerSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-deconstructionists/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Guest/Bio:This week I welcome Adam Elmasri! Adam is an Australian Egyptian free thinker, human rights activist, author, and content creator. He is widely recognized as a strong religious critic whose viewpoints are based on academic studies and as a supporter of the LGBTQ+ and women’s rights in the Middle East. As an author, Adam Elmasri has published two books and numberous articles on various topics, including religion, politics, and human rights. His work has been praised for its insightful and thought-provoking analysis, and he is considered one of the leading voices in his field. In addition to his YouTube channels and writing, Adam Elmasri is also a popular speaker and commentator. He has appeared on numerous media outlets to share his expertise and insights, and he is often invited to speak at conferences, universities and community based events around Australia. Elmasri was born in the late 1970s in Cairo. He grew up in Egypt as an orthodox Coptic Christian. Elmasri actively engaged in religious conversation in his youth by reading about and participating in Muslim discussion groups. He has actively participated in religious debates in his native Egypt and Australia.Elmasri holds two bachelor's degrees. He obtained his first undergraduate degree in Cairo. Later in his thirties, Elmasri enrolled in an Australian University to pursue his bachelor of arts degree in ancient literature, biblical studies, and textual criticism. His academic studies were primarily focused on the new testament of the Judeo-Christian scriptures. Elmasri has also completed a course for suicide prevention with the Salvation Army, earning the title of Gate Keeper.Guest (Selected) Works: Wounded by Faith: A True Story Guest Links:https://www.adamelmasri.online/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freethinker_adamelmasriFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/adam.elmasri.official/X: https://x.com/AdamElmasri_ADTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adam_elmasri_official Special Theme Music:Forrest ClayX: @clay_kInstagram: @forrestclaymusicYouTube: www.youtube.com/claykmusicEnjoy the music?Songs used on this episode were from the Recover EPYou can find Clay’s music on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube, or anywhere good music can be found!This episode of The Deconstructionists Podcast was edited, mixed, and produced by John WilliamsonStay on top of all the latest at www.thedeconstructionists.org Go there to check out our blog, snag a pint glass, or follow us on social media! We now have a brand new webstore with faster shipping, new products, new designs, and international shipping!Join our Patreon family here: www.patreon.com/deconstructionstsWebsite by Ryan BattlesAll photos by Jared HevronLogos & Designs are all created by Joseph Ernst, Chad Flannigan, Colin Rigsby, and Jason TurnerSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-deconstructionists/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Guest/Bio:Dr. Camden Morgante is a licensed psychologist with nearly 15 years of experience as a therapist and college professor. She owns a private therapy practice focusing on women’s issues, relationships, sexuality, trauma, and spirituality, and is a frequent speaker. Dr. Camden combines her personal experience growing up in purity culture with her professional expertise in mind-body integration. She now offers her clients and online community strategies for healing their faith and sexuality.Guest (Selected) Works: Recovering From Purity Culture: Dismantle The Myths, Reject Shame-Based Sexuality, And Move Forward In Your FaithGuest Links:https://drcamden.com/Substack: https://drcamden.substack.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcamdenFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrCamden/Special Theme Music:Forrest ClayX: @clay_kInstagram: @forrestclaymusicYouTube: www.youtube.com/claykmusicEnjoy the music?Songs used on this episode were from the Recover EPYou can find Clay’s music on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube, or anywhere good music can be found!This episode of The Deconstructionists Podcast was edited, mixed, and produced by John WilliamsonStay on top of all the latest at www.thedeconstructionists.org Go there to check out our blog, snag a pint glass, or follow us on social media! We now have a brand new webstore with faster shipping, new products, new designs, and international shipping!Join our Patreon family here: www.patreon.com/deconstructionstsWebsite by Ryan BattlesAll photos by Jared HevronLogos & Designs are all created by Joseph Ernst, Chad Flannigan, Colin Rigsby, and Jason TurnerSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-deconstructionists/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy