Jemar Tisby is a New York Times bestselling author, national speaker, and public historian on a mission to deliver truths from the Black experience with depth and clarity.

Summary

In this conversation, Danielle Strickland and James Scholl engage with Dr. Jemar Tisby, a historian and author, to explore the complex relationship between racism and spirituality. They discuss Tisby's personal journey into racial justice, the impact of the Black Lives Matter movement, and the importance of moving from racial reconciliation to racial justice. The conversation delves into the historical context of racism in America, the role of the church, and the spiritual nature of racism. Tisby emphasizes the need for collective action, the significance of unsung heroes in the fight for justice, and the importance of discipleship in addressing systemic injustices. The discussion concludes with practical steps for church leaders to foster a commitment to justice within their communities.

Take-aways

* Racism is a spiritual issue that requires a collective response.

* The church has a responsibility to address systemic injustices.

* Racial reconciliation often lacks the depth needed for true justice.

* Understanding history is crucial to addressing current racial issues.

* The Curse of Ham has been misused to justify racism.

* Women played a vital role in the civil rights movement.

* Discipleship should include a commitment to justice.

* Awareness, relationships, and commitment are key to racial justice.

* Activism often starts with small groups or individuals.

* Hope exists in the ongoing fight for justice.

Links

Follow Dr. Jemar Tisby on Substack

Summary

In this conversation, Hakeem Bradley shares his journey from growing up in the 5% Nation to becoming a biblical scholar. He discusses the contrasting views on scripture between Islam and Christianity, his transition from pastoral ministry to biblical research, and the significance of Genesis in understanding powers and principalities. Hakeem emphasizes the importance of equity in the creation narrative and explores the cultural context of Genesis in relation to ancient Near Eastern texts. He also highlights the influence of Genesis on the Epistle of James and the role of the church in spiritual warfare. In this conversation, Hakeem Bradley and Danielle Strickland explore the themes of spiritual warfare, the power of love and generosity, the concept of original sin as passive participation, and the awakening potential of scripture. They discuss the authority given to humanity, the wisdom from above, and the true nature of power as demonstrated by Jesus. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of living generously and the transformative power of love in combating darkness.

Takeaways

* Hakeem Bradley's journey from the 5% Nation to biblical scholarship is profound.

* The Bible can be a tool for liberation, not oppression.

* Understanding the cultural context of scripture is crucial.

* Genesis sets the foundation for understanding powers and principalities.

* Equity is inherent in the creation narrative of Genesis.

* The line of the woman and the line of the snake represent spiritual allegiances.

* The wisdom from above is accessible to all believers.

* The church has a role in crushing spiritual oppression.

* Hakeem's work aims to equip families for biblical literacy.

* The narrative of Genesis challenges patriarchal interpretations. We join in with Christ's mission to defeat darkness.

* Living generously and hospitably is a form of spiritual warfare.

* Original sin is about passive participation in evil.

* Scripture serves as an awakening tool for believers.

* Authority was given to humanity to rule wisely.

* The snake symbolizes twisted authority in creation.

* True power is often perceived as weakness in the world.

* Choosing not to retaliate reflects true strength.

* The wisdom of God is accessible to us now.

* Engaging with scripture shapes our understanding and actions.

About Hakeem

Hakeem is a biblical scholar, teacher, blogger, and researcher. He has served various communities across the United States and Canada through preaching, teaching, and research. He holds a Master’s of Theological and Biblical Studies from Western Seminary and is a Ph. D. candidate in New Testament Studies at Ridley College (Melbourne). He works as an Associate Scholar at BibleProject, and serves as the chaplain for the College Park Skyhawks. Lastly, he is an Academic Fellow with the Center for Hebraic Thought.

Summary

In this conversation, Danielle Strickland, James Sholl, and Dr. Hilary McBride explore the complex relationship between religion, mental health, and societal systems. They discuss how religion can serve as both a source of support and a potential source of harm, particularly when it becomes a toxic system that prioritizes itself over the well-being of individuals. The conversation delves into the nuances of how charismatic leadership can manipulate followers and the importance of understanding the disconnection that can occur within religious contexts, ultimately leading to a deeper exploration of identity and belonging. In this conversation, Danielle Strickland and Hillary McBride explore the profound connection between embodiment, spirituality, and trauma. They discuss how disconnection from our bodies can lead to various forms of suffering and how reconnecting with our physical selves can be a pathway to liberation and healing. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of recognizing the value of our bodies, understanding cultural narratives that devalue them, and the spiritual significance of listening to our bodies. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, they highlight practices for fostering a deeper connection with oneself and the world around us.

Takeaways

* Religion can be both a source of support and harm.

* Cultural practices around spirituality can disconnect us from our spiritual longings.

* Systems can serve their own purposes at the expense of individuals.

* Charismatic leaders can create environments that feel safe but are toxic.

* Attachment styles influence how individuals relate to systems.

* Disconnection from self can lead to compliance in toxic systems.

* Religious practices can exacerbate mental health issues for some.

* Understanding the sacred purpose of systems is crucial.

* Disconnection is a key factor in understanding oppression. Disconnection from the body can lead to suffering.

* Embodiment is a pathway to spiritual and political liberation.

* Recognizing the value of bodies is essential for healing.

* Cultural narratives often devalue the body, especially for women.

* Listening to our bodies can reveal deep truths about ourselves.

* Trauma can create a disconnect from our physical selves.

* Practices for embodiment can help reconnect with our bodies.

* Spirituality is intertwined with our physical existence.

* Memory is held in our bodies and influences our experiences.

* The body can be a source of wisdom and guidance.

Dr. Hillary McBride

"We are in desperate need of a new economic story."

Ched Myers

Summary

In this episode of the Right Side Up podcast, Danielle Strickland and James Sholl engage with Ched Myers to explore the interconnected themes of principalities and powers, biblical theology, activism, and social justice. They discuss the importance of apocalyptic literature as a form of resistance against oppressive systems, the role of the church in advocating for social justice, and the concept of Sabbath economics as a means of community engagement. The conversation emphasizes the need for practical steps towards resistance and change, encouraging listeners to reimagine economic narratives and engage in meaningful action.

Takeaways

* Ched Myers emphasizes the importance of discussing principalities and powers in relation to social justice.

* The conversation highlights the need for a holistic understanding of biblical theology and activism.

* Apocalyptic literature serves as a vital tool for resistance against oppressive systems.

* The church has a significant role in advocating for social justice and confronting empire.

* Sabbath economics is presented as a framework for community engagement and mutual aid.

* Ched Myers calls for a new economic story rooted in biblical principles.

* The podcast encourages listeners to engage with their local communities and resist economic injustice.

* Stories are essential for understanding our history and fighting against oppression.

* The conversation underscores the importance of recognizing the interconnectedness of faith and economics.

* Ched Myers invites listeners to join the ongoing river of social justice activism.

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Links

Chapters

00:00 Exploring Principalities and Powers

10:07 Ched Myers' Journey to Faith

17:10 The Role of Apocalyptic Literature

25:08 Sabbath Economics and Resistance

34:07 The Jubilee Tradition and Economic Justice

35:34 The Biblical Foundation of Mutual Aid

37:02 Jubilee Language in Luke's Gospel

38:29 Understanding Affluenza as a Disease

39:58 Jesus and the Rich: Unmasking Plutocracy

42:37 Restoring Kinship Through Redistribution

44:05 The Role of Scripture in Political Imagination

48:55 Practical Steps Towards Economic Justice

53:13 Investing in Community Development

54:59 Challenging the Monopoly Mentality

01:00:29 The Power of Stories in Social Justice

"We live in the tension between two worlds."

Bob Ekblad

Summary

In this conversation, Danielle Strickland, James Sholl, and Bob Ekblad delve into the complex themes of powers and principalities, exploring their nature, the role of Jesus in exposing them, and the implications for social justice and activism. They discuss the idea of redemption versus destruction of these powers, the finite nature of systems, and the call for Christians to resist and reform while living out their identities in Christ. The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing the limitations of earthly powers and the need for a deeper understanding of faith and action in the world.

Take-aways

* The powers and principalities are not just spiritual but also manifest in systems and institutions.

* Redemption does not mean that everything will be saved; some things must be destroyed.

* Jesus's authority is demonstrated through servanthood and sacrifice, not through power and dominance.

* The church must resist the temptation to equate political power with divine authority.

* The narrative of the Exodus illustrates the futility of trying to reform oppressive powers.

* Social justice efforts must be rooted in the understanding that God is the ultimate savior, not human systems.

* The church's identity should transcend national and ethnic boundaries, focusing on unity in Christ.

* Living out our faith means divesting from the powers that seek to control and dominate.

* The tension between the kingdom of God and earthly powers is escalating, requiring a faithful response.

* We must acknowledge the finite nature of our world while actively caring for creation.

Jesus's authority is demonstrated through servanthood and sacrifice, not through power and dominance.

Links:

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Context of the Conversation

02:42 Exploring Powers and Principalities

05:29 Redemption and Destruction of Powers

12:10 The Role of Jesus in Authority

18:21 The Dangers of Reforming Powers

27:47 The Finite Nature of Powers and Creation

33:34 Theological Reflections on Fear and Power

39:06 The Nature of Authority and the Role of Jesus

45:05 Living Out Our Heavenly Identities

51:19 Divesting from Powers and Principalities

57:08 Stewardship and the Call to Action

To reject conformity to this age (aion) is to actively resist patterns of domination that distort our humanity.

JR WOODWARD

Summary

In this episode of the Right Side Up podcast, hosts Danielle Strickland and James Sholl engage with JR Woodward, the National Director of the V3 Movement and author of 'The Scandal of Leadership.' They explore the burdens of leadership, the powers at play within institutions, and the temptations leaders face regarding identity and purpose. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, the deceptive nature of powers, and the necessity of imitating Christ in leadership. Woodward discusses the scapegoat mechanism and the call to resistance against systemic issues, urging leaders to reflect deeply on their roles and the impact of their decisions.

Takeaways

* The burden of leadership often feels heavy and requires deep reflection.

* Understanding the powers at play in leadership can help navigate challenges.

* Institutions can shape leaders in ways that may not align with their values.

* Living in the world requires discernment to not be of the world.

* Leaders face temptations that challenge their identity and purpose.

* The powers can be deceptive, leading to justifications for unethical behavior.

* Imitating Christ is essential for authentic leadership.

* The scapegoat mechanism can create temporary peace but leads to deeper issues.

* Community and proximity to people are vital for effective leadership.

* Resistance to the powers is a necessary call for leaders today.

Links:

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Right Side Up Podcast

02:26 The Burden of Leadership and Writing The Scandal of Leadership

06:12 Understanding Powers and Principalities in Leadership

10:02 The Role of Institutions and Ideologies

14:11 The Temptations of Leadership and Identity

18:16 Unmasking the Powers in Today's Context

22:08 The Call to Church Leaders and Overcoming Evil

29:51 The Impact of Interpretation on Scripture

31:10 Navigating Deception and Humility in Leadership

32:11 Understanding Mimetic Desire and Its Implications

35:33 The Scapegoat Mechanism in Society

39:10 Imitating Christ: A Path to Overcoming Powers

42:59 The Role of Honor and Identity in Leadership

46:35 Proximity to People: A Key to Authentic Leadership

50:40 The Dangers of Exceptionalism in Leadership

53:34 Faithful Resistance: Embracing the Journey of Self-Emptying

56:39 educational-intro-high-short.wav

In this engaging conversation, Danielle Strickland, James Sholl, and Aaron White explore the themes of powers and principalities, the harrowing of hell, and the complexities of the gospel. They discuss the sacredness of life, the corruption of good systems, and the idolatry of self, while emphasizing the importance of aligning with the marginalized and understanding the true nature of God's power. The conversation challenges traditional views on hell and encourages a deeper exploration of liberation theology and the good news of Jesus. In this conversation, the speakers explore the themes of death, judgment, and the nature of hell, emphasizing the influence of Dante's imagery on contemporary beliefs. They discuss the biblical stories of the rich man and Lazarus, the concept of refinement and transformation, and the significance of Jesus' descent into hell as a means of liberation. The dialogue also touches on the nature of free will, the role of mercy in justice, and the importance of recognizing and liberating those trapped in shadows of despair. Ultimately, they advocate for a vision of good news that emphasizes love, liberation, and the relentless pursuit of God.

Takeaways

* The power of babies serves as a reminder of sacredness.

* Powers and principalities are often misunderstood in evangelicalism.

* The harrowing of hell reveals the depths of God's love and justice.

* Good systems can become corrupted and serve self-interests.

* Idolatry often stems from a desire for self-preservation.

* Jesus invites us to die to our self-serving agendas.

* The true power of the gospel liberates and transforms lives.

* Understanding hell requires a nuanced theological perspective.

* Liberation theology emphasizes the voices of the marginalized.

* The conversation challenges traditional views on God's judgment and mercy. We often create an allegiance with death and judgment without realizing it.

* Dante's portrayal of hell has shaped modern Christian beliefs.

* The story of the rich man and Lazarus illustrates a great reversal.

* Refinement and transformation are essential aspects of faith.

* Jesus' descent into hell signifies victory over death and liberation for captives.

* Free will is directed towards the good, but many remain trapped in shadows.

* Jesus is the bait that leads to the liberation of souls from hell.

* Justice is ultimately trumped by mercy in God's economy.

* Evil is a shadow, and light must shine to remove it.

* The call to action is to harrow hell and liberate those in despair.

Titles

* Exploring Powers and Principalities

* The Harrowing of Hell Explained

* Understanding the Gospel's True Power

* The Corruption of Good Systems

* Idolatry and Self-Preservation

* The Invitation to Die with Jesus