Faith Seeking Understanding: A Podcast on Christian Faith and 21st Century Life

Michael and Allan discuss the semiquincentennial birthday of the United States. They ponder the promises of becoming "a more perfect union," and the problems that threaten it.

In this QT, I briefly respond to the major reasons people give to revoke the Temporary Protected Status of Haitians and Syrians,

In the book, Paul and John in Harmony: A Theological and Historical Exploration , Michael Gorman argues that the two apostles proclaim a unified vision of cruciform love, participation in Christ, and Spirit‑empowered transformation. Gorman shows how their writings mutually illuminate themes of incarnation, self‑giving love, and faithful discipleship, revealing a coherent New Testament theology rat...

We've seen the memes accusing one party or the other being mostly responsible for deficits, unemployment, and recessions. Michael and Allan get beyond the memes and drill down in answering the question of whether Republicans or Democrats are worse for economic prosperity. Spoiler Alert: It's complicated.

Allan interviews Tom Oord on the first of three volumes entitled, A Systematic Theology of Love . How does a love-centered theology inform Scripture, doctrine, and life in the world?

Is there a place for government in providing for its citizens? Health care? SNAP benefits? Job training? In his Short Take, we discuss how the Bible informs us on this.

On this "Short Take" we explore the mysterious figures of Genesis 6, tracing their origins, interpretations, and theological significance. From ancient giants to symbolic readings, the episode considers biblical context, historical views, and why these enigmatic beings continue to capture imagination and spark debate today in modern discussions. Check out Sandra Richter's book, The E...

I interview Dan Hawk on his book, Undoing Manifest Destiny: Settler America, Christian Colonists, and the Pursuit of Justice . We explore the problems of America's white settler narrative and how its propaganda is still being peddled in the 21st century.

On this "Short Take," I respond to Franklin Graham and Pete Hegseth's usage of Scripture to justify Donald Trump's war with Iran. The New Testament writers read Israel's Scripture through the person and work of Jesus, which reinterprets the violence of Israel's history.

On this Short Take, Allan looks into the SAVE Act, what it is and its implications.

Donald Trump's name figures prominently in the Epstein Files. Michael and Allan draw out the implications and fallout for the future.

The New Testament tells us we are saved by faith, and judged on works. How do we make sense of that tension?

Was the southern border between the U.S. and Mexico open under President Biden with millions streaming in unaccounted for? In this "Short Take," I examine the facts and fiction of the claim.

On this episode, Michael and Allan discuss Ken's Burns' latest documentary highlighting the complexity of history and its multiple meanings.

Romans 13 has to be one of the most misused and abused passages of Scripture. In this episode, we set chapter 13 in the larger context of the letter, especially chapter 12, What counsel is Paul giving the church; and what is he NOT saying.

What is a Libertarian? Is there a Protestant connection to Libertarianism? Is there a Christian case to be made for Libertarianism? On this episode, we put these questions and others to Alex Bernardo, host of " The Protestant Libertarian Podcast " which is connected to the Libertarian Christian Institute .

Michael and Allan bid farewell to 2025 and reflect on what might be coming in 2026.

On this episode, Michael and Allan discuss the importance of due process and the danger when it is not afforded to everyone, regardless of citizenship status.

How do Christians navigate their responsibilities as nation state citizens with their ultimate allegiance as heavenly citizens? How do Christians engage politically as a way to love their neighbors? On this episode of "Believing Is Seeing," I speak with Dr. David Koyzis on his recent book, Citizenship without Illusions: A Christian Guide to Political Engagement . You can learn more about...

On this episode, Michael and Allan discuss political violence in America in the wake of the assassination of political activist, Charlie Cook. Who is mostly responsible for political violence? What's the solution to incendiary rhetoric? Ho culpable are the followers of Jesus?

On this episode, I speak with David Fitch of Northern Seminary on Christians and the corrupting influence of worldly power in the church and politics.

On this episode, I speak with David Fitch of Northern Seminary on the corrupting influence of worldly power in the church and politics.

On this episode, Michael and Allan discuss the current economic situation resulting from Donald Trump's economic policies. They discuss, tariffs, unemployment, inflation, and other related topics.

On this episode of "Courageous Conversations," I converse with Sarah Bucy Klingler, missionary kid and advocate for those who have been on the receiving end of ecclesial abuse. We discuss power and the church, and the current abusive context of American politics. Sarah is the Project Manager at MK Safety Net .

On this episode of "Calmly Considered," Michael and Allan discuss the telling of history, its selectivity, and why it appears some are attempting to erase certain portions from our collective memory.