The Ask a Theologian Podcast

In this episode, I had the privilege of talking with Dr. Lisa Bowens, Associate Professor of New Testament at Princeton Theological Seminary and author of 'African American Readings of Paul.' We discuss her inspiration for writing the book and its roots in her doctoral dissertation. Dr. Bowens shares insights on how African Americans have historically interpreted Paul's texts, revealing both posit...

In this episode, I welcome Dr. Tania Harris from God Conversations. Dr. Harris shares insights from her extensive experience in church planting, academia, and leadership training. We discuss the Pentecostal understanding of contemporary revelatory experiences and how it aligns with New Testament teachings. Dr. Harris also addresses common theological concerns, the role of scripture, and the need f...

In this episode, I welcome Dr. Alicia Jackson, an assistant professor of Old Testament at Vanguard University, who specializes in the book of Ezekiel. We explore the concepts of eschatology (end times) and missiology (mission of the church), particularly within the Pentecostal movement. Dr. Jackson explains the inherent eschatological nature of Pentecostalism and the urgency for gospel witness. We...

Dr. Gary Tyra from Vanguard University joins me as we discuss the nature of spirituality. Dr. Tyra emphasizes a biblically informed, theologically realistic approach. He contrasts secular versus theistic spirituality and highlights the importance of a holistic spiritual lifestyle over episodic practices. Our conversation delves into Paul's theological realism, the essence of mission-oriented spiri...

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jacqui Grey, a Professor of Biblical Studies at Alphacrucis University College in Sydney, Australia. We explore the enduring significance of the Old Testament in contemporary faith and theology. Dr. Grey addresses common misconceptions about the Old Testament and explains how its ancient stories, laws, and teachings are essential for understanding the broader n...

In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Dale Coulter from the Pentecostal Theological Seminary. We discuss the importance of the church fathers and explore the historical context and the evolution of prophecy and mysticism. We also examine how these elements have influenced modern Pentecostalism. Key themes include the connection between ecstasy and prophecy, and we explore the roles of early Christia...

In this episode, I discuss theological anthropology with Dr. Lisa Stephenson from Lee University. We delve into the concepts of Imago Dei, Imago Christi, and Imago Spiritus, emphasizing the importance of being created in God's image and its implications for gender roles in ministry. Dr. Stephenson shares her insights into the historical and scriptural challenges of integrating women into ministry...

In this episode I interview Dr. Frank Macchia, a professor of systematic theology at Vanguard University. We delve into the intricacies of the Trinity, exploring the revolutionary idea of God as a communion of love. Dr. Macchia shares insights on how the Trinity relates to creation, redemption, and the essence of communion. The conversation also addresses the challenges of articulating the Trinity...

In this episode I got to speak with Dr. Kenneth Archer, a theology professor at Trinity Bible College, about Pentecostal hermeneutics. We discuss the unique ways Pentecostals interpret the Bible compared to traditional evangelicals, early Pentecostal reading methods, and how these interpretations affect views on topics like miracles, sacraments, and women in ministry. Dr. Archer emphasizes the for...

In this episode of the podcast, Dr. Melissa Archer, professor at Trinity Bible School and Graduate School, discusses women's roles in ministry and Christian communities through analysis of Biblical texts like 1 Timothy and Ephesians. The conversation touches on historical contexts, such as the Artemis cult in Ephesus, and challenges traditional interpretations of Paul's letters. Emphasizing mutual...

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Steven Felix-Jager about the multifaceted nature of ecclesiology. Together, we cover the church's mission, emphasizing a holistic approach integrating evangelism, social justice, and discipleship. The benefits of local church communities for spiritual growth and resource pooling are explored, highlighting their role in fulfilling the Great Commission. The discussio...

In this episode of the 'Ask a Theologian' podcast, Dave interviews Dr. Daniel Castelo, a Duke University professor focusing on Pentecostalism and Christian mysticism. They discuss how Pentecostalism blends with mystic traditions, approaches to interpreting scripture, and the challenges of balancing a theology of healing with the reality of suffering. Dr. Castelo shares insights on the importance o...

On the 'Ask a Theologian' podcast, Dave interviews Dr. Leonard Sweet about his latest book, 'Designer Jesus'. They discuss theological anthropology, the concept of 'Imago Dei', and the implications of being made in the image of God. The conversation also touches on relevant topics such as genetic modification and artificial intelligence, emphasizing the balance between advancing technology and mai...

In this episode of the 'Ask a Theologian' podcast, Dave interviews Dr. Robby Waddell, a professor at Southeastern University in Florida. They discuss the significance of bibliology, different methods of biblical interpretation, and why the Bible holds value. Dr. Waddell elaborates on the importance of understanding the Scriptures contextually and spiritually, offering insights into canonical texts...

In this episode of Ask a Theologian, Dave interviews Dr. Amos Yong from Fuller Theological Seminary. They discuss pneumatology, the study of the Holy Spirit, and its impact on understanding Jesus Christ. Key topics include the complexities of salvation, early church practices, women in ministry, and the challenges of maintaining Christianity's transformative essence in modern Western society. Dr....

In this episode of the Ask a Theologian podcast, Dave sits down with Dr. Chris E. W. Green to discuss Christology— the study of Christ and how it relates to our daily lives. Dr. Green is Professor of Public Theology at Southeastern University (Lakeland, FL), PhD Supervisor at Bangor University (Wales), Bishop of the Diocese of St Anthony (CEEC), and Director for St Anthony Institute of Theology, P...

In the inaugural episode of 'Ask a Theologian,' Dave interviews Dr. A.J. Swoboda, Associate Professor of Bible and Theology at Bushnell University. The discussion covers Dr. Swoboada's background in theology, his work at Bushnell and Friends University, and his experiences living on an urban farm. The conversation deeply explores the doctrine of God, touching on various theological arguments for G...