Summary

In this conversation, Danielle Strickland and James Sholl engage with poet Drew Jackson, exploring his journey from a conservative Baptist background to his current role at the Center for Action and Contemplation (CAC). They discuss the intersection of poetry, spirituality, and social justice, emphasizing how poetry serves as a powerful tool for questioning dominant narratives and fostering deeper connections with scripture and community. Drew shares his experiences of using poetry as a means of spiritual practice and social commentary, highlighting the risks involved in speaking out against societal injustices. In this conversation, Drew Jackson and Danielle Strickland explore the profound impact of poetry as a means of prophetic witness and truth-telling. They discuss the importance of maintaining hope and emotional health amidst societal challenges, the legacy of black writers, and the transformative power of scripture when approached through a poetic lens. The dialogue emphasizes the need for resistance against cultural powers and the significance of community connection in fostering resilience and vitality.

Takeaways

Drew Jackson is a poet and Managing Director at CAC.

His poetry serves as a spiritual practice and social commentary.

Contemplation and justice are deeply intertwined in his work.

Poetry invites questions rather than providing answers.

Drew's background influences his approach to spirituality and poetry.

He emphasizes the political nature of poetry.

Drew's work has helped others reconnect with scripture.

The pandemic prompted Drew to explore poetry more deeply.

He faces risks in addressing social issues through his poetry.

Drew believes he speaks not alone, but as part of a larger tradition. Drew Jackson feels a connection to the lineage of black writers.

Writing is a communal act, influenced by past and present voices.

Prophetic witness reveals uncomfortable truths about society.

Resistance to truth is expected in the journey of a prophet.

Contemplative practices are essential for maintaining hope.

Emotional connection is vital for navigating societal challenges.

Mantras can help reinforce a sense of unity and purpose.

Cultural powers often push against our emotional health.

Poetry can express doubts and fears that society wants to suppress.

Scripture's poetic nature enriches its meaning and relevance.

Sound Bites

"I found poetry to be a balm for me."

"Poetry is a political act."

"Poetry is telling it slant."

"Poetry invites us to drop our defenses."

"I don't write alone."

"We should expect resistance."

"We need one another to feel it all."

"Christ is all and is in all."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Drew Jackson

03:00 Drew's Journey and Role at CAC

06:01 The Influence of Contemplation on Justice

08:58 Drew's Connection to Poetry and Spirituality

11:59 The Role of Poetry in Social Commentary

14:56 The Power of Questions in Poetry

17:56 Navigating Risks as a Poet

20:56 The Impact of Poetry on Faith and Community

25:22 The Legacy of Black Writers and Poets

27:03 The Role of Prophetic Witness in Poetry

28:46 Practices for Maintaining Hope and Vitality

30:35 The Gift of Tears and Emotional Connection

32:51 Practicing Mantras for Connection and Hope

34:58 Resistance Training Against Cultural Powers

37:33 The Depth of Scripture and Poetic Interpretation

40:40 The Transformative Power of Poetry in Scripture

45:51 Engaging with Drew Jackson's Work

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Danielle Strickland and James Scholl discuss with Jared Brock the themes of evil, the nature of Satan, and the insights from his book 'A Devil Named Lucifer'. They explore the misconceptions surrounding the devil, the importance of human agency, and the dynamics of spiritual warfare. The discussion also touches on the relevance of biblical teachings in understanding modern issues of morality and choice. In this conversation, the speakers explore the complex themes of freedom, autonomy, and the influence of the devil in contemporary society. They discuss the paradox of freedom as seen through the lens of Jesus' sacrifice, the misconceptions surrounding demonic influence, and the need for discernment in understanding mental illness versus spiritual oppression. The conversation also delves into the economic injustices that reflect satanic principles, the false gods of modern society, and the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty over evil. Ultimately, they emphasize the Christian mission of liberation and the necessity of right-sizing both God and the devil in our understanding of faith and life.

Takeaways

The devil is not an equal opponent to God.

Satan's role is often misunderstood in modern Christianity.

Human agency plays a crucial role in resisting evil.

The concept of possession is more about individuals holding onto demons.

Footholds and strongholds can be identified in our lives.

Freedom is about choosing the virtuous, not autonomy.

The devil's influence is often through lies and deception.

Understanding the historical context of evil can reshape our views.

Revelation reflects cycles of rebellion and salvation throughout history.

The portrayal of Satan in popular culture is often inaccurate. Freedom is often misunderstood in the context of autonomy.

Demonic influence is prevalent in popular culture but often misrepresented.

Exorcism is a fundamental aspect of Jesus' ministry.

Discernment is crucial in distinguishing between mental illness and demonic influence.

Economic systems can reflect satanic principles of greed and injustice.

Modern society has diversified its false gods.

The devil serves a purpose in God's plan for growth and character development.

Deliverance is a universal need for all individuals.

Right-sizing God is as important as right-sizing the devil.

Liberation is a core mission of the Christian faith.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Powers and Principalities

03:09 Jared Brock's Journey and Background

06:04 Exploring the Book: A Devil Named Lucifer

08:56 Understanding the Nature of Evil

11:46 The Misconceptions of Satan

14:47 The Devil's Influence and Human Agency

18:02 Footholds and Strongholds in Life

21:06 Possession and the Nature of Demons

23:55 Revelation and the Cycle of History

26:58 Freedom vs. Autonomy

27:56 The Paradox of Freedom and Autonomy

29:15 Understanding the Devil's Influence Today

30:13 The Role of Exorcism in Christianity

32:39 Discernment Between Mental Illness and Demonic Influence

34:55 The Economic and Social Implications of Evil

36:28 The False Gods of Modern Society

39:16 The Satanic Nature of Economic Systems

41:34 Using Adversity for Growth

43:55 Right-Sizing God and the Devil

48:45 Liberation as a Christian Mission

Links:

https://www.jaredbrock.com