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

SummaryIn this conversation, Danielle Strickland and James explore the themes of the Gospels, particularly focusing on the book of John. They discuss the unique characteristics of each Gospel, the concept of the Cosmic Christ, and the radical identification of Christ with human suffering. The dialogue delves into the significance of creation, the essence of God as love, and the importance of seeing Jesus as the ultimate revelation of God. They emphasize the need to rediscover Jesus beyond traditional interpretations and to understand the profound implications of His incarnation.

Takeaways

* Each Gospel has its unique style and message.

* John's introduction is a poetic reflection on creation.

* The concept of the Cosmic Christ connects all matter to Jesus.

* Christ's incarnation signifies God's solidarity with the oppressed.

* The light of Christ brings order to chaos and new beginnings.

* All people are created in the image of God, challenging hierarchical views.

* God's essence is love, as revealed through Jesus.

* Understanding Jesus is key to understanding God.

* The Bible points to Jesus as the Word of God.

* Rediscovering Jesus can transform our understanding of scripture.

Titles

* The Gospels Unveiled: A Journey Through John

* The Cosmic Christ: Light in Darkness

Sound Bites

* "John's like an art film."

* "The word became flesh."

* "God is love."

Chapters

00:00Exploring the Gospels: A Unique Perspective

03:21The Cosmic Christ: Understanding John 1

06:21Radical Identification: Christ and Human Suffering

09:15Creation and New Beginnings: The Light of Christ

12:17The Essence of God: Glory and Revelation in Christ

15:08The Nature of God: Love and the Incarnation

18:03Rediscovering Jesus: The Word of God

21:04The Power of Poetry: Advent Reflections

32:00lifestyle-intro-low-long.wav

SummaryIn this episode of the Right Side Up podcast, Danielle Strickland and James explore the Gospel of Luke, emphasizing the importance of perspective in understanding scripture. They celebrate the voices of women in the Advent story, particularly through the lens of pregnancy as a metaphor for discipleship. The conversation delves into the vulnerability of the Nativity, the flow of power in the biblical narrative, and the revolutionary message of Mary's song. They also discuss the need for transformation in how we view power dynamics and the significance of the Nativity Project, which offers a fresh perspective on the Christmas story.

Takeaways

* Perspective matters in understanding scripture.

* Women's voices are often marginalized in biblical narratives.

* Pregnancy can be a metaphor for discipleship and surrender.

* The Nativity story highlights vulnerability and strength.

* The flow of power in Luke's Gospel subverts traditional hierarchies.

* Mary's song is a revolutionary message of hope and justice.

* Decolonizing the Bible involves recognizing different perspectives.

* The invitation to transformation is open to everyone.

* Art and storytelling can enrich our understanding of scripture.

* The Nativity Project offers a fresh perspective on the Christmas story.

Titles

* The Right Side Up Podcast: Advent Perspectives

* Celebrating Women's Voices in the Nativity

* Pregnancy and Discipleship: A New Lens

Sound Bites

* "We're putting the vent in advent."

* "Perspective really matters."

* "Mary's perspective is key."

* "What about the men?"

* "God speaks through wombs."

* "The invitation is open to you."

Chapters

00:00Introduction to the Right Side Up Podcast

00:48The Importance of Perspective in Understanding Scripture

02:32Celebrating Women's Voices in the Advent Story

05:47Pregnancy as a Metaphor for Discipleship

10:04The Vulnerability of the Nativity

15:39Decolonizing the Bible: The Flow of Power in Luke

20:05Mary's Song: A Revolutionary Message

26:11The Invitation to Transformation

32:13Exploring the Nativity Project

KeywordsAdvent, Gospels, Jesus, Mark, Good News, John the Baptist, Non-Compliance, Resistance, Social Transformation, Wilderness

SummaryIn this episode, Danielle Strickland and James Sholl explore the themes of Advent through the lens of the Gospel of Mark. They discuss the fast-paced nature of Mark's writing, the political implications of the good news, and the role of John the Baptist as a figure of resistance. The conversation emphasizes the importance of non-compliance and individual action in the face of empire, as well as the transformative power of the wilderness. They also delve into scriptural references and the call to social transformation inherent in the good news of Jesus.

Takeaways

* Advent is a time of progressive revelation of Jesus.

* Mark's Gospel is characterized by its immediacy and urgency.

* The good news subverts the empire's narrative.

* John the Baptist embodies radical non-compliance.

* Non-compliance can be a powerful form of resistance.

* Individual actions can lead to collective change.

* The wilderness serves as a training ground for transformation.

* Scriptural context enriches our understanding of the message.

* The good news calls for both personal and social transformation.

* Living out the good news requires intentional resistance to the status quo.

Titles

* Adventing Through the Gospels

* Mark: The Gospel of Urgency

Sound Bites

* "Mark just gets on with it."

* "I refuse to comply."

* "There's more adventing to come."

Chapters

00:00Adventing: A New Perspective on the Season

06:17John the Baptist: The Rebel Voice

11:48Resistance Training: Embracing the Wilderness

17:54The Call to Transformation and Justice

23:27Baptism: A Declaration of Social Transformation

29:30Finding Freedom in Resistance

32:54Introduction to the Conversation

32:54Exploring Personal Growth and Transformation

KeywordsAdvent, Jesus, Gospels, Matthew, Genealogy, Inclusion, Women, Faith, Community, Theology

SummaryIn this conversation, Danielle Strickland and James Sholl explore the significance of Advent and the different ways the Gospels introduce Jesus. They discuss the context of Jesus' birth, the genealogy presented in Matthew, and the cultural implications of these narratives. The conversation emphasizes the role of women in the genealogy, the complexity of biblical stories, and the radical inclusion of marginalized voices in the narrative of Jesus. The hosts encourage listeners to reflect on their own faith journeys and the communal aspects of spirituality.

Takeaways

* Advent symbolizes the light emerging and the unveiling of Christ.

* The context of Jesus' birth reflects a time of great political fear and oppression.

* The genealogy in Matthew serves to place Jesus within the story of God's people.

* Cultural perspectives can enrich our understanding of the Gospel narratives.

* Women in the genealogy of Jesus challenge patriarchal norms and highlight God's inclusivity.

* Biblical characters should be seen as mirrors reflecting our own complexities.

* God sees and includes all people, regardless of their past.

* The genealogy of Jesus emphasizes the importance of community and ancestry.

* Radical inclusion is a central theme in the introduction of Jesus.

* The stories of marginalized individuals are crucial to understanding the fullness of the Gospel.

Titles

* Exploring Advent: The Gospels and Jesus

* The Context of Jesus' Birth: A Historical Perspective

Sound Bites

* "Familiarity breeds contempt."

* "This is a story of stories."

* "Happy Advent!"

Chapters

00:00Introduction to Advent and Its Significance

06:04Exploring the Genealogy of Jesus

11:53The Role of Community in Faith

17:57The Complexity of Faith and Community

24:21Theological Significance of Inclusion

30:09The God Who Sees: Acknowledging the Marginalized

35:37The Challenge of Genealogy: Us vs. Them

39:17New Chapter

This season of The Right Side Up is drawing to a close, and we are thrilled to welcome a dear mentor for so many of us, theologian Scot McKnight, to speak on Mary. Scot has written extensively about the empowerment of women in the church and the significance of Mary in the biblical narrative. In this conversation he also speaks to the erasure of women's voices throughout church history. We explore Scot's personal journey in understanding women's roles in ministry, he offers advice for male leaders, and emphasizes the importance of intentional action to create a more inclusive church environment. Expect to hear a lot about Mary's influence on Jesus and her role as a prototype of discipleship. This one really sums it all up.

Show Notes

Link to order the book: Need to Know: Empowering Female Leadership and Why It’s Essential for the Future of the Church

Ben Wildflower’s Magnificat Print: https://benwildflower.com/products/magnificat-print

takeaways

* The empowerment of women is essential for the future of the church.

* Mary's role in the biblical narrative is often overlooked.

* The erasure of women's voices in church history is a significant issue.

* Male leaders need to take intentional action to support women in ministry.

* Mary serves as a prototype of what it means to bear Christ.

* The Magnificat is a politically subversive text that has even been banned in some contexts.

* Women should be represented in leadership roles to change church dynamics.

* Intentional inclusion of women's stories is crucial for a balanced narrative.

* The church must recognize and celebrate the contributions of women.

Sound Bites

* "We, especially white men, often need to move over and get replaced by women."

* "Mary is the first prototype of a Christian."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

05:33 The Erasure of Women from the Church's History

08:44 Scot's Journey and Changing Views on Women in Leadership

13:29 Advice for Male Leaders in a Patriarchal World

20:05 The Importance of Mary's Song and the Erasure of Women's Stories

26:28 The Significance of Mary in the Biblical Narrative

32:46 Mary as the Prototype of a Christian

38:22 Mary's Struggle and the Importance of Her Example

43:26 Conclusion and Blessing of Danielle's Leadership