In this week's episode of Snarky Faith, we’re turning up the heat with a “Snarkfire and Brimstone sermon” that takes aim at the bizarre fusion of faith and authoritarian politics. First, we kick things off with the Christian Crazy segment, highlighting the most ridiculous soundbites from the week. Then, we delve into the so-called new Christian orthodoxy of MAGA-land, where Trump isn’t just a candidate; he's the chosen one. We’ll explore how this unholy blend of politics and religion has warped the gospel into a manifesto of power and privilege, all while tossing out little inconveniences like love, mercy, and justice. Tune in for a sermon that’s sure to leave both the pews and the patriots squirming.

Feel the burn—it's about to get snarky.

Big thanks to these outlets that make the Christian Crazy possible:

Right Wing Watch

Christian Nightmares

Friendly Atheist

Come along for the ride as we skewer through life, culture, and spirituality in the face of a changing world.

www.SnarkyFaith.com

Check out the other fantastic Quoircast partners: The Heretic Happy Hour Podcast, Apostates Anonymous, The Messy Spirituality Podcast, Ideas Digest, The New Evangelicals, This is Not Church, and Wild Olive.

Join Stuart for an engaging discussion with Corey Nathan, host of the podcast "Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other." Corey, a Jewish stockbroker turned Christian entrepreneur, believes that it's possible to have proactive and fun conversations about politics and religion without resorting to hatred. In this episode, Corey shares his experiences and the lessons he's learned from his conversations with world-renowned guests, emphasizing the importance of civility and understanding in today's polarized climate. Discover how we can bridge divides and foster healthy, respectful dialogue even on the most contentious issues.

We'll talk about all that and plenty more snark and Christian Crazy.

Links for More:

More from Corey Nathan: https://www.politicsandreligion.us/

Big thanks to these outlets that make the Christian Crazy possible:

Right Wing Watch

Christian Nightmares

Friendly Atheist

Come along for the ride as we skewer through life, culture, and spirituality in the face of a changing world.

www.SnarkyFaith.com

Check out the other fantastic Quoircast partners: The Heretic Happy Hour Podcast, Apostates Anonymous, The Messy Spirituality Podcast, Ideas Digest, The New Evangelicals, This is Not Church, and Wild Olive.

This latest episode of Snarky Faith features a compelling conversation with Liz Cooledge Jenkins, whose new book, "Nice Churchy Patriarchy: Reclaiming Women’s Humanity from Evangelicalism," offers a critical yet hopeful look at the entrenched patriarchal norms in evangelical Christianity. Jenkins takes us on a journey through her own experiences within the church, detailing the subtle forms of misogyny that often go unchecked and discussing the significant impact they have on women's roles and voices in faith communities. Through a mix of personal anecdotes and theological insights, she illuminates the challenges of navigating a faith tradition marred by gender inequality, while also outlining a vision for dismantling these oppressive structures. The discussion delves into key themes of the book, such as "Naming Misogyny’s Faces" and "Dismantling Misogyny’s Power," and explores Jenkins's proposals for reinterpreting scripture, expanding theology, and reimagining church leadership to embrace full gender equality. Jenkins's articulate and passionate discourse provides not just a critique but a beacon of hope for those seeking to reform evangelicalism from within, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of faith, gender, and social justice.

Get ready for a mind-bending episode of Snarky Faith as we dive deep with Keith Giles into his latest book, 'The Quantum Sayings of Jesus.' Discover how Giles blends quantum physics with the mystical teachings of Jesus, challenging conventional religious narratives with a fresh, provocative perspective. Giles brings the often overlooked Gospel of Thomas into the spotlight, proposing that its cryptic messages align strikingly with the principles of quantum mechanics, suggesting a non-dualistic understanding of Jesus' teachings that defy traditional interpretations.

In this episode, we'll explore the implications of viewing these ancient texts through a quantum lens, discussing how understanding Jesus as a mystic rather than just a historical figure could radically alter our perception of spirituality. Keith Giles will share insights into how the Gospel of Thomas can be a guide for personal transformation and spiritual awakening in our modern world. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that bridges the gap between science and spirituality, pushing the boundaries of what it means to have faith in the 21st century.

We'll talk about all that and plenty more snark and The Christian Crazy. 

Links for More:

More from Keith Giles: https://www.patheos.com/blogs/keithgiles/

Buy The Quantum Sayings of Jesus here: https://amzn.to/4bVrMGp

Featured Crackpots, Grifters, and Prophets: 

John MacArthur, Hank Kunneman, and Jerry Savelle.

Big thanks to these outlets that make the Christian Crazy possible:

Right Wing Watch

Christian Nightmares

Friendly Atheist

Come along for the ride as we skewer through life, culture, and spirituality in the face of a changing world.

www.SnarkyFaith.com

Check out the other fantastic Quoircast partners: The Heretic Happy Hour Podcast, Apostates Anonymous, The Messy Spirituality Podcast, Ideas Digest, The New Evangelicals, This is Not Church, and Wild Olive.

In "Finding Jesus," Herb Montgomery takes readers on a deep dive into the often-overlooked aspects of Jesus' message, spotlighting his call to radical love, justice, and solidarity with the marginalized. Our upcoming interview will explore the journey behind Montgomery's provocative reinterpretation, discussing the ways in which this book seeks to not only reshape our understanding of the Christian faith but also how it applies to contemporary issues of social injustice. Expect to hear about Montgomery's critical take on traditional interpretations, his vision for a more inclusive and action-oriented faith, and the practical implications of living out Jesus' teachings in today's world.

We'll talk about all that and plenty more snark!

Links for More:

Get Herb's book "Finding Jesus" here: https://amzn.to/3w0DD6R

More about Herb: https://renewedheartministries.com/

Big thanks to these outlets that make the Christian Crazy possible:

Right Wing Watch

Christian Nightmares

Friendly Atheist

Come along for the ride as we skewer through life, culture, and spirituality in the face of a changing world.

www.SnarkyFaith.com

Check out the other fantastic Quoircast partners: The Heretic Happy Hour Podcast, Apostates Anonymous, The Messy Spirituality Podcast, Ideas Digest, The New Evangelicals

This week on Snarky Faith, we're thrilled to have Jon Turney, the author of In an engaging blend of literary scholarship and accessible philosophy, Matthew J. Distefano offers readers a fresh perspective on J.R.R. Tolkien's beloved creation, focusing on the unassuming yet profoundly wise Hobbits. 

Through the application of mimetic theory, the book examines how desires are influenced and shaped by those around us, using Hobbit society as a mirror to our own. Distefano skilfully navigates the intersection of fantasy and reality, prompting us to question the foundations of our social interactions, aspirations, and the very fabric of our communities. 

With wit and clarity, the book not only pays homage to Tolkien's work but also extends an invitation to adopt a more thoughtful, Hobbit-inspired approach to our lives and relationships. It's an enlightening read that promises to enrich the podcast discussion, offering listeners both a deeper understanding of a literary classic and practical insights into living a more connected, meaningful life.

Links for More:

More from Matt Distefano: https://www.allsetfree.com/

Get Mimetic Theory & Middle-earth: Untangling Desire in Tolkien's Legendarium here: https://amzn.to/3TNnJ8B

Featured Crackpots, Grifters, and Prophets: 

Hank Kunneman, Greg Locke, and Kent Christmas

Big thanks to these outlets that make the Christian Crazy possible:

Right Wing Watch

Christian Nightmares

Friendly Atheist

Come along for the ride as we skewer through life, culture, and spirituality in the face of a changing world.

www.SnarkyFaith.com

Check out the other fantastic Quoircast partners: The Heretic Happy Hour Podcast, Apostates Anonymous, The Messy Spirituality Podcast, Ideas Digest, The New Evangelicals

This week on Snarky Faith, we're thrilled to have Jon Turney, the author of RJ the Astronaut, for a revealing conversation about his groundbreaking novel. Turney opens up about the inspiration behind RJ's character — an astronaut embroiled in a profound existential and spiritual journey across the cosmos. The discussion unveils the depths of questioning and understanding that form the core of the narrative, highlighting the novel's exploration of faith, doubt, and the human condition through the unique lens of space exploration.

Diving deeper, Turney reflects on the challenges and revelations of weaving together science fiction with existential philosophy, aiming to engage readers in a dialogue about the nature of belief and the quest for meaning in an expansive, indifferent universe. Our conversation traverses the thematic landscapes of the book, from the silent echoes of space to the intimate whispers of the soul, offering listeners an intricate look at the creative process behind depicting the vastness of space as a backdrop for the intimate spiritual journey of RJ. Join us as we navigate the stars and the depths of the human spirit with Jon Turney in an episode that promises to expand horizons and challenge perceptions.

We'll talk about all that and plenty more snark!

Check out Jon's podcast, This is Not Church!

Get Jon's book here -RJ the Astronaut

Featured Crackpots, Grifters, and Prophets: 

Robin Bullock, Hank Kunneman, and Greg Stephens

Big thanks to these outlets that make the Christian Crazy possible:

Right Wing Watch

Christian Nightmares

Friendly Atheist

Come along for the ride as we skewer through life, culture, and spirituality in the face of a changing world.

www.SnarkyFaith.com

Check out the other fantastic Quoircast partners: The Heretic Happy Hour Podcast, Apostates Anonymous, The Messy Spirituality Podcast, Ideas Digest, The New Evangelicals, This is Not Church, and Wild Olive.

Join me as I take you on a wild journey through the latest episode of Snarky Faith. Brace yourselves for a rollercoaster ride as I open up about my personal journey through grief and loss in the bleak landscape of 2024, where political turmoil looms large. But that's just the beginning!

In this episode, we fearlessly dive into the absurdities of American Christianity with the Christian Crazy segment (including some Taylor Swift/Evangelical insanity), and we kick off our Buzzword Breakdown series by dissecting the true essence of Love.

If you're ready for a candid, thought-provoking, and downright snarky podcast that will challenge your perspectives on faith, politics, and personal growth, then join me for this captivating episode. Laugh, question, and redefine your understanding of love and loss with Snarky Faith – it's a ride you won't want to miss!

Featured Crackpots, Grifters, and Prophets: 

Kent Christmas, Jesse Duplantis, and Tony Wood. 

Big thanks to these outlets that make the Christian Crazy possible:

Right Wing Watch

Christian Nightmares

Friendly Atheist

Come along for the ride as we skewer through life, culture, and spirituality in the face of a changing world.

www.SnarkyFaith.com

Check out the other fantastic Quoircast partners: The Heretic Happy Hour Podcast, Apostates Anonymous, The Messy Spirituality Podcast, Ideas Digest, The New Evangelicals, This is Not Church, and Wild Olive.

Photo by Merch HÜSEY on Unsplash

In this episode of Snarky Faith, we sit down with Dr. Jonathan Foster, a theologian and author, to discuss his latest work, "Indigo - the Color of Grief." This book is more than just words on a page; it's an immersive journey through the depths of sorrow and the resilience of the human spirit. Dr. Foster shares his personal experience with the tragic loss of his daughter and how it shaped his perspective on grief.

Our discussion is a tapestry of introspection and revelation, examining the dual themes of processing grief in real-time and the decision to share these experiences through writing. Dr. Foster, with his unique blend of mimetic theory and open and relational theology, offers insights into the 'theo-poetic' nature of his book and shares an excerpt to give listeners a glimpse into his narrative style.

We delve into the broader aspects of grief, challenging conventional approaches and discussing how to healthily embrace this complex emotion. The conversation also touches upon 'mourning well' and the power of memory in the grieving process. Join us on Snarky Faith as we navigate these intricate emotional landscapes with Dr. Foster, uncovering the beauty and pain inherent in the human condition.

Get Indigo - the Color of Grief on Amazon

https://amzn.to/475nPfv

For more on Jonathan Foster:

https://www.jonathanfosteronline.com/

Big thanks to these outlets that make the Christian Crazy possible:

Right Wing Watch

Christian Nightmares

Friendly Atheist

Come along for the ride as we skewer through life, culture, and spirituality in the face of a changing world.

www.SnarkyFaith.com

Check out the other fantastic Quoircast partners: The Heretic Happy Hour Podcast, Apostates Anonymous, The Messy Spirituality Podcast, Ideas Digest, The New Evangelicals, This is Not Church, and Wild Olive.

In today's episode of Snarky Faith, we're venturing into a space that's often skirted around with discomfort or outright hostility. That's right—we're digging into the delightful mess that is religious diversity, but not in the way you might expect. We're not here to throw shade or to spotlight the foibles of faith; instead, we're talking about the rich gifts that diversity brings us, especially when we shut up and listen.

Our guidebook for this journey is none other than the recent release "Sitting in the Shade of Another Tree: What We Learn by Listening to Other Faiths." This isn't just your run-of-the-mill, kumbaya plea for peace. This is about tuning in to a symphony of voices from different faiths and belief systems that dare to speak to the transformative power of listening. It's about cracking open the door to perspectives that have long been shut out by the rigid gates of doctrinal fortresses.

We're joined by a panel of guests who are nothing short of pilgrims on this journey of cross-faith dialogue. Keith Giles, Duncan Pile, Caleb Gilleland, and Safi Kaskas—each an author and a story-weaver sharing tales of wisdom, transformation, and perspective shifts. Their narratives aren't just feel-good anecdotes; they're testaments to what happens when we learn from those who tread paths different from our own.

Forget the tired old trope of who's got it wrong in the world of religion. Our guests have set out to uncover where others get it right, engaging in the radical act of listening rather than preaching. The result? Insights that lead to understanding, connections that spawn friendships, and exchanges that birth peace.

Join us as we delve into the wisdom shared in "Sitting in the Shade of Another Tree," courtesy of Quoir Publishing and Patheos. Let's take this opportunity to step outside our comfort zones and into the possibility that the truth and beauty we seek might just be found in the faith community next door—or even one we've never heard of.

It's not about compromising your beliefs or losing your faith; it's about enriching it through the stories of others. So, let's drop the debate and pick up the dialogue. Tune in, listen up, and let's get ready to be transformed. This is Snarky Faith, and the conversation starts now.

We'll talk about all that and plenty more snark!

Links

Sitting in the Shade of Another Tree: What We Learn by Listening to Other Faith

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CHZCBX7V
 

Author Links and Books:

Caleb Gilleland:

https://bahaiteachings.org/author/caleb-gilleland/

https://www.ed.ac.uk/profile/caleb-gilleland

Safi Kaskas: 

https://www.amazon.com/Quran-References-Bible-Contemporary-Understanding/dp/099659244X/

Duncan Pile:

https://www.patheos.com/blogs/duncanedwardpile/about/

https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Mage-Book-ebook/dp/B00CLOYOKA/

https://www.amazon.com/Who-Am-Judge-James-Bewley-ebook/dp/B086N27QWQ/

Keith Giles:

https://www.patheos.com/blogs/keithgiles/

https://www.amazon.com/stores/Keith-Giles/author/B0076E0UA8

Featured Crackpots, Grifters, and Prophets: 

Kent Christmas, Shane Vaughn, Greg Locke, Mike Johnson, and Mario Murillo. 

Big thanks to these outlets that make the Christian Crazy possible:

Right Wing Watch

Christian Nightmares

Friendly Atheist

Come along for the ride as we skewer through life, culture, and spirituality in the face of a changing world.

www.SnarkyFaith.com

Check out the other fantastic Quoircast partners: The Heretic Happy Hour Podcast, Apostates Anonymous, The Messy Spirituality Podcast, Ideas Digest, The New Evangelicals, This is Not Church, and Wild Olive.

Brace Yourselves, This is Theology Unfiltered

Hey Snarky Faith listeners, brace yourselves! We've got a treat for you—a theological espresso shot that'll jolt you awake, whether you're ready for it or not. I sat down with Dillon Naber Cruz, the mind behind Theological Musings: Collected Essays of a Tattooed Theologian, Vol. 1, and let me tell you, this isn't your run-of-the-mill theology talk. This is more like a high-speed chase through a maze of moral and existential dilemmas.

What We Cover:

1. Complex PTSD and Theology: You thought those terms couldn't be in the same sentence? Think again. Cruz explains how personal trauma shapes and complicates our theological landscapes. Spoiler alert: It's not pretty, but it's damn insightful.
2. Faith's Dark Corners: Cruz isn't here to spoon-feed you doctrine; he's here to tear down your theological house of cards and dare you to rebuild it. We delve into the questions most theologians prefer to ignore. You've been warned.
3. The Gritty Kind of Hope: Forget about that pie-in-the-sky optimism; Cruz talks about the hope that you earn, the kind that's been through the wringer and still stands. Can such hope exist in a world of chaos? Tune in to find out.

Why You Can't Miss This:

Look, if you're content with your sanitized, bubble-wrapped faith, this episode might not be for you. But if you're tired of simplistic answers to complex questions, if you're itching for a faith that engages with the real world, this is an episode you can't afford to miss. Cruz doesn't just push the envelope; he sets it on fire.

So grab your beverage of choice, and settle in for a ride. You'll walk away from this episode with more questions than answers, but trust me, you'll be better for it.

We'll talk about all that and plenty more snark!
 

Check out Dilllon's new book here. 

Show notes

Featured Crackpots, Grifters, and Prophets: 

Benny Hinn, Greg Locke, and Greg Laurie

Big thanks to these outlets that make the Christian Crazy possible:

Right Wing Watch

Christian Nightmares

Friendly Atheist

Come along for the ride as we skewer through life, culture, and spirituality in the face of a changing world.

www.SnarkyFaith.com

Check out the other fantastic Quoircast partners: The Heretic Happy Hour Podcast, Apostates Anonymous, The Messy Spirituality Podcast, Ideas Digest, The New Evangelicals, This is Not Church, and Wild Olive.