Content provided by Theology on Mission. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Theology on Mission or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.
Player FM - Podcast App
Go offline with the Player FM app!
Go offline with the Player FM app!
Theology on Mission
Mark all (un)played …
Manage series 80580
Content provided by Theology on Mission. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Theology on Mission or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.
For those longing to connect theology and mission, we are talking about God and everything else. Broadcasting from NORTHERN SEMINARY, in partnership with Missio Alliance, David Fitch and Mike Moore bring their experiences as pastors and professors to bear on issues of mission and church. Pull up a chair or take them and their guests with you around town.
…
continue reading
212 episodes
Mark all (un)played …
Manage series 80580
Content provided by Theology on Mission. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Theology on Mission or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.
For those longing to connect theology and mission, we are talking about God and everything else. Broadcasting from NORTHERN SEMINARY, in partnership with Missio Alliance, David Fitch and Mike Moore bring their experiences as pastors and professors to bear on issues of mission and church. Pull up a chair or take them and their guests with you around town.
…
continue reading
212 episodes
All episodes
×T
Theology on Mission

1 S10: E9 Bridging the Divide: How to Have Transformative Conversations with Dan White Jr. 46:23
46:23
Play Later
Play Later
Lists
Like
Liked46:23
What if the way forward in our polarized world begins at the table? In this compelling episode, Dave Fitch and Mike Moore sit down with Dan White Jr., author of Love Over Fear , to discuss the art of engaging in difficult conversations. They explore how compassion, curiosity, and a theology of the table can heal divisions in our churches, neighborhoods, and beyond. 🎙️ In This Episode : Dan White Jr. shares how the Kineo Center equips weary leaders to find healing. The four transformative practices for depolarized conversations. Stories of profound breakthroughs during “depolarization dinners.” How Jesus’ table practices challenge the powers of polarization and invite kingdom living. 📌 Highlights : [00:05:00] Dan introduces the Kineo Center as a space for healing weary leaders. [00:12:34] The Power of Conversation in Polarized Times [00:17:00] The origins of Love Over Fear : lessons from a politically divided church. [00:29:00] Four practices for depolarized conversations, including compassionate curiosity and subversive stories. [00:29:33] Techniques for Depolarization [00:41:00] A theology of the table: how Jesus confounds the powers of polarization. 💡 Takeaway : The practice of kingdom living starts at the table, where power shifts from winning arguments to mutual transformation. In a polarized world, Christians are called to disrupt division and embody Christ's love through listening, storytelling, and trust in God’s presence. 📖 Additional Reflection : How can you use the table as a space for transformation and reconciliation in your community?…
T
Theology on Mission

1 S10: E8 The Violent Take It by Force with Matthew Taylor 50:34
50:34
Play Later
Play Later
Lists
Like
Liked50:34
What happens when revivalist faith meets political power? In this episode of Theology on Mission, Dave Fitch and Mike Moore sit down with scholar Matthew D. Taylor to uncover the startling rise of the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR)—a movement reshaping the landscape of evangelical Christianity and American politics. Taylor reveals how this influential network of apostles and prophets has grown from obscure beginnings to a force wielding colossal sway, intertwining charismatic zeal with far-right rhetoric. From the Seven Mountains Mandate to the dramatic spiritual warfare on January 6, this conversation peels back the layers on how NAR’s vision of Christian supremacy is impacting both the church and democracy. Brace yourself for a deep dive into the movement's roots, its rapid ascent, and what it means for the future of faith and public life. Timestamps: 01:49 Introducing Northern Seminary's New President 04:17 Meet Our Esteemed Guest: Dr. Matthew Taylor 05:49 The Violent Take It By Force: Book Overview 07:50 The New Apostolic Reformation and January 6th 09:24 C. Peter Wagner: The Man Behind the Movement 12:23 Signs, Wonders, and Church Growth 17:51 Strategic Level Spiritual Warfare 20:19 Theological Implications and Controversies 23:11 The Rise of Pragmatic Theology 24:11 From Fringe to Mainstream: The Evolution of NAR 26:16 The Seven Mountain Mandate 27:32 Sarah Palin and the NAR's Political Ambitions 28:10 Donald Trump: The Anointed One 30:57 The Theology of Christian Trumpism 32:02 The January 6th Insurrection 34:35 Theological Reflections and Critiques 38:11 Christian Supremacy vs. Democracy 44:44 Cultural Resentment and Conservative Christians 48:54 Final Thoughts and Future Directions…
T
Theology on Mission

1 S10: E7 Prophets Beyond Activism with Julia O’Brien 50:23
50:23
Play Later
Play Later
Lists
Like
Liked50:23
What is the deepest emphasis of the prophets in the Bible? Prophets beyond Activism insightfully challenges the common progressive narrative that the prophets of ancient Israel were primarily concerned with social justice. Instead it daringly offers more life-giving ways of engaging the prophetic books for the causes of justice. The assumption that the prophets of ancient Israel were primarily concerned with social justice so permeates the thinking and the discourse of progressive Christianity that it might be considered an interpretive orthodoxy. For example, progressives characterize prophets as those who speak truth to power and “prophetic preaching” as social critique. Yet, they often do so without explanation or consideration of alternative views. Timestamps: 01:54 Introducing Dr. Julia O'Brien 03:05 Prophets as Activists Orthodoxy 09:06 Biblical Ventriloquism and Social Justice 13:46 Challenges of Interpreting Prophetic Texts 20:14 The Role of Prophets in Modern Social Justice 45:37 Concluding Thoughts and Final Remarks…
T
Theology on Mission

1 S10: E6 Reflecting on Election Results and the Next Four Years (Live Podcast) 1:01:27
1:01:27
Play Later
Play Later
Lists
Like
Liked1:01:27
Mike Moore and David Fitch, discuss the post-election landscape following Donald Trump's victory in the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election. They delve into their reactions to the election outcome, explore the broader implications for the church, politics, and society, and consider how the church should engage in politics moving forward. The conversation includes reflections on the failure of the church to address key societal issues, the challenges faced under the new administration, and calls for the church to become a space of reconciliation and healing. They emphasize the importance of community engagement and the role of the church in addressing cultural and political divides. Timestamps: 00:47 Initial Reactions to the 2024 Election 01:39 Personal Reflections and Context 04:21 Theological and Sociological Implications 05:44 Church's Role in Politics 18:01 Cultural Resentment and Antagonism 25:51 Call to Action for the Church 32:18 Practical Steps for Community Engagement 33:09 Addressing Critiques of Local Church Efforts 34:01 The Role of the Church in Politics 35:36 Post-Christendom Reflections 36:59 The Church's Alignment with Political Power 38:20 Fragmented Christendom in the U.S. 40:57 The Church's Role in Social Movements 49:28 Post-Election Reflections and Challenges 55:20 Final Thoughts and Call to Action…
T
Theology on Mission

1 S10: E5 Prodigal Gospel: Getting Lost and Found Again in the Good News with Jonny Morrison 33:54
33:54
Play Later
Play Later
Lists
Like
Liked33:54
The good news is bigger and better than we imagined. Is the gospel good news for us today? Many Christians—especially young Christians stepping into a world and a church devastated by division, scandal, and abuse—are asking this question and deciding it simply isn’t. For many, it seems like our faith has little to offer the world around us. Our gospel has become too small—it looks nothing like the Jesus who embodies good news in the flesh. How do we recover this gospel? When we turn to the parable of the prodigal son—a story of elaborate parties, upside-down kingdoms, and reunited families—we can hear in Jesus’ own words a clear presentation of what he is doing, of a truth that is bigger and better than we’ve imagined. In these pages, author and pastor Jonny Morrison invites us on a journey to help us find ourselves and Jesus in the welcoming arms of this familiar parable, zooming out to show how this story shapes the entire story of Scripture. Along the way we discover the radically inclusive power of the gospel that upends religions, disrupts empires, heals the wounded, and empowers the marginalized. This is, after all, Jesus’ news to tell, and when we truly listen to him tell it, we can be found again in the surprising, disarming, challenging gospel that is truly good news. Timestamps: 02:18 Johnny Morrison's Background 03:57 Discussing Prodigal Gospel 05:12 The Gospel and Its Implications 13:41 Challenges in Communicating the Gospel 15:25 The Need for an Entry Point 16:17 Metaphors for Articulating the Gospel 16:46 The Prodigal Son as a Gospel Metaphor 19:03 Personal Stories and the Gospel 23:34 Challenges and Reservations 26:10 Concluding Thoughts and Recommendations…
T
Theology on Mission

1 S10: E4 The Journey of 'The Narrow Path' Exploring Spiritual Formation with Rich Villodas 43:33
43:33
Play Later
Play Later
Lists
Like
Liked43:33
We live in a culture that wants it all. More is seen as better—whether it’s more money, social media fame, choices, or power. For those chasing this way of life, “narrow” seems negative. Who wants to narrow their options . . . or be seen as narrow-minded? Jesus’ way is subversive and narrow. Yet, there is no more meaningful way to live. Mike and Fitch are joined by Rich Villodas, lead pastor of New Life Fellowship and author of 'The Narrow Path'. Rich shares insights from his book, which challenges cultural norms and highlights the paradox of the narrow yet spacious path defined by Jesus. The conversation delves into the integration of spiritual formation with justice, community care, and the multifaceted role of therapy within Christian life. There are unquestionable communal aspects of spiritual practices like Sabbath and lament. Gain practical guidance on navigating anger and fostering deep, healing relationships within faith communities. Rich’s personal experiences in a multi-ethnic congregation in Queens, NY, enrich the dialogue, making it a compelling listen for those looking to deepen their spiritual journey while resisting societal pressures. Get your copy of The Narrow Path: https://amzn.to/4hgUdlk Timestamps: 02:58 Rich Villodas on Singing in Sermons 04:05 Discussing 'The Narrow Path' 05:04 Countercultural Spiritual Formation 05:47 Unexpected Happiness and Therapy 14:19 Sabbath and Community 21:55 Understanding Anger and Resentment 23:18 Normalizing Anger in the Church 24:43 Formation and Community 25:18 Confession and Vulnerability 25:36 The Role of Community in Healing 27:52 Weekly Confession Practice 28:56 The Importance of Vulnerable Community 31:18 Exploring Emotions with Theology 33:01 Final Thoughts on Spiritual Practices 38:56 Challenges of Multi-Ethnic Ministry…
T
Theology on Mission

1 S10: E3 Does God's Power Redefine Leadership? Fitch & Crouch Discus Power Dynamics (Part 2 of 2) 49:56
49:56
Play Later
Play Later
Lists
Like
Liked49:56
In this episode of Theology on Mission , Dave Fitch and Mike Moore sit down again with Andy Crouch to dive deeper into the complexities of power in the Christian context. Building on themes from Crouch’s book Playing God , they explore the tension between creative and coercive power, framing the conversation around the story of Jesus washing his disciples' feet. With lively debate and thoughtful reflection, Fitch and Crouch wrestle with authority in the church offering clarity and connection. The episode wraps up with a powerful call to reclaim God's presence and power in the church's practices. Timestamps: 01:45 Diving into Power Dynamics 05:12 Genesis vs. Jesus: Different Starting Points 11:18 The Role of the State and Power 24:10 Creative Leadership and Coercion 28:47 Understanding Mutual Submission 29:08 God's Power vs. Worldly Power 29:17 Legal Disputes Among Christians 30:56 Jesus' Power and Authority 32:22 Debating the Nature of Jesus' Power 34:48 Peter's Resistance and Jesus' Response 36:18 The Concept of Creative Power 42:48 The Role of the Church and Sacraments 46:33 Final Thoughts and Reflections…
T
Theology on Mission

1 S10: E2 Andy Crouch & David Fitch Talk Culture Making or Power Grabbing? ( Part 1 of 2) 41:08
41:08
Play Later
Play Later
Lists
Like
Liked41:08
How does God want His people to deal with power? Andy Crouch & David Fitch have nuanced ways in which they see God’s invitation to embrace and use power in the world. The discussion explores topics such as coercive versus creative power, idolatry and injustice, and the pervasive influence of systems like Mammon in modern Christian thought. This candid conversation over the implications of using power in the name of God. From the Genesis narrative and historical stances on ecclesiastical power. This deep dive aims to unpack the complexities of wielding power within Christendom, ultimately emphasizing a return to true worship and dependence on God as a solution. Timestamps: 01:36 Introducing Andy Crouch 02:28 Andy Crouch's Journey and Work 03:56 The Crisis in Evangelicalism 05:20 The Theology of Power 10:55 The Creative and Coercive Power 20:02 The Problem of Magic and Mammon 23:54 Introduction to Power Distortion 24:40 Summarizing the Issues of Power 25:23 The Two Powers and Their Origins 26:09 Critique of Andy Crouch's Views 27:02 The Problem with Blurring Powers 29:27 Andy Crouch's Response 34:26 The Role of Coercion in Power 39:00 Concluding Thoughts and Next Steps…
T
Theology on Mission

1 S10: E1 Organic Intellectuals & The New Role of Church Leadership 32:58
32:58
Play Later
Play Later
Lists
Like
Liked32:58
There is a critical need for church leaders to engage with cultural issues. In the Season 10 opener of the Theology on Mission podcast, hosts Dave Fitch and Mike Moore reflect on the shifting role of intellectual leadership during transitional times for the church. It is important to integrate theological reflection with the practical struggles of everyday ministry. The conversation explores the changing dynamics within Christian education, the decline in church attendance, and the evolving landscape of moral and ethical engagement in a post-Christendom society. Timestamps: 03:33 Theology on Mission: Engaging Culture 04:01 The Role of Organic Intellectuals 06:57 Challenges Facing the Church and Education 08:08 Cultural Shifts and Church Responses 10:31 The Need for Organic Intellectuals in Ministry 23:43 Training and Developing Organic Theologians 31:22 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes…
T
Theology on Mission

1 S9: E17 Reckoning with Power in Leadership | Pastor’s Table Podcast Crossover 36:53
36:53
Play Later
Play Later
Lists
Like
Liked36:53
Listen to The Pastor’s Table on your favorite platform: https://pod.link/1661366136 In a world where we can see the abuses of power everywhere. David Fitch & Mike Moore from The Theology on Mission Podcast join Mark and Tara Beth to discuss power dynamics in the church's life. Church leaders must discern power and avoid its abuses and traumas. By learning from the church's historical pitfalls, Christians can be empowered to relinquish worldly power and make space for God to disrupt and transform our culture for his kingdom. In this episode they explore the appropriate exercise of power within the church, distinguishing between God's and worldly power, and the importance of mutual submission and humility. The conversation addresses how pastors can discern when they are misusing power and the need for a community and friends to hold them accountable. Timestamps: 01:08 Meet the Guests: Dr. Mike Moore and Dr. David Fitch 03:35 The Challenge of Power in Pastoral Leadership 05:00 Distinguishing God's Power from Worldly Power 07:33 Recognizing and Managing Misuse of Power 10:45 Spiritual Authority and Mutual Submission 26:40 Practical Applications and Organizational Structures 33:34 Concluding Thoughts…
T
Theology on Mission

1 S9: E16 Navigating Conflict, Antagonism & Power as Pastors | The Pastor’s Table | Rev. Tara Beth Leach & Mark Quanstrom 42:55
42:55
Play Later
Play Later
Lists
Like
Liked42:55
Pastors face unexpected challenges all the time. Tara Beth and Mark talk about the many active struggles of ministry. Antagonism and all sorts of sources have created a polarized world. Often this blows up in the church. Mark and Tara Beth share their insights from mediating conflicts, understanding underlying issues, and knowing when it might be time to move on from a pastoral role. Pastors foster a reconciling presence as Christ was a reconciling force through his ministry. Listen to The Pastor’s Table on your favorite platform: https://pod.link/1661366136 Outline: 00:00 Introduction and Banter 01:58 Special Guests Introduction 04:23 Challenges of Ministry 10:01 Antagonism in the Church 18:09 Historical Context of Marriage 18:49 Modern Affluence and Marriage Dynamics 19:56 Pastoral Leadership in Conflict 21:56 Understanding Congregational Antagonisms 23:18 Modeling Reconciliation in Church 29:53 Social Media's Impact on Pastors 38:12 Differentiation and Pastoral Identity 39:28 When It's Time to Leave 41:03 Final Thoughts and Podcast Wrap-Up…
T
Theology on Mission

1 S9: E15 Theology & Discipleship in Conflict Zones: 1st Hand Perspective of Christians in Gaza | Dr. Jack Sara 40:21
40:21
Play Later
Play Later
Lists
Like
Liked40:21
Palestine is the birthplace of Christianity. Despite the generations-long crisis existing between Israel and Palestinian, there are followers of Jesus faithfully living out their faith. David Fitch and Mike Moore sit down with Reverend Jack Sara, President of Bethlehem Bible College and a native Palestinian pastor. They delve into the pressing issues Christians face on the ground in the Gaza crisis and beyond. Pastor Jack shares his deeply personal account of living and ministering in a land torn by conflict, tracing the legacy of Palestinian Christians and their pursuit of peace amidst ongoing violence. From the challenges of navigating daily life under occupation to fostering interfaith understanding and resilience, this conversation sheds light on the work of the kingdom of Jesus in regions afflicted by long-standing hostilities. Listen in as we explore the role of faith, the power of nonviolent reconciliation, and the hope that persists for a better future in Palestine. Learn more about and support the work being done at Bethlehem Bible College at https://bethbc.edu/ Timestamps: 02:32 Pastor Jack's Personal and Family History Amidst Conflict 03:06 The Role of Christianity in Palestine's Turbulent Context 06:46 Challenges and Hopes for Palestinian Christians 16:46 The Impact of Palestinian Christians Beyond Their Numbers 22:27 Supporting Palestinian Christians: Insights and Actions 38:03 Closing Thoughts and Prayer for Peace…
T
Theology on Mission

1 S9: E14 Trauma - Informed Evangelism: Cultivating Communities of Wounded Healers | Charles Kiser 38:51
38:51
Play Later
Play Later
Lists
Like
Liked38:51
Countless hurdles stand in the way of people encountering the gospel. The religious trauma faced by so many people is clearly one of the largest obstacles to even hearing the gospel. Charles Kiser and Elanie Heath recover the God of love from the structures of hate that pervade Christian communities in America today. In their new guide, Elanie and Charles work toward bringing this reformation to fruition through ministering specifically to the spiritually traumatized. Fitch talks with Charles about this new book and how our faith communities can be better attuned to the trauma of others. Start making deeper connections and better cultivate communities of wounded healers. Learn more the book and connect with Charles at his website: https://www.charleskiser.com…
T
Theology on Mission

1 S9: E13 Finding Freedom in Constraint: Reimagining Spiritual Disciplines as a Communal Way of Life | Jared Patrick Boyd 40:16
40:16
Play Later
Play Later
Lists
Like
Liked40:16
The constraints of the spiritual life, practiced in the community, are what set us free. Practicing spiritual disciplines can seem difficult, especially when we undertake them as isolated individuals. But we were never meant to practice them alone. Jared Patrick Boyd reveals how the constraints practiced in Christian community shape us into the way of Christ. He re-anchors the practices of constraint within the ascetic tradition of monasticism, religious orders, and the early church fathers. Boyd writes, "The constraints of a rule of life are what make life together, lived for one another, possible. A rule of life is not meant to be primarily personal, but communal. It's not primarily meant to guide my life. It is meant to describe our way of life together." Constraint is the practice of learning to pay deeper attention to the things in our inner world that prevent us from progressing in the school of love. Discover a deep conversation on freedom and constraint with six core practices of constraint that can form in us a greater freedom to be and become people who love as God loves. Enter into this vision with your local community (in small groups, church leadership teams, or families), and learn to make greater room to experience the love of God. Grab your copy of Finding Freedom in Constraint: https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Freedom-Constraint-Reimagining-Disciplines/dp/1514004313…
T
Theology on Mission

1 S9: E12 On Getting Out of Bed: The Burden and Gift of Living | Dr. Alan Noble 35:58
35:58
Play Later
Play Later
Lists
Like
Liked35:58
We aren't always honest about how difficult normal human life is. For the majority of people, sorrow, despair, anxiety, and mental illness are everyday experiences. While we have made tremendous advancements in therapy and psychiatry, the burden of living still comes down to mundane choices that we each must make―like the daily choice to get out of bed. In this deeply personal essay, Alan Noble considers the unique burden of everyday life in the modern world. Sometimes, he writes, the choice to carry on amid great suffering―to simply get out of bed―is itself a powerful witness to the goodness of life, and of God. Purchase Your Copy of On Getting Out of Bed: https://www.ivpress.com/on-getting-out-of-bed…
Welcome to Player FM!
Player FM is scanning the web for high-quality podcasts for you to enjoy right now. It's the best podcast app and works on Android, iPhone, and the web. Signup to sync subscriptions across devices.