On this episode of Creating Space, we are joined by Michael J. Gorman—an internationally-recognized New Testament scholar who holds the Raymond E. Brown Chair in Biblical Studies and Theology at St. Mary's Seminary & University in Baltimore and author of major works such as Romans: A Theological and Pastoral Commentary and Cruciformity: Paul's Narrative Spirituality of the Cross.

Dr. Gorman introduces his latest volume, 1 Corinthians: A Theological, Pastoral, and Missional Commentary, which reads Paul's letter to the Corinthian church through the lens of unity, holiness, catholicity, and apostolicity—inviting contemporary churches to embody those four marks of the church as deeply rooted in Christ and the cross.

Whether you're a pastor, student, or lay reader wanting to deepen your reading of 1 Corinthians, this discussion offers thoughtful theological, pastoral, and practical entry-points into the letter's enduring challenge and hope.

Recommended Reading:

1 Corinthians: A Theological, Pastoral and Missional Commentary by Michael Gorman

Cruciformity by Michael Gorman

Inhabiting the Cruciform God by Michael Gorman

On this month's episode of Creating Space, Scott Lackey is joined by Dr. Mark Thiessen Nation to explore his book Discipleship in a World Full of Nazis. Together, they dive into the life, ministry, and legacy of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, examining how his faith and courageous witness continue to challenge and inspire Christians today. This compelling conversation invites listeners to consider what true discipleship looks like in the face of cultural pressures.

Dr. Mark Thiessen Nation is Professor Emeritus of Theology at Eastern Mennonite Seminary. He holds a Ph.D. in Christian Ethics from Fuller Theological Seminary, along with advanced degrees in peace studies, theology, and religion. A leading scholar on Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the Anabaptist tradition, and Christian ethics, he has authored and co-authored numerous books, including works on discipleship and nonviolence. His teaching and writing have shaped conversations around the church's call to faithful witness in a complex world.

Book recommendations:

Discipleship in a World Full of Nazis by Mark Thiessen Nation

Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer

In this episode of Creating Space, we welcome Dr. Rodney Reeves, a seasoned scholar and pastor, to discuss his influential book, Spirituality According to Paul: Imitating the Apostle of Christ. Dr. Reeves holds a PhD from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and has taught New Testament studies at institutions such as Northern Seminary, Southwest Baptist University, and Williams Baptist University. Currently, he serves as the senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Jonesboro, Arkansas. In our conversation, Dr. Reeves delves into how Paul's teachings offer a transformative vision for Christian spirituality, emphasizing a cross-shaped life.

Additional resources

Spirituality According to Paul by Rodney Reeves

Spirituality According to John by Rodney Reeves

In this episode of Creating Space, host Scott Lackey examines the theological implications of the biblical statement, "Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated," as found in Romans 9:13. Through a detailed survey of Romans 9-11 and other relevant scriptural passages frequently cited in support of Calvinist doctrines of predestination and Reformed theology, Scott articulates a perspective that challenges the notion of divine predetermination of individual eternal destinies.

Scott engages with these texts to explore the historical and theological contexts of the passages, offering a critical analysis of their interpretation within Calvinist frameworks. By unpacking the complexities of these scriptures, this episode invites listeners to consider alternative readings of these texts.

Please listen, subscribe, and share.

If you have further questions, please e-mail Scott at [email protected]

Recommended Reading:

Reading Romans Backwards by Scot McKnight

Romans: A Theological and Pastoral Commentary by Michael Gorman

Beyond The Salvation Wars by Matthew Bates

Paul's Letter to the Romans by Ben Witherington

God of the Possible by Greg Boyd

Four Views on Divine Providence

In this month's episode of Creating Space, we sit down with Dr. Lynn Cohick, Distinguished Professor of New Testament and Director of Houston Theological Seminary at Houston Christian University, to explore her recent research on 1 Peter 3 and its implications for wives today. Dr. Cohick unpacks the cultural and historical context of this often-debated passage.

Dr. Cohick hosts The Alabaster Jar Podcast through the Center for Women in Leadership. She has written commentaries on Ephesians and Philippians, as well as books on Christian Women in the Patristic World and Women in the World of the Earliest Christians. Join us for an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation that creates space for understanding Scripture's relevance for modern life.

#Church #christian #christianity #womeninchurch #1Peter #1Peter3 #kingdom #jesus #creatingspace #newstory #faith #formation #spiritualformation

In this episode of Creating Space, we welcome Kent Carlson, founding pastor of Oak Hills Church in Folsom, California, and co-author of Renovation of the Church. Kent shares the compelling journey of transitioning Oak Hills from a thriving, attractional model to a spiritually formational community. He candidly discusses the challenges faced, including confronting consumerism and personal ambition, and the difficult decisions that led to a decline in numbers but a deepening of spiritual health. Kent's story offers valuable insights for church leaders and members seeking authentic transformation over superficial success. Join us as we explore what it means to prioritize spiritual formation in today's church landscape.

Resources:

Renovation of the Church by Kent Carlson & Mike Lueken

Join Scott Lackey on this month's episode of Creating Space as we dive into a compelling conversation about Spiritual Gifts and their relevance in today's Christian faith. Are these divine gifts still active in our modern world? From prophecy to tongues and discernment, we explore the biblical foundations of Spiritual Gifts and their purpose. Please tune in for an engaging discussion that will challenge and deepen your understanding of the Holy Spirit's work in our lives.

If you have any questions, you can e-mail Scott at [email protected]

In this episode of Creating Space, we sit down with Dr. Ben Blackwell, the principal of Westminster Theological Centre in England and a respected scholar in Pauline studies. Dr. Blackwell offers his nuanced perspective on the concepts of justification and participation in the Apostle Paul's theology.

We dive deep into Dr. Blackwell's understanding of justification, exploring it not just as a legal declaration but as a declaration of life. His insights help illuminate the dynamic relationship between justification, participation in Christ, and the believer's transformation.

Whether you're a theologian, student, or simply interested in Paul's letters, this conversation provides thought-provoking perspectives on how these key doctrines intertwine in the Christian faith.

Recommended Reading:

Christosis by Ben Blackwell

Engaging Theology by Ben Blackwell and Randy Hatchett

#jesus #christian #justification #reformation #justificationbyfaith #kingjesus #newstory #creatingspace #creatingspacepod #kingdom #church

In this episode of Creating Space, we dive deep into the New Perspective on Paul with renowned New Testament scholar Scot McKnight. Where did this perspective come from? How does it challenge traditional interpretations of Paul's letters? And should Christians approach it with caution, curiosity, or even enthusiasm?

Dr. McKnight, a professor of New Testament for over 40 years and the author of more than 90 books, has witnessed the rise of the New Perspective firsthand. With clarity and insight, he unpacks its key ideas, the scholars behind it, and what it means for the church today.

If you've ever wrestled with Paul's writings, questioned how faith and works fit together, or wondered what Paul really meant when he talked about justification, this conversation is for you. Whether you're encountering the New Perspective for the first time or looking for a fresh take on the discussion, this episode will challenge and expand your understanding of one of Christianity's most debated theological shifts.

Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation that could change the way you read Paul—and the gospel itself.

Follow Scot McKnight on substack.

Book's mentioned in the podcast and helpful books on the New Perspective:

Everyday Bible Study: Matthew by Scot McKnight

Invisible Jesus by Scot McKnight and Tommy Phillips

Reading Romans Backwards by Scot McKnight

Preaching Romans by Scot McKnight and Tommy Phillips

What St. Paul Really Said by N.T. Wright

Justification by N.T. Wright

The Future of Justification by John Piper

Paul and Palestinian Judaism by E.P. Sanders

Jesus and Judaism by E.P. Sanders

#church #christian #christianpodcast #pastor #pastorpodcast #paul #apostlepaul #create #creatingspace #newstory #newperspective #Npp #justification

What is the Gospel? This question is central to the Christian faith. Some believe the Gospel is simply about praying a prayer and memorizing a series of verses. Others define it as "justification by faith."

But how does Jesus define the Gospel? How does the Apostle Paul describe it? And how do their definitions challenge some of our modern misunderstandings?

The answers may surprise you—but their implications are life-changing.

Check out our latest episode of Creating Space as we explore the question: What is the Gospel?

Book recommendations:

Gospel Allegiance by Matthew Bates

The King Jesus Gospel by Scot McKnight

Simply Good News by N.T. Wright

Reading Paul by Michael Gorman

#jesus #gospel #kingjesus #kingjesusgospel #eternal #eternallife #christian #pastor #pastorpodcast #newlife #kingdom #church #churchpodcast #create #creatingspace