Creating Space

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

Does the New Testament support women preaching, teaching, and leading in the church? Does the Bible permit women to hold titles such as pastor, deacon, or elder? Why do some churches support women in leadership while others go as far as to claim that women preaching is a sin? Join us in this month's episode of Creating Space as we explore what the Bible truly says about women preaching, teaching, and leading in the church. What we uncover might surprise you—so listen closely!

Please take a moment to rate, subscribe and share this podcast with others.

Additional Resources!

Books:

Rediscovering Scripture's Vision for Women: Fresh Perspectives on Disputed Texts by Lucy Peppiatt

Tell Her Story: How Women Led, Taught, and Ministered in the Early Church by Nijay Gupta

The Blue Parakeet, 2nd Edition: Rethinking How You Read the Bible by Scot McKnight

Podcasts:

Theology in the Raw: Rethinking 1 Corinthians 11:2-16: Dr. Lucy Peppiatt

OnScript: Lucy Peppiatt - Paul on Women's Subordination (1 Cor 11)

#church #churchleadership #womenpreaching #womenelders #creating #creatingspace #churchpodcast #jesus #kingjesus #christian #christianity #eldership #preaching

It's 2024, and you know what that means? It's a presidential election year in the United States. How can followers of King Jesus stay committed to the message of King Jesus in a polarized political climate? Some have suggested that Christians should adopt something called Christian Nationalism. What exactly is Christian Nationalism? Are there different forms of Christian Nationalism? In this episode, I provide an alternative view to Christian Nationalism. As people who pledge their allegiance to King Jesus and His Kingdom, I contend that Christian Nationalism is NOT the answer, and it is a distraction from the mission that King Jesus gave us.

References/Resources

Exiles by Preston Sprinkle

Jesus & the Powers by N.T. Wright & Michael Bird

The myth of a Christian nation by Gregory A. Boyd

Michael Bird & Stephen Wolfe debate

Michael Bird review of Stephen Wolfe's book

The Perils and Promises of Christian Nationalism - Tom Ascol

Christian Nationalism - Voddie Baucham

#church #churchandstate #christian #christiandpolitics #politicalwitness #jesus #kingjesus #politics #political #christiannationationalism

In this month's episode of Creating Space, we are having a conversation with the one and only Shepherd Andre Clark (Shep). Shep has been pastoring New Direction Christian Fellowship for over two decades on the East Side of Buffalo. In this conversation, Shep challenges the church to be a place of unity and racial reconciliation. Shep has a unique ability to combine biblical insight with powerful personal stories that lead to life change.

#church #churchpodcast #buffalochurch #buffalony #raceandchurch #churchunity #racialreconciliation #create #creatingspace #newstory #newstorybuffalo #jesus #faith