Dr. J chats with Dr. Andrew Root for a searching conversation about secularism, belief, and what it means to live faithfully in what we often (too imprecisely) call a “secular age.” Rather than treating secularism as a settled idea or a simple threat to faith, the conversation probes its complexity—how it emerged, how it affects us, and how it quietly reshapes our understanding of meaning, identity, and hope.

Together, they explore how belief is not optional but unavoidable, even in a world that imagines it has moved past faith. Root introduces the idea of navigating belief through competing frameworks—what he describes as a triangle of belief systems—and introduces the “Beyonder,” someone who transcends reductive options, refusing nihilism, escapism, or thin optimism. Along the way, they examine how cultural narratives—especially those embedded in media, comedy, memoirs, and political discourse—form us long before we realize it.

The conversation reflects on transformation stories, funerals, and the ways community and tradition hold us inside a larger story when individualism runs out of gas. Against the modern temptation to reduce faith to self-expression, therapy, or fodder for conquest, this episode insists that Christianity offers something sturdy enough to carry grief, sin, and hope.

Rather than offering quick fixes or easy slogans, this conversation invites us to ‘learn our shapes’ by recognizing the forces that shape our beliefs, and to recover a vision of reality that transcends isolated selves and reconnects us to God, our neighbor, and a story worth living in. If you sense that modern life promises freedom but delivers fragmentation, this episode offers a deeper way of naming what’s going on—and where hope still breaks in.

Website: AndrewRoot.org (books, podcast, etc.)

In this episode of The Intersection, Dr. J is joined by Dr. Rob Joustra—political theorist, scholar, and thoughtful guide through the thicket of modern public life—for a wide-ranging conversation at the crossroads of Christian faith, tribal narratives, and political theology. It seeks to untangle cluttered half-truths, moral panic, and the temptation to reduce complex issues to simple talking points.

Rather than offering tidy answers, the conversation lingers on self-aware considerations that shape how we see the world—stories about power, justice, identity, and belonging. Together, Justin and Rob explore how cultural narratives both form and deform Christian imagination, often smuggling in assumptions that go unexamined. They press the need for humility and perspective, especially in a moment when “what about…?” questions dominate moral and political debate, distracting from the harder work of faithful discernment. Drawing from Scripture, history, and political theology, the episode wrestles with how Christians might understand power, current events, and interconnectedness without naïve idealism. Dr. Rob offers a robust vision of God’s sovereignty over nations and powers, situating modern Western politics within a uniquely Christian moral inheritance—one that still echoes hope even when it forgets or contradicts its source.

This conversation resists both reactionary certainty and detached cynicism. It calls listeners toward humility, tenderness, and truth as marks of discipleship in public life, while underscoring the importance of history, tradition, and church renewal for faithful cultural engagement. If you’re weary of hot takes, allergic to moral shortcuts, or hungry for a deeper framework for navigating faith in a polarized world, this episode offers clarity without caricature—and a steadier way forward.

LINKS:

• Bio
• Punching Blind article in Comment Magazine
• Books
• The Belgic Confession

In this episode of The Intersection, Dr. J is joined by Dr. Lee C. Camp—author of Scandalous Witness: A Little Political Manifesto for Christians, professor, speaker, and host of the No Small Endeavor podcast—for an honest conversation at the crossroads of Christian faith, nationalism, and public life—a crossroads often crowded with slogans, pride, and selective memory.

Rather than treating Christian nationalism as a new cultural outbreak, the conversation situates it as an old reflex with deep historical roots. Together, Justin and Lee explore the persistent tension between the gospel and the nation-state, probing how faith becomes distorted when it is conscripted into political projects. Along the way, they challenge the myth of America as a “Christian nation,” arguing that honest historical accountability is not an act of disloyalty but a form of love; one that refuses nostalgia in favor of truth-telling. Drawing from theology, history, and social ethics, the episode presses toward a nonpartisan Christianity shaped by orthodoxy rather than fallen ideology. Lee makes the case that the gospel is not merely publicly relevant but inherently political in its demands for justice, mercy, and love of neighbor—especially when those demands unsettle myths and arbitrary boundaries of belonging.

This conversation resists both culture-war outrage and disengaged piety. It calls listeners to historical awareness, civic humility, and faithful presence, reminding us that the past is never past—and that Christian witness becomes most compelling when it refuses power grabs in favor of costly truth. If you’re tired of syncetism, shallow patriotism, or faith reduced to tribalized stories, this episode offers clarity, conviction, and a more honest way forward.

• Podcast: No Small Endeavor https://www.nosmallendeavor.com/
  • Website: https://www.leeccamp.com/
  • Book: Scandalous Witness: A Little Political Manifesto for Christians: https://www.amazon.com/Scandalous-Witness-Political-Manifesto-Christians/dp/0802877354
  • Books: https://www.leeccamp.com/books

In this episode of The Intersection, Dr. J talks with Dr. Michael Shi, a Silicon Valley AI researcher, for a clear-eyed conversation at the crossroads of artificial intelligence, faith, and human responsibility—a crossroads typically crowded with hype, fear, and hot air. Rather than treating AI as either savior or saboteur, the conversation frames it as a powerful tool that inevitably reflects the values, intentions, and limits of its creators.

Drawing from technology, ethics, and theology, the episode traces AI’s evolution from rigid rules to data-driven models, addressing common anxieties around hallucinations, plagiarism, creativity, and education. Justin and Michael press listeners toward discernment over panic, emphasizing integrity, verification, and wisdom—especially for leaders, educators, and people of faith navigating a rapidly changing landscape.

AI may extend our capacities, but it cannot replace conscience, relational presence, or moral responsibility. Framed by the Christian vision of humans as co-creators under God, the episode resists both techno-utopianism and reactionary fear, calling for faithful, humble engagement. If you’re curious about AI but allergic to panic, hype, or shortcuts—and interested in what thoughtful engagement actually looks like—this episode offers clarity, balance, and just enough details to be productive.

In this episode of The Intersection, Dr. J sits down with Colleen Davenport for a thoughtful, clear-eyed conversation at the crossroads of Christianity, culture, and power—an intersection often cluttered with bad history, louder opinions, and the assumption that faith is most faithful when it’s in charge. Together, they bring historical depth and wisdom to a topic many Christians lean on confidently, but define poorly: dominionism. The talk explores how certain visions of cultural “victory” can quietly distort the gospel, especially when political influence begins to masquerade as spiritual faithfulness.

Drawing from Scripture, church history, and lived experience, the episode unpacks the biblical idea of exile—what it means to follow Jesus faithfully in a world that does not share our assumptions, priorities, or allegiances. Rather than defaulting to fear, withdrawal, or conquest, the conversation presses toward a Christ-centered posture marked by humility, discernment, and love of neighbor. Justin and Colleen wrestle honestly with wonky syncretism, cultural engagement, and the temptation to place misplaced hope in politics, naming how easily tribalism can eclipse discipleship.

Along the way, they return again (and again), to Jesus—not as a mascot for ideology, but as the crucified and risen King whose cause advances through peacemaking, service, and faithfulness rather than domination. The result is a conversation that challenges easy answers without collapsing into cynicism, reminding listeners that Christians are called to be ambassadors, not conquerors—and that the church’s credibility is most compelling when it is rooted in love for the marginalized rather than proximity to power.

If you’re weary of cable-news-shaped theology, suspicious of baptized political ambition, and curious about what faithful presence actually looks like in a polarized age, this episode offers clarity, conviction, and just enough discomfort to be spiritually productive.

LINKS:

• Jake Meador, Mere Orthodoxy: Four Types of Christian Cultural Engagement 
• (Shameless) Plug: ColleenDavenportPhoto.com 
• Abortion Statistics, Pew Research

In this episode of The Intersection, Dr. J chats with microbiologist and educator Dr. Rachel Morris for a rich conversation at the crossroads of science and faith; two worlds people often pit against each other, usually because they’re too busy doomscrolling culture-war headlines. Rachel brings both expertise and empathy as the two explore how socialisation shapes our understanding of complex issues, why misinformation spreads with the speed of a sneeze in a crowded room, and how listening (real listening—not the “waiting to reply” version) can transform even the most strained relationships.

Drawing from her experiences as a scientist, a woman in male-dominated spaces, and a Christian navigating the academy, Rachel reflects on the historical forces that shape our assumptions about belief, evidence, and authority. Together, she and Justin examine how compassion can bridge divides, how difficult knowledge requires both courage and nuance, and how engaging ideas we disagree with can actually strengthen our convictions rather than threaten them. The conversation moves easily between history and microbiology, discipleship and public discourse, touching on everything from the sneaky power of misinformation to the quiet heroism of women whose contributions to science and faith go unnoticed. Through it all, all truth belongs to God, and a key thread remains: humility is not timidity, nor is it weakness; it’s the posture that makes real dialogue possible.

If you’re hungry for a conversation (with a laugh or two) that disarms the noise, honors complexity, and offers a little hope in an age of unproductive hot takes, this episode is for you.

In this episode of The Intersection, Dr. J sits talks with Steve Sommerlot, one of the original planters of Riverview Church back in 1977 (and one of Dr. J’s personal Yodas), for a deep dive into identity, grace, and what it actually means to live from your position in Christ. Drawing from the roots of the Jesus Movement and the early days of Riv, Steve reflects on a cultural moment that impacted American Christianity and continues to influence how believers understand calling, community, and the Gospel today. Together, they dig into one of the most foundational (and most overlooked) themes of the Christian life: the distinction between our condition and our position. Through conversations about Romans, sanctification, and the relentless tug-of-war between feelings and truth, Steve traces how embracing our identity in Christ frees us from guilt, loosens the grip of individualism, and creates space for transformation that sticks.

The discussion moves between history and discipleship, personal stories and theological clarity, returning often to the freedom that comes when Christians see themselves as God does. From the no-condemnation reality of Romans 8 to the gritty work of forgiveness, Steve shows how grace reshapes our relationships, empowers our witness, and steadies the church for the future.

If you’re drawn to conversations that mix wisdom with a laugh, this episode offers grounding, hope, and a reminder that your position in Christ isn’t just a doctrinal footnote; it’s the engine that drives everything else.

- Book: The Church in an Age of Secular Mysticisms (Ministry in a Secular Age): Why Spiritualities without God Fail to Transform Us by Andy Root

- Book: The Complete Green Letters by Miles Stanford

In this episode of The Intersection, Dr. J sits down with Alex Stoehr of Oregon Humanities for a thoughtful and creative exploration of what it means to live out faith in public life. Drawing from her work fostering community through conversation, Alex reflects on how art, poetry, and storytelling can become bridges of understanding in an increasingly divided culture.

Together, they unpack the unique cultural landscape of the Pacific Northwest—its contrasts with the Midwest, its ambivalence toward organized religion, and its surprising openness to authentic expressions of faith. The conversation moves through themes of calling, creativity, and civic participation, offering a vision of ministry that values shared language, deep listening, and the arts as sacred spaces for connection.

From the complexity of personal vocation to the hope that arises when faith shows up humbly in public, Alex reminds listeners that pursuing artistic passions often sparks curiosity more than contention. Her insights invite Christians to step into their communities not as conquerors of culture, but as cultivators of beauty, empathy, and understanding.

If you’re drawn to conversations that blend theology, culture, and creativity, this episode offers encouragement for engaging your neighborhood, inspiration for integrating art and faith, and a hopeful reminder that small acts of creativity carry deep spiritual weight.

• Biola Center for Christianity, Culture & The Arts

In this episode of The Intersection, Dr. J sits interviews Paul Taylor, Director of Unify at TBC and Co-Founder of the Bay Area Center for Faith, Work & Tech, for a wide-ranging conversation on what it means to follow Jesus at the crossroads of faith, work, and technology in Silicon Valley and beyond. Together, they explore how the post-COVID landscape has created surprising openness to Christianity in the Bay Area, the need for church unity, and the challenges and opportunities of being a Christian in one of the most innovative and secular regions of the world.

From exilic discipleship—embracing life as exiles in a pluralistic culture—to the way work shapes our personal identity and mission, Paul highlights how Christians can faithfully engage the workplace as culture makers and image bearers of God. The discussion also turns to technology, including AI, and its role in extending human capabilities, shaping society, and embedding values that demand careful discernment from people of faith.

While “revival” may not be the best word for what’s happening in the Bay Area, Paul points to signs of spiritual awakening, where the gospel is taking root in unexpected ways. With a blend of theological reflection, cultural analysis, and practical insight, this episode offers a hopeful vision of how the church can engage the future—not by retreating, but by stepping into the spaces where faith, work, and technology converge.

If you’re looking for a conversation that connects theology to real-world challenges in the workplace and beyond, this episode provides wisdom for navigating cultural change, encouragement for living faithfully in exile, and a reminder that God’s work often advances in surprising ways.

• The Bay Area Center for Faith, Work, & Tech
• Christianity Today article co-authored by Paul Taylor: The Silicon Valley Revival Has Come 
• Contrasting the Exilic vs Jerusalem Posture: Exilic Discipleship by David Kim

In this episode of The Intersection, Dr. J talks with Dr. Jared Huntsinger, lead pastor of Discovery Christian Community Church in Salt Lake City, Utah, for a candid conversation on the legacy of Christendom, the church’s posture in society, and evangelism in a post-Christian world. Together, they trace the movement from Christendom’s cultural dominance to today’s pluralistic landscape, unpacking how that shift reshapes the way Christians live and share their faith. 

From the mixed legacy of traditional evangelism methods to the need for humility, listening, and dialogue, the conversation wrestles with what it means to bear faithful witness without grasping for power. Along the way, they explore contextualizing the Gospel for diverse settings, the surprising hope to be found in a society that no longer assumes Christianity at its center, and the enduring call to embody Jesus’ way through dialogue, relationship, and community engagement. 

If you’re looking for a conversation that weaves history, pop-Christianity, and theological insight with on-the-ground wisdom—one that’s as honest about the past as it is hopeful for the future—this episode offers practical guidance, cultural awareness, and a timely reminder that evangelism begins with love and humility.

• Book Recommendations: 
  • Post-Christendom, 2nd Edition: Church and Mission in a Strange New World by Stuart Murray

  • Church After Christendom by Stuart Murray

  • Exiles: Living Missionally in a Post-Christian Culture by Michael Frost

  • Recapturing the Wonder: Transcendent Faith in a Disenchanted World by Mike Cosper

  • How (Not) to Be Secular: Reading Charles Taylor by James K.A. Smith

• Discovery Christian Community Church:  https://discoverychristian.churchcenter.com/home