What do you do when someone in your congregation or church community starts to get wrapped up in conspiracy theories?Join us in this episode where we dive into the world of conspiracy theories and their impact on evangelical Christianity. Taylor and Denver engage in a thoughtful conversation with Dr. Jared Stacy, a theologian and ethicist, exploring the challenges and pastoral responses to conspiratorial thinking within the church. Listen in as we discuss the importance of narrative, the role of conversion and revival, and practical ways pastors can address this pressing issue in contemporary ministry.

Check out Jared's website here.

Read his article on Seen and Unseen here.

00:00 Introduction to the Learning Laborers Podcast01:15 Discussing Conspiracy Theories01:24 Favorite Conspiracy Theories07:12 Introducing Dr. Jared Stacy07:51 Jared's Research and Background10:07 Conspiratorial Thinking in Evangelicalism15:57 Pastoral Challenges with Conspiracy Theories21:00 The Role of the Church in Addressing Conspiracies29:13 Evangelicalism and Conspiratorial Thinking39:46 Exploring the Intersection of Christianity and Conspiracy Theories43:07 Theological Claims and Historical Context44:24 Christian Witness and Humble Service48:46 Navigating Conspiracy Theories in Evangelicalism53:56 Pastoral Approaches to Conspiracy Theories01:04:44 The Role of Apocalyptic Moments in Faith01:11:21 Concluding Thoughts and Final Reflections

In this insightful episode of the Learning Laborers podcast, hosts Taylor and Denver sit down with Paul Hoffman, co-author of AI Shepherds and Electric Sheep. They delve into the complex world of artificial intelligence, exploring its impact on ministry, theology, and practical applications in the church. The conversation covers a range of topics including the ethical implications of AI, its role in human flourishing, and how pastors might responsibly integrate AI into their sermon preparation. Tune in for a balanced and thought-provoking discussion that encourages thoughtful engagement with this pervasive technology.

00:00 Introduction to the Learning Laborers Podcast01:07 Discussing AI in Ministry02:54 Interview with Paul Hoffman04:20 Paul Hoffman's Background and Journey05:30 The Genesis of AI Shepherds and Electric Sheep08:06 Defining AI and Its Implications11:46 The Pervasiveness and Impact of AI16:55 Benefits and Challenges of AI21:11 Environmental and Ethical Considerations25:52 Biblical Perspective on AI31:19 The Significance of Holy Week32:25 AI's Place in Creation34:14 The Dangers of AI as a Partner37:34 The Temptation of AI Efficiency40:05 The Importance of Human Agency43:39 Hearth Habits and Grounding in Reality47:49 AI in Sermon Preparation56:32 AI in Missionary Work01:00:42 Final Thoughts on AI and Human Flourishing01:04:17 Conclusion and Farewell

• AI Shepherds and Electric Sheep by Paul Hoffman and Sean O'Callaghan
• The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
• Atlas of AI by Kate Crawford

In this episode, Taylor and Denver dive deep into the intriguing and puzzling world of Luke 16. The teachings of Jesus in this chapter can seem pretty bizarre on the surface. From the Parable of the Shrewd Manager to the comment about people "forcing their way into" the kingdom to the story of The Rich Man and Lazarus, there's a lot going on in this passage.

Denver and Taylor discuss how they would tackle a puzzling text like Luke 16 - including questions they would ask, phrases they would analyze, and resources they would consult. Little by little, they begin to slowly work out how these seemingly unrelated teachings might work together to form a coherent (and convicting) portrait.

Can people force their way into the kingdom of God? What does divorce and remarriage have to do with gospel proclamation? How can a dishonest manager who "cooks the books" provide wisdom for how Christians relate to their own wealth? Are we really supposed to buy friends?

All these questions and more will be discussed in this new episode of the Learning Laborers.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

• Stories with Intent (Klyne Snodgrass)
• Audience Criticism and the Historical Jesus (Arthur Baird)

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:37 Discussing the Presence of the Spirit

01:07 Introducing the Passage: Luke 16

01:45 The Puzzling Verses: Luke 16:16-18

03:02 The Role of Commentaries in Understanding Scripture

03:58 Reading and Analyzing Luke 16:16-18

07:39 Exploring the Broader Context of Luke

09:27 The Relationship Between Law and Gospel

23:59 The Connection to John the Baptist

28:56 The Parable of the Shrewd Manager

36:30 Exploring Cultural Parables

39:07 The Shrewd Manager's Wisdom

41:43 Hospitality and Friendship in Ancient Times

42:37 Jesus' Teachings on Wealth and the Kingdom

52:50 The Rich Man and Lazarus

57:49 Interpreting Jesus' Parables in Context

01:05:34 Applying Biblical Teachings Today

01:08:19 Conclusion and Reflections

In this episode, Taylor walks us through the timely topic of taxes. Yep it's that time of year again! But don't worry, no IRS forms to fill out here!

Instead, Taylor and Denver discuss Jesus' teachings on taxation in the first century (found in Mark 12 and Matthew 17), and what they show us about Jesus' relationship to earthly kingdoms. Explore how Jesus navigated this tricky political question and what it could mean for modern Christians facing similar political dilemmas.

The conversation sheds light on the importance of understanding the broader context of scripture, the distinction between God's kingdom and worldly governments, and the role of the church in embodying kingdom ethics today. Tune in for an insightful discussion that challenges conventional perspectives and offers practical wisdom.

Helpful Books:

- Ballot and the Bibleby Kaitlyn Schiess

- The Bible in Politics by Richard Bauckham

- Kingdom Conspiracy by Scot McKnight

- Reading Mark by F. Scott Spencer

00:00 Welcome Back to Learning Laborers00:37 Discussing Taxes in 202501:06 Jesus' Teachings on Taxes03:50 Setting the Scene: Jesus and Roman Taxation07:08 The Trap: Pharisees and Herodians Question Jesus09:13 Jesus' Savvy Response15:55 Implications of Jesus' Teachings21:11 Exploring the Temple Tax25:47 The Temple Tax Debate27:28 Jesus' Unique Response29:27 Implications of Jesus' Actions32:33 Worldly Kingdoms vs. God's Kingdom35:31 Political Conversations and the Kingdom of God38:09 Jesus' Public Witness and Strategies41:10 The Church as a Political Body43:51 Reflections on American History and Taxation48:10 Concluding Thoughts and Final Remarks

Cannabis and Christians: A Thoughtful Examination

Books mentioned in the episode:

Merry Christmas to all our Learning Laborers!

In this festive episode, Denver and Taylor dive into the fascinating story of the Magi, or wise men, from the East and the significance of the Christmas star in Matthew 2:1-18. The discussion reveals the deep connections between this story and the Old Testament, the role of Gentile inclusion in the Gospel of Matthew, and the social and political subversions inherent in Jesus' birth narrative. Thought is given to the theological and historical contexts surrounding Jesus' birth and how the story shapes our celebration of Christmas today.

Resource Links

The Star from Afar

ICC Commentary, Matthew 1-7 (Davies and Allison)

The Infant Massacre - History or Myth (Paul Maier)

Support us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. All funds are used to design, create, host, and advertise the podcast.

Join us for a deep dive into the intriguing world of biblical friendship with our guest, James North. In this episode, James shares his journey from pastoral ministry to becoming a Bible teacher at a Christian school. We explore the nature of friendship in the ancient world and how Jesus' declaration of friendship redefined social norms. James also unpacks Paul's use of familial and friendly language, advocating for a deeper, more intentional approach to friendships within the church. Whether you're a pastor seeking connections or someone looking to deepen your biblical understanding, this conversation is sure to inspire and challenge your perspective on what it means to be a true friend in Christ.

Denver and Taylor chat with Dr. Nadya Williams, a classicist and author with a PhD from Princeton. It is an enlightening discussion on cultural Christianity in the early church.

They dive into Nadya's books, Cultural Christians in the Early Church and her latest Mothers, Children, and the Body Politic, exploring how early Christians navigated societal influences and how this can serve as a lesson for church leaders today. They touch on topics like the impact of corporate practices on church structures, the devaluation of motherhood, and the relevance of ancient literature for today's Christian life.

Don't miss out on supporting the Learning Laborers through Patreon and delving deeper into the topic with the recommended books!

In this episode of the Learning Laborers podcast, Denver and Taylor explore the intersection of biblical scholarship and ministry with Matt Trexler, a campus minister at UCLA working with the Reformed University Fellowship (RUF). Matt shares his journey into college ministry, offering insights into his research on the Sermon on the Mount and its impact on college students. They also discuss the cultural moment of Gen Z, their search for purpose and mentorship, and how churches can effectively engage with this generation. With a mix of humor and depth, Matt highlights the importance of creating authentic spaces for students to explore faith and scripture.

Resources mentioned by Matt in this episode:

Join Denver and Taylor in a heartfelt and insightful conversation with Andy McQuitty, founder and CEO of Kaleo Collective.

They delve into the origins and mission of Kaleo Collective, a network providing support and community for pastors through Zoom cohorts. Andy shares compelling stories from his own 30+ years of pastoral experience and offers wisdom on handling the unique pressures faced by church leaders. If you're a pastor seeking encouragement or simply curious about what it takes to sustain a long-term ministry, this episode promises to be both enlightening and inspiring. Don't miss the curated book recommendations that can prepare you for a marathon of ministry.

Check out our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for articles and more resources.

Support us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. All funds are used to design, create, host, and advertise the podcast.

Books cited/mentioned in this episode: