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Hello Darkness My old Friend...

Today we sit down with Cody Balfour, the Director of Family Life at Koinonia Church, to discuss his book "Don't Be Afraid of the Dark," which addresses fear and anxiety from a uniquely Christian perspective. Cody pastorally opens his heart and offers hope for many walking in darkness and despair. We reflect on hope, resilience, and the impact of embracing the resurrection in the face of adversity, drawing inspiration from biblical teachings and the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Before this, we wrestled with a few Terrible Tweets:
1)  We confront a controversial tweet from Grimke Seminary, sparking a dialogue about inclusivity and the importance of diverse voices in theological education. With open hearts and evolving perspectives, we challenge the notion that pastoral roles should be exclusively masculine, advocating for a broader understanding of faith that embraces all genders and backgrounds.
2) Then we take notice how lucrative the business of fear is as we reflect on the death of Hal Lindsey.

If you want to learn more about Cody, check out his site here.
Or you can follow him on Twitter @CodyBalfour or instagram codyqbalfour  

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For more information, you can follow us at
https://www.theologyinpieces.com/
Theology in Pieces on Instagram - @theologyinpieces

Email us by emailing [email protected]

Malcolm Foley - on twitter @MalcolmBFoley
Slim Thompson on twitter @wacoslim

For more information on the church,
check us out at www.mosaicwaco.org or on instagram.

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Can Christian centrism truly address the complexities of wealth, power, and racial injustice, or does it fall short of delivering meaningful change? Our latest episode welcomes Adam Joyce, a Chicago-based nonprofit consultant, who challenges the notion that centrist approaches can adequately tackle these pressing issues.

We lament the recent article critiquing the positive examples of fatherhood and gender roles surrounding the cartoon "Bluey."  And we confront the tendency to misrepresent political opponents while excusing allies with the recent "Jesus is Lord" protestors at a Kamala rally. 

Our conversation moves beyond mere rhetoric, urging listeners to focus on policies that impact the marginalized and oppressed. Lastly, we explore Christian socialism, and question how faith can drive real-world change and not just personal growth. Take a listen and let us know where you agree and where you don't! 

The Bluey Article...."How a beloved children's cartoon turns fathers into mothers — and what the Bible says about it"

"At the Wrong Rally" tweet

If there is a “third way”, this isn’t it: How Christian centrists acquiesce to America’s broken political system - Adam Joyce

Adam Joyce is the assistant director of the Axelson Center for Nonprofit Management and has written for a range of publications, including Christian Century, ABC Religion & Ethics, as well as other publications. His forthcoming book, No More Pharaohs: Christianity, Racial Capitalism, and Socialism will be published with Cascade Books. Email him @ [email protected]  

For more articles from him, check out:
THE CHURCH ISN’T ANTI-FASCIST ... YET

YOU CAN'T RELATIONSHIP YOUR WAY OUT OF RACIAL CAPITALISM

CIVILITY POLICING OBSCURES OUR POLITICAL REALITY

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Gustavo Gutierrez - A Theology of Liberation

Abolition Of White Democracy – Joel Olson (not Osteen) 

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For more information, you can follow us at
https://www.theologyinpieces.com/
Theology in Pieces on Instagram - @theologyinpieces

Email us by emailing [email protected]

Malcolm Foley - on twitter @MalcolmBFoley
Slim Thompson on twitter @wacoslim

For more information on the church,
check us out at www.mosaicwaco.org or on instagram.

Send us a Question!

What happens when you blend the art of storytelling with the intricacies of faith? Renowned author Stephen James joins us, and his insights might just transform how you view fiction. As we navigate the complex themes in Christian art, we question the label of "Christian" and its implications.

Drawing inspiration from literary icons like Flannery O'Connor and GK Chesterton, we discuss how storytelling can authentically capture the world's darkness and light. By avoiding fixed agendas and embracing dilemmas, we explore the potential for stories to evolve into unexpected revelations, underscoring the power of authenticity in art and faith.

Known for his gripping thrillers, Stephen shares the journey from thrillers to his re-released prayer book, A Heart Exposed: Talking to God with Nothing to Hide. (to be released soon). We also explore his newest work, "Rift," and how it might serve as a bridge for a younger generation.

This episode goes deep, but don't worry we made sure to cover some terrible tweets surrounding common christian colloquialisms. 

Circles > Rows

"Hey Church Fam!"

"Do Life Together"

John Newton to Chris Tomlin...

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For more information, you can follow us at
https://www.theologyinpieces.com/
Theology in Pieces on Instagram - @theologyinpieces

Email us by emailing [email protected]

Malcolm Foley - on twitter @MalcolmBFoley
Slim Thompson on twitter @wacoslim

For more information on the church,
check us out at www.mosaicwaco.org or on instagram.

Send us a Question!

Today we have a packed house with not 1, not 2, but 3 historians weighing in on the question Who are Evangelicals?  With 81% of white evangelicals voting in one direction, it caused us to ask... what is it that holds evangelicals together?  You may be surprised by our conclusions. 

We had a long but fantastic discussion including terrible tweets and responding to the most recent presidential debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump.  Have a listen and let us know what you think!

Resources Referenced:
Who Are Evangelicals, Again?  Two Historians Weigh In

Who Are Evangelicals, Again? Two Historians Weigh In Again.

Matthew Sutton's Article

Symposium: The Scandal of the Evangelical Mind 30 years later. (Malcolm and Ansley)

Jake's Letter to the editor at the Washington Post about Bibles in Oklahoma.

Episode 21 Atonement Theories with Dr. Jacob Randolph

Find Dr. Ansley Quiros on her website or on X @ansleyquiros

Find Dr. Jacob Randolph on X: @j_rhett 

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For more information, you can follow us at
https://www.theologyinpieces.com/
Theology in Pieces on Instagram - @theologyinpieces

Email us by emailing [email protected]

Malcolm Foley - on twitter @MalcolmBFoley
Slim Thompson on twitter @wacoslim

For more information on the church,
check us out at www.mosaicwaco.org or on instagram.

Send us a Question!

Hey Listeners!
 
How likely is a Civil War in America?  What can you do now to prepare?
In light of the horrors we're seeing in Gaza, how do we square our commitment to non-violence with what appears to be a violent Old Testament God?   On today's episode we respond to listeners questions.

Before we delve into the heavy stuff, we look at the sermon cutting floor and respond to a TERRIBLE TWEET. 

Listen to episode 40 (nonviolence and the paradox of the christian witness).

Resources discussed:
The Black Tax: 150 years of theft, exploitation, and dispossession in America - Andrew W. Kahrl

Poverty, By America- Matthew Desmond

Confronting Old Testament Controversies, Tremper Longman

Is God a Moral Monster – Paul Copan

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For more information, you can follow us at
https://www.theologyinpieces.com/
Theology in Pieces on Instagram - @theologyinpieces

Email us by emailing [email protected]

Malcolm Foley - on twitter @MalcolmBFoley
Slim Thompson on twitter @wacoslim

For more information on the church,
check us out at www.mosaicwaco.org or on instagram.

Send us a Question!

On today's episode, we had the honor to sit down with the incredible Matthew Soerens from World Relief.  The topic of immigration feels radioactive and untouchable for the average person.  But Matthew brings real life examples, experience, research, and the scriptures to speak in a very common sense logical way.  This conversation was unbelievable!  Ear mark this episode to listen to more than once.  

Matthew is the co-author of:
‘Welcoming the Stranger: Justice, Compassion, and truth in the immigration debate.’

Seeking Refuge: On the Shores of the Global Refugee Crisis

&
Inalienable: How Marginalized Kingdom Voices Can Help Save the American Church 

Want to support World Relief?  Give here.

Prior to this conversation, we responded to this great article on how only 1 pastor stood up to Richard Nixon. Why was that?  What conviction would it take to do the same today?  Read He Told Richard Nixon to Confess. 

What did you think?! 

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For more information, you can follow us at
https://www.theologyinpieces.com/
Theology in Pieces on Instagram - @theologyinpieces

Email us by emailing [email protected]

Malcolm Foley - on twitter @MalcolmBFoley
Slim Thompson on twitter @wacoslim

For more information on the church,
check us out at www.mosaicwaco.org or on instagram.

Send us a Question!

What's Law got to do with it?  On today's episode we sit down with Kent Mckeever, a lawyer, executive director of Greater Waco Legal Services (a non-profit legal firm), and a former pastor. 

Kent lays out the beauty and application of his love for Jesus and Justice as inspiration for his work in providing legal assistance for All. Everyone regardless of their financial status has the right to a quality attorney. Their sliding scale fees and payment plans make it affordable and available to people who might not expect it.

We were thrilled to have him on the pod and hope some would in turn take a peak at emulating this work.  Whether you're looking to go down this path, or you just want to see this work in your city, tune in for an enlightening conversation on faith, the law, and nonprofit work.

Want to Support their Work?  Donate here.

Like, subscribe, rate please!! Then share with a friend!

For more information, you can follow us at
https://www.theologyinpieces.com/
Theology in Pieces on Instagram - @theologyinpieces

Email us by emailing [email protected]

Malcolm Foley - on twitter @MalcolmBFoley
Slim Thompson on twitter @wacoslim

For more information on the church,
check us out at www.mosaicwaco.org or on instagram.

Send us a Question!

On Today's Episode we respond to the horrific assassination attempt on former President Trump's life.  What does this mean for our country?  What spiritually can we glean from his life being spared?  Did God save Trump?  Does Ephesians 6:11 play a part?   

Then we wrestle with Adam Joyce's article on Christianity and Third-Way-ism, titled "If there is a “third way”, this isn’t it: How Christian centrists acquiesce to America’s broken political system." 

Why are Christians so woefully prepared to talk about politics?  Is it because we've been discipled to only discuss the 'How' and ignore the 'what?'  What are the implications of such thinking?  Listen and wrestle with us!  

Also, did you know you can Pre-Order Malcolm's New book NOW! 
Get yours HERE. 

Like, subscribe, rate please!! Then share with a friend!

For more information, you can follow us at
https://www.theologyinpieces.com/
Theology in Pieces on Instagram - @theologyinpieces

Email us by emailing [email protected]

Malcolm Foley - on twitter @MalcolmBFoley
Slim Thompson on twitter @wacoslim

For more information on the church,
check us out at www.mosaicwaco.org or on instagram.

Send us a Question!

Whose Fault is Poverty? 
The poor, the rich, something else?  Today we tackle this tricky topic biblically.   Then the guys respond to a terrible tweet from the current President of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and his article: The Verdict Is In.  This is in response to former President Donald Trump convicted as guilty of 34 felony counts for falsifying business records.  The news of his guilt has brought many responses including memes of Jesus comforting Trump saying, "It's okay, they called me guilty too."  Which spurred Malcolm's response in his new article: "Hallowed Be Thy Name: Your President is Not Jesus"

How Fair Are Your State's Property Taxes? - Junia Howell

End Homelessness in Waco! Mosaic Waco is partnering with Mission Waco to build a Community for those experiencing homelessness.  Housing alone will not end homelessness, but community will. You can partner with us to help provide low-cost permanent supportive housing to the homeless in McLennan County HERE. 

Learn More about the Creekside Community HERE. 

Like, subscribe, rate please!! Then share with a friend!

For more information, you can follow us at
https://www.theologyinpieces.com/
Theology in Pieces on Instagram - @theologyinpieces

Email us by emailing [email protected]

Malcolm Foley - on twitter @MalcolmBFoley
Slim Thompson on twitter @wacoslim

For more information on the church,
check us out at www.mosaicwaco.org or on instagram.

Send us a Question!

Can coffee really save the world?  Shouldn't we be allocating our time to ministry instead of business?  Why is the church missing this?! 

Tune in to hear the 2024 Roasters of the Year and  owners of Bridge City Coffee discuss why Coffee is this beautiful fruit that has the potential to do far more than keeping you awake.  This product, this way of doing business, the people they can employ, all has the potential to extend the garden mandate and do something 'good' in the world. 

Listen for ways to connect your work to God's work.  Stay to nerd out on coffee.  But be prepared for this week's terrible tweet.  Slim engaged.  Then he was told he serves Satan because he stood up for David French. 

Roaster of the Year Article.

Bridgecity instagram : @bridgecitycoffee

Or if you're in waco - @bridgecity_waco
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the PCA's Tweet.

Slim's Response.

A Summary.  (PCA cancels anti-polarization panel with David French for being too polarizing) 

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For more information, you can follow us at
https://www.theologyinpieces.com/
Theology in Pieces on Instagram - @theologyinpieces

Email us by emailing [email protected]

Malcolm Foley - on twitter @MalcolmBFoley
Slim Thompson on twitter @wacoslim

For more information on the church,
check us out at www.mosaicwaco.org or on instagram.