Host Jake Doberenz brings you a special episode of Theology Meets World, revisiting seven inspiring guests from Season 1. At the end of their respective episode, each guest answered: "What is one practical action our listeners can take right now to live their faith fully for Jesus?"

You’ll hear from:

Spencer Shaw

Nathan Perrin

Stacey Knapp

Loren Richmond Jr.

Malinda Fugate

Joseph Holmes

Chris Staron

This episode compiles their thought-provoking challenges, offering you practical steps to deepen your walk with Christ.

But that’s not all—Jake shares an exciting announcement about a significant change coming in Season 2 that you won’t want to miss!

Follow this show and Jake Doberenz’s writings at jakedoberenz.substack.com.

Writer and speaker Traci Rhoades is on Theology Meets World with host Jake Doberenz to help us explore the diversity of the Christian tradition. Traci shares her personal experiences in Southern Baptist, Presbyterian, to Catholicism, emphasizing the beauty found in diverse expressions of faith. They discuss the importance of unity within the church, the role of humility in inter-denominational conversations, and the significance of community in church life. Traci also highlights the practice of Advent as a meaningful way to prepare for Christmas.

Important Links

Not All Who Wander (Spiritually) Are Lost by Traci Rhoades

Shaky Ground: What to Do After the Bottom Drops Out by Traci Rhoades

Evangelical Theology: An Introduction by Karl Barth

Traci Rhoades is a writer and Bible teacher based near Grand Rapids, Michigan. Raised in rural Missouri, she has explored various Christian traditions, attending nine churches across five denominations in six locations. This journey inspired her to author two books: Not All Who Wander (Spiritually) Are Lost, which examines diverse worship practices, and Shaky Ground: What to Do After the Bottom Drops Out, offering spiritual guidance during challenging times. Through her blog, Traces of Faith, and active engagement on X/Twitter as @tracesoffaith, Traci fosters a community of believers dedicated to deepening their faith and understanding of the Church.

Follow this show and Jake Doberenz’s writings at jakedoberenz.substack.com.

onathan Machnee is on Theology Meets World with host Jake Doberenz to discuss the intersection of autism and Christianity. Jonathan shares his personal journey from being raised in a Christian environment to becoming an atheist and eventually returning to Christianity. Based on his extensive research, he outlines the unique ways autistic individuals engage with faith, suggesting how their experiences, like preference for 'discipleship' over 'personal relationship' with Jesus, can impact the faiths of non-autistic individuals. This podcast conversation highlights the need for churches to educate themselves about autism and to listen to the experiences of autistic individuals, fostering a more inclusive environment for all believers.

Important Links

This Way for the Gas, Ladies and Gentlemen by Tadeusz Borowski

Christianity on the Spectrum Podcast

Jonathan Machnee is an autistic researcher who has conducted the largest English language ethnographic study of Christians and ex-Christian autistics (autism 1, or what was formerly known as Asperger's Syndrome or high-functioning autism). His research has included data mining over 26,000 autistic adults and conducting over 500 interviews with autistic Christians and ex-Christians in order to understand the unique intersection between autism and the practice of Christianity. Find him on X and at [email protected].

Follow this show and Jake’s writings at jakedoberenz.substack.com.

Payton Minzenmayer is on Theology Meets World with host Jake Doberenz to explore the significance of storytelling, particularly within the Christian context. They discuss how personal experiences shape one's narrative, the importance of purpose in life, and how the Bible serves as a foundational story that resonates with humanity. Payton emphasizes the need for Christians to embrace their storytelling abilities to share their testimonies effectively. They also introduce the Christian Story Lab, aimed at enhancing storytelling quality within the Christian community, and provide practical tips for crafting relatable and impactful stories.

Important Links

A Story on Purpose by Payton Minzenmayer

Christian Story Lab - www.ChristianStoryLab.com

“Christ at the Cinema with Joseph Holmes” on Theology Meets World - https://jakedoberenz.substack.com/p/christ-at-the-cinema-with-joseph

Payton Minzenmayer is a pastor, author, and clinical therapist with expertise in creative writing, leadership development, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). He is the author of the best-selling A Story on Purpose and its companion, A Workbook on Purpose, and delivers practical insights through the Christian Story Lab. As Associate Pastor at Vero Beach Church of Christ, Payton crafts engaging sermons, providing counseling, and developing innovative outreach programs, including building thriving small group ministries that empower members to actively engage in their community. Currently pursuing a Master of Social Work, Payton integrates theological training with therapeutic practices to help individuals achieve healing, purpose, and spiritual growth. Find him on X and LinkedIn.

Follow this show and Jake’s writings at jakedoberenz.substack.com.

Dr. Mike Clarensau, professor and author, is on Theology Meets World with host Jake Doberenz to discuss the concept of a Spirit-empowered life, emphasizing the importance of understanding the Holy Spirit's role in the lives of believers. They discuss transformative experiences, biblical insights, and the necessity of community in faith. Dr. Clarensau addresses skepticism about the relevance of the Spirit today and highlights the limitations of mere learning in the Christian journey. The conversation culminates in practical steps for engaging with the community and living out one's faith.

Important Links

A Spirit Empowered Life: Discover the World-changing Journey God has Designed for You by Mike Clarensau

Running with the Horses: The Quest for Life at Its Best by Eugene Peterson

https://www.clarensaucommunications.com/

Dr. Mike Clarensau is a church consultant, college professor, freelance writer, and Statistician for the General Council of the Assemblies of God. Formerly the Director of the Healthy Church Network, he led efforts to revitalize plateaued and declining congregations and continues contributing to church health research and writing. A sought-after speaker, Mike has traveled extensively to camps, conferences, and churches nationwide. Mike’s books include When Prophets Want to Die, Subject to Change, A Spirit-Empowered Life, From Belonging to Becoming, Give Them What They Want, and We Build People.

Follow this show and Jake’s writings at jakedoberenz.substack.com.

Dr. Scot McKnight, New Testament scholar, is on Theology Meets World with host Jake Doberenz to discuss Christian deconstruction and reconstruction of faith based on his new book Invisible Jesus. Scot shares his personal story of moving from fundamentalism to a Jesus-centered faith, discussing the meaning of deconstruction and its connection to the work of the Spirit. Scot and Jake delve into the importance of centering Jesus in the church and provide practical advice for both church leaders and individuals navigating their faith journeys.

Scot McKnight is a distinguished New Testament scholar, theologian, and author known for his profound insights into Christian faith and culture. With a career spanning several decades, he has authored over 80 books and is celebrated for his accessible yet deeply researched work on the New Testament, early Christianity, and the practical outworking of faith. His latest book, Invisible Jesus: A Book about Leaving the Church and Looking for Christ written with Tommy Preson Phillips, delves into the ways churches can reorient their focus on Jesus as the centerpiece of ministry.

Kiva Maxwell, a disaster preparedness planner at the CDC, is on Theology Meets World with host Jake Doberenz to discuss the intersection of faith, public health, and disaster response. Kiva shares her personal journey into this field, emphasizing the importance of community resilience and the role of Christians in disaster preparedness. They explore the theological approaches to disasters, the need for proactive engagement in local communities, and how faith can guide actions in times of crisis. Kiva encourages listeners to remember that faith is not just about individual salvation but about collective responsibility and action.

Kiva Maxwell is a public health professional currently serving as a Public Health Associate at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), stationed with Harris County Public Health in Houston, TX. In her role as a Preparedness Planner, she contributes to enhancing community resilience and preparedness initiatives. Kiva holds a degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Mission from Oklahoma Christian University, where she showcased her leadership capabilities by serving as the president of the Student Government Association.

Mike van Goch is on Theology Meets World with host Jake Doberenz to talk about the intersection of theology and the internet, particularly in a post-pandemic world. They discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by online ministry, the nature of the internet as a “sinful” tool, and the complexities of discipleship in a digital age. Mike clearly emphasizes the importance of community and relationships in discipleship, which mere “content” can’t provide. The conversation also touches on practical steps for engaging with technology in a way that aligns with Christian values.

Important Links

Online as it is in Heaven by Mike van Goch

“A Reluctant Re-write of my book "Online as it is in Heaven" YouTube video

Website: www.mikevangoch.com

Twitter/X: www.twitter.com/mike_vanGoch

Mike van Goch is an author and speaker from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. A self-described reluctant poet, Mike is a lover of books, a writer of thought-provoking works, and a seeker of answers to life's big questions. His books include Online as It Is in Heaven, An Interesting Youth Pastor, 5 Ways to Share Your Faith in the Office, Drinking With Your Bible, and The Book of Urban Prayer. Mike explores life, writing, tech, and politics through his writing and speaking.

Reverend Dr. Jared Stacy is on Theology Meets World with host Jake Doberenz to explore the impact of conspiracy theories on American evangelicalism, personal experiences with conspiracies, and the intersection of faith and information warfare. They discuss how conspiracy theories have shaped historical narratives in America, the role of humility in faith, and practical steps for navigating a world filled with misinformation. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the stories we tell ourselves and the need for critical engagement with information.

Important Links

Spies, Lies, and Algorithms: The History and Future of American Intelligence by Amy B. Zegart

Biblical ABCs: The Basics of Christian Resistance by K.H. Miskotte

“An Alternative to the Bonhoeffer Option” by Jared Stacy, Christianity Today

The Quiet Damage: QAnon and the Destruction of the American Family by Jesselyn Cook'

Instagram: @jaredmstacy

Twitter/X: @jaredstacy

Substack: Jared Stacy

Jared Stacy is a theologian and ethicist and former pastor to evangelical churches in New Orleans and the DC Metro Area. He received a PhD in moral & practical theology from the University of Aberdeen in Scotland. His research focuses on the intersection of theology and politics, specifically on ethics, extremism/conspiracy theory and US evangelicalism. Jared’s work & story has been featured on platforms like TIME, NPR, NBC News, the BBC, and Christianity Today.

Christ Staron of The Truce Podcast is on Theology Meets World to engage with host Jake Doberenz about why Christians should care about the history of our beliefs, especially how world events in the last 200 years have shaped our beliefs today. The conversation empashsizes the importance of addressing both the ups and downs of church history and the need for repentance and reflection on past sins. Chris and Jake also touch on topics such as the relationship between the church and the Republican Party, the complexity of historical narratives, and the attractiveness of conspiracy theories.

Truce Podcast

The Fundamentals | Christian Fundamentalism Series, Truce Podcast, Oct. 11, 2022

Bringing up Bobby movie

Instagram: www.instagram.com/trucepodcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/trucepodcast

Twitter/X: www.x.com/trucepodcast

Chris Staron is an award-winning filmmaker, novelist, improv-comedian, and podcast host. Chris hosts of the Truce podcast, a history show that looks inside the Christian Church, the current season exploring why some evangelicals tied themselves to the Republican Party in the 1970s and 80s. He is also the author of the novel Cradle Robber, a book for tweens called How to Survive a Money Making Summer, and the writer/director/producer of the films Bringing up Bobby and Between the Walls.

Follow this show and Jake’s writings at jakedoberenz.substack.com.