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In this episode, Damein Schitter discusses following Jesus in politics with Robert Cunningham. Robert is the founder and director of Christ for Kentucky, and the former Senior Pastor of Tates Creek Presbyterian Church. He and Damein were at Covenant Theological Seminary at the same time, and Robert is now a current Ph.D. candidate at the University of Leicester, researching the role of religion in America's founding era.
In their conversation, Robert and Damein draw on David Koyzis's book, Political Visions & Illusions, to make a bold statement: politics often masquerades as a modern idol, promising salvation and redemption much like religious doctrines. Their exploration then challenges us to reconsider where we place our faith and trust amidst a polarized society.
Taking a deeper dive, Damein and Robert look into the concept of political ideologies as "isms" that offer false promises of redemption, akin to religious gospels. They highlight the dangers of viewing political opponents as heretics, fueled by echo chambers and partisan media. They underscore the importance of renouncing these ideological idols and reorienting ourselves towards the kingdom of God, advocating for a gospel that inherently carries social implications without equating salvation with social deeds. They invite us to grapple with engagement in a secularizing world, finding balance between withdrawal and deeper involvement.
In conclusion, they shift their focus to the broader social responsibilities of Christian faith, challenging the tendency to compartmentalize it as merely a personal practice. Inspired by John Stott's interpretation of being "salt and light," they encourage believers to actively create a world that mirrors God's will. They also address the misconceptions about political divides, highlighting the significance of connecting with real-life neighbors rather than relying on algorithm-driven echo chambers. They land on an emphasis on the power of feeling seen and the importance of engaging deeply with your community to gain a nuanced understanding of today's political landscape.
For more about Robert, you can visit his website, and find the episodes on his podcast going further into David Koyzis's work here: Every Square Inch -
In this episode, Senior Pastor Damein Schitter and Theologian in Residence Michael Allen tackle the question, "can Scripture truly govern the conscience, and what does that mean for preaching?" By diving into the Westminster Confession of Faith, they emphasize the immense responsibility preachers carry in conveying God's word accurately. They also uncover the advantages of expository preaching and discuss how the symbolic clerical collar reflects a preacher’s submission to divine authority. Additionally, they provide historical insights to help you understand how the Westminster Confession sought to clarify pastoral roles amidst the tumultuous mix of 17th-century culture, politics, and religion.
The challenge, in navigating contemporary issues like sexuality and politics, is to offer practical wisdom without overstepping bounds. By balancing guidance with humility and leaning on the Christian community, study, and prayer, Damein and Mike emphasize the collaborative effort it takes for believers to grow in wisdom and navigate life's complexities. They also reflect on the ongoing work of Jesus as prophet, priest, and king, highlighting His resurrection power and the importance of relying on the Holy Spirit. By recognizing God's strength through our weaknesses, we find faith and assurance in the transformative power of divine intervention in our lives. -
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In this episode, Nate Claiborne talks with Michael Allen about the significance of holiness, not just as a theme in Leviticus, but as an important emphasis in the New Testament as well. They examine concept of holiness that threads through the sacrificial practices and the moral teachings of the holiness code. By shedding light on how these seemingly distinct sections of Leviticus are unified under the theme of holiness, they aim to deepen your understanding of what it means to live a holy life both as individuals and as a community.
The central focus is on a pivotal moment in Leviticus 10, a passage that’s been interpreted as thematic for the entire book. Here, they explore how Leviticus offers comprehensive answers to the nature of holiness, which Paul picks up on later in his letter to Timothy. Seeing the connections here allows us to understand the continuing importance of a book like Leviticus and to discover how a richer grasp of the holy can significantly impact our personal and communal life today. -
In this episode, Damein Schitter sits down with Jay Sklar, who is Professor of Old Testament and Vice President of Academics at Covenant Theological Seminary. Their conversation tackles why Leviticus feels so daunting and seemingly irrelevant, from its legalistic nature to its cultural oddities and ritual focus. Dr Sklar passionately makes the case for its importance, emphasizing its pivotal role in the Pentateuch and shedding light on the profound significance of the Day of Atonement.
Leviticus isn't just a book of old laws; it's a guide on living in holiness and understanding the depth of sin and atonement. Damein and Jay delve into how knowing the sacrificial system of Leviticus is essential to fully grasping the gravity of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. A foundational knowledge of Leviticus can transform our understanding of Jesus' life and ministry.
From ritual and moral purity to the broader context of ancient texts, Damein and Jay discuss how interpreting Leviticus through its historical and cultural lens can prevent modern misinterpretations. They explore the parallels between ritual purity and contemporary health protocols, shedding light on their significance in ancient Israelite culture. Moreover, the symbolic acts and the sacrificial system in Leviticus enrich our appreciation of Jesus' atoning work. Our hope is that their conversation will enhance your theological perspective and spiritual connection to the life and ministry of Jesus! -
In this episode, recorded live at our Following Jesus in Politics Learning Event, Pastor Damein Schitter interviews Todd Deatherage, Executive Director and Co-Founder of The Telos Group. Their mission is to form communities of American peacemakers across lines of difference, and equip them to help reconcile seemingly intractable conflicts at home and abroad. In this interview with Todd, we are hear about his background from a conservative Baptist upbringing in Arkansas to the halls of power on Capitol Hill, encountering a crisis of faith along the way. Todd's story sheds light on how the deluge of information and cultural shifts push many towards an "us versus them" mindset for a semblance of control, and he explores how personal interactions can shatter these simplistic narratives, providing a path to more inclusive perspectives—even in fraught situations like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
In our conversation, Todd shares how his conservative Christian background initially shaped his views and political engagements, only to be challenged by the diverse, complex reality of working in Washington, D.C. He reflects on the impact of conservative Christian ideologies on international conflicts and the struggle to reconcile a simplistic theology with the world's intricacies. Emphasizing the teachings of Jesus and the Sermon on the Mount, Todd underscores the need for a theology rooted in peacemaking, advocating for a faith that evolves to meet new challenges and complexities.
Todd also insists on the importance of understanding media's role in shaping perceptions and urges thoughtful voting and civic engagement. From balancing personal frustrations with self-care to navigating the tension between respecting authorities and resisting unjust governance, we uncover how to maintain a consistent Christian witness while advocating for justice and human flourishing. -
In this episode, Nate asked Pastor Damein about the vision for the upcoming season of the All of Life podcast. This season, we're building on the learning event and sermon series, Following Jesus in Politics. We'll have guests like Mike Allen on the role of preaching in Presbyterian thought, Todd Deathrage on steering through tough conversations, and Robert Cunningham on the nuanced world of public theology and political ideologies. Don't miss our insights from key readings like David Koyzis' "Political Visions and Illusions" and Patrick Schreiner's "Political Gospel," all designed to enrich your understanding and challenge your perspectives.
We'll also venture into the oft-overlooked book of Leviticus, shedding light on its relevance today with the help of expert Dr. Jay Sklar. Our playful yet profound sermon series, "Leviticus is for Lovers," aims to reform how you perceive this book where Bible reading plans often die in the wilderness. We'll also add some more episodes along the way that were not mentioned, so stay tuned!
You can access the reading list we mention here. -
In this episode, the second of our Psalms and Secure Attachment series, Nate Claiborne talks with Benjamin Kandt about more of the specifics of attachment theory. The core of attachment theory is the dynamic processes that nurture emotional and spiritual bonds: attunement, containment, and the dance of rupture and repair in relationships.
Alongside this, we address the complexities of establishing a bond with a deity we cannot touch or see, sidestepping trite explanations and engage with the real struggles of those wrestling with anxiety and fear. The scars of trauma can distort our view of God, and so we explore the shadows that abuse casts on one's theological outlook. But, abuse and trauma do not get the last word, and an earned secure attachment with God and others is possible, something we will explain in upcoming episodes. -
In this episode, Nate discusses with Dr Michael Allen how we should approach reading Leviticus in our M'Cheyne Bible Reading plan. While the genealogies present a roadblock for many readers, they serve an importance purpose in both the book of Numbers, and the Pentateuch as a whole, which is tracing the unfolding promises of God.
For more resources for the M'Cheyne Bible Reading Plan, click here. -
In this episode, Nate talks with Pastor of Formation & Mission Benjamin Kandt about the connection between attachment theory and the most widely used metaphor in the Psalms.
Nate and Ben unpack the concept of God as a refuge and its parallels with secure attachment. The Psalms unveil a portrait of God as a safe haven and a secure base, concepts so vital to our growth and sense of safety. Moreover, the linguistic shift from addressing God as "he" to "you" in places like Psalm 23 speaks to a deepening relationship that offers the same comfort and safety as a child finds in a parent's embrace.
The discussion digs into the intersections of theology, psychology, and neuroscience as we prepare the ground for the "Summer in the Psalms" series. We reflect on our own personal journeys and the paths that have led us here, and hope to pave the way for a summer of reflection, connection, and growth through the lens of secure attachment and the Psalms. -
In this episode, Nate discusses with Dr Michael Allen how we should approach reading Leviticus in our M'Cheyne Bible Reading plan. With Mike's guidance, we delve into the Levitical sacrificial system and its reflection in today's Christian worship. Navigating the application of Leviticus's ancient laws to the complexities of today's world, we seek to capture the essence of its teachings. From economic justice to sexual ethics, Dr. Allen assists us in understanding the enduring principles of Leviticus while discerning God's logic in commanding total devotion. This episode invites you to reflect on how these sacred texts shape our relationships and guide our worship, offering a mix of historical context and practical application for a faith that seeks to follow Jesus in all of life.
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In this episode, Pastor of Formation and Mission Benjamin Kandt discusses Circles with Casey Deloach and Charlie King. They get candid about their commitment to a 28-week deep dive into the Sermon on the Mount, their strategies for memorizing scripture, and the transformative effects it's had on their lives.
DelightDiscipleDiscipline
Casey and Charlie share how embedding the Sermon on the Mount into their day-to-day lives has not only reshaped their perspectives but also their actions, and enhanced their relationships as a result.
You learn more about Circles at NewCity here, and access the Sermon on the Mount guide here.
To listen to the parenting sermons, you can find those here: -
Ever wonder what it feels like to truly be seen, understood, and connected with a group of individuals journeying through faith together? In this episode, we listen to Sara, Lauren, Shannon, and Erin, as they share a glimpse of their weekly New City Circle—where faith, vulnerability, and a good cup of coffee converge to create a lifeline of honest conversations, where trust is as transparent as the glasses through which God sees us. The stories shared in this episode are a testament to the power of community in not only understanding but also living out our identities in Christ.
To find out more about Circles at NewCity, you can visit the Circles page on in our Church Center app. -
In this episode, Nate provides an update about the state of the podcast going into March. While there was much energy toward episodes each week on the M'Cheyne Reading Plan and New City Catechism, reality set in going into February, and the former will only be monthly, while the latter will not be at all.
Instead, there will be upcoming episodes highlighting what a Circle is like from the inside, as well as the broader vision for NewCity in this next season.
For the episodes related to the M'Cheyne Bible Reading Plan, you can find them here. -
In this episode, Benjamin Kandt talks with David Goodman about some of the elements from our Slow-Down Spirituality learning event earlier this month. David was originally going to participate as a leader and help with the teaching of the event, so this conversation is a way to recap some of the principles and practices that were shared there.
All of Life GuideRevisiting Our Common Rhythm: 3x PrayerThe Due AppPracticing the WaySubversive SabbathThe Ruthless Elimination of HurryYou Are What You LoveThe Spirit of The Disciplines
Here are some of the resources mentioned, as well as other helpful items: -
In this episode (our 200th!), Nate has a chance to talk with Jason Dunn, NewCity's Executive Director of Congregational Care, and soon to be Associate Pastor. Jason has been at NewCity since 2009, became a Ruling Elder several years ago, and is now accepting a call to the Associate Pastor position. He currently splits his time between overseeing Family Ministries, Congregational Care, and Kingdom Partnerships.
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In this episode, Nate and Pastoral Resident Ryan Gawrych discuss New City Catechism Question 6:
How can we glorify God?
We glorify God by enjoying him, loving him, trusting him, and by obeying his will, commands, and law.
They discuss the theology, significance, and practical implications of living our lives to God's glory. -
In this episode, Nate talks with Pastoral Resident Ryan Gawrych about New City Catechism Question 5:
What else did God create?
God created all things by his powerful Word, and all his creation was very good; everything flourished under his loving rule.
They discuss the importance of God being creator, and especially that creation is good, though sin does affect it. They also talk about the importance of culture and about engaging with the world that we live in rather than retreating from it.
And, Ranger Rick is still apparently around and you can check it out here. -
In this episode, Nate offers some reflections on Esther, which we're almost done with, and Mark, which we've just begun. On the app (find NewCity on Church Center), you can find links to a bunch of old episodes on Romans, as well as introductions to Mark and Esther.
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