Summary

In this conversation, Hakeem Bradley shares his journey from growing up in the 5% Nation to becoming a biblical scholar. He discusses the contrasting views on scripture between Islam and Christianity, his transition from pastoral ministry to biblical research, and the significance of Genesis in understanding powers and principalities. Hakeem emphasizes the importance of equity in the creation narrative and explores the cultural context of Genesis in relation to ancient Near Eastern texts. He also highlights the influence of Genesis on the Epistle of James and the role of the church in spiritual warfare. In this conversation, Hakeem Bradley and Danielle Strickland explore the themes of spiritual warfare, the power of love and generosity, the concept of original sin as passive participation, and the awakening potential of scripture. They discuss the authority given to humanity, the wisdom from above, and the true nature of power as demonstrated by Jesus. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of living generously and the transformative power of love in combating darkness.

Takeaways

* Hakeem Bradley's journey from the 5% Nation to biblical scholarship is profound.

* The Bible can be a tool for liberation, not oppression.

* Understanding the cultural context of scripture is crucial.

* Genesis sets the foundation for understanding powers and principalities.

* Equity is inherent in the creation narrative of Genesis.

* The line of the woman and the line of the snake represent spiritual allegiances.

* The wisdom from above is accessible to all believers.

* The church has a role in crushing spiritual oppression.

* Hakeem's work aims to equip families for biblical literacy.

* The narrative of Genesis challenges patriarchal interpretations. We join in with Christ's mission to defeat darkness.

* Living generously and hospitably is a form of spiritual warfare.

* Original sin is about passive participation in evil.

* Scripture serves as an awakening tool for believers.

* Authority was given to humanity to rule wisely.

* The snake symbolizes twisted authority in creation.

* True power is often perceived as weakness in the world.

* Choosing not to retaliate reflects true strength.

* The wisdom of God is accessible to us now.

* Engaging with scripture shapes our understanding and actions.

About Hakeem

Hakeem is a biblical scholar, teacher, blogger, and researcher. He has served various communities across the United States and Canada through preaching, teaching, and research. He holds a Master’s of Theological and Biblical Studies from Western Seminary and is a Ph. D. candidate in New Testament Studies at Ridley College (Melbourne). He works as an Associate Scholar at BibleProject, and serves as the chaplain for the College Park Skyhawks. Lastly, he is an Academic Fellow with the Center for Hebraic Thought.

Summary

In this conversation, Danielle Strickland, James Sholl, and Dr. Hilary McBride explore the complex relationship between religion, mental health, and societal systems. They discuss how religion can serve as both a source of support and a potential source of harm, particularly when it becomes a toxic system that prioritizes itself over the well-being of individuals. The conversation delves into the nuances of how charismatic leadership can manipulate followers and the importance of understanding the disconnection that can occur within religious contexts, ultimately leading to a deeper exploration of identity and belonging. In this conversation, Danielle Strickland and Hillary McBride explore the profound connection between embodiment, spirituality, and trauma. They discuss how disconnection from our bodies can lead to various forms of suffering and how reconnecting with our physical selves can be a pathway to liberation and healing. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of recognizing the value of our bodies, understanding cultural narratives that devalue them, and the spiritual significance of listening to our bodies. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, they highlight practices for fostering a deeper connection with oneself and the world around us.

Takeaways

* Religion can be both a source of support and harm.

* Cultural practices around spirituality can disconnect us from our spiritual longings.

* Systems can serve their own purposes at the expense of individuals.

* Charismatic leaders can create environments that feel safe but are toxic.

* Attachment styles influence how individuals relate to systems.

* Disconnection from self can lead to compliance in toxic systems.

* Religious practices can exacerbate mental health issues for some.

* Understanding the sacred purpose of systems is crucial.

* Disconnection is a key factor in understanding oppression. Disconnection from the body can lead to suffering.

* Embodiment is a pathway to spiritual and political liberation.

* Recognizing the value of bodies is essential for healing.

* Cultural narratives often devalue the body, especially for women.

* Listening to our bodies can reveal deep truths about ourselves.

* Trauma can create a disconnect from our physical selves.

* Practices for embodiment can help reconnect with our bodies.

* Spirituality is intertwined with our physical existence.

* Memory is held in our bodies and influences our experiences.

* The body can be a source of wisdom and guidance.

Dr. Hillary McBride

"We are in desperate need of a new economic story."

Ched Myers

Summary

In this episode of the Right Side Up podcast, Danielle Strickland and James Sholl engage with Ched Myers to explore the interconnected themes of principalities and powers, biblical theology, activism, and social justice. They discuss the importance of apocalyptic literature as a form of resistance against oppressive systems, the role of the church in advocating for social justice, and the concept of Sabbath economics as a means of community engagement. The conversation emphasizes the need for practical steps towards resistance and change, encouraging listeners to reimagine economic narratives and engage in meaningful action.

Takeaways

* Ched Myers emphasizes the importance of discussing principalities and powers in relation to social justice.

* The conversation highlights the need for a holistic understanding of biblical theology and activism.

* Apocalyptic literature serves as a vital tool for resistance against oppressive systems.

* The church has a significant role in advocating for social justice and confronting empire.

* Sabbath economics is presented as a framework for community engagement and mutual aid.

* Ched Myers calls for a new economic story rooted in biblical principles.

* The podcast encourages listeners to engage with their local communities and resist economic injustice.

* Stories are essential for understanding our history and fighting against oppression.

* The conversation underscores the importance of recognizing the interconnectedness of faith and economics.

* Ched Myers invites listeners to join the ongoing river of social justice activism.

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Links

Chapters

00:00 Exploring Principalities and Powers

10:07 Ched Myers' Journey to Faith

17:10 The Role of Apocalyptic Literature

25:08 Sabbath Economics and Resistance

34:07 The Jubilee Tradition and Economic Justice

35:34 The Biblical Foundation of Mutual Aid

37:02 Jubilee Language in Luke's Gospel

38:29 Understanding Affluenza as a Disease

39:58 Jesus and the Rich: Unmasking Plutocracy

42:37 Restoring Kinship Through Redistribution

44:05 The Role of Scripture in Political Imagination

48:55 Practical Steps Towards Economic Justice

53:13 Investing in Community Development

54:59 Challenging the Monopoly Mentality

01:00:29 The Power of Stories in Social Justice