In this Theology Lab episode Greg and Scott talk to Brad East, theology professor at Abilene Christian University. Brad recently published (September/October 2025) an article in Christianity Today called 'The Way We Debate Atonement Is a Mess.' It tracks why some people love penal substitutionary atonement (PSA), why some are harshly critical of this idea of salvation, and then steps back and asks how we can have a better conversation. Greg, Scott and Brad get into a host of other conversations about the Bible and interpreting Scripture and theology, like whether penal substitution could ever become the definitive expression of salvation or whether there is something so mysterious about the cross and resurrection of Jesus that defies a singular explanation.

Check out Brad's article at CT here: https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/09/penal-substitutionary-atonement-debate-theology/

Also, Brad recently published the book, Letters to a Future Saint, available here: https://www.eerdmans.com/9780802883872/letters-to-a-future-saint/

Podcast includes original music ("Imagination") written by Dean Payla, produced by PALA.

In this Scripture & Tradition Theology Lab episode (podcast version only!), Theology Lab's host Scott Rice shares a sermon relevant to this series. The sermon is on engaging the challenging parts of the book of Revelation, Scripture's final book that contains images of wild beasts, great destruction and cosmic warfare. Perhaps more difficult than some of this imagery is the portrayal of retributive justice and vengeance, the culmination of a much awaited new creation through violence and bloodshed. How should we understand these different elements of Revelation? Can a wider reading of Scripture or a perspective on the incarnation of Jesus, also an important theme in Revelation, assist us? Scott explores these questions and more -- all in hopes of reading sacred Scripture to become more like Christ, discern God's will, and become a people of greater hope in what God will do.

#revelation #scripture #theology

Learn more about Riverwalk church (Brookline, MA) here: https://riverwalkboston.church/

Podcast includes original music ("Imagination") written by Dean Payla, produced by PALA.

In this Theology Lab podcast Bible scholar, author of Reading While Black, and Holy Post podcast host Esau McCaulley invites us to read the Bible through the lens of ethnic and cultural diversity, showing how Scripture speaks powerfully into today’s conversations on race, identity, and justice. What does it mean to bring your whole cultural self to the task of Bible interpretation? McCaulley invites viewers to embrace a more inclusive, faithful approach to biblical study—one rooted in the rich traditions of the global church. If you’re interested in Christian faith, reading the Bible, and exploring how theology and diversity intersect, this video offers fresh insight and deep encouragement.

Check out this edited volume, a biblical commentary, on the New Testament here: https://www.ivpress.com/the-new-testament-in-color

👍 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more on faith, Scripture, and cultural identity. #EsauMcCaulley #BibleInColor #BibleStudy #TheologicalLearning

Podcast includes original music ("Imagination") written by Dean Payla, produced by PALA.