"We live in the tension between two worlds."

Bob Ekblad

Summary

In this conversation, Danielle Strickland, James Sholl, and Bob Ekblad delve into the complex themes of powers and principalities, exploring their nature, the role of Jesus in exposing them, and the implications for social justice and activism. They discuss the idea of redemption versus destruction of these powers, the finite nature of systems, and the call for Christians to resist and reform while living out their identities in Christ. The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing the limitations of earthly powers and the need for a deeper understanding of faith and action in the world.

Take-aways

* The powers and principalities are not just spiritual but also manifest in systems and institutions.

* Redemption does not mean that everything will be saved; some things must be destroyed.

* Jesus's authority is demonstrated through servanthood and sacrifice, not through power and dominance.

* The church must resist the temptation to equate political power with divine authority.

* The narrative of the Exodus illustrates the futility of trying to reform oppressive powers.

* Social justice efforts must be rooted in the understanding that God is the ultimate savior, not human systems.

* The church's identity should transcend national and ethnic boundaries, focusing on unity in Christ.

* Living out our faith means divesting from the powers that seek to control and dominate.

* The tension between the kingdom of God and earthly powers is escalating, requiring a faithful response.

* We must acknowledge the finite nature of our world while actively caring for creation.

Jesus's authority is demonstrated through servanthood and sacrifice, not through power and dominance.

Links:

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Context of the Conversation

02:42 Exploring Powers and Principalities

05:29 Redemption and Destruction of Powers

12:10 The Role of Jesus in Authority

18:21 The Dangers of Reforming Powers

27:47 The Finite Nature of Powers and Creation

33:34 Theological Reflections on Fear and Power

39:06 The Nature of Authority and the Role of Jesus

45:05 Living Out Our Heavenly Identities

51:19 Divesting from Powers and Principalities

57:08 Stewardship and the Call to Action

To reject conformity to this age (aion) is to actively resist patterns of domination that distort our humanity.

JR WOODWARD

Summary

In this episode of the Right Side Up podcast, hosts Danielle Strickland and James Sholl engage with JR Woodward, the National Director of the V3 Movement and author of 'The Scandal of Leadership.' They explore the burdens of leadership, the powers at play within institutions, and the temptations leaders face regarding identity and purpose. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, the deceptive nature of powers, and the necessity of imitating Christ in leadership. Woodward discusses the scapegoat mechanism and the call to resistance against systemic issues, urging leaders to reflect deeply on their roles and the impact of their decisions.

Takeaways

* The burden of leadership often feels heavy and requires deep reflection.

* Understanding the powers at play in leadership can help navigate challenges.

* Institutions can shape leaders in ways that may not align with their values.

* Living in the world requires discernment to not be of the world.

* Leaders face temptations that challenge their identity and purpose.

* The powers can be deceptive, leading to justifications for unethical behavior.

* Imitating Christ is essential for authentic leadership.

* The scapegoat mechanism can create temporary peace but leads to deeper issues.

* Community and proximity to people are vital for effective leadership.

* Resistance to the powers is a necessary call for leaders today.

Links:

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Right Side Up Podcast

02:26 The Burden of Leadership and Writing The Scandal of Leadership

06:12 Understanding Powers and Principalities in Leadership

10:02 The Role of Institutions and Ideologies

14:11 The Temptations of Leadership and Identity

18:16 Unmasking the Powers in Today's Context

22:08 The Call to Church Leaders and Overcoming Evil

29:51 The Impact of Interpretation on Scripture

31:10 Navigating Deception and Humility in Leadership

32:11 Understanding Mimetic Desire and Its Implications

35:33 The Scapegoat Mechanism in Society

39:10 Imitating Christ: A Path to Overcoming Powers

42:59 The Role of Honor and Identity in Leadership

46:35 Proximity to People: A Key to Authentic Leadership

50:40 The Dangers of Exceptionalism in Leadership

53:34 Faithful Resistance: Embracing the Journey of Self-Emptying

56:39 educational-intro-high-short.wav

In this engaging conversation, Danielle Strickland, James Sholl, and Aaron White explore the themes of powers and principalities, the harrowing of hell, and the complexities of the gospel. They discuss the sacredness of life, the corruption of good systems, and the idolatry of self, while emphasizing the importance of aligning with the marginalized and understanding the true nature of God's power. The conversation challenges traditional views on hell and encourages a deeper exploration of liberation theology and the good news of Jesus. In this conversation, the speakers explore the themes of death, judgment, and the nature of hell, emphasizing the influence of Dante's imagery on contemporary beliefs. They discuss the biblical stories of the rich man and Lazarus, the concept of refinement and transformation, and the significance of Jesus' descent into hell as a means of liberation. The dialogue also touches on the nature of free will, the role of mercy in justice, and the importance of recognizing and liberating those trapped in shadows of despair. Ultimately, they advocate for a vision of good news that emphasizes love, liberation, and the relentless pursuit of God.

Takeaways

* The power of babies serves as a reminder of sacredness.

* Powers and principalities are often misunderstood in evangelicalism.

* The harrowing of hell reveals the depths of God's love and justice.

* Good systems can become corrupted and serve self-interests.

* Idolatry often stems from a desire for self-preservation.

* Jesus invites us to die to our self-serving agendas.

* The true power of the gospel liberates and transforms lives.

* Understanding hell requires a nuanced theological perspective.

* Liberation theology emphasizes the voices of the marginalized.

* The conversation challenges traditional views on God's judgment and mercy. We often create an allegiance with death and judgment without realizing it.

* Dante's portrayal of hell has shaped modern Christian beliefs.

* The story of the rich man and Lazarus illustrates a great reversal.

* Refinement and transformation are essential aspects of faith.

* Jesus' descent into hell signifies victory over death and liberation for captives.

* Free will is directed towards the good, but many remain trapped in shadows.

* Jesus is the bait that leads to the liberation of souls from hell.

* Justice is ultimately trumped by mercy in God's economy.

* Evil is a shadow, and light must shine to remove it.

* The call to action is to harrow hell and liberate those in despair.

Titles

* Exploring Powers and Principalities

* The Harrowing of Hell Explained

* Understanding the Gospel's True Power

* The Corruption of Good Systems

* Idolatry and Self-Preservation

* The Invitation to Die with Jesus