Tag: Bible

The Conversion of the Vikings: The “Monomyth” and Finding Bridges to the Gospel for Missionary Encounters

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In this episode of the Theology for the People Podcast, I speak with Pastor Stephen Pomeroy. Stephen is a pastor at White Fields Community Church, and he is the host of the Viking Legacy and Lore podcast.

Together, we explore the fascinating story of the conversion of the Vikings to Christianity. Stephen shares how his personal heritage sparked an interest in Viking history and mythology, and how he approaches it from a Christian perspective.

Together we discuss:
• What the Viking Age was and how it ended
• The political and spiritual dynamics behind Viking conversion to Christianity
• The concept of the monomyth and how stories across cultures point to the true story of Jesus
• Parallels between Norse mythology and biblical truth
• Lessons for engaging neo-paganism and modern spiritual seekers

This conversation blends history, theology, and mission — showing how God’s truth reaches across cultures and centuries.

📌 Subscribe for more episodes of Theology for the People where we bring theological conversations down to earth in a way that is understandable, practical, and engaging.

Books mentioned in this episode:

For more on the “monomyth,” and the conversion of C.S. Lewis, check out these articles:

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Click here to listen to the episode, or listen in the embedded player below.

The Conversion of the Vikings: Finding Bridges to the Gospel for Missionary Encounters – Theology for the People

In this episode of Theology for the People, Pastor Nick Cady is joined by Pastor Stephen Pomeroy from White Fields Community Church to explore the fascinating story of the conversion of the Vikings.Stephen, who also hosts the Viking Legacy and Lore podcast, shares how his personal heritage sparked an interest in Viking history and mythology, and how he approaches it from a Christian perspective. Together we discuss:What the Viking Age was and how it endedThe political and spiritual dynamics behind Viking conversion to ChristianityThe concept of the monomyth and how stories across cultures point to the true story of JesusParallels between Norse mythology and biblical truthLessons for engaging neo-paganism and modern spiritual seekersThis conversation blends history, theology, and mission — showing how God’s truth reaches across cultures and centuries.📌 Subscribe for more episodes of Theology for the People where we bring theological conversations down to earth in a way that is understandable, practical, and engaging.Visit TheologyforthePeople.com for more helpful articles and many topics related to Theology.

I have recently started posting more on the Theology for the People YouTube channel. You can watch this interview on video here:

When War Scatters the Church: Lessons from Ukraine – with Sharon Markey

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In this episode of the Theology for the People Podcast, I speak with Sharon Markey — missionary, pastor’s wife, and author of the forthcoming book Finding Home Again.

Sharon shares her family’s story of serving in Ukraine for nearly two decades, planting churches in Kyiv, and how the war suddenly uprooted their lives.

We discuss:
• What it means to be a refugee and how displacement affects faith and identity
• The church’s role in caring for hurting and displaced people
• How Ukrainians are bringing gospel light into post-Christian Europe
• The reality of life in Ukraine today and how Christians can pray and help
• Sharon’s hope for her new book and how it can inspire compassion and faith

👉 Learn more about Sharon’s book at sharontmarkey.com
👉 Support their ministry: bridgeua.org

Follow Theology for the People on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@theologyforthepeople

Click here to listen to the episode, or listen in the embedded player below.

When War Scatters the Church: Lessons from Ukraine – with Sharon Markey – Theology for the People

In this episode of Theology for the People, Nick Cady talks with Sharon Markey — missionary, pastor’s wife, and author of the forthcoming book Finding Home Again. Sharon shares her family’s story of serving in Ukraine for nearly two decades, planting churches in Kyiv, and how the war suddenly uprooted their lives.We discuss:What it means to be a refugee and how displacement affects faith and identityThe church’s role in caring for hurting and displaced peopleHow Ukrainians are bringing gospel light into post-Christian EuropeThe reality of life in Ukraine today and how Christians can pray and helpSharon’s hope for her new book and how it can inspire compassion and faith👉 Learn more about Sharon’s book at sharontmarkey.com👉 Support their ministry: bridgeua.orgNew episodes release every Monday. Subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations!

I have recently started posting more on the Theology for the People YouTube channel. You can watch this interview on video here:

Why We Need to Think About Heaven More (Not Less) – with Matt McCollough

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In this episode of the Theology for the People Podcast, I speak with pastor and author Matt McCullough to discuss his new book Remember Heaven: Meditations on the World to Come for Life in the Meantime.

Building on the themes of his previous book, Remember Death, Matt explores how the biblical vision of heaven is meant to shape our lives here and now—not just as a future hope, but as a present motivation for rest, urgency, and faithful discipleship.

We talk about:

  • How our cultural views of heaven often miss the God-centered reality the Bible presents
  • Why remembering heaven matters in a distracted and comfort-driven world
  • How heaven gives us peace in anxiety, urgency in mission, and love in community
  • What the Bible actually says (and doesn’t say) about the afterlife
  • How the local church functions as a “colony of heaven” in the country of death

This is a hopeful, practical conversation that will encourage you to set your mind on things above and live today in light of eternity.

Follow Theology for the People on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@theologyforthepeople

Click here to listen to the episode, or listen in the embedded player below.

Why We Need to Think About Heaven More (Not Less) – with Matt McCollough – Theology for the People

In this episode of Theology for the People, Nick Cady sits down with pastor and author Matt McCullough to discuss his new book Remember Heaven. Building on the themes of his previous book Remember Death, Matt explores how the biblical vision of heaven is meant to shape our lives here and now—not just as a future hope, but as a present motivation for rest, urgency, and faithful discipleship.Together they talk about:How our cultural views of heaven often miss the God-centered reality the Bible presentsWhy remembering heaven matters in a distracted and comfort-driven worldHow heaven gives us peace in anxiety, urgency in mission, and love in communityWhat the Bible actually says (and doesn’t say) about the afterlifeHow the local church functions as a “colony of heaven” in the country of deathThis is a hopeful, practical conversation that will encourage you to set your mind on things above and live today in light of eternity.📘 Remember Heaven is available now wherever books are sold.🔗 Learn more about Matt and his ministry at edgefieldnashville.org🔗 Visit TheologyforthePeople.com for articles and content

I have recently started posting more on the Theology for the People YouTube channel. You can watch this interview on video here:

Is Physical Fitness a Spiritual Discipline? – A Theology of Exercise: with David Mathis

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In this episode of the Theology for the People Podcast, I speak with David Mathis, author of A Little Theology of Exercise: Enjoying Christ in Body and Soul, to explore the spiritual significance of physical health.

This conversation looks at the theology of the body, and how caring for our bodies can actually deepen our discipleship, improve our service to others, and shape how we glorify God with our entire being.

We also explore cultural trends around fitness, how to avoid idolatry of the body, and how anyone — regardless of age or ability — can engage in God-honoring movement.

Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or someone who avoids the gym at all costs, this episode is a helpful and grace-filled look at how physical exercise fits into the Christian life.

Follow Theology for the People on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@theologyforthepeople

Click here to listen to the episode, or listen in the embedded player below.

Is Physical Fitness a Spiritual Discipline? – A Theology of Exercise: with David Mathis – Theology for the People

In this episode of Theology for the People, Nick Cady speaks with David Mathis, author of A Little Theology of Exercise: Enjoying Christ in Body and Soul, to explore the spiritual significance of physical health. This conversation looks at the theology of the body, and how caring for our bodies can actually deepen our discipleship, improve our service to others, and shape how we glorify God with our entire being.We also explore cultural trends around fitness, how to avoid idolatry of the body, and how anyone — regardless of age or ability — can engage in God-honoring movement. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or someone who avoids the gym at all costs, this episode is a helpful and grace-filled look at how physical exercise fits into the Christian life.Visit TheologyforthePeople.com for articles and more content and make sure to subscribe to the channel and share the episode with someone who would benefit from it!

I have recently started posting more on the Theology for the People YouTube channel. You can watch this interview on video here:

Theology of Disability: The Image of God & the Mission of the Church – with Sandra Peoples

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In this episode of the Theology for the People Podcast, I speak with Sandra Peoples — a disability ministry consultant, author, and pastor’s wife — to discuss her new book: Accessible Church: A Gospel-Centered Vision for Including People with Disabilities and Their Families

Sandra shares from personal experience as both a sister and mother of individuals with disabilities, and she casts a compelling vision for churches to become accessible and inclusive to people of all ability levels.

They explore the theological foundations for understanding disability, the relational and spiritual impacts of accessibility, and practical ways churches of any size can serve individuals and families affected by disability.

Whether you’re a pastor, ministry leader, or church member, this conversation will challenge and equip you to take steps toward a more inclusive and grace-filled church culture.

👉 Learn more about Sandra’s work and resources at sandrapeoples.com

Follow Theology for the People on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@theologyforthepeople

Click here to listen to the episode, or listen in the embedded player below.

Theology of Disability: the Image of God & the Mission of the Church – with Sandra Peoples – Theology for the People

In this episode, Nick Cady is joined by Sandra Peoples — a disability ministry consultant, author, and pastor's wife — to discuss her new book: Accessible Church: A Gospel-Centered Vision for Including People with Disabilities and Their FamiliesSandra shares from personal experience as both a sister and mother of individuals with disabilities, and she casts a compelling vision for churches to become accessible and inclusive to people of all ability levels.They explore the theological foundations for understanding disability, the relational and spiritual impacts of accessibility, and practical ways churches of any size can serve individuals and families affected by disability. Whether you're a pastor, ministry leader, or church member, this conversation will challenge and equip you to take steps toward a more inclusive and grace-filled church culture.👉 Learn more about Sandra’s work and resources at sandrapeoples.comFind articles and more content at TheologyforthePeople.com

I have recently started posting more on the Theology for the People YouTube channel. You can watch this interview on video here:

The Evangelistic Legacy of Tim Keller – with Matt Smethurst

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What is the lasting legacy of the late Tim Keller? What enduring contributions did he make to the church and to theological discuss?

In this episode of the Theology for the People Podcast, I am joined by Pastor Matt Smethurst to talk about his new book, Tim Keller on the Christian Life.

Matt shares about his ministry journey, why Tim Keller’s legacy is still so valuable for the church today, and what he discovered while sifting through Keller’s sermons, books, and endnotes. They discuss Keller’s approach to contextualization, evangelism, friendship, and what it means to taste and see that the Lord is good.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of Keller’s work or just curious about his influence, this conversation will deepen your appreciation for how the gospel changes everything.

Show Notes:

  • Matt’s background in missions and church planting
  • Responding to recent critiques of Keller’s ministry
  • How Keller’s focus on gospel clarity shaped his preaching
  • What surprised Matt most in Keller’s work
  • Lessons for pastors, leaders, and everyday believers

📚 Check out Matt’s books:

Follow Theology for the People on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@theologyforthepeople

Click here to listen to the episode, or listen in the embedded player below.

The Evangelistic Legacy of Tim Keller – with Matt Smethurst – Theology for the People

In this episode host Nick Cady talks with Matt Smethurst about his new book Tim Keller on the Christian Life. Matt shares about his ministry journey, why Tim Keller’s legacy is still so valuable for the church today, and what he discovered while sifting through Keller’s sermons, books, and endnotes. They discuss Keller’s approach to contextualization, evangelism, friendship, and what it means to taste and see that the Lord is good. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Keller’s work or just curious about his influence, this conversation will deepen your appreciation for how the gospel changes everything.Show Notes:Matt’s background in missions and church plantingResponding to recent critiques of Keller’s ministryHow Keller’s focus on gospel clarity shaped his preachingWhat surprised Matt most in Keller’s workLessons for pastors, leaders, and everyday believers📚 Check out Matt’s books:Tim Keller on the Christian LifeBefore You Open Your BibleBefore You Share Your FaithDeacons: How They Serve and Strengthen the ChurchVisit theologyforthepeople.com for articles and more content.

I have recently started posting more on the Theology for the People YouTube channel. You can watch this interview on video here:

Scrolling Ourselves to Death: Discipleship in the Digital Age – with Brett McCracken

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What does it mean to follow Jesus in an age of constant distraction and digital overload?

In this episode of the Theology for the People Podcast, I am joined by Brett McCracken — senior editor at The Gospel Coalition and editor of the new book Scrolling Ourselves to Death: Reclaiming Life in a Digital Age.

Drawing inspiration from Neil Postman’s classic Amusing Ourselves to Death, this conversation explores how modern technology is shaping our souls, eroding our attention, and forming a plausibility structure that makes it harder to believe in transcendent truth.

Brett and I discuss:

  • How social media is forming us spiritually
  • The dangers of disembodied discipleship
  • Why embodied church gatherings still matter
  • How the internet fosters epistemological chaos
  • Practical ways churches and families can reclaim real life in the digital age

I hope this episode will challenge and encourage you to think more deeply about how you engage with technology.

Follow Theology for the People on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@theologyforthepeople

Click here to listen to the episode, or listen in the embedded player below.

Scrolling Ourselves to Death: Discipleship in the Digital Age – with Brett McCracken – Theology for the People

What does it mean to follow Jesus in an age of constant distraction and digital overload?In this episode of Theology for the People, Nick Cady is joined by Brett McCracken — senior editor at The Gospel Coalition and editor of the new book Scrolling Ourselves to Death. Drawing inspiration from Neil Postman’s classic Amusing Ourselves to Death, this conversation explores how modern technology is shaping our souls, eroding our attention, and forming a plausibility structure that makes it harder to believe in transcendent truth.They discuss:How social media is forming us spirituallyThe dangers of disembodied discipleshipWhy embodied church gatherings still matterHow the internet fosters epistemological chaosPractical ways churches and families can reclaim real life in the digital ageWhether you’re a pastor, parent, or just a thoughtful Christian navigating life with a smartphone, this episode will challenge and encourage you to think more deeply about how you engage with technology.📘 Get the book Scrolling Ourselves to DeathVisit TheologyForThePeople.com

I have recently started posting more on the Theology for the People YouTube channel. You can watch this interview on video here:

How God’s Grace Meets Us at Rock Bottom: Ray Ortlund on Isaiah 57:15

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In this episode of the Theology for the People Podcast, I am joined by pastor and author Ray Ortlund Jr. to talk about how God’s grace meets us in our lowest moments.

Ray  is the president of Renewal Ministries, and the pastor to pastors at Immanuel Church in Nashville. He is an Old Testament scholar, has taught as a professor, and was a contributor to the ESV Study Bible.

Expositing Isaiah 57:15 and drawing from his own personal experiences of betrayal, regret, loneliness, and loss, Ray explains how the gospel offers real hope for crushed and broken people.

Topics include:
• How to heal from betrayal
• What to do when you’re trapped by your own sin
• Why loneliness is a spiritual crisis
• How the doctrine of justification by faith brings healing
• What it means to die well — and live in light of resurrection

This conversation is filled with biblical encouragement for anyone struggling or walking alongside those who are.

Find Ray’s book here: Good News at Rock Bottom: Finding God When the Pain Goes Deep and Hope Seems Lost

Follow Theology for the People on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@theologyforthepeople

Click here to listen to the episode, or listen in the embedded player below.

How God's Grace Meets Us at Rock Bottom: Ray Ortlund on Isaiah 57:15 – Theology for the People

In this episode, Nick Cady is joined by pastor and author Ray Ortlund Jr. to talk about how God's grace meets us in our lowest moments.Ray  is the president of Renewal Ministries, and the pastor to pastors at Immanuel Church in Nashville. He is an Old Testament scholar, has taught as a professor, and was a contributor to the ESV Study Bible.Drawing from Isaiah 57:15 and Ray’s personal experiences of betrayal, regret, loneliness, and loss, they explore how the gospel offers real hope for crushed and broken people.Topics include:How to heal from betrayalWhat to do when you’re trapped by your own sinWhy loneliness is a spiritual crisisHow the doctrine of justification by faith brings healingWhat it means to die well — and live in light of resurrectionThis conversation is filled with biblical encouragement for anyone struggling or walking alongside those who are.Find Ray's book here: Good News at Rock Bottom: Finding God When the Pain Goes Deep and Hope Seems LostCheck out the Theology for the People website at theologyforthepeople.com

I have also started posting more on the Theology for the People YouTube channel. You can watch this interview on video here:

Unlocking Scripture: Six Keys for Faithful Bible Interpretation – with Jon Nielson

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Everyone who reads the Bible engages in interpretation whether they realize it or not – so how do we do it faithfully and well?

In this episode, Pastor Jon Nielsen of Christ Presbyterian Church in Wheaton, Illinois joins to discuss his latest book, Understanding God’s Word, the third installment in his Theology Basics series. 

John shares his background in ministry, from campus work at Princeton to serving in Wheaton, and unpacks the essentials of biblical hermeneutics. 

He introduces six key tools—Context, Construction, Christ, Clarity, Courtroom, and Crux—for interpreting and applying Scripture faithfully. We also explore common mistakes in Bible study, the doctrine of the clarity of Scripture, and how believers can approach God’s Word with confidence.

Follow Theology for the People on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@theologyforthepeople

Click here to listen to the episode, or listen in the embedded player below.

Unlocking Scripture: Six Keys for Faithful Bible Interpretation – with Jon Nielson – Theology for the People

Everyone who reads the Bible engages in interpretation whether they realize it or not – so how do we do it faithfully and well?In this episode, Pastor Jon Nielsen of Christ Presbyterian Church in Wheaton, IL joins to discuss his latest book, Understanding God's Word, the third installment in his Theology Basics series. John shares his background in ministry, from campus work at Princeton to serving in Wheaton, and unpacks the essentials of biblical hermeneutics. He introduces six key tools—Context, Construction, Christ, Clarity, Courtroom, and Crux—for interpreting and applying Scripture faithfully. We also explore common mistakes in Bible study, the doctrine of the clarity of Scripture, and how believers can approach God’s Word with confidence.Follow Theology for the People on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theologyforthepeople

I have also started posting more on the Theology for the People YouTube channel. You can watch this interview on video here:

Why Epistemology Matters More than Ever – with Miles DeBenedictis

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In this episode of the Theology for the People Podcast, I am joined by Pastor Miles DiBenedictus of ⁠Cross Connection Church⁠ in Escondido, California.

Miles is a PhD student at Southern Seminary studying AI ethics, and in this discussion, they explore the topic of epistemology: what it is, why it matters, and how it affects everything from how we read the Bible to how we navigate truth in a world of misinformation and digital confusion. 

Whether you’re new to the term or already intrigued by philosophy, this conversation will help you think more clearly about how we know what we know—and why that matters for following Jesus today.

Click here to listen to the episode, or listen in the embedded player below.

Why Epistemology Matters More Than Ever – with Miles DeBenedictis – Theology for the People

In this episode, Pastor Nick Cady interviews Pastor Miles DiBenedictus of Cross Connection Church in Escondido, California.Miles is a PhD student at Southern Seminary studying AI ethics, and in this discussion, they explore the topic of epistemology: what it is, why it matters, and how it affects everything from how we read the Bible to how we navigate truth in a world of misinformation and digital confusion. Whether you're new to the term or already intrigued by philosophy, this conversation will help you think more clearly about how we know what we know—and why that matters for following Jesus today.Follow Miles on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pastormilesVisit Miles' website: https://pastormiles.com/

I have also started posting more on the Theology for the People YouTube channel. You can watch this interview on video here: