With All Due Respect

Episode Summary: In this special bonus episode of "With All Due Respect," Megan Powell Du Toit and Michael Jensen dive into a discussion about Christopher Nolan's 2026 film, "The Odyssey." This adaptation of Homer's ancient Greek epic is dissected through the lenses of both the original text's themes and contemporary interpretations, offering listeners a rich tapestry of theological and cultural insights. Key Takeaways: Modern Adaptations of Classic Epics : Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey" provokes dialogue not only about its faithfulness to Homer's epic but also its reinterpretation in a contemporary context. Themes of Guilt and Atonement : The film explores psychological and spiritual depth, highlighting Odysseus's journey through guilt and atonement as a reflection of modern sensibilities influenced by Christian thought. Hospitality's Role in Society : The concept of hospitality is critically examined, both as a part of Homer's world and in its implications for today's global and often divided landscapes. Cultural Relevance and Critique : The discourse reflects on how adaptations resonate with current socio-political climates, posing questions about home, belonging, and societal norms. Lewis and Tolkien's Influence : There is a discussion on how ancient longings reflected in texts like "The Odyssey" find answers in the Christian gospel, drawing parallels with the works of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. Notable Quotes: "When you're using source material like this… I'm really, I really enjoy a reworking." – Megan Powell Du Toit "The goodies turn out to be the baddies… evil lurking in your own heart." – Michael Jensen "Guilt and atonement… how Christian are those themes." – Michael Jensen "Home is a place that is safe for you and yours, but also must have that permeable border." – Megan Powell Du Toit "There is no real atonement possible, even in Nolan's epic." – Megan Powell Du Toit See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our highest listened to episode (published 12th October 2023, titled Only Human). It's been almost 3 years since the film dropped and these two things stand out for us: Creator/creature theme: In 2026, AI personhood and consciousness is a live legal and theological debate, giving this creator-creature discussion fresh relevance. Euthanasia theme: Voluntary assisted dying is actively expanding across Australia in 2026, making this Ecclesiastes-death exchange a current pastoral conversation. Enjoy the conversation! In light of the Barbie movie phenomenon, our hosts take stock of Greta Gerwig's divisive blockbuster, ponder its themes on humanity, and whether it will become an essential existential text. Old Testament expert Dr George Athas then joins the show to discuss the film, its relationship to the book of Ecclesiastes, and how death plays a role in our understanding of being human. Key Takeaways: Existential Themes in "Barbie": The movie tackles deep questions of identity and mortality, using the narrative of a doll to explore what it truly means to be human. Ecclesiastes' Pessimism: Dr. George Athas highlights the pessimistic yet honest portrayal of life's transient nature and inequities in Ecclesiastes, drawing parallels with modern existential storytelling. Death as a Central Theme: Both "Barbie" and Ecclesiastes focus significantly on death, pondering its implications on how we perceive and live our lives. Complexity of Human Existence: The discussion reveals the intricate layers of living with awareness of mortality, suggesting a profound connection between biblical and contemporary explorations of existence. Constructive Theological Engagement: Dr. Athas emphasizes the importance of listening to existential despair as expressed in texts like Ecclesiastes, allowing it to inform a compassionate, gospel-centered response. Notable Quotes: "Ecclesiastes sees death as the unavoidable destiny of every person. It's the great leveler." – Dr. George Athas "In a world in which sin is entered, you don't want access to the Tree of Life. It's not a good thing." – Megan Powell du Toit "The person who wrote Ecclesiastes, I call him Qohelet, he is very upset with the way that the world works and he doesn't hold out much hope for it." – Dr. George Athas "We have the science to extend life indefinitely, but not the wisdom to know when actually that's pointless." – Michael Jensen "Death brings everything to an end. It's dehumanizing in Ecclesiastes' view." – Dr. George Athas See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This season of With All Due Respect is sponsored by Morling College, a Christ-centred higher-education institution shaped by its Baptist heritage and broad evangelical vision. Morling is committed to rigorous theological study, deep spiritual formation, and learning how to engage faithfully and thoughtfully with difference. Study options include ministry and theology, counselling, chaplaincy, and education. Download a course guide to explore whether Morling is the right place for your next step. Interested in pursuing ministry, counselling, chaplaincy, postgraduate education — or simply eager to dive deeper into God’s Word? Register for Open Night on Thursday, 4 June and discover how your faith and calling can come together at Morling College. About the Guest: George Gittoes is an acclaimed Australian artist, photographer, filmmaker, and writer known for work centred on conflict zones. For more than four decades, he has documented the realities of war, and he is widely recognised as a leading Australian war artist. He co-founded the Yellow House artists’ collective in Sydney in 1969/70 and later helped establish the Yellow House in Jalalabad, Afghanistan, in 2011. Gittoes has won the Blake Prize for Religious Art twice, the Wynne Prize, and the Sydney Peace Prize in 2015. Key Takeaways: Atrocities are deeply rooted in crimes against humanity, involving extreme acts of cruelty and violence that demand global attention and action. George Gittoes' experiences in conflict zones highlight the power of art to restore dignity and foster peace in war-torn regions. The episode underscores the significance of understanding human dignity through a theological lens, emphasising creativity over destruction. The film "Nuremberg" explores the historic trial of Nazi war criminals and the psychological complexity behind such heinous acts. Discourse around global justice systems reveals both flaws and the essential need for mechanisms to address and prevent future atrocities. Notable Quotes: "It's only art that can save humanity." - George Gittoes "When you dehumanise others, you're actually reducing yourself." - Megan Paul du Trois "I always believe that the good angels are going to win." - George Gittoes "The justification is, I assume the actions of the Israeli government make, make the killing of Jews anywhere justifiable." - Michael Jensen "He's fascinated and attracted as well as repelled by the character who is charming and intelligent and yet deeply evil." - Michael Jensen Resources: George Gittoes' Official Website See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This season of With All Due Respect is sponsored by Morling College, a Christ-centred higher-education institution shaped by its Baptist heritage and broad evangelical vision. Morling is committed to rigorous theological study, deep spiritual formation, and learning how to engage faithfully and thoughtfully with difference. Study options include ministry and theology, counselling, chaplaincy, and education. Download a course guide to explore whether Morling is the right place for your next step. Interested in pursuing ministry, counselling, chaplaincy, postgraduate education — or simply eager to dive deeper into God’s Word? Register for Open Night on Thursday, 4 June and discover how your faith and calling can come together at Morling College. About the Guest: Dr. Nijay Gupta is a prominent New Testament scholar and the Professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary. He has authored multiple influential books such as "A Beginner's Guide to New Testament Studies," "Paul the Language of Faith," and the forthcoming "Pour for the World: A Grounded Vision for Finding Meaning in this Life, Not Just the Next." Dr. Gupta co-chairs the Pauline Theology Seminar of the Institute for Biblical Research and contributes as a senior translator for the New Living Translation, showcasing his deep engagement with biblical texts and his commitment to accessible theological education. Key Takeaways: The distinction between salvation gospel and kingdom gospel can unify a holistic view of the Gospel's implications for individuals and creation. Dr. Nijay Gupta argues for a "grounded vision" of the Gospel, integrating theological insights with real-world applications to combat escapism. The resurrection is a revolutionary concept impacting both spiritual beliefs and practical approaches to life, highlighting the importance of embodying hope and new creation. The film "On the Waterfront" serves as a cultural lens through which the sermon of standing against injustice is presented, mirroring Gospel teachings on moral action. Insights on articulating faith in public spheres emphasize the necessity of adapting Gospel communication to engage effectively with diverse audiences and contexts. Notable Quotes: He says, taken together, we can infer from 1 Corinthians 15, 3 to 5, Romans 1, 14 and 2 Timothy 2, 8. The gospel is both about the person and work of Christ. God promised in the scriptures that he would renew creation, restore Israel. The gospel is the good news that God has made these promises good in Jesus, the Messiah and Lord Jesus died and rose for the purpose of atoning for sins. And through faith in him and his work, believers are reconciled to God. The new age has been launched and God has revealed his saving righteousness in the gospel so that he justifies and delivers persons from the penalty and pain, power of sin and death. - Mike Bird definition of the Gospel "You know, some people think we were made for heaven and not earth, but we were actually made for heaven on earth." — Nijay Gupta "The resurrection body of Jesus is proof of life, that new creation is coming now." — Nijay Gupta See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This season of With All Due Respect is sponsored by Morling College, a Christ-centred higher-education institution shaped by its Baptist heritage and broad evangelical vision. Morling is committed to rigorous theological study, deep spiritual formation, and learning how to engage faithfully and thoughtfully with difference. Study options include ministry and theology, counselling, chaplaincy, and education. Download a course guide to explore whether Morling is the right place for your next step. In an age marked by political polarisation, moral confusion, and deep mistrust of institutions, what does it mean to live well together? Are we primarily citizens of the state, autonomous individuals, or something else entirely? Join Michael at the 27th Annual Tinsley Lecture on 21 May as he explores the distinctive political vision offered by Christian faith in Subjects and Citizens – What Christianity Offers a Fractured Public Square . About the Guest: Professor Maria O’Sullivan is an Associate Professor at Deakin Law School whose expertise spans public law, human rights law, and refugee law. Her scholarship has been cited by the High Court of Australia and the Court of Justice of the European Union, and her current research includes the law of protest and its human rights implications Key Takeaways: Engaging in protests can be seen as a sort of communicative act, and the episode explores how Christians might balance respecting authority with participating in protests. Professor Maria O'Sullivan outlines the legal landscape of protest laws in Australia, revealing differences in state legislations and their practical implications on the right to peaceful assembly. The hosts discuss the potential hazards and moral considerations Christians must contemplate when deciding to join or abstain from protests. The 2014 film "Selma" is explored as a cinematic representation of how strategic, nonviolent protest led by Martin Luther King Jr. played a vital role in progressing civil rights. Historical and current contexts are evaluated to understand the role that protests play in democracy and societal change. Notable Quotes: "It's a moment of voice for the voiceless." - Michael Jensen on the significance of protests. "There's a difference between something being performative and something being insincere." - Megan Powell du Toit on the nature of protests. "You have the right to peaceful assembly, but there are exceptions… there has to be some proportionality." - Professor Maria O'Sullivan on the balance between protest and law. "Protest, sort of the embodied nature of protest, I think, is something that's universal." - Megan Powell du Toit on the fundamental importance of protest. "Even if a couple of people in a protest are violent, that does not make the whole protest violent." - Professor Maria O'Sullivan on defining peaceful assembly. Resources: Deakin Law School "Selma" 2014 film directed by Ava DuVernay See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This season of With All Due Respect is sponsored by Morling College, a Christ-centred higher-education institution shaped by its Baptist heritage and broad evangelical vision. Morling is committed to rigorous theological study, deep spiritual formation, and learning how to engage faithfully and thoughtfully with difference. Study options include ministry and theology, counselling, chaplaincy, and education. Download a course guide to explore whether Morling is the right place for your next step. In an age marked by political polarisation, moral confusion, and deep mistrust of institutions, what does it mean to live well together? Are we primarily citizens of the state, autonomous individuals, or something else entirely? Join Michael at the 27th Annual Tinsley Lecture on 21 May as he explores the distinctive political vision offered by Christian faith in Subjects and Citizens – What Christianity Offers a Fractured Public Square . Key Takeaways: The anxiety surrounding parenting may be tied to societal pressures and cultural expectations, exacerbated by digital advancements and social media comparisons. Effective parenting often involves striking a balance between discipline and nurturing, a strategy supported by research on authoritative parenting. Vulnerability and authenticity in parenting, including open conversations about difficult topics, can foster a healthy family environment. Modern parents face unique challenges compared to previous generations, necessitating new methods and flexibility in parenting styles. Engaging in meaningful discussions with children about important life topics, like faith and personal responsibility, is crucial for their development and character building. Notable Quotes: "Parenting has become a sort of visible metric of our sanctification." - Michael Jensen "We are parenting our children for this life and for the people that they interact with." - Collett Smart "We need to let go of expectations we had for them. Those are gone now." - Collett Smart "Parenting is a school for our own discipleship." - Michael Jensen "Allowing our children to experience some discomfort, but then supporting them through that." - Collett Smart Resources: Her Podcast: Raising Teens with Collett Smart Collett Smart's Book: They'll Be Okay: 15 Conversations to Help Your Child Through Troubled Times See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Producer's note: In case the title has stirred up some strong emotions, women account for 75-80% of this genre . Professor Catharine Lumby is an Australian academic, author and journalist, and is currently Chair of the Department of Media and Communications at the University of Sydney. Before transitioning to academia, Lumby had an extensive career in journalism, working as a feature writer and columnist for The Sydney Morning Herald, a news reporter for the ABC, and a columnist and senior writer at The Bulletin. She obtained her PhD from Macquarie University, after completing an Arts/Law degree at the University of Sydney, and went on to become the foundation Chair of the Media and Communications Department at the University of Sydney. Her academic career has included senior roles at UNSW, where she was the foundation Director of the Journalism and Media Research Centre, and at Macquarie University as Professor of Media, before returning to the University of Sydney as Professor of Media Studies. With research interests spanning gender, sexuality and popular culture, Lumby is also a widely published author and media commentator on gender and media, which makes her insights into the intersection of media consumption and social behaviors particularly impactful. Key Takeaways: The true crime genre has historical roots in 16th-century Britain and has evolved from public ballads to podcasts. Women's consumption of true crime is often linked to a desire for empowerment and understanding in a world with prevalent gendered violence. Fictional detectives use empirical reasoning as a counterpart to be analysed alongside faith-focused narratives in crime. The host's discussion touches upon legal responses to crime and human fascination with extreme acts, pushing listeners to consider moral and spiritual reflections. Empathy is highlighted as critical to understanding the broader implications of true crime stories, beyond mere voyeurism. Notable Quotes: "True crime is an opportunity to really perhaps understand things from the victim's point of view, the survivor's point of view..." - Professor Catharine Lumby "The Bible is a realistic book and it doesn't shy away from…difficult things." - Megan Powell du Toit "At its deepest, realising that none of us are that far…from what we might see as monstrous." - Professor Catharine Lumby "Empathy, for me, is the highest quality." - Professor Catharine Lumby "The cross itself is a kind of true crime. It's a realistic display of evil and ultimate redemption." - Michael Jensen Resources: Helen Garner's Works : Noted for her insightful writing on justice and human behavior. Truman Capote's "In Cold Blood" : A seminal true crime book mentioned during the discussion. Teacher's Pet Podcast : Explored as a notable example of true crime media in Australia. This season of With All Due Respect is sponsored by Morling College, a Christ-centred higher-education institution shaped by its Baptist heritage and broad evangelical vision. Morling is committed to rigorous theological study, deep spiritual formation, and learning how to engage faithfully and thoughtfully with difference. Study options include ministry and theology, counselling, chaplaincy, and education. Download a course guide to explore whether Morling is the right place for your next step. Morling to Go is a collection of free, short, video-based courses created by Morling College to support thoughtful Christian learning and formation. Designed for individuals, small groups, and ministry teams, each course includes teaching videos and discussion questions led by respected evangelical scholars and practitioners. Explore each course and find a resource that best fits your context. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This season of With All Due Respect is sponsored by Morling College, a Christ-centred higher-education institution shaped by its Baptist heritage and broad evangelical vision. Morling is committed to rigorous theological study, deep spiritual formation, and learning how to engage faithfully and thoughtfully with difference. Study options include ministry and theology, counselling, chaplaincy, and education. Download a course guide to explore whether Morling is the right place for your next step. Morling to Go is a collection of free, short, video-based courses created by Morling College to support thoughtful Christian learning and formation. Designed for individuals, small groups, and ministry teams, each course includes teaching videos and discussion questions led by respected evangelical scholars and practitioners. Explore each course and find a resource that best fits your context. About the Guest: Prof Miroslav Volf is a distinguished theologian and the Henry B. Wright Professor of Theology at Yale Divinity School, where he directs the Yale Center for Faith and Culture. Originally from Croatia, Volf has had a significant impact in theological circles through his focus on identity, otherness, and reconciliation. He is best known for his acclaimed book Exclusion and Embrace , which Christianity Today named one of the 100 most influential religious books of the twentieth century. Volf has also served as an advisor to the President’s Advisory Council on Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships at the White House. Key Takeaways: Ambition is a multifaceted concept, often viewed as both a virtue and a vice across history and cultures. Miroslav Volf emphasises the toxicity of comparing oneself to others and how striving for excellence should surpass endeavors for superiority. The importance of intrinsic value over societal metrics in measuring success and personal worth is underscored. Biblical narratives, such as those in Philippians and the Gospels, highlight the transformative power of purpose-driven ambition for God's glory. The cultural portrayal of ambition, exemplified by classic literature and modern TV series, calls for a reflective look at our own motivations and societal structures. Notable Quotes: "God's love is not a generic thing thrown over the world; it remembers the specificity of the one." "Each of us has a generic nature, but each of us has also a specific nature." "Ambition with a pious swoosh can easily become selfish ambition if not directed carefully." "The widow's two coins were worth more than the great sums of the rich; she gave everything." "Our society often measures success quantitatively, but Jesus looked at the heart, the interior life." Resources: Miroslav Volf's Book: The Cost of Ambition Miroslav Volf's Book: Exclusion and Embrace See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This season of With All Due Respect is sponsored by Morling College, a Christ-centred higher-education institution shaped by its Baptist heritage and broad evangelical vision. Morling is committed to rigorous theological study, deep spiritual formation, and learning how to engage faithfully and thoughtfully with difference. Study options include ministry and theology, counselling, chaplaincy, and education. Download a course guide to explore whether Morling is the right place for your next step. Morling to Go is a collection of free, short, video-based courses created by Morling College to support thoughtful Christian learning and formation. Designed for individuals, small groups, and ministry teams, each course includes teaching videos and discussion questions led by respected evangelical scholars and practitioners. Explore each course and find a resource that best fits your context. About the Guest The Reverend Dr. Amy Peeler is the Kenneth T. Wessner Chair of Biblical Studies and Professor of New Testament at Wheaton College in Illinois, and serves as a priest at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Geneva, Illinois. She earned her MDiv and PhD in Biblical Studies from Princeton Theological Seminary and is a New Testament scholar whose work often focuses on Hebrews and the relationship between men and women in Christianity. She has authored several books on Hebrews and most recently wrote “Ordinary Time,” which explores the meaning of this often overlooked season in the church year Key Points: Sacred in the Mundane: The ordinary moments in life can hold spiritual significance, challenging the conventional belief that only extraordinary events are divinely touched. Liturgical Reflection: The Christian liturgical calendar offers a balanced rhythm of ordinary and special times, emphasising continual spiritual growth. Cultural Dualism: Exploring how religious traditions perceive and often segregate the sacred from the mundane, revealing potential tensions and integrations. Everyday Miracles: Leveraging routine and structure, such as daily prayers, can help recognise and appreciate God's omnipresence in everyday life. Ordinary as Extraordinary: The discussion in "Train Dreams" and the insights by Amy Peeler highlight finding fulfillment and divine purpose in ordinary life moments. Notable Quotes: "When you change the nappy of the infant, pray to God the Father for, you know, pray in praise of his work in this small infant." - Michael Jensen "Ordinary time does help us practice for eternity… these repeated actions are growing." - Amy Peeler "God wants to sanctify us, grow and deepen our faith." - Amy Peeler "I think there's more here. You have to see that God has made creation." - Megan Powell du Toit "That repetition helps us to grow… it's built into a human. That's how we learn." - Amy Peeler Resources: Hope 103.2 - The network carrying "With All Due Respect" Amy Peeler’s book: Ordinary Time: The Season of Growth - Provides insights into the liturgical calendar's significance See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kanishka Raffel is the Anglican Archbishop of Sydney, leading the diocese since 2021. Born in England and of Sri Lankan descent, Raffel migrated to Australia as a child and initially raised as a Buddhist, he embraced Christianity during his university years. Before his current role, Raffel served as the Dean of St Andrew's Cathedral in Sydney and held pastoral positions in Canberra, Goulburn, and Western Australia. His unique background and leadership in the Anglican Church are marked by a commitment to multiculturalism and community integration. Key Points: Multiculturalism and Faith : Raffel appreciates multiculturalism as both a cultural reality and a gospel opportunity, highlighting the biblical narrative from Babel to Pentecost. Christian Hospitality : The episode stresses the importance of Christians extending hospitality, modeled after God's hospitality, as a powerful means of advancing social cohesion and community relations. Navigating Fear : Exploring the role of fear in immigration debates, Raffel points to the online world’s potential to fuel radicalisation, emphasising the need for communities to remain non-reactive and welcoming. Biblical Framework for Immigration : Raffel uses Old Testament principles of welcoming the stranger to offer insights into current immigration policies. Leadership in Multicultural Contexts : Raffel calls for gentle, gospel-shaped leadership that acknowledges immigrants' vulnerabilities and models a Christ-like posture in public discourse. Notable Quotes: "At Pentecost, the Gospel is proclaimed in many languages. In Antioch, the walls that divide the ethnic quarters come down in the church of Jesus Christ." "The openness of the people of God to the stranger culminates in the person of Jesus Christ. His Lordship is a hospitable one, not a totalitarian one." "There’s tremendous opportunity for Christians who have experienced the hospitality of God in the gospel to offer hospitality." "It's very easy for native-born Australians to underestimate how disruptive, isolated, and confusing it is to be a migrant." "Peaceable and considerate leadership is needed in today's multicultural debate, as it provides a great opportunity to engage with gospel-shaped responses." This season of With All Due Respect is sponsored by Morling College, a Christ-centred higher-education institution shaped by its Baptist heritage and broad evangelical vision. Morling is committed to rigorous theological study, deep spiritual formation, and learning how to engage faithfully and thoughtfully with difference. Study options include ministry and theology, counselling, chaplaincy, and education. Download a course guide to explore whether Morling is the right place for your next step. Morling to Go is a collection of free, short, video-based courses created by Morling College to support thoughtful Christian learning and formation. Designed for individuals, small groups, and ministry teams, each course includes teaching videos and discussion questions led by respected evangelical scholars and practitioners. Explore each course and find a resource that best fits your context. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This season of With All Due Respect is sponsored by Morling College , a Christ-centred higher-education institution shaped by its Baptist heritage and broad evangelical vision. Morling is committed to rigorous theological study, deep spiritual formation, and learning how to engage faithfully and thoughtfully with difference. Study options include ministry and theology, counselling, chaplaincy, and education. Download a course guide to explore whether Morling is the right place for your next step. Sam Chan Reverend Dr Sam Chan is a cultural analyst, public speaker and medical doctor, born in Hong Kong, who studied medicine in Sydney and completed a PhD at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Chicago. He is a fellow at The Keller Center, a public speaker for City Bible Forum and Third Space, and the head trainer and mentor at the EvQ School of Evangelism. He is also an award-winning author of books on evangelism and cultural engagement. He carries the unique talent of playing the recorder with his nose, complementing his engaging personality. Key Points: Cultural apologetics is expanding beyond traditional apologetic approaches to include engagement with society's broad cultural landscapes, focusing on what is considered true, good, and beautiful. Sam Chan highlights that "evangelism today is not just about what is true, but about what is good and beautiful," underlining the relevance of cultural apologetics in the modern world. Through a lens forged by thinkers like Kevin Van Hooser, cultural exegesis involves a dialogue with cultural texts to understand societal worldviews. The overlap between cultural engagement and apologetics offers fresh avenues for articulating Christian truths within the cultural fabric, reaching out to believers and non-believers alike. Jane Austen's enduring works provide a historical perspective, underscoring the synthesis between faith and cultural storytelling, which remains relevant in navigating contemporary cultural dialogues. Notable Quotes : "Evangelism today is not just about what is true, but about what is good and beautiful." - Sam Chan "Cultural apologetics strives to fulfill cultural storylines, making the gospel relatable in a rapidly changing world." - Sam Chan "Every culture has a worldview and cultural texts that express this worldview, which we then interpret, and that these texts further shape" - Sam Chan outline of how culture and worldview interact. "No one's ever truly a blank slate." - Sam Chan outlining the historical rootedness of cultural engagement. "We need to talk in a way that isn't cobblers—we need to do that act of translation in a way that resonates." - Michael Jensen Resources Book Discussed in Episode: " The Gospel After Christendom " by various authors including Sam Chan. Paul Gould's Book: " Cultural Apologetics " (2019) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This season of With All Due Respect is sponsored by Morling College, a Christ-centred higher-education institution shaped by its Baptist heritage and broad evangelical vision. Morling is committed to rigorous theological study, deep spiritual formation, and learning how to engage faithfully and thoughtfully with difference. Study options include ministry and theology, counselling, chaplaincy, and education. Download a course guide to explore whether Morling is the right place for your next step. About the Guest: Professor Brian Brock Originally from Texas, Professor Brian Brock holds a personal chair in moral and practical theology at the University of Aberdeen. He is the editor-in-chief of the Journal of Disability and Religion and has authored numerous books, including "Wondrously Wounded: Theology, Disability in the Body of Christ" and "Christian Ethics in a Technological Age." His expertise lies in exploring the relationship between theology and ethics, focusing on disability, technology, and creation. His latest work, "Joining Creation’s Praise: A Theological Ethic of Creatureliness," explores ethics from a theological perspective centered around creation. Key Takeaways: Dynamic Ethics Approach : Emphasizes understanding the Bible not as a static rulebook but as a guide showing how to live and think faithfully. Role of Praise : Christian ethics should center around recognizing and praising God’s work, bringing joy and liberation. Contextual Decision-Making : Encourages considering the context of each situation to make ethical decisions that align with God's character. Freedom from Fear : Advocates moving away from fear-driven ethics towards faithfulness inspired by God’s consistent love and actions. Ethical Formation : Highlights the significance of ethical imagination and conscience development through spiritual practice and the community. Notable Quotes: "I think people in the churches very often treat the Bible as a kind of repository of answers to ethical questions." "Maps are kind of a deskilling. But we need to learn to recognize the landmarks in our space and time." "How were the biblical authors actually approaching the task of living faithfully?" "The stability is in God’s character… God is faithful to step in and interrupt us." "We can pray and hope that God will actually show up and interrupt the things that generate entrapment." Resources: Brian Brock's Book: Joining Creation's Praise: A Theological Ethic of Creatureliness Journal of Disability and Religion: Journal Website Previous Works by Brian Brock: Wondrously Wounded," "Christian Ethics in a Technological Age See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This season of With All Due Respect is sponsored by Morling College, a Christ-centred higher-education institution shaped by its Baptist heritage and broad evangelical vision. Morling is committed to rigorous theological study, deep spiritual formation, and learning how to engage faithfully and thoughtfully with difference. Study options include ministry and theology, counselling, chaplaincy, and education. Download a course guide to explore whether Morling is the right place for your next step. About our Guest Jeri Jones Sparks is the Ministry Director of the Good News series, an evangelistic video resource aimed specifically at reaching South Asians. Her impactful work extends to her role as a strategic consultant for the Satya Network, which focuses on engaging and integrating South Asian Christians in Australia. Jeri is also an Outreach Minister at St James Anglican in Croydon, Sydney, an area with a substantial immigrant population. Born in Chennai, South India, Jeri and her family migrated to Australia when she was just four years old. Her journey and advocacy stand as a vital testament to cultural integration and spiritual transformation. Key Takeaways: Immigration Debate : Recent protests have highlighted the complexity surrounding immigration in Australia, often fueled by misinformation and political agendas. Cultural and Religious Shifts : Australia's demographic changes bring both challenges and opportunities as the country navigates a more multicultural and religiously diverse population. Christian Response : The necessity for Christians to redefine what it means to engage with 'the other,' drawing from biblical examples of how to treat foreigners among us. Intercultural Church Dynamics : The importance of churches evolving towards interculturalism, incorporating various cultural perspectives to enhance community and belonging. Understanding Heritage : Emotional and personal journeys uncovering one's ancestry, as showcased in the SBS series, can redefine individual and communal identity. Notable Quotes: "We're not as good at estimating numbers or proportions. It all comes through filters of bias." — Megan Powell du Toit "I think there's going to be some kind of shift in our normal of engaging with cultural commentary." — Jeri Jones Sparks "It's really messy. There's going to be conflict. But there's something gospel-hearted in how it shapes our gathering." — Jeri Jones Sparks "The church has a lot to teach our society by modeling that kind of internationalism, that kind of welcome which is blind to race." — Michael Jensen "When we know that it's God who appoints where and when all people should live, who are the people that God has put around us?" — Jeri Jones Sparks Resources: Satya Network The Good News Series SBS TV Series: The Secret DNA of Us ABC Online article by Michael Jensen on immigration See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michael Jensen and Megan Powell du Toit kick off this teaser with exciting news: With All Due Respect is partnering with Hope1032, Sydney's community-funded radio station, for a fresh season launching January 15th, 2026. If you're tired of polarised debates and want to see how people can disagree well on the big stuff, you're in for a banger! Next season, Michael and Megan are diving into cultural apologetics, immigration debates, true crime through a Christian lens, and finding the sacred in everyday life. They're tackling the contentious issues many of us wrestle with—but doing it with grace and genuine conversation. Big thanks to WADR's sponsor, Morling College, whose commitment to deep thinking and respectful dialogue aligns perfectly with the podcast's mission. Morling offers courses in ministry, theology, counselling, and chaplaincy—all designed for discipleship formation. Download a course guide to explore whether Morling is the right place for your next step. Get ready for conversations that challenge without the aggro. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode has been one of the highest listened to episodes in the WADR catalogue! With schoolies ongoing as well as the holiday season just over the horizon, we'd like to replay this ep and to stir some thought and discussion. Discuss!? Glad you asked - head to our WADR group here on Facebook ! In this episode, the WADR team talk about how to have better sex. No, this is not Megan and Michael's opportunity to present the evangelical version of the karma sutra. Rather, they want to talk about the ways Christianity has got sex right - or a lot of the time wrong - and what can be done better for everyone's sake. First up, Megan and Michael invite on to the show the co-author of the influential Christian book The Great Sex Rescue , Sheila Wray Gregoire. Sheila shares what she and her co-authors discovered when they talked to 22,000 Christian women. Then the WADR duo talk about the Australian #metoo moment and what they think about consent education. Finally, we finish the show with the film Give Me Sex Jesus, a title that sells itself. And consider this your warning. This episode is talking about sex, so it is definitely for mature audiences. LINKS Follow this link to check out Sheila's book, The Great Sex Rescue: The Lies You've Been Taught and How to Recover What God Intended , by Sheila Wray Gregoire, psychology graduate Rebecca Gregoire Lindenbach and epidemiologist and statistician Joanna Sawatsky. You can watch Give Me Sex Jesus for free on Vimeo - it's a Staff Pick! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s the final episode for season 10 of With All Due Respect! This year marks 1700 years since the creation of the Nicene Creed, one of Christianity's seminal documents (outside of the Bible). Our hosts discuss why this creed matters and debate whether more churches should use it in their services. Theologian Beth Felker Jones then joins the show to discuss the creed's historical and theological significance, before Michael and Megan share their thoughts on the 2017 documentary The Song Keepers . See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, our hosts are joined by AFES worker Christine Jolly to discuss whether Gen Z women are going missing from the church, while their male counterparts convert in droves. Michael and Megan attempt to make sense of this concerning trend before turning their attention to the 2024 biographical thriller Cabrini, which tells the story of the first American saint, Francesca Cabrini. (00:00) - - Intro (01:36) - - Be Our Guest (41:39) - - For Arguements Sake (53:36) - - Through The Wardrobe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Michael and Megan grapple with the problem of pain. It’s a complex issue for Christians - some seek out pain as a spiritual discipline, while for others, pain can drive them away from faith altogether. Professor Philip Siddall joins the show to help us further understand why pain occurs - and how to deal with it, both physically and spiritually. Finally, our hosts cast a critical eye over the second season of the hit TV series Severance. Out now, wherever you get your podcasts. (00:00) - - Intro (01:36) - - For Arguments Sake (18:04) - - Be Our Guest (47:34) - - Through The Wardrobe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Michael and Megan tackle the difficult topic of church control. They discuss how much—if any—control churches should be allowed to have over members and how to safeguard against any misuse of power by leaders. Christian psychologist Kylie Walls then joins the show for a sobering discussion on spiritual abuse, before our hosts review the hit podcast Sons of Patriarchy, which deals with the hyper-conservative ministry of Douglas Wilson. If this episode has raised concerns for you, help is available. Call 1800 737 732, or head to the website 1800respect.org.au. (01:20) - - For Arguments Sake (18:42) - - Be Our Guest (50:52) - - Through The Wardrobe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The recent feature film ‘Bonhoeffer: Pastor. Spy. Assassin' attracted controversy for its portrayal of Europe’s most celebrated martyr of the 20th century. There are so many questions surrounding the life of Bonhoeffer - chief among them, how involved was he in the botched 20 July plot to kill Hitler? Our hosts this week share their thoughts on the film and are also joined by Center for Pastor Theologians President Dr. Joel Lawrence to discuss Bonhoeffer's life and work. Finally, Michael and Megan try to define a Christian hero and discuss whether the church should have any heroes aside from Jesus. (01:44) - - Through the Wardrobe (31:40) - - Be Our Guest (44:03) - - For Arguments Sake See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.