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The Deconstructionists

John Williamson

A podcast about building new faith. Its all about construction, but sometimes that means you have to deconstruct a little. Questions, exploration, mystery...

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  • 22 episodes
  • Avg 37 min
  • English

Episodes 22

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  • #229
    February 18 · 40 min

    Ep. 229 - John Dominic Crossan & Michael Okinczyc-Cruz "Jesus and Justice" pt. 1

    In this episode of The Deconstructionists Podcast, we’re joined by John Dominic Crossan and Michael Okinczyc-Cruz for the first part of a wide-ranging conversation about Jesus, empire, and why historical context matters now more than ever. As religion, power, and nationalism continue to collide in the United States, this conversation feels remarkably timely — not because it’s reacting to current events, but because it’s rooted deeply in history. In Part One, we focus on setting the foundation: The world of the Roman Empire and how it shaped early Christianity Why Jesus must be understood as a first-century Jewish figure under imperial occupation What happens when modern readers remove Jesus from his historical context Why asking historical questions doesn’t weaken faith — but often deepens it This episode invites listeners to take the Bible seriously enough to let it challenge modern assumptions about power, violence, and faithfulness. About Our Guests John Dominic Crossan is one of the most influential New Testament scholars of the last fifty years. A historian of early Christianity and co-founder of the Jesus Seminar, Crossan has written extensively on the historical Jesus, the Roman Empire, and the political implications of early Christian theology. Michael Okinczyc-Cruz is a scholar whose work focuses on empire, power, and the intersection of theology, politics, and economic systems. His research explores how religious ideas function in real historical and social contexts — especially under conditions of domination. Together, they bring historical rigor and moral clarity to questions that remain deeply relevant today. Featured Works & Links John Dominic Crossan Jesus: A Revolutionary Biography https://www.harpercollins.com/products/jesus-a-revolutionary-biography-john-dominic-crossan The Historical Jesus: The Life of a Mediterranean Jewish Peasant https://www.harpercollins.com/products/the-historical-jesus-john-dominic-crossan God and Empire: Jesus Against Rome, Then and Now https://www.harpercollins.com/products/god-and-empire-john-dominic-crossan How to Read the Bible and Still Be a Christian https://www.harpercollins.com/products/how-to-read-the-bible-and-still-be-a-christian-john-dominic-crossan Michael Okinczyc-Cruz The Politics of Discipleship (with John Dominic Crossan) https://www.fortresspress.com/store/productgroup/553/The-Politics-of-Discipleship Special Music Provided by: Forrest Clay from his Recover EP. For all things Deconstructionists go to www.thedeconstructionists.org Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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  • #228
    February 9 · 18 min

    Ep. 228 - Valentyn Syniy - "God Under Siege: How War Transformed a Ukrainian Community" pt. 2

    In this deeply moving conversation, John sits down for part two with Valentyn Syniy, a Ukrainian pastor, theologian, and author whose life and ministry have been profoundly shaped by the reality of war. This interview was recorded under extraordinary circumstances. Scheduling had to account for the very real possibility of Russian airstrikes and power outages. Valentyn’s wife graciously joined the conversation to assist with translation at moments, helping ensure that everything Valentyn wanted to communicate was conveyed with clarity and care. Together, we explore: What it means to live, pastor, and hold onto faith in the midst of active war How violence and trauma test long-held theological assumptions The difference between discussing war and surviving it Where hope, honesty, and spiritual resilience are found when everything familiar is under siege Some stories shared in this episode may be difficult to hear, but they are necessary—and deeply human. About the Book Valentyn is the author of God Under Siege, a powerful and unflinching reflection on faith, suffering, and God’s presence amid the devastation of war. Drawing from lived experience rather than distant theology, the book challenges easy answers and invites readers into a more honest, grounded faith. Get the book: Amazon Major booksellers Wherever books are sold The Music For this Episode: Forrest Clay "Child of War" Support the Show — Join Our Patreon We’ve just launched a brand new Patreon, and it’s packed with content many of you have been asking for. Subscribers get access to: Brand new exclusive videos on requested topics Study guides for deeper reflection and group use Reference materials and sources to support further learning Behind-the-scenes content and extended conversations If you value thoughtful, well-researched conversations like this one—and want tools to keep exploring—Patreon is the best way to support the work and dive deeper. Support: https://patreon.com/TheDeconstructionistsPodcast 👉 Join us on Patreon and help make conversations like this possible. For all things Deconstructionists check out: www.thedecontructionists.org Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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Showing 21–22 of 22 episodes