Ep. 50 - Unwrapping the Theology of Guilt and Shame Throughout Church History w/ Jason Glen

Send Us Topics + QuestionsWhat if our modern rejection of shame is missing something vital? In this thought-provoking conversation, Jason Glenn, ethics professor at Liberty University currently completing his PhD on shame and cognitive emotions, takes us on a fascinating journey through the theological history of shame and guilt.From ancient Egyptian dynasties to biblical Hebrew concepts, from Augustine's controversial sexual interpretation to Bonhoeffer's revolutionary perspective, we discover how Christian thinkers throughout history have approached shame very differently than our "shameless" contemporary culture. Glenn skillfully navigates complex philosophical traditions while making them accessible and relevant.The conversation reveals surprising nuance around shame - how the Eastern Orthodox tradition saw Christ-like qualities in bearing unjust shame, how Aquinas viewed shame as essential for moral development, and how Bonhoeffer understood shame as both protective covering and testimony to our broken relationship with God.While modern society often blames shame for everything from suicide to self-hatred, Christians throughout history have seen redemptive possibilities in certain forms of shame. This tension creates significant challenges for believers navigating mental health concerns while honoring biblical perspectives.This episode kicks off a three-part series examining shame from theological, philosophical, and practical angles. Whether you're interested in church history, psychology, counseling ethics, or personal spiritual growth, you'll find yourself challenged to reconsider assumptions about these powerful emotions. Are we missing something vital by trying to eliminate shame entirely? Could shame actually be pointing us toward healing and wholeness? Listen and discover why these ancient concepts remain profoundly relevant today.Support the showFOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@psych_and_theoPsych and Theo LinkFOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK:Psych and Theo LinkPlease leave a review, send comments and questions, and share the podcast with everyone you know. We love having these conversations with you all and are thankful for your support! I look forward to walking alongside you as you draw closer to Christ!