Seminary Dropout 78: Peter Rollins, Author of The Divine Magician

On Pete's website it says that he is a "provocative writer, philosopher, storyteller and public speaker" , and it's true he is provocative, in fact his words can make some of us in the church squirm a bit, but you don't have to agree with Pete to find his thoughts and ideas insightful. Rollins new book 'The Divine Magician' is about reimagining the message of Christianity. Using the illustration of the steps involved in a magic trick; the pledge, the turn, and the prestige, Rollins proposes that the Eucharist might include some of the same elements. Some things we discuss on this episode: How Pete's upbringing has affected the type of theology & philosophy he's come to practice today. The evolution of Pete's work over the years, from his earlier work that seemed to be more transformative art that was focused on experience (IKON collective to parables) to his more recent work in "The Idolatry of God" and "the Divine Magician" being very theological and constructive. The Pyro-theology Pete practices that shifts focus from a set of beliefs to the way in which we engage the world, is it mutually exclusive from the Christianity that would include mysticism and supernatural aspects. The use of the three parts of a magic trick – the Pledge, the Turn, and the Prestige as illustrations for Christianity. In this season of lent, what's the point of focusing on the death of Christ? What are good lenten practices for those who want to recognize the "other" inside themselves? This notable quote “Christianity should not be thought of as the means of bridging a gap. This event is nothing less than the smashing of the whole chasm / bridge idea that Gnostic spiritualities buy into. The liberation that this narrative expresses does not offer us the fullness we seek, but rather frees us from the need to seek fullness. “ -Peter Rollins Remember our beloved sponsor for this episode is Deidox Films. If you like the podcast and want to support it then please check out Deidox and tell your pastor, worship leader or whoever organizes your worship gatherings about it. This week I recommend the short film James. Deidox produces beautiful, high quality, short documentaries about the real lives of Christians. Deidox Films is a 501(c)3 film production and distribution company. They are media missionaries. Their mission is to produce and promote documentary films that help the Church reflect Christ and redeem culture. Their purpose is to partner with Pastors and Church leaders to help make disciples and fulfill the Great Commission. They do this by creating visual models of faith that provide practical examples of modern-day disciples. If you liked this episode then you might also like… Seminary Dropout 42: Christian Piatt Seminary Dropout 24: Danielle Shroyer Subscribe/Rate/Review Seminary Dropout in iTunes