Creating Space

In this episode of Creating Space, Scott Lackey sits down with renowned New Testament scholar Dr. Beverly Roberts Gaventa to explore the book of Romans, Paul's vision of salvation, and the ongoing debates surrounding Pauline theology. Drawing from her influential works When in Romans and her recent New Testament Library commentary on Romans, Dr. Gaventa unpacks what it means to read Paul “apocalyptically” and why Romans continues to captivate scholars, pastors, and churches alike. Together, they discuss justification, Romans 9–11, the powers of Sin and Death, and how a more cosmic vision of salvation could reshape the church's mission today. Romans: A Commentary by Dr. Beverly Roberts Gaventa When in Romans by Dr. Beverly Roberts Gaventa

Have you experienced trauma? Do you know someone who is dealing with trauma? Chances are, you can answer “yes” to one or both of those questions. Which raises another question: what does the Bible have to say about traumatic experiences? In their newly released book, Traumatized Church, Scot McKnight and Adrienne Gibson explore how the apostle Paul wrestled with his own trauma in 2 Corinthians. In this episode of Creating Space, I had the opportunity to interview my friend Scot McKnight about this insightful and impactful book. Amazon: Traumatized Church

In this episode of Creating Space, Scott Lackey interviews Dr. Teresa Morgan, McDonald Agape Professor of New Testament and Early Christianity at Yale Divinity School, to discuss her book Trust in Atonement. Dr. Morgan explores the often-overlooked connection between trust and the meaning of Christ's atoning work, drawing on biblical, historical, and theological insights. In our conversation, we examine how trust relates to major atonement theories such as Christus Victor, Penal Substitution, and Moral Influence, and how trust functions both as an attitude and an act within the life of the church. We also discuss the ways modern individualism has weakened communal trust in Christian theology and formation. Finally, Dr. Morgan reflects on the implications of understanding Jesus' death as an act of radical trust and how the resurrection narratives reveal not only Jesus' vindication but also the disciples' restoration from failure to renewed hope. Resources: Trust in Atonement by Teresa Morgan

What if the cross isn't primarily about Jesus saving us from God, but about God rescuing us from the powers that enslave creation? In this episode of Creating Space, Scott Lackey explores why he holds to a Christus Victor view of the atonement and how his understanding of the cross has shifted over time. Did Jesus absorb God's wrath, or did he enter the depths of sin and death to defeat the devil and liberate humanity? What if God's “wrath” is better understood as the removal of God's life-giving presence rather than divine violence? And how might seeing the cross as God's victorious rescue mission reshape the way we view God, salvation, and our calling to live as people set free from the powers of this present evil age? The Mosaic of Atonement by Joshua McNall How Jesus Saves by Joshua McNall Trust in Atonement by Teresa Morgan A Community Called Atonement by Scot McKnight The Day the Revolution Began by N.T. Wright God at War by Gregory A. Boyd Satan and the Problem of Evil by Gregory A. Boyd Is God to Blame? By Gregory A. Boyd The Nature of the Atonement: Four Views

In this episode of Creating Space, Scott Lackey interviews Professor Joshua McNall - to explore the meaning and significance of the atonement. Dr. McNall shares what first sparked his interest in studying the cross and why the question “Why the atonement?” remains so central to Christian theology. We discuss his “mosaic” approach, which suggests that the various historical atonement theories are best understood not as competing explanations but as complementary pieces that together form a fuller picture of Christ's saving work. Throughout the conversation, we consider how themes like victory, sacrifice, reconciliation, and justice can fit together within a single, richer vision of the cross. We also talk about what has continued to develop in McNall's thinking since the book's publication and what areas of atonement theology he hopes to explore further. Resources: The Mosaic of Atonement by Joshua McNall How Jesus Saves by Joshua McNall

Are you open to seeing the world differently? What if that new way of seeing could actually set you free? In this bonus episode of Creating Space, I reflect on several transformative moments from Eugene Peterson's memoir, The Pastor. Moments that reshaped how I think about ministry, success, and the role of a pastor. Resources: The Pastor by Eugene Peterson

In this special bonus episode of Creating Space, Scott interviews Sarah Cowan Johnson about her award-winning book, Teach Your Children Well, which won the Christianity Today Book Award in Marriage and Family. Drawing on more than 20 years of ministry experience, Sarah shares what led her to write this guide to family discipleship and how she navigated the concerns that often come with addressing parenting and faith. Sarah graciously unpacks research highlighting the powerful spiritual influence of parents and offers practical encouragement for cultivating communal spiritual practices at home. If you've ever wondered whether it's too late to lead your family toward deeper formation into Christ-likeness, this conversation is for you. Resources: Teach Your Children Well by Sarah Cowen Johnson Check out Sarah's Website.

In this bonus episode of Creating Space, Scott Lackey reflects on how John Ortberg's book Steps has deeply shaped his current spiritual journey. Focusing on the first three steps: 1. I Can't 2. Jesus Can 3. Let Him Scott shares how embracing weakness has become a pathway to freedom rather than frustration. This episode is a candid invitation to surrender, trust, and discover healing in the places we once tried to hide. This question will encourage you to acknowledge your weakness. Resources: Steps by John Ortberg

On this episode of Creating Space, Scott Lackey interviews Eugene Polupan, pastor at Anthem Church in the Pacific Northwest, member of the Church Formation team at Practicing the Way, and author with NavPress, to discuss his forthcoming book, Fighting like Jesus: Confronting Fear, Control, and Anger with Peace One Conflict at a Time. In our conversation, we unpack the connection between formation and conflict, asking who we are truly fighting, what we are fighting for, and why the way we fight matters. Eugene challenges the reactive patterns of fear and control and instead invites us into the alternative path of Jesus. We also talk personally about what God has been teaching him in this season of research and writing, and what has surprised and convicted him along the way. This episode creates space to reconsider conflict, not as something to avoid or win, but as an opportunity to become more like Christ.

In this month's episode of Creating Space, we explore some of the most important questions about church leadership. Are pastors, elders, and deacons truly called by God? We also dive into whether it is Biblically appropriate for congregations to question a leader's decisions and authority. Finally, we unpack the Biblical qualifications for those who serve in leadership roles within the church. Join us as we navigate Scripture and practical wisdom better to understand God's design for leadership in His church. Book Recommendations: A Church called TOV by Scot McKnight and Laura Barringer Pivot by Scot McKnight and Laura Barringer Celebrities for Jesus by Katelyn Beatty When Narcissism Comes to Church by Chuck DeGroat Renovation of the Church by Kent Carlson & Mike Lueken Strengthening the Soul of your Leadership by Ruth Haley Barton The Making of a Leader by Robert Clinton Redeeming Power by Diane Langberg

In the season 3 premiere of Creating Space, Scott Lackey sits down with Dr. Carmen Joy Imes, associate professor of Old Testament at Biola University and author of several books, including Bearing God's Name and Being God's Image, to explore her latest work, Becoming God's Family: Why the Church Still Matters. Dr. Imes brings her scholarly expertise and relatable insight to unpack what it means to belong to God's family, why community is central to the Christian life, and how to walk through church hurt. Please like, share, and subscribe to Creating Space Book Recommendations: Becoming God's Family: Why the Church Still Matters by Carmen Joy Imes Bearing God's Name: Why Sinai Still Matters by Carmen Joy Imes Being God's Image: Why Creation Still Matters by Carmen Joy Imes

On this episode of Creating Space, we are joined by Michael J. Gorman—an internationally-recognized New Testament scholar who holds the Raymond E. Brown Chair in Biblical Studies and Theology at St. Mary's Seminary & University in Baltimore and author of major works such as Romans: A Theological and Pastoral Commentary and Cruciformity: Paul's Narrative Spirituality of the Cross. Dr. Gorman introduces his latest volume, 1 Corinthians: A Theological, Pastoral, and Missional Commentary, which reads Paul's letter to the Corinthian church through the lens of unity, holiness, catholicity, and apostolicity—inviting contemporary churches to embody those four marks of the church as deeply rooted in Christ and the cross. Whether you're a pastor, student, or lay reader wanting to deepen your reading of 1 Corinthians, this discussion offers thoughtful theological, pastoral, and practical entry-points into the letter's enduring challenge and hope. Recommended Reading: 1 Corinthians: A Theological, Pastoral and Missional Commentary by Michael Gorman Cruciformity by Michael Gorman Inhabiting the Cruciform God by Michael Gorman

On this month's episode of Creating Space, Scott Lackey is joined by Dr. Mark Thiessen Nation to explore his book Discipleship in a World Full of Nazis. Together, they dive into the life, ministry, and legacy of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, examining how his faith and courageous witness continue to challenge and inspire Christians today. This compelling conversation invites listeners to consider what true discipleship looks like in the face of cultural pressures. Dr. Mark Thiessen Nation is Professor Emeritus of Theology at Eastern Mennonite Seminary. He holds a Ph.D. in Christian Ethics from Fuller Theological Seminary, along with advanced degrees in peace studies, theology, and religion. A leading scholar on Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the Anabaptist tradition, and Christian ethics, he has authored and co-authored numerous books, including works on discipleship and nonviolence. His teaching and writing have shaped conversations around the church's call to faithful witness in a complex world. Book recommendations: Discipleship in a World Full of Nazis by Mark Thiessen Nation Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer

In this episode of Creating Space, we welcome Dr. Rodney Reeves, a seasoned scholar and pastor, to discuss his influential book, Spirituality According to Paul: Imitating the Apostle of Christ. Dr. Reeves holds a PhD from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and has taught New Testament studies at institutions such as Northern Seminary, Southwest Baptist University, and Williams Baptist University. Currently, he serves as the senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Jonesboro, Arkansas. In our conversation, Dr. Reeves delves into how Paul's teachings offer a transformative vision for Christian spirituality, emphasizing a cross-shaped life. Additional resources Spirituality According to Paul by Rodney Reeves Spirituality According to John by Rodney Reeves

In this episode of Creating Space, host Scott Lackey examines the theological implications of the biblical statement, "Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated," as found in Romans 9:13. Through a detailed survey of Romans 9-11 and other relevant scriptural passages frequently cited in support of Calvinist doctrines of predestination and Reformed theology, Scott articulates a perspective that challenges the notion of divine predetermination of individual eternal destinies. Scott engages with these texts to explore the historical and theological contexts of the passages, offering a critical analysis of their interpretation within Calvinist frameworks. By unpacking the complexities of these scriptures, this episode invites listeners to consider alternative readings of these texts. Please listen, subscribe, and share. If you have further questions, please e-mail Scott at [email protected] Recommended Reading: Reading Romans Backwards by Scot McKnight Romans: A Theological and Pastoral Commentary by Michael Gorman Beyond The Salvation Wars by Matthew Bates Paul's Letter to the Romans by Ben Witherington God of the Possible by Greg Boyd Four Views on Divine Providence

In this month's episode of Creating Space, we sit down with Dr. Lynn Cohick, Distinguished Professor of New Testament and Director of Houston Theological Seminary at Houston Christian University, to explore her recent research on 1 Peter 3 and its implications for wives today. Dr. Cohick unpacks the cultural and historical context of this often-debated passage. Dr. Cohick hosts The Alabaster Jar Podcast through the Center for Women in Leadership. She has written commentaries on Ephesians and Philippians, as well as books on Christian Women in the Patristic World and Women in the World of the Earliest Christians. Join us for an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation that creates space for understanding Scripture's relevance for modern life. #Church #christian #christianity #womeninchurch #1Peter #1Peter3 #kingdom #jesus #creatingspace #newstory #faith #formation #spiritualformation

In this episode of Creating Space, we welcome Kent Carlson, founding pastor of Oak Hills Church in Folsom, California, and co-author of Renovation of the Church. Kent shares the compelling journey of transitioning Oak Hills from a thriving, attractional model to a spiritually formational community. He candidly discusses the challenges faced, including confronting consumerism and personal ambition, and the difficult decisions that led to a decline in numbers but a deepening of spiritual health. Kent's story offers valuable insights for church leaders and members seeking authentic transformation over superficial success. Join us as we explore what it means to prioritize spiritual formation in today's church landscape. Resources: Renovation of the Church by Kent Carlson & Mike Lueken

Join Scott Lackey on this month's episode of Creating Space as we dive into a compelling conversation about Spiritual Gifts and their relevance in today's Christian faith. Are these divine gifts still active in our modern world? From prophecy to tongues and discernment, we explore the biblical foundations of Spiritual Gifts and their purpose. Please tune in for an engaging discussion that will challenge and deepen your understanding of the Holy Spirit's work in our lives. If you have any questions, you can e-mail Scott at [email protected]

In this episode of Creating Space, we sit down with Dr. Ben Blackwell, the principal of Westminster Theological Centre in England and a respected scholar in Pauline studies. Dr. Blackwell offers his nuanced perspective on the concepts of justification and participation in the Apostle Paul's theology. We dive deep into Dr. Blackwell's understanding of justification, exploring it not just as a legal declaration but as a declaration of life. His insights help illuminate the dynamic relationship between justification, participation in Christ, and the believer's transformation. Whether you're a theologian, student, or simply interested in Paul's letters, this conversation provides thought-provoking perspectives on how these key doctrines intertwine in the Christian faith. Recommended Reading: Christosis by Ben Blackwell Engaging Theology by Ben Blackwell and Randy Hatchett #jesus #christian #justification #reformation #justificationbyfaith #kingjesus #newstory #creatingspace #creatingspacepod #kingdom #church

In this episode of Creating Space, we dive deep into the New Perspective on Paul with renowned New Testament scholar Scot McKnight. Where did this perspective come from? How does it challenge traditional interpretations of Paul's letters? And should Christians approach it with caution, curiosity, or even enthusiasm? Dr. McKnight, a professor of New Testament for over 40 years and the author of more than 90 books, has witnessed the rise of the New Perspective firsthand. With clarity and insight, he unpacks its key ideas, the scholars behind it, and what it means for the church today. If you've ever wrestled with Paul's writings, questioned how faith and works fit together, or wondered what Paul really meant when he talked about justification, this conversation is for you. Whether you're encountering the New Perspective for the first time or looking for a fresh take on the discussion, this episode will challenge and expand your understanding of one of Christianity's most debated theological shifts. Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation that could change the way you read Paul—and the gospel itself. Follow Scot McKnight on substack. Book's mentioned in the podcast and helpful books on the New Perspective: Everyday Bible Study: Matthew by Scot McKnight Invisible Jesus by Scot McKnight and Tommy Phillips Reading Romans Backwards by Scot McKnight Preaching Romans by Scot McKnight and Tommy Phillips What St. Paul Really Said by N.T. Wright Justification by N.T. Wright The Future of Justification by John Piper Paul and Palestinian Judaism by E.P. Sanders Jesus and Judaism by E.P. Sanders #church #christian #christianpodcast #pastor #pastorpodcast #paul #apostlepaul #create #creatingspace #newstory #newperspective #Npp #justification

What is the Gospel? This question is central to the Christian faith. Some believe the Gospel is simply about praying a prayer and memorizing a series of verses. Others define it as "justification by faith." But how does Jesus define the Gospel? How does the Apostle Paul describe it? And how do their definitions challenge some of our modern misunderstandings? The answers may surprise you—but their implications are life-changing. Check out our latest episode of Creating Space as we explore the question: What is the Gospel? Book recommendations: Gospel Allegiance by Matthew Bates The King Jesus Gospel by Scot McKnight Simply Good News by N.T. Wright Reading Paul by Michael Gorman #jesus #gospel #kingjesus #kingjesusgospel #eternal #eternallife #christian #pastor #pastorpodcast #newlife #kingdom #church #churchpodcast #create #creatingspace

Does the New Testament support women preaching, teaching, and leading in the church? Does the Bible permit women to hold titles such as pastor, deacon, or elder? Why do some churches support women in leadership while others go as far as to claim that women preaching is a sin? Join us in this month's episode of Creating Space as we explore what the Bible truly says about women preaching, teaching, and leading in the church. What we uncover might surprise you—so listen closely! Please take a moment to rate, subscribe and share this podcast with others. Additional Resources! Books: Rediscovering Scripture's Vision for Women: Fresh Perspectives on Disputed Texts by Lucy Peppiatt Tell Her Story: How Women Led, Taught, and Ministered in the Early Church by Nijay Gupta The Blue Parakeet, 2nd Edition: Rethinking How You Read the Bible by Scot McKnight Podcasts: Theology in the Raw: Rethinking 1 Corinthians 11:2-16: Dr. Lucy Peppiatt OnScript: Lucy Peppiatt - Paul on Women's Subordination (1 Cor 11) #church #churchleadership #womenpreaching #womenelders #creating #creatingspace #churchpodcast #jesus #kingjesus #christian #christianity #eldership #preaching

It's 2024, and you know what that means? It's a presidential election year in the United States. How can followers of King Jesus stay committed to the message of King Jesus in a polarized political climate? Some have suggested that Christians should adopt something called Christian Nationalism. What exactly is Christian Nationalism? Are there different forms of Christian Nationalism? In this episode, I provide an alternative view to Christian Nationalism. As people who pledge their allegiance to King Jesus and His Kingdom, I contend that Christian Nationalism is NOT the answer, and it is a distraction from the mission that King Jesus gave us. References/Resources Exiles by Preston Sprinkle Jesus & the Powers by N.T. Wright & Michael Bird The myth of a Christian nation by Gregory A. Boyd Michael Bird & Stephen Wolfe debate Michael Bird review of Stephen Wolfe's book The Perils and Promises of Christian Nationalism - Tom Ascol Christian Nationalism - Voddie Baucham #church #churchandstate #christian #christiandpolitics #politicalwitness #jesus #kingjesus #politics #political #christiannationationalism

In this month's episode of Creating Space, we are having a conversation with the one and only Shepherd Andre Clark (Shep). Shep has been pastoring New Direction Christian Fellowship for over two decades on the East Side of Buffalo. In this conversation, Shep challenges the church to be a place of unity and racial reconciliation. Shep has a unique ability to combine biblical insight with powerful personal stories that lead to life change. #church #churchpodcast #buffalochurch #buffalony #raceandchurch #churchunity #racialreconciliation #create #creatingspace #newstory #newstorybuffalo #jesus #faith

Our guest on this episode (Dr. Dan Trippie) holds a Ph.D. in ethics from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and an Mdiv. from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Dan's focus of study is in public theology with a special emphasis on religious freedom. Dan seeks to integrate theology into the public square dialogue. Currently, Dan serves as a pastor at Restoration Church in Buffalo, NY. Please rate, subscribe and share this episode with others. #Church #pastor #pastorpodcast #christian #christianpodcast #faith #jesus #buffalo #buffalochurch #buffalony #kingdom #kingdomcome #christianinterview #politics #religiousfreedoms #listen #understand #evangelical #evangelicalism #politicalchristian

Bishop Mark Collier is the Pastor of Renovation Church in Buffalo, NY. Bishop Collier is a husband, father, pastor, church planter, musician, leader of leaders, and most importantly a follower of Christ. In this insightful interview, Bishop Collier discusses how to prioritize our relationship with God, and how being close to God will properly fuel all of our other relationships. Please rate, subscribe and share this episode with others. #Church #pastor #pastorlife #pastorpodcast #christian #christianpodcast #faith #jesus #buffalo #buffalochurch #buffalony #kingdom #kingdomcome #christianinterview #priorities

Did you grow up in church or around church? Did you find yourself frequently raising your hand to give your life to Jesus? How can you know you really meant it when you prayed to receive salvation? How old were you when you got baptized? Do you struggle wondering if you really knew what you were doing? These are difficult questions that many Christians wrestle with. In this episode of Creating Space we walk through these questions. My hope is that some of my conclusions will bring you peace in Christ as you continue to grow in Christ. Salvation and baptism are not meant to bring us stress or confusion, they are meant to be sources of joy in Christ. Please send me an e-mail ([email protected]) if you have questions for future episodes. Subscribe and share the podcast! #churchpodcast #church #newstory #newstorychurch #creatingspace #create #creating #jesus #pastor #pastorpodcast #faith #kingdom #kingdomofgod #salvation #eternalsecurity #baptism #holyspirit

Church attendance and participation are on the decline in the United States. Is there a path forward? What could churches be doing differently? Have churches contributed to their own demise? Within the church, we cannot avoid this problem. We need to create space to talk about the problem, listen to others, and consider different ways forward. If you have a question that you would like for me to dive into on this podcast please e-mail me your question at scottlackey@newstorybuffalo. Thank you for being a part of the Creating Space community. Please rate, subscribe, and share. Additional resources: Podcast: CNLP 600 | Jim Davis on the Great Dechurching, The Fastest and Largest Church Attendance Exit in U.S. History... Book: The Great Dechurching Cruciformity: Paul's Narrative Spirituality of the Cross by Michael Gorman #churchpodcast #church #churchlife #newstory #newstorychurch #jesus #pastor #pastorpodcast #faith #kingdom #kingdomofgod

Following the tragedy of October, 7th 2023, I have received many questions about the Church's relationship with the nation of Israel. How the church relates to Israel shapes people's political allegiance, eschatology, and how they view the mission of God. The teachings of Jesus, and the New Testament authors, reveal that the work of Jesus truly changed everything. All of God's promises find their "yes" or fulfillment in Jesus. If you have any questions about this episode or ideas for future episodes, please e-mail me at [email protected] Please rate, review, and subscribe. Thank you for listening! Additional resources on this subject: God's Israel and the Israel of God: Paul and Supersessionism by Michael F. Bird & Scot McKnight Jesus and the Land: The New Testament Challenge to "Holy Land" Theology by Gary Burge Theology in the Raw Episodes from Dr. Preston Sprinkle: Do Christians Have a Theological Obligation to Support the Modern State of Israel? Dr. Gary Burge An Israeli Christian's Perspective on the War in Israel-Palestine: Lisa Loden A Palestinian Christian's Perspective on the Israeli-Palestinian War: Daniel Bannoura American Christian Zionism, John Howard Yoder, Oliver O'Donovan, and Political Theology: Dr. Elizabeth Phillips #Church #Israel #Faith #Jesus #Middleeast #Church&Israel #supersessionism #faith #fulfillment #Onelord #JesusChrist #Christianpodcast #pastorspodcast #zionism #christianzionism #dispensationalism

There are a few topics that God continuously brings me back to. One of those topics is the Kingdom of God. As we begin this podcast journey, I hope to provide clarity surrounding the Kingdom of God, as this perspective is one that I will be grounded in for the topics I engage with on this show. The Kingdom of God is not just some future reality. The Kingdom of God is not just a place of mental ascent. The Kingdom of God is synonymous with the Kingdom of Heaven (they are not different). The Kingdom of God is a beautiful reality that has invaded the present age and provides hope for the future. Enjoy our first episode as we ask the question, "What is the Kingdom of God?" We hope to create space for compelling and complex conversations. If you have any questions you would like for us to discuss, please e-mail me your questions at [email protected].

Welcome to Creating Space! My name is Scott, and I invite you to enjoy a space of compelling and complex conversations. Please e-mail any questions you have to [email protected].