Hodgepodge Theology

"Is that your truth, or the truth?" In this episode, James and Eric dive headfirst into the blurring lines of the modern era. As AI reshapes how we consume and create information, the guys tackle the dangerous shift from objective reality to "self-proclaimed truth." How do we stay anchored when the world around us is moving at fiber-optic speeds? In This Episode: The Age of AI: A look at the "new era" we've entered. Is technology outpacing our ability to discern? Self-Proclaimed vs. Actual Truth: Exploring the theological and practical dangers of "living your truth" versus standing on The Truth. The Buffet of Media Gluttony: We talk about the constant noise we invite into our lives and why our brains (and souls) are feeling the bloat. The Spiritual Discipline of Silence: Why "fasting" isn't just about food anymore. The guys discuss the necessity of cutting the digital cord to find intentionality with the Father. Practicing Presence: How to move from mindless scrolling to mindful spiritual discipline. A Note on This Week's Outro: In the spirit of our discussion on intentionality, you'll notice something different as this episode closes. We've stripped away the music and the typical sign-offs. For the first time ever, we are concluding with a call to five minutes of silence. The audio will fade to black shortly after the final word, leaving you with the space to sit with the Father. We invite you not to rush to the next podcast or song, but to simply remain in the stillness. We cannot hear the whisper of the Father if we are constantly deafened by the noise of our own media gluttony.

Waaaaaaay back, in Episode 17, "very special guest," Karen Covell, was introduced. Karen is a producer and the founder of the Hollywood Prayer Network. Today, nearly 50 episodes later, Karen and her husband, Jim, are IN STUDIO for another installment of a fun and hearty conversation about faith and the arts. Jim, a composer for film and TV, provided affirmation and clarity for HPT's intro and outro music. While we still will refer to it as, "funky," Jim also said that it is, "quirky." This description satisfied both Eric and James. Enjoy the banter as it all points us to Christ and how He calls His people to a life of creativity.

Discipleship is key to the life of a believer. Jesus commanded it before He ascended into Heaven (Matthew 28:19-20). Eric and James discuss a new plan for discipleship at Hope Church.  They also introduce a word to us that most people don't use on a regular basis.

Apparently, we do not have a "very special guest" this time...instead, he's introduced as "Spencer Royalty." Eric, James and nobility (Kevin Brown) talk callings, equipping and how YOU might even be called to something God has lined up and arranged ahead of time.  Kevin oversees The Outreach. This is a place for people to gather and eat. Some might be in need of food. Some might be in need of community. All are in need of Christ. Kevin talks about the heart behind the ministry and shares opportunities for people to come and serve.  As a bonus, Kevin introduces a word that might replace James' previously favored word, "plethora." Listen to discover what the new favorite word might be!

The recording studio had pockets of water and evidence of roof leakage when Eric and James entered to record. That sparked the conversation that we are to, "Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" (Matthew 6:20-21 NIV).  Later, the conversation shifts into changing culture - specifically, beard culture. Yeah, James' humor is a bit cringy at times, but we love him anyway.

Is fear a secondary emotion, or a spiritual roadblock? This week, James and Eric are joined by Michael to pull back the curtain on the things that keep us up at night. From the irrational "spiders and heights" phobias to the deeper, more paralyzing fears that stop us from stepping into our calling, the guys get honest about their own struggles. We're diving into the "contagion" of fear—how it spreads through a community—and the only antidote strong enough to stop it. How does the perfect love of God actually cast out fear in a world that feels increasingly uncertain? Join us as we look at the why behind our worries and find the courage to keep moving forward. Don't let the fear of missing out stop you—hit play and join the journey.

Eric presses one of the infamous buttons??!? Yes, it is true. Eric surprises James, not by carrying out the intro but by randomly pressing a sound effect.  James responds by calling Eric out by his full name AND by bestowing upon him an additional new middle name. HPT welcomes several teen guests into the conversation. Here, the discussion delves into authentic faith and future plans. The teens also discuss things that would engage and connect them with a community of faith.  

The opening pit stop is lots of fun as James shares one of his fainting stories. Eric and James find common ground in their mutual phobia of needles.  Things take a slight turn as they get back onto the highway towards the ultimate destination: to equip people to understand Christ better and to walk in His footsteps with joy. The cost of redemption through Christ takes center stage for the next leg of the journey. This episode ends up in a brief discussion about TULIP and Calvinism. An open invitation is extended to whomever would like to be a guest on a future episode to debate/discuss/learn from one another.

Micah Runcorn (self-proclaimed #1 fan of the podcast) joins the conversation one final time before shipping off to U.S. Army basic training! Eric, James and Micah all share their glorious proposal stories. The romantic listener should grab some tissue and prepare for their hearts to be warmed. James quizzes Micah on his discipline methods & how that impacted Micah as an adult. As usual, there are laughs, curvaballs and wonderfully dynamic aspects to the conversation that ultimately point us towards Christ Jesus.

Our episode begins with a little more Ned & Jim confusion, a little fun & laughter AND James actually presses the correct button for a timely and appropriate sound effect (for once). Then, the conversation shifts focus to the week of prayer and fasting that James and Eric are walking through with Hope Church. In order to fast (or to partake in any spiritual discipline) it is important to slow down; be intentional.  They discuss the ups and downs of fasting, as well as some important insights from their own personal expreiences regarding craving awareness & how that ties into our overall theological perspective of Christ's relationship with the Church.  

James' favorite word isn't actually spoken during this episode, BUT the rich, deep, engaging plethora of topics is ever present.   "Very special guest," Pastor Bobby Van Otterloo, from New Life Church in Sioux Center, joins the discussion today!  

Ned & Jim make a brief guest appearance before Eric & James jump back in to get things going. The conversation is classic Hodgepodge Theology, spanning the canvas from paper straws, to VBS (Vacation Bible School) & all the great childhood memories therein, to a peek behind the pastoral curtain into the sermon prep process. Of course, we keep the destination in sight: To equip people to understand Christ better and to walk in His footsteps with joy!  

What We're Diving Into: The "Efficiency" Trap: Why we try to "life-hack" our sanctification and spiritual growth. The Theology of the Interval: Learning to see the "waiting rooms" of life not as wasted time, but as holy ground. Endurance vs. Arrival: Shifting our perspective from "getting it over with" to "getting something out of it." The Final Wrap-up: Why the journey isn't just the path to the destination—The journey with Christ Jesus is the destination. We also solve the debate over starfish vs sea star AND the controversy over the planetary designation of Pluto (a planet).

🎙️ Episode 53: Our First Roadtrip (Season 2 Premiere) Episode Summary: Pack your bags and squeeze in—we're hitting the road! To kick off Season 2, we're breaking our 30-minute mold for an hour-long family reunion. This episode features seven of my sons and one daughter-in-law for a conversation that is equal parts chaotic, hilarious, and profoundly "hodgepodge." We're navigating more than just highway miles in this one. Between the banter and the shared memories, we dive into the deep end of the theological pool, tackling [Insert 1-2 specific topics here, e.g., "the evolution of faith across generations" or "finding grace in the noise"]. It's loud, it's heartfelt, and it's the perfect representation of how we find the divine in the middle of the mess. In this episode, we explore: The Family Mosaic: How eight different personalities interpret one shared faith. Roadside Wisdom: Why the best theological breakthroughs happen when you're stuck in a car together. Season 2 Visions: What's next for the Hodgepodge journey.

In this one-year anniversary special of Hodgepodge Theology, hosts Eric and James reflect on their favorite episodes and the journey so far. Featuring special guest Dr. Tena Runcorn, the episode takes an unexpected turn with surprise call-ins from Rev. Mark Schwarz (Okoboji Bible Conference) and listener Chris. It's a fun, unscripted look at Christian theology, community, and the beauty of the hodgepodge. Can you have a serious theological discussion when the phone won't stop ringing? One year ago, Eric and James set out to create a "Hodgepodge" of theological conversation. 52 episodes and 4,700 downloads later, we're celebrating our first anniversary exactly how you'd expect: with insight, laughter, and a bit of chaos. In this special milestone episode, we are joined in-studio by Dr. Tena Runcorn to reflect on the journey so far. But since Eric forgot to hit "Do Not Disturb," the episode quickly turned into a community affair! Inside This Episode: The Year in Review: Eric and James look back at their favorite moments and the episodes that defined Year One. The "Impromptu" Guests: A surprise call from Rev. Mark Schwarz (Okoboji Bible Conference) and a check-in from long-time listener, Chris. Dr. Tena Runcorn: Insights on the intersection of life, faith, and the podcasting journey. The Future of Hodgepodge: Where we're headed in Year Two. "It's a completely hodgepodge episode for a completely hodgepodge year." Connect with us: If you've been one of our 4,700+ organic listeners this year, thank you for being part of the family! Help us hit our next milestone by sharing this episode with a friend. Keywords: Christian Theology, Bible Study, Okoboji Bible Conference, Dr. Tena Runcorn, Church History, Hodgepodge Theology, Podcast Anniversary.

James and Eric are joined by Aaron Abramson, CEO of Jews for Jesus, to discuss the intersection of Jewish identity and faith in Jesus. Jews for Jesus is a global ministry, whose mission states, "We relentlessly pursue God's plan for the salvation of the Jewish people." In this episode of Hodgepodge Theology, we dive into a fascinating conversation about the mission of Jews for Jesus, the beauty of Messianic Judaism, and how the Gospel bridges cultural and religious divides. Aaron shares insights from his leadership at a global ministry and how we can better understand the Jewish roots of our faith. More information can be found here: https://jewsforjesus.org/ Mr. Abramson's new book, "Mission Design" is available through the Jews for Jesus website and Amazon. Join the journey to 5,000 downloads! If this conversation helped you see the Bible in a new light, please rate the show and share this episode with a friend.  

While we'd like to focus on the fact that the milestone of episode 50 has been reached, a deeper discussion has taken center stage: CATS vs DOGS.  Believe it or not, we find no resolution in the debate AND we bring it right back to the gospel of our LORD Jesus.

Could the title say it all? Special guest host Jon Coulander.

James tells a story with a theme of waiting for closure, which prompted a discussion on Christ's second coming and the posture His church should be finding peace in during this season of Advent. 

Celebrate the birth of our Lord with us! Merry Christmas!! We are pleased to welcome Pastor Jordan Gowing to the conversation. 

Are you surprised? It takes a heafty discussion, all over the place, to end up with the conclusion (as stated in this episode's title). We wouldn't have it any other way. Otherwise, we wouldn't be hodgepodgey in our hodgepodgedness. :-) 

The seasonal decor is festive, but it points to a profound truth. Eric & James explore opportunities to engage others through the traditions and icons of Christmas. They also give a sneak peek at an upcoming "road trip" episode. Enjoy! 

Eeyore is the king of gloomy, and so, this episode (the gloomiest of all episodes) is named after him. BUT, don't let that title detract you from listening! There is still hope & the ship will turn around (thanks be to God)! Also, as a bonus, Eric invents a new word! Even in our gloomy and dark times, we still have hope when we fix our eyes on Christ Jesus!!!

Special guest, Pastor Ben Unseth, joins the conversation as the boys discuss good preaching vs. bad preaching. Should a preacher always also be a pastor? Should every pastor be a preacher? Listen in as the Word of God helps us understand the dynamics of skills and gifts within the Body of Christ. 

Has James reached the completion of his bucket list? Will Eric embark on a camping expedition, or will glamping be the epitome of his future adventures? It's also super fun to see the creativity and the humor of God - the things that cause us to laugh...the things that bring us joy...these are all good gifts from Him.

Will Eric finally announce the show? Or, will it be a classic standoff? I suppose this cliffhanger will compel you to click, "play" and you will find out the answer! Eric and James also explore a little rapture PTSD and wrap up the conversation around the majesty and awe of our LORD and Savior, Jesus. 

Eric is back after a lovely vacation. The discussion today centers on the concept of awe and wonder and the giftings of the individual. A little conviction emerges as a sobering reminder that we are to be held accountable to one another. That accountability should be to help keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, rather than watching others with the "gift" of criticisim. 

The most hodgepodgey episode yet! Eric is still on vacation (but makes a guest appearance via Bluetooth).  The self-proclaimed #1 fan of HPT also has his cameo appearance for a 2nd time. The heart of the conversation is with James and guest co-host, Pastor Jesse Orttel from Good News Community Church in Okoboji, IA. Jesse shares the great concept of failing faster.

Eric is traveling & James brings in a guest co-host (the legendary Sean Sherrod). Sean is a planner. James is not. The two friends discuss the differences and the joy that can be found in either approach to life. Ultimately, the conversation drives us to the purpose God has given each of us in our daily journey as we pursue Him.

When it comes to your choices, how important is the opinion of everyone else? Paul asks, "Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people?" (Galatians 1:10 NIV)  A depth of maturity can be observed and experienced when we no longer worry ourselves with what other people think. Do everything for the glory of God! On a side-note, James shares his skills of coffee identification based on global region. 

Cue the dramatic music. Allow the question to hang in the air like a good mystery just before the answer is revealed... James presents the question to Eric, "Is this the peak episode?" Meaning, have we run our course? In addition to that mild dramatic rabbit hole, Eric and James also discuss accolades within the context of worship and preaching. What is appropriate? What is not?

With technology in our hands (including all of our personal and financial information), we have a global awareness as well as exposure to greater opportunitites to be preyed upon.  How do we cope with stress and worry in light of our expanded awareness? Does God care for us in the craziness of our busy lives? Or should we fend for ourselves? Let us live out our faith by seeking His kingdom first.

Marketing schemes are everywhere. Have we turned our presentation of the gospel into nothing more than a marketing concept? Let's talk through this...

Eric and James think through the intentionality of content creators. They then move to self-examination and the challenges (and importance) of spiritual disciplines within the lives of believers.

Today James and Eric sit down with Pastor Jay Van Gelder and talk about his 30+ years in youth ministry. Conversation leads to some wonderful insights on things we can learn from youth ministry and apply to the greater church.  Hodgepodge (häj-päj) Theology (thē-ä-lə-jē) is a mixed-bag of topics, life lessons, wisdom and silliness, all with one purpose: To equip people to understand Christ better and to walk in His footsteps with joy. Keep the conversaition going, feel free to email us at [email protected]

Eric and James talk with local coffee shop owner, Kerry (of Medlar). What is community? Why is it important to discipleship? Listen to their conversation as they invite you to engage. Hodgepodge (häj-päj) Theology (thē-ä-lə-jē) is a mixed-bag of topics, life lessons, wisdom and silliness, all with one purpose: To equip people to understand Christ better and to walk in His footsteps with joy. Keep the conversaition going, feel free to email us at [email protected]

S. Michael Craven, Vice President of Equipping & Mobilization at the Colson Center, joins the conversation today. This is a powerful deep-dive about the true meaning of the Church today.

A very special guest - one who is near and dear to James' heart, joins the conversation in today's episode (well, sort of). Joy is the undercurrent throughout the conversation...and a bad attempt at a dad joke (Eric decided to leave it in). Enjoy!   Hodgepodge (häj-päj) Theology (thē-ä-lə-jē) is a mixed-bag of topics, life lessons, wisdom and silliness, all with one purpose: To equip people to understand Christ better and to walk in His footsteps with joy. Keep the conversaition going, feel free to email us at [email protected]

Eric & James welcome Dr. Preston Sprinkle to the show. Preston and James come from the same hometown (Fresno, CA). In this episode, they discuss the importance of truly listening to others. Hodgepodge (häj-päj) Theology (thē-ä-lə-jē) is a mixed-bag of topics, life lessons, wisdom and silliness, all with one purpose: To equip people to understand Christ better and to walk in His footsteps with joy. Keep the conversaition going, feel free to email us at [email protected]

If there's something strange in your neighborhood....could it be a ghost? In Episode 27, Eric and James explore the paranormal in light of Scripture. We always need to allow God's Word to shine truth into every aspect of our lives.

Eric and James welcome a hearty conversation with guest, Pastor Tim Smith. Their discussion, directed to the heart of Scripture, prompts thoughtful consideration about the proper interpretation of God's Word.  Hodgepodge (häj-päj) Theology (thē-ä-lə-jē) is a mixed-bag of topics, life lessons, wisdom and silliness, all with one purpose: To equip people to understand Christ better and to walk in His footsteps with joy. Keep the conversaition going, feel free to email us at [email protected]

Greg Alderman (Executive Director of the Alliance of Reformed Churches) is the guest today as Eric, James and Greg discuss the realities of being the church every day.

The "Number 1 Fan" of HPT joins the team in studio! Along with him, the conversation also includes the "Number 1 Fan of Episode 2." These die-hard fans (also sons of James) embark on a 16+ hour road trip from Idaho to Spencer, IA. This episode wraps up with some reviews/quotes from our listeners.

  James attempts to figure out his age in months (hint: he's "not a numbers guy"). Absolute silliness unfolds as the team discusses how one of James' children called him old. Eventually they bring it all back to focus on the ultimate destination. Hodgepodge (häj-päj) Theology (thē-ä-lə-jē) is a mixed-bag of topics, life lessons, wisdom and silliness, all with one purpose: To equip people to understand Christ better and to walk in His footsteps with joy. Keep the conversaition going, feel free to email us at [email protected]

The Rolling Stones sang, "I can't get no satisfaction." It seems to be human nature. This isn't the way God designed us to live. We can find true satisfaction in Him. Furthermore, what are our preconceived limitations/ideas of God? They are only constructs in our finite minds. God is beyond our comprehension, as Scripture reveals. 

Wow! This conversation is all over the map! Eventually, the boys rein it in and ponder creativity as a reflection of our Creator God (as we are made in His image). We've included some fun outtakes at the end as a bonus.   Hodgepodge (häj-päj) Theology (thē-ä-lə-jē) is a mixed-bag of topics, life lessons, wisdom and silliness, all with one purpose: To equip people to understand Christ better and to walk in His footsteps with joy. Keep the conversaition going, feel free to email us at [email protected]

Back to the heart of this podcast, Eric & James have some fun with their banter. This discussion includes an epic surprise story of Tena (James' wife) and a discussion about the way stories grab our attention, as reflections of our Creator. Hodgepodge (häj-päj) Theology (thē-ä-lə-jē) is a mixed-bag of topics, life lessons, wisdom and silliness, all with one purpose: To equip people to understand Christ better and to walk in His footsteps with joy. Keep the conversaition going, feel free to email us at [email protected]

Doug TenNapel (comic book artist, developer of TV shows/animated series, creator of Earthworm Jim...and so much more) is our guest today. Doug shares his journey of faith and how that shapes his creative endeavors.  Hodgepodge (häj-päj) Theology (thē-ä-lə-jē) is a mixed-bag of topics, life lessons, wisdom and silliness, all with one purpose: To equip people to understand Christ better and to walk in His footsteps with joy. Keep the conversaition going, feel free to email us at [email protected]

  Today, Eric and James welcome actor, David Atkinson, to the conversation. James and David reminisce about their time together as members of a Christian theatre company in Hollywood. David shares his firsthand experience as a working professional in the entertainment industry, as a believer in Christ Jesus.   Hodgepodge (häj-päj) Theology (thē-ä-lə-jē) is a mixed-bag of topics, life lessons, wisdom and silliness, all with one purpose: To equip people to understand Christ better and to walk in His footsteps with joy. Keep the conversaition going, feel free to email us at [email protected]

Today, Eric and James get the pleasure of hearing from Karen Covell the founder of the Hollywood Prayer Network. It is a wonderful conversation on the power of prayer.  For more information on the Hollywood Prayer Network check out https://hollywoodprayernetwork.org/. If interested in getting involved in the Northwest Iowa chapter please reach out to James at [email protected] Hodgepodge (häj-päj) Theology (thē-ä-lə-jē) is a mixed-bag of topics, life lessons, wisdom and silliness, all with one purpose: To equip people to understand Christ better and to walk in His footsteps with joy. Keep the conversaition going, feel free to email us at [email protected]