Letters to the Inquiring Mind on Theology and Scripture
The Apostles’ Creed is a symbol of faith for Christians. Belief in the forgiveness of sins is part of this creed. Yet unlike the Lord’s Prayer, which can be recited at any time, the Apostles’ Creed is typically voiced in church, in union with other people. For the “Forgiveness of Sins” does not just mean OUR sins, but our ability to forgive others, a symbol of self-giving love. A sermon meditation by Dr. Richard N. Soulen. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
In all things, Praise the Lord. Yes… but how? A sermon meditation by Dr. Richard N. Soulen. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
John Wesley (1703-1791) founder of the Methodist church and Muḥammad ibn ‘Abd al-Wahhāb (1703-1792) founder of Wahhabism, were born in the same year and died less than a year apart. What were the factors that influenced these two significant theologians to understand belief in God and expression of faith in such radically different ways? Dr. Richard N. Soulen delivers this multipart podcast series. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
John Wesley (1703-1791) founder of the Methodist church and Muḥammad ibn ‘Abd al-Wahhāb (1703-1792) founder of Wahhabism, were born in the same year and died less than a year apart. What were the factors that influenced these two significant theologians to understand belief in God and expression of faith in such radically different ways? Dr. Richard N. Soulen delivers this multipart podcast series. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
John Wesley (1703-1791) founder of the Methodist church and Muḥammad ibn ‘Abd al-Wahhāb (1703-1792) founder of Wahhabism, were born in the same year and died less than a year apart. What were the factors that influenced these two significant theologians to understand belief in God and expression of faith in such radically different ways? Dr. Richard N. Soulen delivers this multipart podcast series. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
Our culture has been too long dominated by the aggressive, assertive, self-seeking desire to control and dominate. And not open to a caring, compassionate, and self giving nature.
Dr. Richard N. Soulen was pastor at Duncan Memorial Methodist Church in Ashland, Virginia from 1988 to 1995. This is a sermon recording selected from this time period. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
The following meditation by Dr. Richard N. Soulen focuses on the prison industry in Virginia during the 1990s. The rising prison population was the result, in part, of sentencing guidelines that are being reversed in many part of the country today. But the fundamental question remains. How do we as Christians help others that are in desperate need of help? https://soulenandsoulen.com/
One of United Methodism’s six special Sundays with offerings, Native American Ministries Sunday equips and empowers Native American pastors, congregations and seminary students to do what only they can do: authentically worship and serve Jesus. The following sermon delivered by Dr. Richard N. Soulen in the 1990s highlights issues that still strongly resonate today. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
In the Methodist Church, Peace with Justice Sunday is a call for us to love our enemies, seek
justice, and serve as reconcilers of conflict. In this sermon from the 1990s, Dr. Richard N. Soulen raises issues that are even more relevant today. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
How can the Christmas story be made meaningful for adults? Christmas celebrates God. God with us. The divine in the midst of the human. Just like the Christ Child, we were all infants at one time. And we were all totally dependent on the love of a mother and of a father and of the many others that nurtured us into adulthood. An Advent sermon by Dr. Richard N. Soulen. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
The United Methodist Church uses an itinerant system to appoint pastors to different congregations. The following sermon is a personal reflection by Dr. Richard N. Soulen about the faith of ministers and congregations, that stretches across the generations. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
The following sermon was delivered in the early 1990s. The topic of truth, or the wanton assault on truth, is critically important today as we grapple with campaigns of misinformation. On the personal level, Dr. Richard N. Soulen discusses the “dimensions of truth” that exist between you and God. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
What does the future hold for us? What will happen in 2021? We just don’t know. We can’t know. But as Christians, we do know this: It is God’s will that in the fullness of time we shall be the children of God. The following is a sermon meditation by Dr. Richard N. Soulen. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
If you feel the call of the spirit, be Holy. If you can’t be Holy, be perfect. If you can’t be perfect, be good. If you can’t be good, be wise. If you can be none of these… A sermon by Dr. Richard N. Soulen. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
What is the nature of sin? How does sin and the meaning of Christmas go together? A sermon by Dr. Richard N. Soulen. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
Our time on this earth is limited. This is the transience of life. Do not live in the past. The past is the past. Admitting that something is over is a necessary part of living into the future. So live now, make a difference now, love your neighbor now and become part of the Kingdom of God. A sermon by Dr. Richard N. Soulen. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
As Christians, we begin our profession of faith with the words, “I believe.” While not spoken or declared, just as important for the person of faith is what we do NOT believe. A sermon by Dr. Richard N. Soulen. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
What does it mean to believe in God? If you were asked this question, how would you answer? What is the faith that is within you? Can you describe it? Dr. Richard N. Soulen is followed by Dr. R. Kendall Soulen in exploring the question. God has a purpose. God has a purpose for each and every one of us. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
As people of faith, we believe we are called to make a positive difference in the lives of the people around us. During such times of difficulty and sadness as these, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and lost. The following sermon by Dr. Richard N. Soulen was delivered before the pandemic, but addresses a natural question. “Did we do enough?” https://soulenandsoulen.com/
The following sermon was delivered in the early 1990s, when “surfing the web” was a new thing. Today, technology continues to advance in ways both wonderful and terrifying. Yet God’s presence in our lives is a new and more powerful creation. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
Now. Today. Not yesterday. Not tomorrow. Today is the day of Salvation. Today is the day of God’s grace. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
Someone once asked, “What is God?” But that is the wrong question. The better question is, “Where is God?” We declare that the answer to that question is in Jesus of Nazareth. And also, in you and in me. Dr. Richard N. Soulen discusses the Personal God in the following sermon meditation. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
At the Last Supper, Jesus gave the Disciples a new commandment. This new commandment was to “Love one another as I have loved you.” In the following meditation, Dr. Richard N. Soulen provides a deeper understanding of the Last Supper and what that gift means for each of us today. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
The Scouts of America designates the Sunday that falls before February 8 (Scouting Anniversary Day) as Scout Sunday. It is the primary date to recognize the contributions of young people and adults to Scouting. More importantly, Scout Sunday is an opportunity to celebrate that part of the Scout Law is to be reverent. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
As infants, we enter this world kicking, screaming, and crying. It is Mother’s and Father’s love that brings the infant from kicking and screaming to laughing and smiling. This is the first of three “Aspects of Love” explored by Dr. Richard N. Soulen in the following sermon. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
Jesus and three of his apostles, Peter, James, and John go to a mountain to pray. While they are there, Jesus begins to shine with bright rays of light. Then the prophets Moses and Elijah appear next to him and he speaks with them. A voice from the clouds calls out, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!” This account is called the Transfiguration and is the topic of the following sermon by Dr. Richard N. Soulen. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
What is Holy to you? When and how do you experience the Holy? Is it closer to you than you think? Dr. Richard N. Soulen explores what is Holy. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
The story of Doubting Thomas is found in the Gospel of John. Thomas says, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” But when he does see and touch Jesus, he exclaims, “My Lord and my God!” In this sermon, Dr. Richard N. Soulen speaks to our own doubts and fears. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!” (Isaiah Chapter 6). The Black Lives Matter movement seeks to bring justice, healing, and freedom to people of color across the world. In this sermon delivered in the early 1990s, Dr. Richard N. Soulen speaks to the injustice that is all around us. “God calls us to administer justly. Speak truly and fairly. And live our lives acceptable to God.” https://soulenandsoulen.com/
Dr. Richard N. Soulen delivered the following sermon in 1991, not long after the beating of Rodney King. The message is based on the Sermon on the Mount text, which fundamentally describes who we are called to be as Christians. The message is as important today as it was nearly 30 years ago. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
“Whoever saves one life saves the entire world.” This is a line from the Talmud that was used in the movie Schindler’s List (1994 Academy Best Picture Award). But how can that be so? This sermon by Dr. Richard N. Soulen seems especially relevant today during this time of national crisis. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
The last line of Psalm 19 begins, “Let the words of my mouth…” This is the subject of the following sermon preached by Dr. Richard N. Soulen. https://soulenandsoulen.com/.
The Apostles Creed ends with the phrase, “And the Life Everlasting.” What, exactly, does “Life Everlasting” mean? Dr. Richard N. Soulen provides a meditation on the topic. https://soulenandsoulen.com/.
This year, Advent begins on Sunday, November 29th. You might think Advent had started weeks ago based on all of the store decorations. Yet with all of the string lights, gigantic yard balloons, or even manger scenes for sale, you won’t see a single John the Baptist. This is the topic of the following sermon delivered by Dr. Richard N. Soulen. https://soulenandsoulen.com/.
In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus tells the parable of the Unrighteous Steward. The parable is complex and has been interpreted in different ways over the centuries. It is the topic of the following sermon delivered by Dr. Richard N. Soulen. https://soulenandsoulen.com/.
During the course of our life, we will face many challenges. For many, these challenges will be so difficult and great that there will be a temptation to despair. In this sermon, Dr. Richard N. Soulen discusses despair yet closes with a beautiful paraphrase of the 23rd Psalm. https://soulenandsoulen.com/.
Even small actions can have significant impacts. In the Book of Acts, Philip has a chance encounter with an official from Ethiopia… and changed his life. In this sermon, Dr. Richard N. Soulen discusses the power you have to make positive change in the world around you. https://soulenandsoulen.com/.
The Apostle’s Creed includes the phrase,
“I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic church,”
But what, exactly, is the holy catholic church? Dr. Richard N. Soulen discusses this question in the following sermon. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
The following sermon was delivered the Sunday after Easter. At this moment, Easter is a distant memory as Christmas decorations fills every store we visit. Now is a good time to be reminded that Easter Sunday is not the end but the beginning of our spiritual journey that carries us through the calendar year. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
In the Gospel of Mark, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome were the three women to go to the tomb to anoint the body of Jesus. In this sermon delivered on an Easter Sunday morning, Dr. Richard Soulen discusses our Passion for Meaning. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
It is time to get your dictionary. What is the difference between “indicatives” and “imperatives”? In this sermon delivered in the 1990’s, Dr. Richard Soulen explores Christian faith from both the Indicative and Imperative perspective. Dr. R. Kendall Soulen provides additional commentary on the topic. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
“Great Theologians in the Christian Tradition” was a series of six lectures delivered by R. Kendall Soulen, Ph.D. at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. from January 22 to February 26, 2002. Karl Barth (1886-1968) and Paul Tillich (1886-1965) are the focus of the concluding lecture of this series. Though friends and allies in protest against the rise of Nazism, the German theologian Paul Tillich and the Swiss theologian Karl Barth blazed two different paths for Protestant theology in the 20th century, the strengths and weaknesses of which continue to be weighed at the dawn of the 21st century. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
Dr. R. Kendall Soulen provides additional perspective on the mystery that we, all of us, are created in God’s own image. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
Carl Sagan was one of the most well-known and influential scientists and cosmologists of the 1970s and 1980s. Yet in his book, The Pale Blue Dot (1994), Carl Sagan suggests that we humans suffer from a “…delusion that we have some privileged position in the Universe.” In this sermon delivered in the 1990’s, Dr. Richard Soulen takes direct issue with Sagan’s perspective that we are small and insignificant in the vast space we call the Cosmos. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
“Great Theologians in the Christian Tradition” was a series of six lectures delivered by R. Kendall Soulen, Ph.D. at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. from January 22 to February 26, 2002. Friedrich Schleiermacher (1768-1834) is the focus of lecture five. In his influential book, On Religion: Speeches to Its Cultured Despisers, Schleiermacher defends religion from the criticisms of the Enlightenment. It became a classic and is still in print today. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
“Great Theologians in the Christian Tradition” was a series of six lectures delivered by R. Kendall Soulen, Ph.D. at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. from January 22 to February 26, 2002. Martin Luther (1483-1546) is the focus of lecture four. The Reformation is considered to have started with the publication of Luther’s Ninety-five Theses in 1517. Known for his uncompromising views, Luther said, “Peace if possible. Truth at all costs.” https://soulenandsoulen.com/
In the fullest sense, it is impossible to be human without temptation. For temptation is simply the natural result of thinking about options and choices. If we could live life without having to make choices… then of course there would be nothing like temptation. But we do make choices every day and those choices define the very core of our identify. Who do you want to be? https://soulenandsoulen.com/
“Great Theologians in the Christian Tradition” was a series of six lectures delivered by R. Kendall Soulen, Ph.D. at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. from January 22 to February 26, 2002. Saint Thomas Aquinas (1224-74) is the focus of lecture three. Young Thomas was a quiet man and was nicknamed “The Dumb Ox” by his fellow classmates. Of course, he would become one of the Catholic Church’s greatest theologians and philosophers. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
The story of Jonah is one of the most popular in the entire Bible. However, in recent popular culture, far too much focus has been placed on role of the whale in the story. In this podcast, Dr. Richard N. Soulen and Dr. R. Kendall Soulen dive deeper into the important lessons of the Book of Jonah. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
Richard of Chichester (1197 – 1253), also known as Richard de Wych, was Bishop of Chichester in England. He is a saint and was canonized in 1262. While the name “Richard of Chichester” may not be familiar, you are likely to know the words of a prayer that he authored. They were made famous by the musical Godspell in the song, Day by Day. http://soulenandsoulen.com
“Great Theologians in the Christian Tradition” was a series of six lectures delivered by R. Kendall Soulen, Ph.D. at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. from January 22 to February 26, 2002. Saint Augustine is the focus of lecture two. One of the most influential thinkers in Western history, Augustine (354 AD–430 AD) was a mid-life convert to Christianity whose inquisitive mind touched on topics from biblical interpretation to the nature of time and the human psyche. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
“Great Theologians in the Christian Tradition” was a series of six lectures delivered by R. Kendall Soulen, Ph.D. at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. from January 22 to February 26, 2002. The six lectures proceed chronologically through Christian history: St. Paul, St. Augustine, St. Thomas Aquinas, Martin Luther, Friedrich Schleiermacher, Karl Barth, and Paul Tillich. The lectures are now being published as podcast episodes on https://soulenandsoulen.com/
The early church in Corinth was plagued by many serious problems, including factionalism, sexual immorality, and abusing the communal meal. Paul was very concerned. So, in his first letter to the church in Corinth (1 Corinthians), he begins with high praise and thanksgiving. Wait…what? Paul. You have got to be kidding! soulenandsoulen.com
In the parable of the Prodigal Son, the younger son asks for inheritance from his father, who grants his son’s request. The older son is dutiful and remains home. When the younger son returns home having wasted everything, he is forgiven by his Father. How does the Prodigal Son’s older brother react? Never mentioned at all in the parable is the Prodigal Son’s Sister In Law… Molly Rutland Soulen and Rebecca Rutland Soulen add third generational commentary to this sermon preached by their Grandfather. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
What is Wisdom? How can we possibly know Wisdom when we encounter it? In this podcast, Dr. Richard N. Soulen shares a sermon on the Christian understanding of Wisdom and son Dr. R. Kendall Soulen shares his perspective. soulenandsoulen.com
At this moment, you may or may not be baptized. The Christian believes that baptism is the symbolic washing of our wants and desires. But it is more than just a washing away of sins. Baptism also grants freedom and power to be a child of God. Baptism provides the opportunity to be more than your flesh and bones. Baptism provides the opportunity to be a force of love in a troubled world. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
How can Christians understand suffering in a world created by the God of Love? During this global pandemic, the suffering of so many people is causing all of us to feel grief and pain. This podcast is a sermon by Dr. Richard N. Soulen that was recorded several years ago, but provides a message of hope for today. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
If climbing a mountain is a metaphor for life… How do you want to live your life? https://soulenandsoulen.com/
Dr. Richard N. Soulen returns to the topic of evil. Ever since the emergence of moral awareness in human beings – nature has become a problem – to itself! Yet, if there is in nature a “Blessed Rage for Order”… then that is a hopeful sign. For as human beings, we have the ability to create our own future… as well as destroy it. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
Dr. R. Kendall Soulen provides his perspective on love. This podcast includes reflections on the spiritual journey of John Wesley, the profound verse found in 1 John 4:19, words from Martin Luther, and concludes with a brief study of John 3:16. So – what do YOU call love? https://soulenandsoulen.com/
What is love? Is love just a human creation …. or is it something far deeper? Dr. Richard N. Soulen explores the question. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
Dr. R. Kendall Soulen explores the Problem of Evil. It begins with knowing the difference between “Understanding Evil…. and WITHSTANDING Evil. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
Dr. Richard N. Soulen explores……The Problem of Evil. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
Professor R. Kendall Soulen provides his take on “Why do molecules pray?” …starring Mr. Bean. Yep, you are correct. THAT Mr. Bean. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
Why do molecules pray? What a curious question! We might normally ask, “Why do I pray?” or “Why does anyone pray?” And one answer to this question might be… that you or I feel a complete dependence on a power beyond the self. But let’s study the need for prayer all the way down the ladder of evolution to the first appearance of life. We might think of “prayer” as a universal phenomenon in all living things….and the following podcast focuses on this topic! https://soulenandsoulen.com/
Hermeneutics is the most important branch of knowledge when it comes to interpreting and understanding the meaning of Biblical text. Yet, it is also, possibly, the least understood. Dr. Richard Soulen explains Hermeneutics in a two-part series.
Hermeneutics is the most important branch of knowledge when it comes to interpreting and understanding the meaning of Biblical text. Yet, it is also, possibly, the least understood. Dr. Richard Soulen explains Hermeneutics in a two-part series.
Part 2. For most of the past two millennia, the church’s posture toward the Jewish people has come to expression in the teaching known as supersessionism, also known as the theology of displacement. But how has this theology changed over the past fifty years? Professor R. Kendall Soulen, author of the book The God of Israel and Christian Theology (Fortress Press, 1996) explores this topic in a two-part interviewed conducted in 2012. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
For most of the past two millennia, the church’s posture toward the Jewish people has come to expression in the teaching known as supersessionism, also known as the theology of displacement. But how has this theology changed over the past fifty years? Professor R. Kendall Soulen, author of the book The God of Israel and Christian Theology (Fortress Press, 1996) explores this topic in a two-part interviewed conducted in 2012. https://soulenandsoulen.com/
The universe… with it’s billions of galaxies and trillions of stars… doesn’t know it exists, except in the mind of God. And in our minds… made in the image of God. We have a gift. The gift of self-awareness and the power to comprehend. But it is not simply a gift – it is a responsibility! https://soulenandsoulen.com/
What is the Heart of the Gospel? Is it a creed? Is it a doctrine? Is it a sacrament? Or… is it something else? Dr. Richard Soulen explores the question. To learn more, please visit: https://soulenandsoulen.com/
Dr. Richard Soulen asks the question….Why is there something… rather than nothing at all? http://soulenandsoulen.com
Does God Exist? Dr. Richard Soulen explores the question. For more information about this podcast, please visit Soulenandsoulen.com.
On May 8, 2019, Dunwoody UMC hosted a panel discussion on human sexuality, followed by questions and answers. Professors from Emory’s Candler School of Theology, Rev. Dr. Kendall Soulen and Rev. Dr. Kevin Watson, led the discussion offering opposing perspectives of Biblical interpretation and marriage within Christian communities. The following podcast is Dr. Kendall Soulen’s portion of the evening. A video of the entire evening including questions and answers can be found at Soulenandsoulen.com in the Videos tab.
Richard Soulen provides a response to a book review of Defining Jesus – The Earthly, Biblical, the Historical, and the Real Jesus, and How Not to Confuse Them. This is the final episode of The Defining Jesus Series. For more information about this podcast, please visit Soulenandsoulen.com.
Kendall Soulen provides an additional perspective to the Defining Jesus series. For more information about this podcast, please visit Soulenandsoulen.com.
Not WHAT to think…. but HOW to think. Indeed….how to think Theology and avoid semantic confusion.
The term “the real Jesus” refers to an experience that over the centuries has been identified with the presence of the living Lord, whether that experience happens to an individual in personal encounter, or where two or three are gathered together in his name (Matt 18:20).
The term, “the Historical Jesus” is the primary semantic culprit plaguing the academy, the church, and the general public in every conversation about Jesus.
The term, “the Historical Jesus” is the primary semantic culprit plaguing the academy, the church, and the general public in every conversation about Jesus.
The term, “the Historical Jesus” is the primary semantic culprit plaguing the academy, the church, and the general public in every conversation about Jesus.
The Biblical Jesus refers to the Jesus one meets when reading the Gospels and writings of the New Testament.
The Biblical Jesus refers to the Jesus one meets when reading the Gospels and writings of the New Testament.
The Biblical Jesus refers to the Jesus one meets when reading the Gospels and writings of the New Testament.
The Biblical Jesus refers to the Jesus one meets when reading the Gospels and writings of the New Testament.
What is the generally recognized factual core of the life of Jesus around which declarations of faith are built?
The introductory episode of the Defining Jesus Series: What do you mean when you say “Jesus”? Who, exactly, are you referring to? The Defining Jesus series is about the semantic content of the name Jesus and how it is used (and misused) in biblical studies, the church, and the popular press.
Dr. R. Kendall Soulen completes the Introduction to the Soulen and Soulen podcast by answering the same question….What do I believe? Why do I believe it? We welcome you to our podcast journey. What do YOU believe?
Part 2. Dr. Richard N. Soulen asks the questions….What do I believe? Why do I believe it? What you believe and why you believe has its origins in your “Social Location”…..
Part 1. Dr. Richard Soulen asks the questions….What do I believe? Why do I believe it? What you believe and why you believe has its origins in your “Social Location”…..
This is the first podcast of Soulen and Soulen – Letters to the Inquiring Mind on Theology and Scripture. Dr. Richard Soulen provides a brief overview of the podcast, how it came to be, and what will come next!
