Roots & Relevance

In this episode of Roots and Relevance, the panel explores the tension between power, authority, and servanthood in the context of Genesis 1:26–28. What does it mean to rule and subdue creation as God’s image-bearers? Daniel, Tim, Jonathan, Riley, Rachel, and Wally dive into the ancient meanings of “dominion” and “subdue,” unraveling the royal and priestly roles God gave humanity in Eden. The team wrestles with modern misconceptions of power—whether it’s authoritarian control or abdication—and challenges listeners to consider Christ’s example of ruling through service. What does it look like to lead in a way that reflects God’s goodness in a broken world? With humor, depth, and practical insight, this episode examines how to wield power as God intended—by partnering with Him, honoring His creation, and serving others. Listen now and rediscover the beauty of your calling as an image-bearer of God.   Additional resources are available at Roots and Relevance.com

In this episode of Roots and Relevance, the panel tackles Genesis 1:26–28, wrestling with what it means to be created in the image and likeness of God. Daniel, Tim, Jonathan, Wally, and Rachel unpack the cultural and theological weight of "image" as it was understood in ancient Mesopotamian cosmologies and how Scripture flips those narratives upside down. The discussion dives into humanity’s role as living reflections of God, exploring the implications of being His "idols" in a biblical sense—those entrusted to rule and care for creation. The team also confronts modern challenges, including the way technology, power, and even the church itself can distort or misrepresent God’s image. What does it mean to reflect the Creator in a fallen world? And how do we navigate the tension between our calling to rule and the temptation to wield power wrongly? Join the conversation as the panel brings timeless    Visit RootsandRelevance.com for more resources

In this episode of Roots and Relevance, the panel engages in a meaningful discussion on what it means to be created in the image of God. Daniel, Tim, Jonathan, Riley, Wally, and Rachel examine the biblical creation account in Genesis, drawing contrasts with ancient cosmologies and the modern fascination with artificial intelligence. The conversation moves from the peace of God’s creative work in Genesis 1 to the violence often found in ancient myths. Along the way, the team reflects on humanity’s pursuit of intimacy through technology and the unique role of being God’s image-bearers. What does it mean to reflect the Creator in a world captivated by its own creations? The episode also highlights the poetic design of Genesis, the significance of Sabbath rest, and how these ancient truths remain profoundly relevant to our present culture. Join the discussion as the team unpacks these questions with insight, honesty, and a few lighthearted moments. Now streaming wherever you listen to podcasts!   For more resources, visit RootsandRelevance.com

Welcome to Roots & Relevance! We’re excited to launch our new series, “Images and Idols,” with an exploration of Genesis and its profound statements on creation, identity, and divine purpose. In this opening episode, we dive into the foundational question of what it means to be created in the image of God—a theme that echoes through Scripture and shapes our understanding of worship, worth, and purpose. Through a fresh look at Genesis 1, our panel considers how the ancient world understood the concept of “image” in light of their cultural and cosmological perspectives. From the chaos and void described at the beginning to God’s intentional ordering of creation, we unpack how Genesis establishes a framework that challenges modern assumptions and illuminates our role as image-bearers today. As we set the stage for this series, we invite you to journey with us from chaos to order, exploring how these ancient texts speak to the timeless themes of identity and purpose. Join us in questioning, rethinking, and rediscovering what it means to bear God’s image in a world often filled with competing idols.   For more resources, visit RootsandRelevance.com

In this final episode of our Jonah series, the Roots and Relevance team tackles your questions about the prophet, the story, and the deeper themes we've uncovered along the way. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the literal versus parable nature of Jonah, the role of Eastern versus Western thinking in understanding scripture, and the unexpected twists in the narrative. Whether you’re curious about the significance of the fish or wrestling with how Jonah’s story applies to us today, this Q&R session will help bring our study to a meaningful close.   For more resources, visit Roots & Relevance.com

In this episode, the Roots and Relevance team concludes their study of the book of Jonah. The conversation reflects on Jonah's abrupt ending, unpacking themes of God’s sovereignty, human pride, and the powerful invitation to compassion. As each member shares their personal takeaways, the discussion turns toward understanding the "other" in our lives—those we may struggle to show mercy to—and how this biblical story mirrors our own journeys. From the significance of Jonah's final verses to the challenge of loving our "enemies," this episode encourages listeners to see God’s grace in a new light and invites deeper communal engagement with Scripture.

In this episode of Roots and Relevance, we explore the intricate themes of Jonah chapter 4, focusing on divine provision, human entitlement, and God’s unconventional methods of teaching. Through lively discussion and insights into the Hebrew structure of the text, the conversation uncovers Jonah's struggle with God's mercy and what it reveals about our own hearts. Blending humor with thoughtful reflection, this episode offers a fresh perspective on one of the most thought-provoking chapters of Jonah’s story.   Visit RootsAndRelevance.com for additional resources.

In this episode of Roots and Relevance, we dig into the complexities of Jonah chapter 4, exploring the prophet’s struggle with God’s mercy toward Nineveh. The team unpacks the deep tensions between justice and grace, drawing connections to the broader biblical narrative, including stories like Cain and Abel and the Exodus. With plenty of thought-provoking discussion, we ask challenging questions about God’s character and what it means for us today.   Check out our website for more resources Roots and Relevance.com

In this episode of Roots and Relevance, we pause our deep dive into Jonah to explore the foundational stories that shape both ancient and modern faith. With rich discussions on the communal impact of events like 9/11 and the core narratives of the Exodus and Jonah, we examine how God’s character is revealed through history and scripture. The team draws powerful parallels between biblical themes and our shared human experience, setting the stage for a deeper understanding of Jonah’s struggle in chapter 4.   Download additional resources at RootsandRelevance.com

In this episode of Roots and Relevance, the panel dives deep into the intersections of faith, culture, and law as they continue their exploration of the Book of Jonah. Through thought-provoking discussions on the role of political and social engagement, the episode challenges listeners to consider the balance between personal responsibility, cultural influence, and biblical truth. How does Jonah’s journey reflect our own, and what does it mean for Christians today as they navigate societal change? Join us for a rich conversation that touches on everything from Christian nationalism to personal discipleship. Download more resources at Roots and Relevance.com

In this thought-provoking episode of Roots and Relevance, the panel explores a broader theme—spiritual renewal. As they reflect on the transformation of Nineveh, the discussion shifts to modern culture and the complex intersections of faith, politics, and education. What does it truly take to see a society revived? Does top-down legislation work, or is grassroots change the only path to lasting renewal? Join the conversation as we tackle these challenging questions and offer insights into how spiritual awakenings can shape nations today.   For additional resources, visit rootsandrelevance.com

In this episode of Roots and Relevance, we explore Jonah’s surprising five-word sermon that sparks an incredible response from the people of Nineveh. Was it true repentance or something else entirely? Join us as we unpack the layers of meaning in Jonah chapter 3, the dynamics of God’s mercy, and what this ancient story reveals about transformation in both individual hearts and entire nations. Prepare to dig deep into questions of faith, repentance, and the profound character of God.   For additional resources, visit Roots & Relevence.com

In this episode of Roots and Relevance, we dive deeper into the story of Jonah as he encounters the mysterious great fish in Chapter 2. Was Jonah’s time in the belly of the fish an act of punishment or a divine rescue mission? We explore the poetic language, the significance of the fish’s gender, and the deeper theological implications of Jonah’s descent into Sheol. Join us as we unravel the layers of this ancient narrative and discuss how God’s sovereignty, mercy, and the concept of spiritual death play out in Jonah’s journey and what it means for us today.   Download the Episode Study Guide

In this thought-provoking episode of Roots and Relevance, we dive into the heart of Jonah's journey as we explore the concept of fear and how it shapes the narrative. As the storm rages and Jonah faces the consequences of his flight from God, we examine the different types of fear exhibited by Jonah and the sailors and how these fears reveal deeper truths about our own responses to divine authority. Join us as we unpack the complexity of fear in the context of Jonah's story and its relevance to our modern lives. To learn more, visit the Roots and Relevance website

In this episode of Roots and Relevance, we explore the chaotic waters of the Book of Jonah, delving into the ancient Near Eastern cosmology that shaped the narrative. Join us as we connect the themes of chaos, order, and God's relentless pursuit of Jonah, and consider the implications for the Church's role in today's world of disorder and confusion. This conversation challenges us to rethink our understanding of chaos, both in the biblical narrative and our modern culture. To learn more, visit the Roots and Relevance website

In this episode of Roots and Relevance, we delve deeper into the fascinating story of Jonah, exploring the nuances of his role as a prophet versus an evangelist. Join us as we unpack the historical context of Jonah's time, discuss the brutal nature of the Assyrian empire, and reflect on how Jonah's reluctance to obey God reveals profound truths about our own struggles with loving our enemies. Prepare for a thought-provoking discussion that challenges our modern perspectives on grace, mercy, and the call to engage with those we might least expect. To learn more, visit the Roots and Relevance website

In this introductory episode of Roots and Relevance, we embark on a journey through the Book of Jonah, challenging preconceived notions and diving deep into the complexities of this often misunderstood story. Is Jonah simply a tale about a prophet and a big fish, or does it carry profound insights into God's character, compassion, and our response to divine revelation? Join us as we explore whether Jonah was a prophet or an evangelist, discuss the broader themes of repentance and appeasement, and consider what Jonah's story teaches us about how we view and treat "the other" in our own lives.   To learn more, visit the Roots and Relevance website