A Near Life Experience: The Theology of Disability and Punk Rock Prophets - w/ Dr. Timothy Gombis


What does punk rock have to do with the heart of the Gospel? In this episode, the Voxology team, joined by the Dr. Timothy Gombis, dives deep into the unexpected intersections of radical community, inclusivity, and the teachings of Jesus. From punk rock's raw authenticity to the profound ministry of disability-focused communities that Mike recently experienced at the "Hope Heals" camp. The conversation explores how cruciformity—the self-giving love of Jesus—emerges in unlikely places.
Along the way, they unpack the role of the church in society, faith and politics, and navigating cultural challenges with humility and curiosity. By reflecting on the ways marginalized voices reveal the Gospel's power, the team challenges traditional notions of faith and invites listeners to reimagine how justice, community, and theology come alive in everyday life. Whether discussing mutual ministry, the prophetic edge of punk culture, or stories of transformative love, this episode is a powerful reminder that the Gospel is both disruptive and healing.
We encourage and would love for you to join this conversation. Share your thoughts on how faith intersects with culture and community on Facebook and Instagram, or email us your questions as we pursue deeper understanding together. Let’s journey forward in learning, dialogue, and the radical love of Jesus.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Introducing Dr. Timothy Gombis
01:57 - Tim Stafford's Punk Band
05:58 - Catching Up with Dr. Timothy Gombis
11:39 - What's New in Theology
16:00 - Hope Heals Camp Overview
25:30 - White Evangelicalism Culture
27:43 - Mutuality in Ministry
30:16 - Lessons from Prisons and Bars
31:37 - Theology of Disability Insights
32:40 - Near Life Experience Reflections
35:00 - Understanding Second Naivete
41:32 - Tim Gombis Discussion
47:55 - Recounting God’s Actions
51:30 - Insights on Theology
54:14 - Evangelicalism as a Marketing Strategy
58:45 - Exploring Evangelical Theology
01:01:09 - Historical Figures in Theology
01:02:50 - Preview of Next Episode
01:04:10 - Support the Podcast
As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram.
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Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford
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