Bible Study for Progressives: Recent Episodes
Rich Procida
Bible Study for Progressives is a show where Moderates, Liberals, and Leftists of all faiths and ideologies come together to discuss scripture, spirituality, and politics. We engage scripture in its historical context, plumb it‘s depths for wisdom and guidance, and apply its lessons to current events and social issues. Whether you‘re a Liberal Evangelical, a New Age Spiritualist, a Social Justice Advocate, or a Postmodern Theologian, there‘s something in this show for you. Come be energized in spirit and mind to understand the Word and what it means to be a spiritual person in today‘s world
Do women still need men to support them financially? Most women are independent financially. Yet most attractive women continue to demand that men be capable of financially supporting them. Equality has wrought unexpected changes. Men are sexless and alone. Many are turning away from marriage and long-term commitments. Women are demanding six-figure incomes, home ownership, and disposable income. At the same time, women seem uninterested in intimacy and more interested in other things. Women and men are looking for different things. Why is this and what must change to bring love and romance back into relationships.
Is Monogamy our goal or is it the product of dating nonexclusively?
“The feminine imperative pounds into men’s collective consciousness over the course of a lifetime that monogamy will cure loneliness, make them responsible, provide them with a constant supply of sex, and a host of other things that assure them it’s “the right thing to do” and that it’s in their best interest.” Rollo Tomassi, The Rational MaleThis month we will discuss the section on monogamy as a goal rather than a byproduct of dating nonexclusively. Join our discussion of the role of monogamy in the modern world. Women are welcome to attend. Please register at https://tinyurl.com/RedPillMenWe are reviewing the Plate Theory sections of Chapter 2 of Rollo Tomassi's book, "The Rational Male." We will cover the following topics: abundance and scarcity, Non-Exclusivity, Transitioning, Goal-State Monogamy, and Lady's Game. This month we will be covering the section on Goal-State Monogamy.Rich Procida, a relationship pioneer and early pro-feminist activist, author of "Social Issues in Global Perspective: Pornography," attorney, and survivor of sexual abuse who minored in the Study of Women and Men in Society at the University of Southern California, will lead the discussion. To join us, register at https://Tinyurl.com/RedPillMen
Men are dying. They are killing themselves with drugs and alcohol and committing suicide at far higher rates than women. They are often the perpetrators of violence. Mass shooters are mostly young men. They are turning to authoritarianism and make up a large portion of far-right extremists and MAGA activists. What's wrong with men? New studies show that implicit bias is strongest against men. Men are more the subjects of implicit bias than people of color or the poor. Men have become the public enemy number one in our culture. They are viewed as dogs and trash, among many other things. The saying, "Women need a man like a fish needs a bicycle" has become popular among Women who no longer need financial support from men. Studies show that women are happier being single and no longer want to love and take care of a man. All of this has a profound effect on men. Pining for the past when they had more authority, Men are turning to drugs, alcohol, suicide, and authoritarianism. June 11, 2023, at 2 pm, Richard Procida, an early pro-feminist activist, the author of "Social Issues in Global Perspective: Pornography," and the leader of the Truth and Democracy Coalition will lead a discussion about "What's Wrong with Men and What to do about it." A survivor of severe sexual abuse, he will tell his story, address the problems facing men today, and talk about what needs to happen to move men back from the brink and back to sanity.
Are women more about appearance and looks than men? It is said that men are all about looks, but men are actually much more forgiving about appearance than women are. Women may consider factors other than appearance, but when they consider appearance, they are much more unforgiving about looks than men are. Women are rejecting 80% of men on dating apps while men are pursuing all types of women.
Here we cover the section on non-exclusivity in Rollo Tomassi's book "The Rational Male." In this part of the discussion, we talk about how to date non-exclusively and why men should date non-exclusively.
What is the most sexy word you can say to a woman? We talk about this and other issues in dating and relationships.
Relations between women and men are undergoing great change. Women are redefining relationships and the words we use to describe them. What is "ethical non-monogamy, and how is it different from dating which is often non-exclusive? A lawyer, professor, and scientist discuss dating and relationships.
An introduction to plate theory, which is to date multiple people honestly but not exclusively. Is it right, wrong, or just weird?
In this episode, we discuss the consequences of hypergamy, women's and men's sexual nature, and the possibility for change.
I tell the story of my history of sexual abuse. Then we consider the problems men are facing when dealing with women's behavior.
In this episode, we talk about what it means to be an Alpha Male
RedPill #Sexuality #Relationships #Dating
We continue our study of "The Rational Male" by Rollo Tomasso. Today there are many technological and other buffers we use to reduce the pain of rejection, but sometimes they get in the way of getting the relationships we want. I also talk about what brought me to Red Pill and why I do these meetings.
We meet a few men who are good-looking but unable to get dates or to date nonexclusively. Some are men with disabilities who face additional challenges.
We are reading the sections on human mating schedules in Rollo Tomossi's book, "The Rational Male." We talk about mate selection, female breeding tactics, and female social conventions used to deceive men.
We are reading The Rational Male by Rollo Tomaso. In this episode, we cover The Desire Dynamic in relationships. We talk about maintaining a woman's sexual desire in a long-term relationship.
This is part 4 of our discussion on power in relationships. I and three women discuss the nature of demands for commitment in men's and women's approaches to commitment in relationships.
We are reading Rollo Tomasso's book "The Rational Male" and applying it to dating and relationships. This month we will discuss the desire dynamic in relationships. In this episode, I argued with three women about some women's game of offering sex in exchange for commitment or exclusivity, and why men should not agree to this transaction. On this podcast, we talk about women, relationships, dating, sexuality, and politics in a nonpartisan manner without all the right-wing crap.Early pro-feminist activist, author of "Social Issues in Global Perspective: Pornography," and the leader of the Truth and Democracy Coalition will lead the discussions where we will talk about women, relationships, sexuality, dating, and politics. We will address the problems facing men today, and talk about what needs to happen to move men back from the brink and back to sanity. To register, go to https://Tinyurl.com/RedPillMen
e are reading Rollo Tomasso's book "The Rational Male" and applying it to dating and relationships. This month we will discuss the desire dynamic in relationships.
At this meetup, We talk about women, relationships, dating, sexuality, and politics in a nonpartisan manner without all the right-wing crap.
Early pro-feminist activist, author of "Social Issues in Global Perspective: Pornography," and the leader of the Truth and Democracy Coalition will lead the discussions where we will talk about women, relationships, sexuality, dating, and politics. We will address the problems facing men today, and talk about what needs to happen to move men back from the brink and back to sanity. To register, go to https://Tinyurl.com/RedPillMen
Hello Ladies and Gentlemen,
We are reading Rollo Tomasso's book "The Rational Male" and applying it to dating and relationships. This month we will discuss the desire dynamic in relationships.
At this meetup, We talk about women, relationships, dating, sexuality, and politics in a nonpartisan manner without all the right-wing crap.
Early pro-feminist activist, author of "Social Issues in Global Perspective: Pornography," and the leader of the Truth and Democracy Coalition will lead the discussions where we will talk about women, relationships, sexuality, dating, and politics. We will address the problems facing men today, and talk about what needs to happen to move men back from the brink and back to sanity. To register, go to https://Tinyurl.com/RedPillMen
This is the final part of my appearance on Politically High Tech. The problem with equality in traditional relationships is that traditional relationships are based on inequality and difference. To Register to attend our next session, go to https://Tinyurl.com/RedPillMen
This is part two of an interview I did on the Politically High Tech Podcast. In this part, I talk about the systemic sexploitation and financial abuse of men.
This is part one of an interview I did to discuss the male loneliness epidemic and the state of dating and relationships in the modern world.
Can relationships between women and men be based on equality, or are our sexualities and institutions like marriage and dating based on inequality and not readily amendable to equality? Women want equality, but they also want traditional relationships. Are women and men even seeking equality when they seek a mate, or are our mate selection strategies inherently a power struggle? This is part two of our discussion of The Soul Mate Myth. Please register for our next meeting at https://Tinyurl.com/RedPillMen.
We are reading and discussing Rollo Tomasso's book "The Rational Male." We will be reading the sections on the soul mate.
Women just like men, are neither virtuous nor viciously sinful. But what are the trouble spots for men in relationships today and what can we do about it?
RedPill
In episode 3, we read the section on "The Myth of the Good Girl" in Rollo Tomassi's book, The Rational Male.
In this episode, we discuss hypergamy and the exploitation and abuse of men by women. How can men make themselves more attractive to women, and why women should adapt to equality and stop serving the rich and powerful?
In Episode One of the new Nonpartisan Red Pill Men's Group we read a study demonstrating that women are just as likely to sexually abuse men and boys as men are.
Dr. Joseph Dowd is a philosophy instructor at California State University San Bernardino. He will teach us Logic-Based Therapy and address the Need for Progressives to Reclaim Self-Improvement. Dr. Dowd is licensed by the National Philosophical Counseling Association (NPCA) as a philosophical consultant. A philosophical consultant is basically a therapist who uses philosophical reasoning to address emotional problems. He is trained in "Logic-Based Therapy" or "LBT." In this presentation, He will explain LBT and how you can use it in your own life without needing to visit a philosophical consultant. LBT is especially useful for people interested in politics. It helps to defuse anger, defensiveness, and other emotions that can cause political dialogue to degenerate into a shouting match. With his focus on Asian philosophy, Dr. Dowd is concerned that many left-wing intellectuals have turned against the self-help and wellness industries. "Left-wing intellectuals make good points when they criticize the self-help and wellness industries," he says. "However, by abandoning self-help and wellness, the left creates a void that's being filled by right-wing intellectuals" and people like Jordan Peterson.
Dr. Joseph Dowd is a philosophy instructor at California State University San Bernardino. He will teach us Logic-Based Therapy and address the Need for Progressives to Reclaim Self-Improvement. Dr. Dowd is licensed by the National Philosophical Counseling Association (NPCA) as a philosophical consultant. A philosophical consultant is basically a therapist who uses philosophical reasoning to address emotional problems. He is trained in "Logic-Based Therapy" or "LBT." In this presentation, He will explain LBT and how you can use it in your own life without needing to visit a philosophical consultant. LBT is especially useful for people interested in politics. It helps to defuse anger, defensiveness, and other emotions that can cause political dialogue to degenerate into a shouting match. With his focus on Asian philosophy, Dr. Dowd is concerned that many left-wing intellectuals have turned against the self-help and wellness industries. "Left-wing intellectuals make good points when they criticize the self-help and wellness industries," he says. "However, by abandoning self-help and wellness, the left creates a void that's being filled by right-wing intellectuals" and people like Jordan Peterson.
Dr. Joseph Dowd is a philosophy instructor at California State University San Bernardino. He will teach us Logic-Based Therapy and address the Need for Progressives to Reclaim Self-Improvement.
Dr. Dowd is licensed by the National Philosophical Counseling Association (NPCA) as a philosophical consultant. A philosophical consultant is basically a therapist who uses philosophical reasoning to address emotional problems. He is trained in "Logic-Based Therapy" or "LBT." In this presentation, He will explain LBT and how you can use it in your own life without needing to visit a philosophical consultant. LBT is especially useful for people interested in politics. It helps to defuse anger, defensiveness, and other emotions that can cause political dialogue to degenerate into a shouting match.
With his focus on Asian philosophy, Dr. Dowd is concerned that many left-wing intellectuals have turned against the self-help and wellness industries. "Left-wing intellectuals make good points when they criticize the self-help and wellness industries," he says. "However, by abandoning self-help and wellness, the left creates a void that's being filled by right-wing intellectuals" and people like Jordan Peterson.
Men are dying. They are killing themselves with drugs and alcohol and committing suicide at far higher rates than women. They are often the perpetrators of violence. Mass shooters are mostly young men. They are turning to authoritarianism and make up a large portion of far-right extremists and MAGA activists. What's wrong with men? New studies show that implicit bias is strongest against men. Men are more the subjects of implicit bias than people of color or the poor. Men have become the public enemy number one in our culture. They are viewed as dogs and trash, among many other things. The saying, "Women need a man like a fish needs a bicycle" has become popular among Women who no longer need financial support from men. Studies show that women are happier being single and no longer want to love and take care of a man. All of this has a profound effect on men. Pining for the past when they had more authority, Men are turning to drugs, alcohol, suicide, and authoritarianism. June 11, 2023, at 2 pm, Richard Procida, an early pro-feminist activist, the author of "Social Issues in Global Perspective: Pornography," and the leader of the Truth and Democracy Coalition will lead a discussion about "What's Wrong with Men and What to do about it." A survivor of severe sexual abuse, he will tell his story, address the problems facing men today, and talk about what needs to happen to move men back from the brink and back to sanity.
In this episode, we discuss the consequences of hypergamy, women's and men's sexual nature, and the possibility for change.
Men are dying. They are killing themselves with drugs and alcohol and committing suicide at far higher rates than women. They are often the perpetrators of violence. Mass shooters are mostly young men. They are turning to authoritarianism and make up a large portion of far-right extremists and MAGA activists. What's wrong with men? New studies show that implicit bias is strongest against men. Men are more the subjects of implicit bias than people of color or the poor. Men have become the public enemy number one in our culture. They are viewed as dogs and trash, among many other things. The saying, "Women need a man like a fish needs a bicycle" has become popular among Women who no longer need financial support from men. Studies show that women are happier being single and no longer want to love and take care of a man. All of this has a profound effect on men. Pining for the past when they had more authority, Men are turning to drugs, alcohol, suicide, and authoritarianism. June 11, 2023, at 2 pm, Richard Procida, an early pro-feminist activist, the author of "Social Issues in Global Perspective: Pornography," and the leader of the Truth and Democracy Coalition will lead a discussion about "What's Wrong with Men and What to do about it." A survivor of severe sexual abuse, he will tell his story, address the problems facing men today, and talk about what needs to happen to move men back from the brink and back to sanity.
On Sunday, May 21, 2023, we welcomed Harvard-educated, American moral philosopher, cultural commentator, and essayist Susan Neiman. Dr. Neiman has written extensively on the juncture between Enlightenment moral philosophy, metaphysics, and politics, both for scholarly audiences and the general public. She is a lifelong leftist and socialist, and an unlikely critic of "woke-ism." She argues the tenets of the woke have become antithetical to the traditional values of the left. She currently lives in Germany, where she is the Director of the Einstein Forum in Potsdam. Neiman writes in her new book, Left Is Not Woke: "I am unwilling to cede the word 'left' or accept the binary suggestion that those who aren't woke must be reactionary. A left-wing critique of those who seem to share the same values might seem to be an instance of narcissism. But it's not small differences that separate me from those who are woke." She adds that the discourse around "woke-ism" is confusing. It evokes emotions that all progressive people share, such as empathy for those who are marginalized and indignation for the oppressed, but those emotions are "derailed by a range of theoretical assumptions that ultimately undermine them."
https://Youtube.com/@TruthandDemocracyCoalition
https://Tinyurl.com/RedPillMen
https://Tinyurl.com/Jan6th2024
https://Tinyurl.com/PoliticalTherapy
On Sunday, May 21, 2023, we welcomed Harvard-educated, American moral philosopher, cultural commentator, and essayist Susan Neiman. Dr. Neiman has written extensively on the juncture between Enlightenment moral philosophy, metaphysics, and politics, both for scholarly audiences and the general public. She is a lifelong leftist and socialist, and an unlikely critic of "woke-ism." She argues the tenets of the woke have become antithetical to the traditional values of the left. She currently lives in Germany, where she is the Director of the Einstein Forum in Potsdam. Neiman writes in her new book, Left Is Not Woke: "I am unwilling to cede the word 'left' or accept the binary suggestion that those who aren't woke must be reactionary. A left-wing critique of those who seem to share the same values might seem to be an instance of narcissism. But it's not small differences that separate me from those who are woke." She adds that the discourse around "woke-ism" is confusing. It evokes emotions that all progressive people share, such as empathy for those who are marginalized and indignation for the oppressed, but those emotions are "derailed by a range of theoretical assumptions that ultimately undermine them."
In this episode, Susan Neiman and I talk about the conservative philosophers and ideas upon which "woke" scholars rely.
On Sunday, May 21, 2023, we welcomed Harvard-educated, American moral philosopher, cultural commentator, and essayist Susan Neiman. Dr. Neiman has written extensively on the juncture between Enlightenment moral philosophy, metaphysics, and politics, both for scholarly audiences and the general public. She is a lifelong leftist and socialist, and an unlikely critic of "woke-ism." She argues the tenets of the woke have become antithetical to the traditional values of the left. She currently lives in Germany, where she is the Director of the Einstein Forum in Potsdam. Neiman writes in her new book, Left Is Not Woke: "I am unwilling to cede the word 'left' or accept the binary suggestion that those who aren't woke must be reactionary. A left-wing critique of those who seem to share the same values might seem to be an instance of narcissism. But it's not small differences that separate me from those who are woke." She adds that the discourse around "woke-ism" is confusing. It evokes emotions that all progressive people share, such as empathy for those who are marginalized and indignation for the oppressed, but those emotions are "derailed by a range of theoretical assumptions that ultimately undermine them."
We have a discussion of the promotion of transgender understanding in our public schools and whether it's right to teach young people things their parents disagree with.
Things get a little heated when leftists insist that religion has no place in politics.
Upcoming Events: Is the Left Really Woke? https://Tinyurl.com/LeftNotWoke
What's Wrong with Men? And What to Do About it: https://Tinyurl.com/WrongWithMen
Red Pill Men's Group: https://Tinyurl.com/RedPillMen
This is part 3 of our discussion of "Recognizing Character Disturbance in Politicians and Leaders with Dr. George Simon, the author of "Character Disturbance: The Phenomenon of our Age."
Dr. George Simon and I discuss character disturbance in our culture and what we can do about it.
Politicians are notorious for telling lies and weaving together half-true and divisive narratives in order to gain notoriety, raise money, and win elections. There are two main reasons people get into politics and activism. The first is to make a positive difference in the world whatever that person believes that to be. The second is to benefit themselves. Most politicians have some combination of both, but some are primarily in it for themselves. Whether it’s aggrandizement, power, or money, how do we distinguish between those who are ill-motivated and those with more altruistic characteristics? Dr. George Simon is an internationally-recognized expert on manipulators and other problem characters and the author of 3 bestselling books. He’s made appearances on several major television and radio programs and is also the host of the Character Matters Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@georgeksimon Dr. Simon will tell us about what he describes as “the problem of our time:” character disturbance. We have an epidemic of narcissism in America. Character-disturbed people abound in our world and can be treacherous. They are especially dangerous when they hold positions of authority. Dr. Simon has worked with character-disturbed individuals throughout his career He will help us better understand and recognize the signs of character disturbance in our leaders and politicians so that we don’t elect them or put them into positions of authority.
In this episode, Rich Procida takes questions from participants and discusses the importance of seeing both the good and the bad in America.
Liberalism is under attack. The Right wants to own the Libs, and the Left wants to disown them. The individual is the foundation of liberal democracy. Yet some Leftist propagandists are disseminating anti-liberal propaganda. In this episode, we examine a piece of anti-liberal propaganda disseminated by Angela Davis. We then take action to demand that she cease and desist from disseminating anti-liberal propaganda.
Liberalism is under attack. The Right wants to "own the Libs," and the Left wants to disown them. Yet individualism is the basis of human and civil rights. The individual is the primary social unit in Liberal thought. In this era of tribalism, recognizing individual rights may be exactly what we need. We are exposed to a great deal of propaganda designed to divide the nation. A focus on individual rights protected by the Constitution can bring us together again. We must rebuild the Liberal middle so we can win elections in the future. Author, Attorney, and Activist Rich Procida will overview the origins of Western Liberalism and the importance of defending the Constitution and Liberal democracy. He will rely on historian and political philosopher Larry Seidentop's book "Inventing the Individual: The Origins of Western Liberalism." While Marxist scholars, like Angela Davis, describe individualism as "insidious," without the individual, we have no rights. Join our discussion as we ask whether individual rights and liberties are essential to freedom, or whether the rights of the individual undermine group rights and social justice.
In this episode, Toastmaster LeQuesa Agnew tells us what is and is not critical race theory. But first, we hear briefly from Ambassador Maria Yankovich. Near the end, we hear comments from Rich Procida.
What is the debate over Critical Race Theory really about? In the first eight minutes, Rich Procida critically examines bad propaganda often associated with Anti-racism. Debbie Sue addresses her concerns about Critical Race Theory. A listener then argues for Critical Race Theory and Anti-Racist teachings.
Do you feel moved to help bring down the temperature of politics in our country? Here’s your chance!
Please join us for an introduction to Braver Angels.
Braver Angels is about depolarizing American politics with grassroots organizing. The foundation of all of our activities is patriotic empathy: the idea that our love for our country is shown by our concern for our fellow citizens.
Our approach is guided by the Braver Angels Approach:As individuals, we try to understand the other side’s point of view, even if we don’t agree with it. In our communities, we engage those we disagree with, looking for common ground and ways to work together. In politics, we support principles that bring us together rather than divide us.
Local Braver Angels leaders Mary Thomas-Vallens and Susan Rico will present the BA mission, approach, workshop offerings/events, and how to get involved. Mary will also conduct a brief workshop exercise for those who wish to participate. This will be one example of what you can expect at a Braver Angels event.
In part 1, we learned about the Four Horsemen of Polarization" and reflected upon our "inner polarizer." In Part two, we learn how to deal with our inner polarizers and learn skills for reaching across political lines.
Do you feel moved to help bring down the temperature of politics in our country? Here’s your chance!Please join us for an introduction to Braver Angels.Braver Angels is about depolarizing American politics with grassroots organizing. The foundation of all of our activities is patriotic empathy: the idea that our love for our country is shown by our concern for our fellow citizens.Our approach is guided by the Braver Angels Approach:As individuals, we try to understand the other side’s point of view, even if we don’t agree with it. In our communities, we engage those we disagree with, looking for common ground and ways to work together. In politics, we support principles that bring us together rather than divide us.Local Braver Angels leaders Mary Thomas-Vallens and Susan Rico will present the BA mission, approach, workshop offerings/events, and how to get involved. Mary will also conduct a brief workshop exercise for those who wish to participate. This will be one example of what you can expect at a Braver Angels event.
In Part 1, we learn about the "Four Horsemen of Polarization" and reflect upon our "inner polarizers."
The show addresses threats to democracy locally and in statehouses, nationally, and around the world. It includes the final part of our discussion with Stephanie Vallejo of the Friendly Hills Neighborhood Organization and Whittier Term Limits.
This is part two of our discussion with local community activist Stephanie Vallejo of the Friendly Hills Neighborhood Organization tells us why she thinks term limits for City Council Members are part of the solution.
Democracy is under attack in the United States and around the world. In America, the struggle for democracy has moved to the States. Laws making it more difficult to vote and allowing partisan officials to overturn election results have been proposed in statehouses across the nation. These types of voter suppression are not limited to state governments. Local governments also seek to suppress the vote in order to hold onto power. In my hometown of Whittier, California, City Council members chose the time and processes of elections for the city office so that fewer citizens vote. This allows them to control the outcome of the election. Stephanie Vallejo is the leader of the Friendly Hills Neighborhood Organization, a group advocating for term limits for the Whittier City Council. She accuses Council Members of unethical behavior and says that the city government lacks transparency. Stephanie alleges that some city leaders are not following Fair Political Practices Commission regulations regarding political records and are allowing unfettered lobbying by the construction industry leading to gentrification. In recent years, the City Council moved city elections to a more expensive off-cycle election day, meaning the election is not on the regular election day. Instead, it will be on another day forcing people to come out to vote just to vote in the City election with fewer voting polls. This reduces turnout because it requires people to come out to vote on a different day other than the regular election. Many of the same Council Members have been on the Council for over 18 years and many community activists complain that the Council is unresponsive to the demands of the community. Join the Truth and Democracy Coalition as it lifts up this local activist and organizes locally to promote, defend, and protect democracy. This is the first part of her speech she describes the all-too-cozy relationship between city council members and developers.
This is part three in a series on lessons Democrats should take from the 2022 midterm elections. After hearing both Dom Jones (Part 1) and Rich Procida (Part 2), meeting guests offer their views.
Author and attorney Rich Procida offers five lessons Democrats must learn from the 2022 midterm elections. He lays the foundation for his discussion by defining terms like "propaganda" and describes its influence on us. Then he warns us of what he calls the "five propaganda pitfalls" we must avoid. It's a tough presentation that some people may not want to hear because it points out problematic propaganda currently being disseminated to the Left.
Democrat #Propaganda #2022Election
Dom Jones is a minister and the Founder and Chief Creative Officer of DemocraShe, an organization that helps young women run for office. She discusses her lessons for Democrats from the 2022 elections.
Dom Jones is a Community Leader, Business Owner, TV Personality, and Co-Founder & CCO (Chief Creative Officer) of DemocraShe. Dom also serves with Planned Parenthood on the Electoral and Advocacy Committees helping young women run for office.
As an African American minister who worked with special needs youth, Dom understands the needs of all members of society, especially those in disenfranchised circumstances. She works to bring unity and love for our neighbors to free our nation from division and strife. She will speak about the history of voting rights and the importance of voting in America.
Dom Jones is CEO and owner in Huntington Beach, CA of a Premier Indoor Cycling Studio, Propel Cycle Inc. She can be seen on Season 34 of The Amazing Race on CBS.
This is part two of our Halloween Special, "Will Putin Use Nukes in Ukraine? A Tarot Reading.' In part one we asked whether Putin will use a dirty bomb that spreads radioactive material across a large area. In this episode, we ask who will win the war. As I said before, this is a serious issue and I take my tarot readings very seriously. My readings have proven reliable, and I offer commentary and analysis as well. This is definitely NOT for entertainment purposes only.
Will Putin use nuclear weapons in Ukraine? Or is he bluffing? Even more important, what should we do? This is part one of a two-part Halloween Special.
This is a serious and important question. I practice divination, the art of divining the future. Doing this Tarot reading allows me to give commentary while practicing tarot and developing my abilities. The cards can provide us with insight and even hope. My tarot readings and commentary about current events have proven reliable.
In part one, we ask whether Putin will use a dirty bomb in Ukraine. A dirty bomb spreads radiation over a large area. Russia alleged that Ukraine would use a dirty bomb on its territory. This is a veiled threat that Russia could use a dirty bomb.
ukrainesupport #putin #democracy
In this episode, we hear highlights from our Jan 6th Justice: Our Freedoms, Our Vote Rally in Whittier, then listen in on a discussion about the assault on Liberalism and the need to rebuild the liberal middle.
This is the second half of the discussion we had on The Supreme Court and the Separation of Powers. In this episode, Dom Jones and Rich Procida address the impossibility of separating personal religious beliefs from the values and beliefs we take into the polling booth. The other question is what to do about the current Court.
Author and Attorney Rich Procida speaks about the Supreme court and the Separation of Powers and addresses the current problem of an unbalanced Supreme and what to do about it. He tells us about the Separation of Powers and the System of Checks and Balances that make up the framework of our democracy. That he talks about the causes of the current predicament and what we can do about it and what the Truth and Democracy Coalition is doing about it. https://TruthandDemocracyCoalition.com
Are public school children being indoctrinated with political ideology? What is Critical Race Theory? Is it being taught in our schools? Are our students being subjected to "anti-racist" training? If not, what is actually being taught in our schools? In this episode, we hear from teachers, administrators, parents, and investigative reporters about the conflict over what is being taught in our schools. Then we speak with teacher and school board President Gina Clayton-Tarvin about her experience leading schools in Huntington Beach, California.
Are public school children being indoctrinated with political ideology? What is Critical Race Theory? Is it being taught in our schools? Are our students being subjected to "anti-racist" training? If not, what is actually being taught in our schools?
In this episode, we hear from teachers, administrators, parents, and investigative reporters about the conflict over what is being taught in our schools. Then we speak with teacher and school board President Gina Clayton-Tarvin about her experience leading schools in Huntington Beach, California.
Have our public schools failed to teach American history? Are books being banned at schools across the nation? Is Critical Race Theory being taught in public high schools?
Teacher, School Board President, and Candidate for Huntington Beach City Council, Gina Clayton-Tarvin answers these questions and more. Gina Clayton-Tarvin has been valiantly dealing with these important issues firsthand as a Trustee on the Ocean View School District Governing Board of Education and as a member of the Executive Board of the ABC Federation of Teachers. She has spent 25 years as a classroom teacher, union leader, and elected school board trustee. She is currently a candidate for the Huntington Beach City Council. This is part two of our series on teaching American History in our public schools.
Have our public schools failed to teach American history? Are books being banned at schools across the nation? Is Critical Race Theory being taught in public high schools?
Teacher, School Board President, and Candidate for Huntington Beach City Council, Gina Clayton-Tarvin answers these questions and more. Gina Clayton-Tarvin has been valiantly dealing with these important issues firsthand as a Trustee on the Ocean View School District Governing Board of Education and as a member of the Executive Board of the ABC Federation of Teachers. She has spent 25 years as a classroom teacher, union leader, and elected school board trustee. She is currently a candidate for the Huntington Beach City Council. This is part two of our series on teaching American History in our public schools.
Thomas Jefferson famously declared, “A properly functioning democracy depends upon an informed electorate.” Franklin D. Roosevelt said, "the real safeguard of democracy is education." Our education system is essential to maintaining democracy.
America’s faith in democracy begins at a young age. Elementary school children learn that Americans value individual rights, freedom, and democracy. It should be no surprise that anti-democratic forces are targeting our children, too.
How can we protect our school children, and educate them regarding the true realities many Americans have faced historically and continue to undergo? Are Republicans banning books and criminalizing the teaching of American history? Are Liberals indoctrinating our children? These accusations have caused heated conflicts at school board meetings.
Gina Clayton-Tarvin has been valiantly dealing with these important issues firsthand as a Trustee on the Ocean View School District Governing Board of Education and as a member of the Executive Board of the ABC Federation of Teachers. She has spent 25 years as a classroom teacher, union leader, and elected school board trustee. She is currently a candidate for the Huntington Beach City Council.
Gina speaks to us about the teaching of American history and government in our schools and about how to get young people interested and involved in elections and voting. She brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and information to our platform and she has much to share with us on how we can remain actively engaged for our children, their future, and the health of our democracy.
Thomas Jefferson famously declared, “A properly functioning democracy depends upon an informed electorate.” Franklin D. Roosevelt said, "the real safeguard of democracy is education." Our education system is essential to maintaining democracy.
America’s faith in democracy begins at a young age. Elementary school children learn that Americans value individual rights, freedom, and democracy. It should be no surprise that anti-democratic forces are targeting our children, too.
How can we protect our school children, and educate them regarding the true realities many Americans have faced historically and continue to undergo? Are Republicans banning books and criminalizing the teaching of American history? Are Liberals indoctrinating our children? These accusations have caused heated conflicts at school board meetings.
Gina Clayton-Tarvin has been valiantly dealing with these important issues firsthand as a Trustee on the Ocean View School District Governing Board of Education and as a member of the Executive Board of the ABC Federation of Teachers. She has spent 25 years as a classroom teacher, union leader, and elected school board trustee. She is currently a candidate for the Huntington Beach City Council.
Gina speaks to us about the teaching of American history and government in our schools and about how to get young people interested and involved in elections and voting. She brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and information to our platform and she has much to share with us on how we can remain actively engaged for our children, their future, and the health of our democracy.
We have a neonatal physician and religious scholar and others talk about abortion and religion. Afterward, we hear Mansur Gidfar, Communications Director at RepresentUS, tell us about corruption in America.
We have a neonatal physician and religious scholar and others talk about abortion and religion. Afterward, we hear Mansur Gidfar, Communications Director at RepresentUS, tell us about corruption in America.
Rich Procida and his guests examine the sacredness of life and the role of personal religious beliefs and values in politics. Scripture teaches us to treat women and girls with mercy and dignity. In the Bible, the commandment "do not kill" didn't apply to the unborn under the Law. Life is sacred but so is our liberty.
The Constitution protects life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Forcing women and children to bear children in all cases may not be the answer. Women will die if their right to decide whether or not to have a child is taken from them.
There is and always has been a balance between protecting life and liberty. One cannot have justice, without mercy, without consideration of the circumstances and position of the accused. We must protect the vulnerable among us, including women and girls.
In this episode, Rich tells his abortion story and talks about the intersection between religion, politics, and the Constitution.
In this episode, Dan asks Dom how to speak to Christians about abortion. Rich suggests telling your personal abortion story. He then proceeds to tell his story.
Abortion, perhaps more than any other issue, is emblematic of the conflict between religion and secularism. Yet this may not be how the public sees the issue. Human and civil rights along with freedom and privacy are also at stake. How can we understand religion’s role in forming opinions on abortion and other political issues? Most Americans support the right to choose. Yet we can expect a propaganda blitz about abortion now that the Supreme Court is set to overturn Roe v. Wade. How can we counter the coming domestic messaging? In Part 1, African-American minister Dom Jones and author and attorney Rich Procida will lead a discussion about the connection between religion, democracy, and the freedom to choose. Dom Jones is a former missionary and ordained minister who aims to address our country’s difficulties. As an African-American woman, she speaks about how her lived experience speaks to current controversies. She seeks to foster unity through collaboration, education, and wellness advocacy.
Are you having trouble talking to friends and loved ones, even strangers, about your political views? Do you feel nothing will change their minds? Are you frustrated by the slow pace of progress toward economic, social, and environmental justice? Dr.Karin Tamerius can help.
Dr. Tamerius is the leader of Smart Politics, a group of Democrats, liberals, and other Left-leaning types who are trying to save the world by changing how we communicate with people who disagree with us, including Republicans, far-Right extremists, and MAGA supporters.
Smart Politics is a progressive advocacy group committed to promoting social, economic, and environmental justice. Dr. Tamerius teaches skills for talking with Republicans and other Right-leaning folks in your natural habitat. She wrote, “We consider ourselves “bridgers” in the sense that we’re fully committed to the cause of political depolarization and support all efforts to bring folks on the Left and Right together for dialog because that’s in the best interests of the Progressive movement and the nation.”
Dr. Tamerius is an experienced progressive political activist, social scientist, and physician with a unique understanding of the intersection between politics and human psychology. Trained in psychiatry at UC San Francisco as well as political and social psychology at the University of Michigan, she synthesizes complex ideas about public opinion, formulates new theories of attitude change, and implements more effective campaign communication practices.
Are you having trouble talking to friends and loved ones, even strangers, about your political views? Do you feel nothing will change their minds? Are you frustrated by the slow pace of progress toward economic, social, and environmental justice? Dr.Karin Tamerius can help.
Dr. Tamerius is the leader of Smart Politics, a group of Democrats, liberals, and other Left-leaning types who are trying to save the world by changing how we communicate with people who disagree with us, including Republicans, far-Right extremists, and MAGA supporters.
Smart Politics is a progressive advocacy group committed to promoting social, economic, and environmental justice. Dr. Tamerius teaches skills for talking with Republicans and other Right-leaning folks in your natural habitat. She wrote, “We consider ourselves “bridgers” in the sense that we’re fully committed to the cause of political depolarization and support all efforts to bring folks on the Left and Right together for dialog because that’s in the best interests of the Progressive movement and the nation.”
Dr. Tamerius is an experienced progressive political activist, social scientist, and physician with a unique understanding of the intersection between politics and human psychology. Trained in psychiatry at UC San Francisco as well as political and social psychology at the University of Michigan, she synthesizes complex ideas about public opinion, formulates new theories of attitude change, and implements more effective campaign communication practices.
Are you having trouble talking to friends and loved ones, even strangers, about your political views? Do you feel nothing will change their minds? Are you frustrated by the slow pace of progress toward economic, social, and environmental justice? Dr.Karin Tamerius can help.
Dr. Tamerius is the leader of Smart Politics, a group of Democrats, liberals, and other Left-leaning types who are trying to save the world by changing how we communicate with people who disagree with us, including Republicans, far-Right extremists, and MAGA supporters.
Smart Politics is a progressive advocacy group committed to promoting social, economic, and environmental justice. Dr. Tamerius teaches skills for talking with Republicans and other Right-leaning folks in your natural habitat. She wrote, “We consider ourselves “bridgers” in the sense that we’re fully committed to the cause of political depolarization and support all efforts to bring folks on the Left and Right together for dialog because that’s in the best interests of the Progressive movement and the nation.”
Dr. Tamerius is an experienced progressive political activist, social scientist, and physician with a unique understanding of the intersection between politics and human psychology. Trained in psychiatry at UC San Francisco as well as political and social psychology at the University of Michigan, she synthesizes complex ideas about public opinion, formulates new theories of attitude change, and implements more effective campaign communication practices.
Today, millions of voters in states like Alaska and Maine, and in over 50 cities, including Salt Lake City, New York, and Minneapolis have chosen to use ranked-choice voting. Almost every state has a state-level organization working to bring ranked-choice voting to that state. Kit Muehlman of FairVote Washington and Guy Cammilleri of the California Ranked Choice Voting Coalition tell us about the benefits and challenges of ranked-choice voting. This is part of a monthly discussion about the threat to democracy and what people are doing about it.
In Part 2 we talk about where Ranked Choice Voting is used and answer your questions.
Today, millions of voters in states like Alaska and Maine, and in over 50 cities, including Salt Lake City, New York, and Minneapolis have chosen to use ranked-choice voting. Almost every state has a state-level organization working to bring ranked-choice voting to that state. Kit Muehlman of FairVote Washington and Guy Cammilleri of the California Ranked Choice Voting Coalition tell us about the benefits and challenges of ranked-choice voting. This is part of a monthly discussion about the threat to democracy and what people are doing about it.
"Reconciliation with the descendants of American slaves must be at the heart of this nation's political agenda," writes Yoram Hazony of Joshua Mitchell's new book: "American Awakening: Identity Politics and Other Afflictions of Our Time." At the heart of America's affliction is the deep-seated racism and bigotry that is so easily harnessed to divide us. The racial divide is driving the assault on democracy in America.
Joshua Mitchell is a professor of political theory at Georgetown University. He has published five books and numerous articles. His academic research focuses on Western political philosophy and his books are about identity and democracy.
Rich Procida interviewed Professor Mitchell. Procida and Mitchell come from different political perspectives. They will take a hard look at the impact of identity politics on race relations and the assault on democracy. Once a Leftist himself, Professor Mitchell is critical of the hyper-identity politics we see today.
Rich Procida is an attorney, author, and activist who has published one book and numerous articles. He founded the Truth and Democracy Coalition and produces two podcasts: "Democracy Under Fire!" and "Bible Study for Progressives." The Truth and Democracy Coalition works with other organizations to build a pro-democracy movement in America. Part of this project includes reaching out to moderates and addressing controversial issues in a way that brings people together rather than pushing them away.
In this second part of our discussion about Ukraine and the Collapse of Democracy, the discussion turns to the Anti-NATO, Anti-Western civilization, and anti-American propaganda on the Left.
Author and Attorney Rich Procida leads a discussion about the war in Ukraine and the current threat to democracy in the United States and around the world. Author and Attorney Rich Procida is the founder of the Truth and Democracy Coalition and the producer of Democracy Under Fire!, a show covering the threat to democracy and what we can do about it. He studied law and international service at American University in Washington, D.C. He authored a textbook on global studies and writes for LAProgressive.com and Buzzflash.com.
Minister and activist Dom Jones led a discussion about race, political division, and Ukraine, among other things.
Jesus' resurrection brings the victory of the future into the present, and Jesus gives his disciples a nonviolent commission to counter the imperial violent domination of the powers and authorities of this present age.
If we are going to save democracy, we are going to need to reach across political lines. We will need the support of more than half of Americans should we have to overthrow a dictatorship. 50% of the vote may not even be enough to win elections in the future. We need to reach out to the center whether we like it or not.
Dom Jones is a minister and community activist who works with businesses and community leaders in Huntington Beach, California, to address the problem of homelessness and advocate for youth and community services. As an African American Woman in a conservative community, she organizes across racial lines daily. As a minister, she seeks to bring communities together.
Dom Jones will lead a discussion about the following: 1. How do we build unity across political lines? 2. How does race affect politics? 3. How can we demystify politics for the masses so engagement increases? 4. What are the roots of American democracy as instituted by the "founder fathers" and what were their true intention? 5. What was the great American Experiment truly about and how can we achieve these ideals with real collaboration? 5. How do we uphold the values of freedom for all people, establish and maintain a true citizenry-led democratic government, and ensure a better democracy for future generations? 6. How can we collectively create a people not easily undermined by charlatans seeking power, money, and influence?
American democracy is under attack. There is precious little time to save it. Many still aren’t focused on the greatest risk: Statehouses! Corrupt politicians in statehouses across the country are experimenting with ways to undermine democracy in a cynical quest for power. David Pepper, author of "Laboratories of Autocracy," joins us to talk about this ongoing threat and what we must do about it. David Pepper is the author of Laboratories of Autocracy: A Wake-Up Call from Behind the Lines." He is a lawyer, writer, political activist, former elected official, and adjunct professor, and served as the Chairman of the Ohio Democratic Party between 2015 and 2021. He has engaged in numerous fights and extensive litigation over voter suppression and election laws in the Buckeye State. He will talk about the assault on democracy at the state and local levels and what to do about it.
This is my short argument about why I believe the free world must defend democracy in Ukraine.
Should NATO establish a no-fly zone over Ukraine? Some people say no but I argue otherwise.
In this episode, we hear the Speech of the Ukrainian Ambassador to the United Nations and President Biden's speech the day after Russia invaded Ukraine. Raw, factual, and straight from the source, the elegance of President Biden and the Ukrainian Ambassador is contrasted with the comments of President Trump about Russia and Ukraine and the other sources of disinformation on the Right.
In this episode, Jesus sits on a mountain liberating his enemies by feeding them. The encounter with the Canaanite Woman in the previous passage broke open a whole new frontier for the movement. The movement for a new society can now include all people.
Elias of the PEER podcast and I discuss the variety of ways in which propagandists on the Left can sometimes undermine democracy and the progressive movement. We talk about a number of controversies, including antiracism, CRT, pronouns, Christian Nationalism, anti-Americanism, and the many ways Progressives push Americans away.
Politically Entertaining with Evolving Randomness (PEER) by Elias: 95- Interview with Richard Procida on Religious Politics, Blockchain is creeping into gaming, Interview with Sean Munger on environmental history and films on Apple Podcasts
Elias, the host of the "Politically Entertaining with Evolving Randomness" podcast asks me about Radical Theology. I talk about the wide variety of contemporary theologies and discuss the basis of my theology.
Politically Entertaining with Evolving Randomness (PEER) by Elias: 95- Interview with Richard Procida on Religious Politics, Blockchain is creeping into gaming, Interview with Sean Munger on environmental history and films on Apple Podcasts
We begin with United States Representative Elijah Cummings. Then we hear from United StatesSenator Rev. Raphael Warnock. Then Rich Procida discusses the collapse of democracy in America and around the globe and what we must do about it. Finally, Bert Newton reads the story of the Canaanite Woman and tells us how we can liberate our enemies.
Jesus confronts the Pharisee's attempts at misdirection and their misuse of the law. Jesus shows true zeal for the law as opposed to the Pharisee's chicanery.
We need the whole of America on our side if we have to resist another authoritarian take over of America. We must never let our nation be overthrown and ruled by a dictator. We need the support of Americans and American institutions if we are to save democracy and the American way. In part one of the three-part episode, I present messaging designed to reach out to moderates and conservatives or to at least not alienate them.
Mondale Robinson of the Black Male Voter Project and Rich Procida, Founder of the Truth and Democracy, ask whether there is a political middle in this country and if so, is it worth reaching out to. While America has failed to live up to its ideals, upholding America's ideals is necessary if we ever hope to heal this nation's wounds and rally the American people to fight for democracy and voting rights.
Rich Procida debates the Freedom to Vote Act with black conservative Javier Javier on the Right to Reason podcast with Robert Stanley.
In the final part of our study of the book "Peril" by Bob Woodward and Robert Costa, we begin talking about propaganda and then look at the use of and attitudes toward religion, specifically Christianity, on the Left.
Bert Newton compares the story of Jesus walking on the water to the parting of the Red Sea when Moses defeated the Egyptian army. This second sea crossing story in Matthew recalls both Israel's seminal story of liberation and the boastful thoughts of a Seleucid emperor. As Bert explains, walking on the water symbolizes victory over the Empire.
Rich Procida leads this second part of our discussion of "Peril" by Bob Woodward and Robert Costa. What are the lessons for those of us on the Left? Are both the Left and the Right caught up in their own propaganda? Is one side may be more pernicious and deceptive? While propaganda is often half-true, as we have seen some can be completely false, such as conspiracy theories and the "Big Lie." Many people simply follow the leader. How do we awake from false beliefs we don't believe we have?
Alice Smith, Executive Director of the National Voter Corps leads a discussion of Bob Woodward and Robert Costa's Book "Peril" about the insurrection.
Bert Newton reads Matthew 14:1-21 which tells the story of the beheading of John the Baptist and the feeding of the five thousand. The rich and powerful party at the expense of the poor, but the common people can create their own new society of abundance for all!
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Did Christians make sacrifices at the Temple after Jesus died and before the Romans destroyed the Temple? Making sacrifices was widespread throughout the ancient world. It was a central custom and practice in the ancient world in which nearly everyone participated. Even if Christians were against the sacrificial system, it was so much a part of the economy that they could hardly avoid it. In this episode, Bert Newton tells us why early Christians may have continued to make sacrifices at the Temple after Jesus died.
Please support Bible Study for Progressives here.
Leftist propagandists have recently banned the use of the word "democracy" and have replaced it with "voting rights." Why? Why can't we use both words? Beware! Both sides propagandize their constituents.
Bert Newton continues his examination of Jesus' view of Priests, the politicians of the ancient world, and the need for sacrifice. Citing scripture, Bert argues that Jesus opposed the Temple Priests, the seat of government in the ancient world, and the sacrificial system as oppressive and exploitative. The modern idea that Jesus died as a substitute sacrifice is not the point of the Gospel.
This is part one of a long episode, but a very important one. In this episode, Bert Newton will clarify something he has been saying throughout the series, that Jesus, as portrayed in Matthew, is opposed to the power of Temples and Priests (all of them, not just in Israel).
This episode contains longer musical interludes (to break it up and give listeners time to absorb the concepts), all composed by David Martyn.
Democracy is collapsing worldwide. The failure of democracy in the United States will have a disastrous effect on democracy around the globe, especially in Central and South America. Both Democrats and Republicans are concerned about democracy. Conservatives are concerned about election integrity and Progressives want to protect voting rights. The Freedom to Vote Act addresses both of these concerns. We must defend the Constitution and fight for democracy if we want to keep our freedoms.
This episode concludes a chapter in which Jesus speaks in riddles, revealing the hidden things, the wonderful secrets of the new society. Again, nothing is as it seems. Jesus attempts a great scribal reversal, making the peasants scribes, and leaving the scribal class on the outside, lacking understanding. This reversal is rejected...but wait...nothing is as it seems.
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The widespread dissemination of disinformation by major media networks, political parties and politicians, and foreign governments has caused great division in American and constitutes a major threat to democracy. The Freedom to Vote Act addresses these concerns. It secures our elections and protects our right to vote. We will go over what the bill does and what we are doing to pass it.
The movement for the "New Society" is sneaky and spreads its message through parables so that the authorities do not understand.
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When Japan attacked Pearl Harbor in 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt declared it a “day that will live in infamy.” On September 11, 2001, terrorists attacked our nation. They destroyed the World Trade Center and attempted to destroy the Pentagon. They had another target in mind, possibly the Capital. On January 6, 2021, domestic terrorists finished the job. These are days Americans should never forget.
Update: Introduced today in Congress is the Right to Vote Act.
Fundraiser by Rich Procida: Democracy Under Fire (gofundme.com)
Jesus starts talking in riddles to hide the wonderful secrets of the new society from those who would destroy it. The wise will understand while those in power will not.
This episode and the next two regular episodes, numbers 33 and 34, explore the parables discourse of chapter 13 (which begins at the end of chapter 12). Through this discourse, Jesus trains his disciples to be scribes of the New Society.
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In this episode, we talk about democracy at the local level with Whittier Mayoral candidate Rolando Cano. We discuss the ultimate voter suppression: believing your vote doesn't count. When we understand what's at stake and recognize that our vote does count, we become more involved. To support the show, go to Fundraiser by Rich Procida : Democracy Under Fire (gofundme.com)
In this special episode, Bert Newton interviews Dr. Sebastien Doane, Professor of Biblical Studies at Laval University, in Quebec City, and author of Zombies, Unicorns, Cannibals; Strange Tales from the Bible (published by Paulist Press).
This is the premiere episode of Democracy Under Fire! My new YouTube and Facebook show. My guest is Shawn Cassey O'Brien. He is the author of "For the Love of Long Shots: A Memoir on Democracy." We discuss the current crisis for democracy with nearly 400 bills introduced in Statehouses across the country restricting people's right to vote. and the failure of the United States Senate to pass the For the People Act and to modify or remove the filibuster for the sake of democracy and our freedoms, including our constitutional and sacred right to vote.
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As Trump continues his ongoing coup plot to overthrow our government, we read about the seven demons that return to make matters worse than before. In this episode, Bert Newton tells us how to store up treasure in heaven and how to bring the kingdoms of this world down.
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On Saturday, August 7th, I held a Democracy Can't-Wait Town Hall in the City of Whittier with City Council Member and California State Senate Candidate Henry Bouchot. After I and Council Member Bouchot speak, the community weighed on the importance of Democracy and of eliminating or modifying the filibuster.
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We must fight for and protect our God-given right to rule ourselves. In this episode, Jesus diagnoses the problem of demon possession differently than his upper-class opponents. He finds the root cause of the problem not in the demon-possessed individual but in the situation of oppression.
Special Music by Murry Hammond whose music can be found here.
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Jesus calls for a more humane application of the Law and defeats the elite legal scholars of the old society in public debate.
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Our democracy is threatened. We just escaped an attempted coup and another is on the way. Republican legislators, emboldened by the "Big Lie," are passing laws restricting people's right to vote. This episode offers a biblical and spiritual reflection on race and voting rights.
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Ever wonder about that parable about the children playing games in the marketplace? Bert Newton will unpack this parable and the lesson of the light and easy yoke from the second half of chapter 11 of the Gospel of Matthew. As we will see, Jesus is the broker of God's wisdom to the people, wisdom for a new society that is not oppressive.
Matthew has been showing how Jesus and his movement fulfill the visions of the prophets. In chapter 11, the fulfillment theme gets stated so forcefully that it becomes evident that Jesus does not merely fulfill the visions of the prophets but reinterprets them. This reinterpretation is part of a larger program of reinterpreting the world in a way that will change it for all who partake in this reinterpretation.
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Tell your story about why you believe in and are willing to fight for democracy, the Constitution, and the For the People Act. We will review the For the People Act. Then I and Elly Levi, an attorney, and immigrant from Israel will tell our democracy stories. Then we will teach you how to craft your own democracy story from our own authentic voice to use in advocating for democracy. The lesson is divided into three parts with a short musical interlude between them. You can use these moments to pause the recording and work on the assignment or just listen straight through to the end.
democracy #Democrats #VotingRights
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What does Jesus mean when he says that his disciples will not finish their mission of going through the towns of Israel "before the Son of Man comes"? Listen to this episode to find out.
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On Tuesday, June 29th, we expect the Senate to vote on the For the People Act. This act establishes basic commons sense standards for federal elections. In this episode, we will learn why the For the People Act is so important and what we must do to pass it.
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We need a pro-democracy movement in America. To that end, I will be conducting a virtual Democracy Activist Training on June 27th. For Jesus, this included an army of healers to heal the nation of Israel.
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Israel's recent incursion into Gaza provoked the typical Hamas response which Israel always uses to justify bombing a largely defenseless civilian population. Israel now wants the United States to resupply them with weapons. Meanwhile, Palestinian Children and families suffer. I discuss this issue with Richard Sariyd and Lynne Mystic Healer.
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Jesus has to explain to his allies why he is partying with the sinners rather than fasting with revolutionaries. Then, after having gathered in the lost - the tax/toll collectors and "sinners" - he suddenly gets called to a high-status household, but on the way heals a marginalized woman suffering from menstrual bleeding. Chapters 8 and 9 have Jesus entering the worlds and lives of people who are very separate from each other: a leper, gentiles, women and men, social outcasts, low and high-status people; in all of these situations, he brings healing, both social and physical. And finally, he heals two blind men and casts out the demon from a mute man, punctuating this section of the story with images of liberation from Isaiah.
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Abraham Lincoln, quoting the Gospel of Mark, said that “a house divided against itself cannot stand” (Mark 3:25). In this time of disinformation and division, we should take these words of Jesus seriously. May we seek to resolve our differences rather than fight over them. Call your Senator and demand a Bipartisan January 6th Commission to examine the causes of the insurrection and to ensure that it never happens again.
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I held a press conference as a part of the National John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Day of Action on May 8th, 2021, in Whittier, California. The speakers include Rich Procida, Maggie Moe of the Whittier Voter Coalition, Lolleta Barrett of the Whittier First Friends Church, Whittier City Council Member Henry Bouchot, and Civil Rights, Attorney Miguel Garcia.
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JohnLewisActionDay
In celebration of the National John Lewis Voting Right Advancement Day of Action, we look at the state of voting rights and the need to protect our vote.
Bert Newton will read Matthew Chapter 9 verses 1 through 8 and then verses 9 to 13 and discuss how Jesus’ healing of a paralytic and the calling of Matthew, the disciple, are both social and political ways of healing the nation, granting people the right to speak for God in order to heal and rule themselves.
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The story of Noah's Ark provides rich symbolism. As part of the Noahic Covenant, God promises to never again destroy the world by a flood, but God will require a reckoning for every life humans take. All life is sacred, and the taking of human life is especially abhorrent to God. By establishing the death penalty for anyone who takes human life unjustly, God establishes a governing authority to deal with human violence and corruption.
On this show, we read Genesis 9:1-17 and then offer commentary and discussion. Joining Rich Procida is the author and ordained Mennonite Minister Bert Newton, Seminarian Susan Cameron, and Founder of Worldwide Friends Dicksie Mathison.
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Were the murders in Atlanta about misogyny or racism? First, we hear from the press conference soon after the murders in Atlanta of multiple Asian women who worked in massage parlors. Then we do an analysis and commentary followed by a discussion.
In this show, I face two atheists who question all evidence of the supernatural. The discussion turns to why, despite an abundance of evidence, they refuse to recognize that evidence exists that supports the existence of the supernatural. Many atheists take it as their cause to rid the world of superstition. What we should remember is that their opinion rests on a lack of evidence and experience. Likewise, those who have had experiences and have conducted investigations have evidence. Furthermore, there are billions of believers who harm no one by their beliefs. At the same time, there are other religious and political beliefs that are harmful.
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Robert Stanley and the Right to Reason Podcast
I appeared on the Javier Javier show, an atheist podcast, to talk about myself and how I came to the positions I hold. We talk about the value and influence of the Bible and Christianity. I had informed the host prior to the show that I didn't believe in having beliefs but he insisted on trying to pin down my beliefs anyway. In the end, I informed him that I rely on my research and experience rather than on beliefs.
The Javier Javier Show
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Jesus crosses to "the other side" and encounters the demons of the empire.
Support the show (https://paypal.me/ParodySubversion?locale.x=en_US)
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The story of Cain and Able is a simple story with a simple message. It's also a story that has been misread in disastrous ways. We will have commentary followed by discussion.
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In part 1, Author, Attorney, and Journalist Bill Blum, Executive Director of Progressive Democrats of America Alan Minsky, and I gave separate presentations about the insurrection and the many things we can do to fight for democracy and truth. In Part Two, Professor Joseph Dowd, Reverend Tom Eggebean, and many others join in the conversation as we brainstorm things we can do to save democracy.
To Support Rich Procida and Bible Study for Progressives
Author, Attorney, and Journalist Bill Blum, Executive Director of Progressive Democrats of America Alan Minsky, and I give separate presentations about the insurrection and the many things we can do to fight for democracy and truth. In Part Two, Professor Joseph Dowd, Reverend Tom Eggebean, and many others join in the conversation.
To Support Rich Procida and Bible Study for Progressives
Bill Blum
Alan Minsky
Before Augustine, Christians saw in the story of Adam and Eve God's gift of wisdom and self-determination. We read the story of Adam and Eve, provide commentary followed by a panel discussion. Our panel includes Rich Procida, Professor Joseph Dowd, human rights activist Cet Cetivies, Rev. Tom Eggebean, author Bert Newton, and guests.
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There were many false prophets who said Trump would remain President. One way to identify a false prophecy is whether the prophecy comes to pass or not (Deuteronomy 18:20-22). False prophecy and idolatry are not just wrong, they're evil. This show consists of excerpts are from an interview I did on a podcast called "Spiritual Emergency Training."
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Link to register for live podcasts:
"Jan 6th: What Happened and What We Can Do" on 2/27/21 at 2 p.m.
"Cain and Abel: Failing the Test by Killing our Brother" on 3/6 at 5 p.m.
The insurrection was an expression of idolatry and false prophesy. In these excerpts from an interview on the "Spiritual Emergency Training" podcast, I discuss the demonic as a metaphor for institutional violence. Demons can be created or loosed by human beings through institutional violence and political oppression. The demonic describes the evil effects of collective human activity.
To support Rich Procida and Bible Study for Progressives.
Robert Stanley and Ben Fama Jr. of The Right to Reason podcast, conspiracy theorist Clinton Gordan, and I discuss QAnon, the internet cult that helped spawn the assault on the Capital on January 6th, 2021, a day that will live in infamy.
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The third detailed healing: Jesus crosses the gender divide and continues his campaign of healing.
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Excerpts from an interview where I address Trump supporters. I confront them with the facts and emphasize the need for accountability. I also speak to Progressives emphasizing the connections between systemic injustice and accountability.
What will happen on the 20th and what must we do to protect our democracy after Trump. Rev. Dr. Marcia Ledford, Esq., Professor of Philosophy Joseph Down, Author and Attorney Rich Procida, and Author and Mennonite Minister Bert Newton will talk about what are we to do with the upcoming inauguration and our broken country.
Professor Joseph Down, Author Bert Newton, Cetives Cetives, and Myself, and others begin our discussion of the Book of Genesis with the first Creation narrative.
I will discuss what needs to happen to heal the nation spiritually and politically after the damage Trump has caused.
Matt Sandoval is a progressive Christian with a mental health background who hosts "Practice Makes Presence," a podcast about mindfulness, Christianity, social justice, scripture, and the transformative power of relationships. On this episode, we talk about progressive Christianity and its role in addressing the current political conundrum we find ourselves now at the end of 2020.
Now that the election is finally, really over, we will celebrate with song and dance and some serious discussion about the damage that's been done and where we go from here.
In this second part of our discussion with Alan Minsky and other members of Progressive Democrats of American delve more deeply into the issues facing Progressives and the Democratic Party at this point after the election.
Alan Minsky is Executive Director of Progressive Democrats of America (PDA). PDA encouraged Bernie Sanders to run for President. It works within the Democratic Party for progressive change. In part one of this two-part episode, I speak with Alan Minsky and other PDA members about the dangers and aftermath of Trump's attempted coup.
Also, please join our "The Election's Over Holiday Singalong." Joy to the world, the election is done. Let's sing it! We join together on the Election Defenders Day of Action on December 12th to get an update of where things stand, celebrate the season and democracy at the same time, and discuss how we will fight for democracy heading up to the inauguration and into the New Year. Register at https://www.tinyurl.com/ElectionSignalong
This show is centered around the issue of the President's refusal to concede and the problems that creates. First, we hear an interview at the Biden victory celebration in downtown Los Angeles the Saturday after it was announced that Biden had won the election. Then we hear excerpts from my appearance on Spiritual Emergency Training with Lynne Mystic-Healer. We end with a discussion at the Progressive Democrats of America Southern California Chapter meeting on Monday, November 23rd, 2020. On the recording are Chapter leader Jenna Beck, Dr. Bill Honigman, Attorney Johnathan Adler, Danette Abbott, Harry Langenbacher, and a lady named Betty from Texas. Enjoy!
Will Trump Concede the election and leave office in January? Will there be a peaceful transfer of power? We Trump resort to the use of force to remain in office? I will analyze the current situation and use my tarot cards to gain insight into the future.
We must take Trump's refusal to concede and the statements of Administration officials and Republican Party leaders seriously. Trump refusal to concede is a threat to democracy.
This is Rich Procida. Today, I celebrate Joe Biden’s victory. At the same time, I remain concerned about President Trump’s refusal to concede the election. As an attorney, I’m angry about the President’s misuse of the Court, and I’m sober about his prospects of winning before a lopsided Supreme Court. Trump is still trying to overthrow our democracy.
On today’s show, Bert Newton describes how the healing of the Centurian’s servant in Matthew 8:5-13 is the story of healing between enemies in a way the brings the two parties together. As Spirit would have it, we teach this lesson on the day Joe Biden called on Americans to overcome our differences. This lesson is exactly what we need at this time.
In this episode, I go over the possible scenarios should things turn ugly and what we can and are doing about it.
With both President Trump and Vice President Pence refusing to commit to honoring the results of the election, we face a profound Constitutional crisis. We will have to prevail by a landside or Trump will steer the election to the Supreme Court which he has already packed with loyalists. There is a path to overturn the election and the threat is real. In this episode, I discuss the propaganda around "Antifa," the difference between the 2016 and 2020 elections and the threat Trump poses to our democracy.
With Trump and Pence already refusing to accept the outcome of the election, Lynne Mystic-Healer, Frank Piekarski, and I talk about saving democracy from the Narcissist in Chief.
Tony Keddie is an Assistant Professor of Early Christian History and Literature at the University of British Columbia. His new book, Republican Jesus: How the Right Has Rewritten the Gospels, will be released in October 2020. We are going to talk to him about how to interpret scripture, Republican disinformation about the Bible and Christianity, and the intersection of politics and religion in the ancient world and in the present.
We need solidarity, especially now in this troubled time. Rich Procida begins with a speech about the "way of life" and the "way of death," and Bert Newton tells us about how Jesus called for solidarity against the Roman occupation and Temple corruption.
We get an update on the fires and unrest in Oregon and discuss their effects on the on another and on the election.
The role of religion in the ancient world was to govern, to reflect the will of the Gods often personified in Kings and Emperors. Religion appeals to a higher authority. Humans need a power greater than the State.
The rise of authoritarianism has its roots in the failure of the Arab Spring, Trump is promoting hatred and bigotry, and our democracy is at stake in this election.
Jesus provides a prayer for his movement rooted in peasant realities of hunger, debt, and the threat of legal prosecution as well as the ancient story of the Exodus liberation.
Join Rich Procida at the virtual Interfaith March on September 13, 2020.
Jesus lifts up the mutual aid economy of the peasants and tears down the patronage system of the empire.
Why do Trump supporters believe obviously false things? Is it possible they are simply following their leaders and trusting their sources just as we do? This show is part one of a serious of shows I am doing in collaboration with OC Thinkers, a critical thinking Meetup. The participants represent a wide range of viewpoints, from Conservative to Progressive. Join us as we lay the foundation for the remaining shows and broach the topic of the power our leaders have over us.
The rise of authoritarianism and the collapse of democracy around the world and here in the United States has come to the streets of Portland and other cities around the nation. Frank Perkowski lives in Portland and reports on what's going on there. President Trump's response to send hand-picked militarized federal officers to quell the protests has only made the situation worse. Will there be troops in the streets in cities across the country on election day? What is the end of all this and what should we do to defend democracy and human and civil rights here in the United States?
What's the big deal about taking Oaths? Also, women in Nigeria in 2002 used a tactic that Matthew's Jesus prescribes.
Jesus attempts to build a strong movement, urging solidarity between peasants and curtailing male sexual abuse of and power over women.
Jesus begins laying out his new law or teaching for the new Society. This new teaching inverts the male honor code of the first century Mediterranean World.
America is at war, but this civil war is not just being fought with guns, violence, and brutality, but with disinformation, voter suppression, and foreign interference as well. Our democracy is under attack and we must stand up and fight back. On Juneteenth weekend, Rich Procida, Andy Miller, and Lynne Mystic-healer talk about the threat President Trump poses to our democracy and our constitutional and civil rights.
Who should we listen to and who can we trust? Hint: It's not politicians or the media. The federal employees willing to sacrifice their careers to protect us from dictatorship are the real heroes of this era. Federal appointees and military brass have not sounded this loud of an alarm about an incompetent and corrupt President in the history of this nation. Let's pray that their sacrifices are not in vain.
White people want to know how to be white allies for people of color. We are confused by the mixed messages about whether we should speak up or sit down and what it means to participate in the movement for black and brown lives. These mixed messages originate from within the movement itself.
In this episode, white people talk about what it means to be a white ally. This is a recording of the June 2020 meeting of Our Revolution Southern California and Progressive Democrats of America South Orange County Chapter. We begin with Spencer Kelly and then Dr. David Donovan raises his “old pitch” that white people shouldn’t speak up for others but should lift up others to speak for themselves. Jennifer Beck, the leader of the group, follows, and then I, Rich Procida, suggest that my recent show on “Trump and Systemic Racism” is an example of lifting up the voice of those most affected without nixing one’s own contribution to the movement. Then Dr. Bill Honigman responds followed by Dannett Abbott and Jessica Lund.
On August 8, 2020, at 11:a.m., I will be hosting a Zoom meeting of local activists from Los Angeles and Orange County to organize a chapter of Progressive Democrats of America here in the East Los Angeles County-North Orange County area. We will have time to talk and to organize. The site to register is https://tinyurl.com/pdaelacnoc. Remember, that stands for Progressive Democrats of America East LA County North OC. It’s also in the show description.
With that, welcome to Bible Study for Progressives.
Jesus' campaign of healing provides an alternative to more conventional military campaigns (parody?) and signals the dawning of a new society.
Systemic racism is complex and multifaceted. Ira Dotson, Director of the ReJOYce in Jesus Campus Fellowship at the University of Southern California, will tell us about his feelings and experience as a black man in America. Rich Procida will describe how propaganda stokes racial animus and increases institutional violence. In conversation with Ira Dotson is Varun Soni, Vice Provost for Campus Wellness and Crisis Intervention and the Dean of Religious Life at the University of Southern California. Dean Soni received his Masters in Theological Studies from Harvard Divinity School and went on to receive his Juris Doctor from the UCLA School of Law where he also completed the Critical Race Studies Program. He earned his Ph.D. through the Department of Religious Studies at the University of Cape Town.
Rich Procida and Andy Miller discuss the current political situation. Andy and I discuss Trump's racist propaganda, the importance of resisting nonviolently, and voting to remove from power those who abuse it. We also cover socialism, third parties, authoritarianism, and the fight for democracy. All of these issues are circulating around the protests of police violence and the actions of a President who wants dictatorial power. When Trump threatens to use military force against protesters, one wonders who is really calling the shots: Trump or Putin?
Jesus takes up John's work of leading a movement for The New Society (Kingdom of Heaven). Matthew's imagery reminds the reader of the setting of this story in the Roman Empire. Jesus liberates his disciples from bondage to the empire, setting them free to join the movement.
Why are we so divided? Why is the Left so often fractured and ineffective? Why are we in this political situation in the United States and around the world? One answer would be "propaganda!"
Author and attorney Rich Procida, along with Media Psychology Specialist Lisa Snow, will present an online multi-media Zoom webinar on "Propaganda! What it is, Where it Comes From, and What to Expect this Election." Rich Procida studied Communications and Social Sciences at the University of Southern California Annenberg School of Communications. He earned his Juris Doctor at American University in Washington DC. He is the co-author of a short textbook on foreign comparative law and social attitudes toward explicit media. He currently writes news analysis and opinion articles for LAProgressive.com. Lisa Snow is the author of 'Mind, Media, and Madness: Alt Facts, Fake News, Russian Hacking, and What's Next." She was also a Media Psychology Consultant for the documentary "The Brainwashing of My Dad."
With the election coming, we can expect to be hit with propaganda on both the Left and the Right. Propaganda influences our opinions, attitudes, and behaviors in ways that serve the propagandist rather than our interests. The goal of this presentation is to make us more skeptical and critical consumers of news and information.
We can protect ourselves by understanding the basics of propaganda and advertising. Procida and Snow will describe the history, effects, and types of propaganda and how propagandists spread disinformation and cause division. They will also talk about the propaganda we are seeing and expect to see this election. While the presentation is nonpartisan, the discussion will focus on propaganda disseminated to the Left to divide and demoralize Liberals and Leftists.
In this episode, we follow Jesus through his "vision quest," as he retraces his people's journey in the wilderness through a time of testing and temptation. Jesus has to prove what sort of Messiah or "Son of God" he will be.
Many of the world's leaders are sociopaths. Murderous dictators rule with iron fists and kill and torture people with impunity, and this is not to mention the sociopaths who run democratically ruled nations. Why does the system foster and nurture narcissism and sociopathy, especially in those who seek and hold positions of power? Rich Procida will examine sociopathy, narcissism, cults, and propaganda to explain how we continually elevate sociopaths to positions of power and what we need to do to stop encouraging and expressing our collective sociopathology through our elections and politics.
Here's the link to the free webinar "Propaganda! What it is, Where it Comes From, and What to Expect this Election"
https://tinyurl.com/yaawlsxr
Media Psychology Specialist Lisa Snow and Rich Procida discuss the Tara Reade Allegations. Lisa Snow is the author of 'Mind, Media, and Madness: Alt Facts, Fake News, Russain Hacking, and What's Next." She was also a Media Psychology Consultant for the movie "The Brainwashing of My Father." Rich Procida studied Communications and Social Sciences at the University of Southern California Annenberg School of Communications. He earned his Juris Doctor at American University in Washington DC. He is the co-author of a short textbook on foreign comparative law and social attitudes toward explicit media. He currently writes news analysis and opinion articles for LAProgressive.com.
Here is a link to register for the free webinar "Propaganda! What it is, Where it Comes From, and What to Expect This Election."
https://tinyurl.com/yaawlsxr
This is just a short note to explain where we are going with this series and where we are headed in the world. In this short episode, Bert talks about the structure of his series, the coronavirus lockdown protests, and the impact this virus is having on the world and what impact it should have on all of us.
If this series has not been controversial already, it gets even more controversial in this episode. I make the claim that Jesus joins a liberation movement already in progress to get his start as "Messiah." Also, I will assert that temples in the ancient world were government institutions that served as mechanisms through which the ruling classes controlled the people. A significant part of the movement of John the Baptizer was to undercut temple authority.
In this episode, to address our current situation, I take a break from Matthew and hop over to the Gospel of Luke to look at the Parable of the Dishonest Manager - A strange parable for strange times. I am indebted to Ched Myers for opening up the secrets of this parable for me. You can find his article on it at www.radicaldiscipleship.net under the title Discipleship as Defection from the Mammon System: Jesus’ Parable about a "Manager of Injustice”
In this episode, Jesus and his family become refugees. Fleeing their home country, which is under the brutal occupation of a foreign empire, they take refuge in Egypt, which, according to their national history, was both the place of their people's slavery and also a refuge for those escaping the Babylonian invasion.
With this story, the author of Matthew introduces the themes of Jesus-as-Moses and Jesus-as-Israel by using Exodus imagery. The texts from Jeremiah 31 and Isaiah 53 also play an important role in setting up the gospel motif of Jesus bearing the suffering of his people.
The story of the Magi evokes sentimental, feel-good memories of Christmas for many of us, but this story, for its original audience, signaled hopes of liberation from a brutal occupation.
This is episode 3 of Bert Newton's study of the Gospel of Matthew. This episode, Bert considers the Gospel of Matthew as a whole. He makes the argument in this episode that the whole Gospel of Matthew parodies a genre in the ancient world to get across a very serious message.
The "virgin birth" of Jesus, the title "Son of God," and the concept of the forgiveness of sins all had resonances in the first century Mediterranean world that they no longer have today. Understanding what those terms and concepts signaled, as well as how this story "fulfilled" the prophetic texts will greatly expand our understanding of what this story was all about.