Join Kate, Sarah, Liz, and special guest Dr. Sandra Glahn (author of Nobody's Mother) as they explore the vital connection between fiction, biblical literacy, and women's representation in scripture. This thought-provoking conversation challenges common misconceptions about narrative, storytelling, and the often-overlooked women of the Bible.
Turns out understanding how to read fiction might be essential to understanding Scriptural narratives—who knew?
Topics Covered:
How our Protestant tendency to avoid narratives and prioritize non-fiction has given us a truncated view of scripture
Jesus was a storyteller, not a PowerPoint presenter—and how we should take notes on His narrative approach instead of making another three-point sermon
"The culture is not inspired. It's just the setting." (This mic drop moment might send you spiraling in the best way)
How the presence of some nameless biblical women is an indictment against patriarchy, not God's endorsement of it
Dr. Glahn's surprising children's TV past and what it taught her about storytelling (spoiler: kids are smarter than we think!)
Whether you're struggling to reconcile your love of spicy fiction with your faith or wondering why women's stories seem absent from the pulpit, this episode offers fresh perspectives that might just transform how you read both novels and scripture.
P.S. For anyone who's been made to feel childish for enjoying fiction or questioning traditional interpretations of women in the Bible—you're not alone, and there's theological depth in your questions that deserves exploration.
Timestamps:
03:19 The Importance of Fiction in Spiritual Formation
04:34 Narrative and Biblical Literacy
10:00 Storytelling and Ethical Dilemmas
23:47 Exploring Women's Representation in Fiction
27:29 The Reformation and Its Extremes
28:05 Challenging Traditional Gender Roles
28:47 The Role of Women in Christian History
29:21 Personal Stories of Faith and Choices
32:35 The Importance of Diverse Perspectives
39:18 Women in Scripture: Misinterpretations and Insights
52:43 Reading with Intentionality and Pleasure
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