Brad is back down the rabbit hole, and this time, Augustine is the way in.

• Why Augustine of Hippo is arguably the real founder of Western Christianity, and what that means for everything you think you know about Paul, original sin, and the gospel
• The difference between the historical Paul and Augustine's Paul and why most Western Christians have been reading one through the filter of the other without knowing it
• Theology as historically contingent: what it means that Augustine's system was shaped by his ambition, his mother, his psychology, and his North African Roman world, not just by scripture
• The meadow vs. the perfume bottle: why extracting doctrine from the gospels might be missing the point entirely
• Why the gospels function more like cinema than philosophy and what it would mean to encounter them that way again, in community, without needing a final word
• Why the threat response to historical theology is worth examining and what it's actually protecting

This isn't a tidy episode. It's Brad thinking out loud about Augustine, interpretation, and what it might mean to do theology honestly in 2026.

For the historically curious, the theologically restless, and anyone who has ever felt vaguely crazy for asking hard questions about what the gospel actually means.

Brad is back, and this episode is an honest account of where he's been.

• After months of silence, Brad returns to the mic to share what's kept him away: the death of his mother in late October, a brutal flare of his ulcerative colitis, and his daughter's unexpected health issues, all compressed into the same brutal stretch of months
• He reflects on grief that is "clean but massive." The ache of losing someone you genuinely liked, not just loved
• Why he couldn't bring himself to theologize at his own mother's funeral, and what that revealed about Christianity's complicated relationship with sitting in pain
• The slow thaw from creative hibernation: the precipitation cycle that froze, and what it feels like as it starts again
• A shift in posture: from authoritative teacher to honest processor, and why he no longer needs to cap every thought with hope

This one isn't a history episode. But it is human. And it might be what you need to hear if you've also been somewhere dark and quiet lately.

Jesus gave away power. What does that actually mean...?

What does it really mean to have power—and what happens when we hoard it? In this thought-provoking conversation, historian and theologian Dr. Bradley Melle (Freestyle Theology) sits down with international human rights advocate Rev. Joash Thomas to explore the anatomy of power: why it’s hoarded, how it corrupts, and how Jesus’ life offers a radically different way to use it.

Together, we trace power from ancient empires to today’s oligarchs, unpack the fear and fragility behind political and economic dominance, and ask why “more” never feels like enough. Joash shares global perspectives from his work defending the poor from violence, while Brad draws on church history—from the early Christians caring for plague victims in North Africa to the ways Christianity has too often blessed empire instead of resisting it.

We wrestle with big questions:

• Why do the powerful seem so insecure?
• How does fear drive greed, colonialism, and endless expansion—whether into land, markets, or even outer space?
• What does it mean when Jesus “gives away” power?
• How can the church recover the courage to stand with the untouchable and marginalized?

This episode blends history, theology, and activism to challenge the way we think about power, from the Roman Empire to Elon Musk, from settler colonialism to the Gaza crisis. It’s a call to move from fear-based hoarding to Spirit-empowered liberation, rooted in love, justice, and the conviction that no one is truly secure until we all are.

Can meditation heal spiritual wounds? In this episode of Freestyle Theology, Brad and Brielle unpack their journeys with depression, anxiety, meditation, and spiritual growth. They explore how mindfulness, breathwork, and even sung Scripture can help Christians reconnect with their bodies and cultivate a gentler, richer spiritual rhythm, all while healing from religious trauma. 

Whether you’re in therapy, deconstructing, or simply craving a more authentic connection with God, this conversation will invite you to explore meditation as a practice that bridges faith and nervous system healing—without the baggage of fear-based theology.

We also share how meditation helped us rediscover the beauty of prayer, embrace embodied spirituality, and let go of religious perfectionism. Plus, a hint about a resource we've created to help you bring calm, clarity, and connection back into your spiritual life.

Tune in and discover a different kind of Christian practice.

In this raw and wide-ranging episode, Brad is joined again by Rev. Joash Thomas to explore the emotional and spiritual roots of what Brad calls the “evangelical tantrum”—the reactive, fear-fueled backlash of white conservative Christianity in the face of cultural change. Why do some Christians in America act as if they’re being persecuted, even while holding power? What are they so afraid of losing—and have they even lost it?

Together, Brad and Joash dive into history, theology, trauma, and personal stories. Joash opens up about his past as a rising political consultant in Georgia’s Republican Party, his moment of reckoning, and the journey that brought him to international human rights work and ordained ministry. Along the way, the two reflect on the immaturity of much of Western Christianity, the seductive illusion of cultural dominance, structural racism, and the healing power of surrendering control.

If you’ve ever felt disoriented by white evangelical fragility or longed for a more mature, liberating Christianity—this one’s for you.

What if the rise of Christian nationalism in the U.S. isn’t just political—but the fruit of a long, coordinated theological strategy?

In this episode of Freestyle Theology, Dr. Bradley Melle sits down with Margaret Bronson, the force behind Deconstruction Doulas, to uncover the disturbing roots of America’s new religious extremism. From growing up in a high-control cult to witnessing those same ideas go mainstream, Margaret brings both lived experience and prophetic insight into what’s really happening beneath the surface of today’s culture wars.

Together, we explore:

• What “theonomy” is—and how it’s reshaping American politics
• The disturbing return of Christendom logic and crusader theology
• Why high-control religion thrives in times of cultural insecurity
• How spiritual abuse warps the body, mind, and soul
• Why cult logic is quietly infiltrating churches, schools, and legislation
• What we can learn from people escaping these systems—and how to help

Whether you’re tracking Project 2025, rethinking your relationship with church, or trying to understand why so many Christians are choosing authoritarianism over compassion, this episode connects the theological dots behind today’s headlines—and reminds us why curiosity is the opposite of colonialism.

🎧 Listen now and join the conversation.
📬 Got thoughts? Email Brad at freestyletheology [at] gmail.com or DM @freestyletheology on Instagram.

🔗 Learn more about Margaret’s work or support her directly:
🌐 Website: www.deconstructiondoulas.com
❤️ Patreon: Deconstruction Doulas on Patreon
🙏 GoFundMe: Build a Survivor Care Network
📰 Article on Moscow, Idaho church community: Read here

What If Colonialism Lives On—in Our Bodies, Beliefs, and Churches?

In this wide-ranging conversation, Dr. Bradley Melle is joined once again by Rev. Joash Thomas for an in-person deep dive into Christianity, colonialism, and inherited trauma. From intergenerational disease to theological rigidity, they explore how the legacies of empire aren’t just historical—they’re physiological, spiritual, and still deeply active in the life of the church.

Together, they ask:

• What does it mean to decolonize theology without turning it into another empire?
• Could our inherited ideas of sin and salvation be more about trauma than rebellion?
• How do colonized peoples carry intergenerational wounds in the body—and how do colonizers carry the trauma of violence, too?
• Why do some deconstructing evangelicals seek refuge in ancient traditions—and what’s really behind the trend of converting to Eastern Orthodoxy?
• What can the Law of St. Thomas teach us about pluralism, humility, and the expansive reach of Christ?

Whether you're working through religious trauma, questioning the Western church's obsession with control, or just curious about how history shapes theology, this episode invites you into a richer, more embodied conversation about faith, power, and healing.

🎧 Tune in and join the dialogue.
📬 Got thoughts? Email Brad at freestyletheology [at] gmail.com or DM @freestyletheology on Instagram.

Why does everything feel so fractured—and has it always been this way?

In this solo episode, Dr. Bradley Melle dives deep into the 500-year story of fragmentation in the Western world, from the shattering of medieval consensus in the Reformation to today’s tribalism, polarization, and nostalgia-fueled politics. But this isn’t just a history lesson—it’s a challenge to embrace the disorientation of modern life as an opportunity for truth, empathy, and a new kind of unity.

Today we'll explore:

• Why modern life feels so fragmented—and why that’s not all bad
• How nostalgia fuels dangerous political and religious movements
• What we lost after the medieval world—and what we gained in return
• Why the longing for “simpler times” can be a trap
• How fragmentation may actually help us love our neighbour better

Whether you're wrestling with Christian nationalism, deconstructing your faith, or just trying to make sense of our chaotic world, this episode offers historical insight with real-world relevance. It's an invitation to face reality as it is—and build something new in the cracks.

🎧 Listen now and join the conversation.
📬 Got thoughts? Email Brad at freestyletheology [at] gmail.com or DM @freestyletheology on Instagram.

Church historian Bradley Melle chats with Rev. Joash Thomas about Christian supremacy, colonialism, and trauma in the church. Brad and Joash dive into how Christianity's history—from Constantine to today's Christian nationalism—has often prioritized power, dominance, and control, leading to deep historical wounds and ongoing struggles.

Drawing from personal experiences, historical examples, and current events, they unpack how beliefs in Christian supremacy have shaped global Christianity, suppressed spiritual diversity, and contributed to injustice worldwide. They explore stories of colonial missions in India, Christianity's troubling alliance with political power, and how religious trauma continues to influence church communities today.

Listeners will discover how intergenerational trauma affects contemporary Christian life and gain practical insights into creating a healthier, more compassionate, and trauma-informed faith. This conversation is perfect for anyone curious about church history, religious trauma, Christian nationalism, and the journey toward a more authentic and humble Christianity.

In this episode of Freestyle Theology, Dr. Bradley Melle and Brielle Goheen dive into the complexities of love and its manifestation within church communities. They explore the idea of love as a multifaceted and often misunderstood concept in religious circles, emphasizing the importance of clear communication, honesty, and dealing with awkward and painful experiences as expressions of love.

Melle and Goheen discuss how love is often conflated with service, yet true love involves deeper elements like knowing one's role in the body of Christ and recognizing the diverse ways love can be enacted. They draw parallels between different parts of the body of Christ and the various functions individuals have in expressing love, from being the hands and feet to the less obvious but equally vital roles.

The conversation also touches on the fruit of the Spirit, particularly how love is the driving force behind joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. They stress the importance of discipline, not just in a Western sense of self-control but as a holistic approach to structuring one's life to facilitate a gentle, loving existence.

A significant part of the discussion revolves around the necessity of creating communities of safety within the church. They argue that historical fear of judgment and rejection has poisoned many church environments, making them unsafe and unwelcoming. By fostering communities where people feel truly loved and accepted, free from fear, shame, and constant adrenaline-driven alertness, churches can become spaces of genuine love and growth.

Melle and Goheen also explore practical ways to cultivate such communities, emphasizing the role of clear communication, conflict resolution, and setting up simple, effective systems. They highlight the importance of transparency and accountability, using the metaphor of a Sunday school room with a glass door to symbolize openness and safety.

The episode delves into historical and theological insights, discussing how early Christian communities thrived on a story of love and acceptance, contrasting this with the often fear-driven narratives of modern Christianity. They explore how the early church's systems of security and reconciliation contributed to their resilience and appeal, suggesting that contemporary churches can learn from these models to build healthier, more loving communities.

Ultimately, Melle and Goheen advocate for a reexamination of how churches operate, encouraging leaders and members alike to prioritize love, discipline, and safety. By doing so, they believe that the church can better reflect the true spirit of Christ and become a beacon of hope and healing in the world.

Tune in to hear this enriching conversation that challenges conventional notions of love and discipline in the church and offers practical insights for cultivating communities that truly embody the fruit of the Spirit.

In this enlightening episode of "Freestyle Theology," Dr. Bradley Melle, a historian of Global Christianity, dives deep into the history of colonialism, Indigenous Christianity, and the impact of residential schools. Joining forces with John Simon and Thomas Duell from the "Church History for Chumps" podcast, Dr. Melle shares his insights from his teaching stint in Arizona, bringing to light the little-known history of American Indian boarding schools amidst Arizona's large Indigenous population.

The discussion unveils the dark legacy of colonialism intertwined with Christianity, exploring the phenomenon of residential schools as a grim episode in church history. Through a compelling narrative, the episode addresses the cultural genocide and the physical and emotional abuse inflicted upon Indigenous children, aiming to erase their identity and assimilate them into a dominant culture.

Dr. Melle, along with his hosts, navigates through the complex relationship between colonial powers, the church, and Indigenous communities, shedding light on the systemic injustices and the struggle for healing and reconciliation. This episode is a critical examination of the past, encouraging a reflective understanding of Christianity's diverse history and its role in shaping societies.

Freestyle Theology is brought to you by Daily Breath, the Christian meditation app that promotes spiritual wellness and growth. Download it for free on the Apple App Store or Google Play. For those seeking to explore the multifaceted history of the church and its impact on global cultures, this episode is a must-listen. Follow Dr. Melle on Instagram at @freestyletheology for more insightful content on church history across different eras and cultures.

Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of Freestyle Theology! I'm Dr. Bradley Melle, a religious historian, and in this episode, I'm joined by Dave Witt, the network developer of True City Hamilton. We dive deep into the multifaceted topic of church unity, exploring its roots, evolution, and implications in today's world.

Dave Witt, with his rich experience in fostering inter-church relationships, shares the story of True City Hamilton – a unique network of 14 churches united for the welfare of their city. This episode unravels the complexities of church unity, examining it not just as a historical concept but as a living, breathing practice in the modern context. We discuss how True City Hamilton navigates denominational differences, works towards common goals, and embodies the essence of unity through various initiatives, including annual conferences, leadership gatherings, and community outreach, particularly addressing homelessness in Hamilton.

Our conversation takes us through the corridors of history, examining the transitions in the concept of unity from the early church in Antioch to the challenges faced by the modern church. We ponder the intriguing question – what does unity really mean? Is it mere agreement on doctrines, or is it a more profound kinship, an extended family of faith transcending theological and cultural boundaries?

This episode is not just an academic discourse but a heartfelt exploration of what it means to be the church in today's polarized world. We reflect on the practical aspects of unity, the challenges of diversity within the church, and the critical role of love and humility in navigating differences.

Join us in this enriching discussion that goes beyond the surface, offering insights into how church unity can be a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of collective faith in action. Whether you're a church leader, a member of a faith community, or simply someone interested in the dynamics of religious unity, this episode offers a fresh perspective on what it means to be united in faith and purpose.

Discover more about Dave Witt's work and the True City Hamilton network by searching "True City Hamilton" online. Dive into this episode for a journey through the past, present, and future of church unity, and how it shapes our understanding of faith, community, and collective action.

Today, Dr. Bradley Melle and Brielle Goheen discuss the self-help industry, personal development, and the body's systems of survival, all with attention to a practical spirituality. Don't miss it!

We've gotten Mary wrong. Dr. Bradley Melle and Danielle Steenwyk-Rowaan grapple together about Mary, the Magnificat, submission, the toppling of the rich, and the exaltation of the poor.

One of my favourite topics coming at you this week! Let's talk about unity, conformity, and the bold, cross-cultural risks taken in the 1st century at Antioch. 

15 years after successfully completing the Camino de Santiago together, Dr. Bradley Melle and Mike Doyle are in the studio this week to discuss pilgrimage. Tune in for some fascinating takes on relics, crusades, folk Catholicism, sacred space, and even the mall.

Follow @freestyletheology on Instagram if you have any thoughts to share!

And for those interested in where the benefits of meditation meet the beauty of Scripture, check out the Daily Breadth app!

Dr. Bradley Melle and Brielle Goheen discuss individuality, myths about individualism, the frustrations of Jesus, and the characteristics of real, complicated, healthy communities.

Follow @freestyletheology on Instagram if you have any thoughts to share! 

Brad, John, and Tom are back at it for Part Two of our conversation on Celtic Christianity. Today we dig further down into the Celtic Christ, the challenge of syncretism, the wild wandering of the Celtic monks, the strange wisdom of Simon the Stylite, the Saxon Christ, and the modern fascination with all things Celtic!

Don't forget to follow John and Tom's Church History for Chump's Instagram account @churchhistory4chumps to get all the details about their upcoming launch!

And follow me @freestyletheology on Instagram to click and connect! I'd love to hear any feedback or ideas or comments you have! 

This week, join Brad for a special two-part episode on Celtic Christianity! Coming at you this time around from Tucson, Arizona, Dr. Bradley Melle talks with Thomas Duell and John Simon about all things Celtic and Christian.

As a co-release between Freestyle Theology and John & Tom's Church History for Chumps, join us as we delve into Irish spirituality, "Thin Places," and the Celtic-Roman missionary encounter of the 5th century.  Don't forget to check out Part Two next week! 

The doctors are in, again! Brad and Erin are back at it, this week talking about metaphor, the movement of peoples, images for God, and the rational Christianity of the Enlightenment. 

Join Brad and Dr. Erin Goheen Glanville in a wild and winding discussion about words, listening, anger, and the Logos! 

Brad talks ancient Roman mystery cults, Gnosticism, and the rivalries of early Christianity (c. 100-300 AD) 

Dr. Bradley Melle and Brielle Goheen discuss the fear of the forest, civilization, colonialism, the disorienting comforts of the Big Box Store empire. 

Is desire the source of suffering or the mark of a healthy human being? Chris and Brad talk Buddhism, Christianity, happiness, dissatisfaction, and contentment.

Chris and Brad talk doubting God, self-doubt, the beautiful vision, and finding the energy to endure. 

Brad and Chris talk depression, work, processing emotions, and God's Sabbath rest.

Chris and Brad talk Advent, the cycle of birth and death, the return of Christ, and the rebirth of the Universe

This week Brad and Chris talk about Muhammad, the Buddha, and a way Christians can relate to the revered figures from other faiths. 

Chris and Brad talk the Tower of Babel, PhDs, cultural diversity, and Indigenous Christianity. 

Chris and Brad talk about the weird Christian obsession with guilt and how we use it to control others and attempt to control God. 

Join Chris and Brad as Advent begins talking about bearing the Image of God, Mary the Theotokos, and increasing our capacity to bear difficult thoughts and feelings. 

Brad and Chris talk imagination, theology, and the Image of God

Freestyle Theology is a branch of Daily Breadth: Christian Meditation that Works. 
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