Crackers and Grape Juice

talking about faith without using stained-glass language
  • 4.9 (18)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Crackers and Grape Juice began in the spring of 2016 with a conversation between Jason Micheli and Teer Hardy. In the years since, two shows have been added to the lineup, Strangely Warmed and (Her)Men*You*Tics, but the goal has remained the same: talking about faith without using stained-glass language. crackersnjuice.substack.com

  1. OCT 23

    Episode 464: Preaching Office and Pastoral Office

    This episode, Jason and Teer are joined by Ken Jones to explore the theology of preaching as articulated by Dietrich Bonhoeffer, exploring the significance of the preaching office, the relationship between preaching and the sacraments, and the challenges faced by contemporary preachers. Ken emphasizes the importance of understanding preaching as a divine calling rather than a mere profession, and they discuss the need for a sacramental view of preaching that recognizes its role in delivering the gospel. They also address the crisis in preaching today and the necessity for preachers to be well-trained and grounded in scripture. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit crackersnjuice.substack.com/subscribe

    37 min

  2. OCT 17

    Episode 463: Brian Zahnd from the Vault

    In this episode, Brian Zand shares his transformative journey through faith, exploring the depths of theology and spirituality. He discusses his crisis of faith, the importance of community, and the need for a richer understanding of Christian tradition. Zand emphasizes the significance of translating complex theological concepts for everyday believers and reflects on the evolution of youth ministry within the church. His insights encourage both pastors and laity to engage deeply with their faith and seek a more authentic relationship with God. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit crackersnjuice.substack.com/subscribe

    47 min

  3. OCT 10

    Episode 462: All Life Comes From Tenderness with Chris Green

    In this conversation, Jason Micheli caught up with Chris EW Green to discusses Chris’s new book, All Life Comes From Tenderness. This book is a collection of sermons and homilies that emphasize the importance of vulnerability in preaching, the essence of sermon preparation, and the relationship between God and humanity. He explores sacramental themes, the role of saints in spiritual growth, and the significance of noticing details in scripture. The discussion highlights the need for preachers to engage with tradition and imagination to nurture their congregations effectively. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit crackersnjuice.substack.com/subscribe

    1h 17m
  4. Episode 461: The Missionary Kids - Unmasking the Myths of White Evangelicalism

    SEP 30

    Episode 461: The Missionary Kids - Unmasking the Myths of White Evangelicalism

    In this conversation, Holly Berkley-Fletcher discusses her experiences as a missionary kid and her insights into white evangelicalism. She explores the complexities of race, politics, and the narratives surrounding forgiveness and American exceptionalism within the evangelical community. Holly emphasizes the need for accountability in the missionary movement and reflects on the fears and challenges faced by evangelicals today. The discussion also touches on the differences between evangelical and mainline churches, highlighting the importance of communal repentance and understanding the historical context of these faith traditions. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit crackersnjuice.substack.com/subscribe

    57 min
  5. Episode 460: Rabbi Joseph Edelheit - Weep With Those Who Weep

    AUG 1

    Episode 460: Rabbi Joseph Edelheit - Weep With Those Who Weep

    On this episode of Crackers and Grape Juice, Teer and Jason sit down with Rabbi Joseph for an honest and deeply personal conversation about what it means to be Jewish in a time of global conflict. As headlines from Gaza continue to grieve and divide, Rabbi Joseph offers a perspective shaped by history, faith, and heartbreak—speaking candidly about the loneliness many Jews feel, the complexity of the moment, and the challenge of holding grief for all who suffer. This is not an easy conversation. But it’s a necessary one. Together, we ask: What does it mean to tell the truth without resorting to partisanship? What does it look like to love our neighbors when the world tempts us toward sides? And how can Christians and Jews move toward one another in a time when it feels easier to retreat? If you're looking for a place to start—not to solve, but to understand—this conversation is a step in that direction. Find Crackers and Grape Juice on Instagram, Facebook, and Substack. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit crackersnjuice.substack.com/subscribe

    53 min
  6. Episode 459: Walter Bruggemann

    JUN 13

    Episode 459: Walter Bruggemann

    In this special episode honoring the life and witness of Walter Brueggemann, we revisit a conversation that captures his prophetic brilliance and pastoral heart. Jason, Teer, and Taylor sit down with the legendary Old Testament theologian (whose books can be found on just about every pastor’s shelf) to talk about what it means to be a community of resistance, the radical challenge of sabbath, and his favorite word for describing the biblical encounter between David and Bathsheba. Brueggemann’s voice was bold, unsettling, and always grounded in the hope of God’s coming kingdom. We’re grateful to share this conversation again, as a tribute to a theologian who taught us to speak truthfully and live faithfully. Find Crackers and Grape Juice on Instagram, Facebook, and Substack. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit crackersnjuice.substack.com/subscribe

    44 min
  7. Episode 458: Amy Mantravadi - Broken Bonds

    MAY 16

    Episode 458: Amy Mantravadi - Broken Bonds

    In this episode of Crackers and Grape Juice, we’re joined by author and historian Amy Mantravadi to talk about her new novel, Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation. Amy shares the inspiration behind her richly detailed historical fiction, how the tumult and theology of the Reformation continue to echo in our modern world, and why fiction can be a powerful medium for engaging the past. We also dive into her love for church history, and the unique path that led her from political science and international security to writing novels in Dayton, Ohio. Whether you're a Reformation nerd, a fiction fan, or just here for the witty banter, this one’s for you. Check out Amy’s writing at amymantravadi.substack.com/  and learn more about Broken Bonds wherever books are sold. Find Crackers and Grape Juice on Instagram, Facebook, and Substack. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit crackersnjuice.substack.com/subscribe

    1h 8m
  8. Episode 457: Lessons on Theocentric Preaching in a Modern World from Fleming Rutledge

    MAY 9

    Episode 457: Lessons on Theocentric Preaching in a Modern World from Fleming Rutledge

    In this special episode of Crackers & Grape Juice, Teer Hardy and Jason Micheli sit down with Bishop Will Willimon and Rev. Tony Robinson to celebrate the life, legacy, and theological firepower of The Rev. Fleming Rutledge. Together, they explore the depth and breadth of Rutledge’s influence on contemporary preaching and theological discourse. From her theocentric preaching style to her razor-sharp use of language, Rutledge's sermons never flinch from the hard truths—sin, salvation, resurrection, and the cosmic battle between good and evil. The conversation traverses her Southern roots, her unapologetic embrace of proclamation over persuasion, and the way her preaching cuts through the noise of modern, therapeutic homiletics. With a mix of personal stories, sharp wit, and deep reverence, Jason, Teer, Will, and Tony reflect on what makes Rutledge’s work so urgently necessary for the church today—and what it means to preach like it matters. Tune in for a spirited theological tribute to one of the great voices of our time. Find Crackers and Grape Juice on Instagram, Facebook, and Substack. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit crackersnjuice.substack.com/subscribe

    1h 5m
See All (485)

4.9
out of 5
18 Ratings

About

Crackers and Grape Juice began in the spring of 2016 with a conversation between Jason Micheli and Teer Hardy. In the years since, two shows have been added to the lineup, Strangely Warmed and (Her)Men*You*Tics, but the goal has remained the same: talking about faith without using stained-glass language. crackersnjuice.substack.com

Information

  • Creator
    talking about faith without using stained-glass language
  • Years Active
    2016 - 2025
  • Episodes
    485
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Crackers & Grape Juice
  • Show Website
    Crackers and Grape Juice

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