Welcome to Madang. Madang is the outdoor living room of the world. Here, we invite you to sit and tune into unreserved, remarkable conversations with renowned authors, leaders, public figures, and scholars on religion, culture, and everything in between. This is the 64th episode of Madang Podcast hosted by Baptist News Global, featuring Dr. Thomas Jay Oord, a theologian, philosopher, and scholar of multi-disciplinary studies. Oord directs the Center for Open and Relational Theology and doctoral students at Northwind Theological Seminary. He is an award-winning author and has written or edited more than forty books. A gifted speaker, Oord lectures at universities, conferences, churches, and institutions. He is known for his contributions to research on love, science and religion, open and relational theology, the problem of suffering, and advocacy for the full inclusion of queer people. On this episode of Madang Podcast, Dr. Thomas Jay Oord and I talk about his book, Systematic Theology of Love. We discuss the Uncontrolling Love of God, gino-theology, creation, evil, good, the Universal Spirit of love, and so much more. I am grateful to the sponsors of this Madang Podcast episode: 1. Northwind Theological Seminary Is it time to pursue your doctoral degree? Northwind Theological Seminary offers fully online doctoral programs in open and relational theology. World-renowned theologian Thomas Jay Oord directs these programs. You’ll follow the Oxford method of education, which means you’ll study one-on-one with Dr. Oord as your mentor. As a fully online institution, Northwind’s doctoral programs are less expensive than others. And in collaboration with Kairos University, you can earn a doctorate in theology accredited by the highest accrediting bodies. As a doctoral student, you set your schedule around family and work. And you’ll finish the degree in less than three years. The doctoral programs are co-sponsored by the Center for Open and Relational Theology, which Dr. Oord directs. You’ll have access to the Center’s resources and get to know its community of scholars, activists, practitioners, and educators. For more information, see the Northwind Theological Seminary website or search “Open and Relational Theology at Northwind.” It’s time to pursue your doctoral degree. Reach out to Northwind now. 2. Homebrewed Team Theology Beer Camp 2026 is a one-of-a-kind gathering featuring leading voices in theology, history, philosophy, justice, and faith. The event offers thought-provoking talks, live podcasts, engaging workshops, and plenty of opportunities to connect with others who are curious, questioning, and passionate about exploring life’s biggest questions. Whether you’re deeply rooted in faith, deconstructing, or simply interested in thoughtful conversation, Theology Beer Camp is a welcoming place to learn, laugh, and build community. All in person tickets are sold out. But you can still join us on line. Please go to www.theologybeer.camp/ 3. Please register for Middle Church’s Freedom Rising Conference with Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis. Use discount code FRCPARTNERS for a 20% discount.
