Making Sense of Faith isn’t your typical religious podcast. Join Adam Hamilton, bestselling author, speaker, and pastor, as he tackles life’s biggest questions with intellectual depth and genuine compassion without asking you to check your brain at the door. Drawing from his experience as an author, speaker, and pastor with decades of conversations asking questions about faith, Adam explores faith that’s both deeply rooted and forward-thinking. Here, doubt isn’t the opposite of faith—it’s part of the journey.
Scalpel or Chainsaw? A Biblical Approach to Cutting Waste in Government
Mar 18, 2025
Show notes
In this eye-opening episode of Making Sense of Faith, Adam Hamilton explores two powerful Hebrew words that appear 357 times in the Old Testament: "mishpat" (justice) and "tzedekah" (righteousness). Adam unpacks how these ancient concepts speak directly to today's heated debates about government spending and social programs. While acknowledging the importance of eliminating waste in government, he challenges listeners to consider whether we're using a precise scalpel or a destructive chainsaw when making these cuts. This episode bridges the gap between fiscal responsibility and our moral obligation to protect the vulnerable—offering a fresh perspective that transcends partisan politics and speaks to the heart of what it means to live out our faith in today's complex world. Episode Highlights: Biblical Foundation for Social Justice - Adam explores how the Hebrew words "mishpat" and "tzedekah" appear throughout scripture, revealing God's expectation that we create systems that ensure fairness for the vulnerable, including widows, orphans, the poor, and immigrants. The Fast God Truly Desires - Through Isaiah 58, Adam illustrates how God is less concerned with religious rituals and more interested in our commitment to "loose the chains of injustice" and care for those in need—challenging us to reconsider what spiritual disciplines should actually accomplish. Balancing Fiscal Responsibility with Compassion - Rather than taking sides politically, Adam advocates for a thoughtful approach that eliminates waste while preserving programs that provide vital support to vulnerable populations. Common Values Beyond Politics - The episode makes a compelling case that protection of the vulnerable isn't a partisan issue but a matter of "common decency, common justice, and common righteousness"—values that unite us across political divides. Jesus's Standard of Judgment - Drawing from the parable of the sheep and goats and the Good Samaritan, Adam reminds us that Jesus's measure of faithfulness centers on our treatment of "the least of these"—a timely challenge as we consider government's role in meeting human needs. Whether you're questioning your faith, curious about Christianity, or wrestling with how to apply your beliefs to complex societal issues, this episode offers a refreshing perspective that doesn't ask you to check your brain or your values at the door. Adam stands firmly in the radical center, inviting listeners to embrace both fiscal responsibility and compassionate concern for others. In a time when political discourse often divides us into opposing camps, Making Sense of Faith offers a bridge-building alternative that honors both wisdom and compassion. By examining ancient biblical principles through a contemporary lens, this episode equips listeners to engage thoughtfully in conversations about government spending while remaining grounded in timeless values that transcend political affiliation.
Cut Off Our Hands? The Message of Jesus
Mar 11, 2025
Show notes
In this thought-provoking episode of Making Sense of Faith, Adam Hamilton tackles one of the most perplexing aspects of Jesus's teachings: those moments when his words seem impossibly harsh or difficult to follow. With honesty and transparency, Adam explores Jesus's command to "cut off your hand" or "pluck out your eye" if they cause you to sin. He unpacks what Jesus really meant by these jarring statements and helps listeners understand when to take Jesus literally versus when he was speaking figuratively. Through real-life examples and historical context, Adam offers a fresh perspective that makes these challenging teachings not only understandable but also deeply meaningful for our lives today. Episode Highlights: The Power of Prophetic Hyperbole: Adam explains how Jesus often spoke in what scholars call "prophetic hyperbole"—using dramatic exaggeration to make powerful points that shake up his listeners. Far from expecting to be taken literally, Jesus was emphasizing the seriousness of sin and our need to address it radically. Marriage, Divorce, and Grace: When discussing Jesus's seemingly harsh teachings on divorce, Adam provides crucial historical context about women's vulnerability in first-century society and reveals how Jesus was actually protecting women while upholding the sanctity of marriage—all while leaving room for grace in broken situations. The Woman at the Well: Through the story of Jesus's compassionate interaction with a Samaritan woman who had been married five times, Adam illustrates how Jesus balanced high moral standards with extraordinary mercy and acceptance—proving we can take his teachings seriously without being legalistic. Wealth and the Kingdom: Is it really "easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter heaven"? Adam unpacks this famous teaching to reveal Jesus's warnings about wealth without condemning prosperity itself. Serious, Not Literal: The episode culminates in a liberating principle for interpreting Jesus's challenging words: we are meant to take Jesus seriously but not always literally, understanding both the high ideals he calls us toward and the grace he extends when we fall short. In a world that often dismisses Christianity as judgmental or simplistic, this episode offers a refreshing alternative—a faith that embraces questions, acknowledges complexity, and finds hope in Jesus's teachings rather than confusion or despair. Whether you're skeptical about faith, wrestling with doubt, or simply curious about what Jesus really meant, Adam's thoughtful exploration provides practical wisdom for making sense of Christianity's most challenging passages. By the end, you'll discover that Jesus's seemingly harsh words weren't meant to condemn us but to transform us, inviting us into a life of deeper meaning and purpose. Join the conversation and find out how these ancient teachings speak directly to our modern questions and struggles.
When Cancer Strikes Twice: Lessons on Life and Faith When Times are Tough
Mar 04, 2025
Show notes
In this powerful episode of Making Sense of Faith, Adam Hamilton sits down with Matt Stewart, a Kansas City news reporter, who shares his family's incredible journey through dual cancer diagnoses. Matt's wife Chrissy was diagnosed with an extremely rare form of cancer in 2021, and while serving as her caregiver, Matt received his own devastating diagnosis of stage 4 colon cancer that had spread to his brain, lungs, and spine. Rather than surrendering to despair, the couple embraced a philosophy of "all the things" – saying yes to life's opportunities and leaning deeply into their faith. This conversation explores how facing mortality can transform our perspective on life, faith, and purpose in profound ways. Matt's compelling story shows how adversity can strengthen faith rather than diminish it, offering listeners authentic insights into finding hope and meaning during life's most challenging seasons. Episode Highlights: All the things" approach to living: Discover how Matt and Chrissy's decision to say "yes" to every opportunity after their diagnoses, including a wedding vow renewal that became a beautiful celebration of life and love for their entire family. Faith in the face of mortality: Hear Matt's candid reflections on how his cancer diagnosis deepened rather than diminished his faith, and how he finds comfort in knowing "where he's going" while still praying for more time. From football to fighting cancer: Learn how Matt's experience as a walk-on football player at Northwestern, where persistence transformed him from fifth-string to scholarship athlete, prepared him mentally for his cancer battle. Supporting loved ones with cancer: Get practical, honest advice about what to say (and what not to say) to someone facing cancer, with Matt's refreshing perspective on avoiding the "head tilt" of pity and focusing on authentic connection. Finding purpose through adversity: Explore how Matt uses his platform as a news reporter to inspire others facing similar challenges, controlling his attitude when he couldn't control his diagnosis. This episode embodies what Making Sense of Faith is all about – wrestling with life's biggest questions through the lens of authentic faith. Whether you're facing your own health crisis, supporting someone through illness, or simply questioning how faith works when life gets hard, this episode offers genuine perspective from someone living in that difficult space. It's a powerful reminder that faith doesn't require checking your brain at the door – it can provide genuine comfort and purpose even in life's darkest moments.
What Did Jesus ACTUALLY Teach?
Feb 25, 2025
Show notes
In this thoughtful, concise episode of "Making Sense of Faith," Adam Hamilton explores what was at the heart of Jesus' teaching: the Kingdom of God. While many assume Jesus primarily taught about love, Adam reveals that Jesus spoke about the Kingdom of God four times more frequently. This concept isn't just historical theology—it's a practical framework for how we live our daily lives. In just 15 minutes, Adam unpacks this profound idea that shapes our understanding of faith, purpose, and relationship with God. What is the Kingdom of God? Adam explains that the Kingdom of God has three dimensions: God as the rightful ruler of everything in existence, our personal choice to live according to God's will, and a future reality when God's kingdom will fully come on earth as it is in heaven. The Daily BattleWhile God is the rightful king of everything, we all face a daily decision: will we be king in our own lives, or will we let God reign? Adam shares his personal morning practice of kneeling in acknowledgment of God's authority. The Lord's Prayer as a Kingdom Prayer Adam unpacks how the Lord's Prayer is fundamentally about yielding to God's sovereignty—praying "thy kingdom come" rather than "my kingdom come"—and how this prayer can reorient our hearts toward God's will for our lives. Living with Divine Interruptions Through personal stories of hospital visits and grocery store encounters, Adam illustrates how Kingdom living means being attentive to God's presence in everyday moments and unexpected interruptions. The Paradox of Loving God First When we make God our priority rather than ourselves or others, Adam shares how we actually end up loving others more genuinely and living more fulfilling lives than if we had put ourselves first. This episode speaks directly to those who feel pulled between competing priorities and wonder what it means to live a life of faith in practical terms. Whether you're spiritually curious, wrestling with doubts, or seeking to deepen your faith, Adam's exploration of the central message of Jesus offers a refreshing perspective that bridges intellectual understanding with heartfelt application. By the end, you'll understand why New Testament scholar Gordon Fee said, "You are zero on Jesus if you don't understand [the kingdom of God]." The invitation is clear: start each day by acknowledging God as king and watch how it transforms your relationships, purpose, and perspective. Listen to the full episode to discover how this ancient concept can revolutionize your modern life.
Are All Non-Christians Really Going to Hell?
Feb 18, 2025
Show notes
In this powerful episode of Making Sense of Faith, Adam Hamilton tackles one of Christianity's most challenging questions: "Are all non-Christians really going to hell?" With his signature blend of intellectual depth and pastoral compassion, Adam explores different Christian perspectives on salvation, eternal life, and God's boundless mercy. Drawing from scripture, church history, and personal experience, he offers a fresh perspective that speaks to both skeptics and believers wrestling with questions about faith, judgment, and divine love. Beyond Simple Labels: Understanding Christian Views on SalvationAdam unpacks three main perspectives on salvation - Christian exclusivism, Christian universalism, and Christian inclusivism - offering nuanced insights into how different traditions understand God's saving work through Christ. Finding Biblical Truth in Unexpected PlacesThrough careful examination of both Old and New Testament passages, Adam reveals how scripture often points to a more expansive view of God's mercy than many traditional interpretations suggest, while maintaining the uniqueness of Christ as savior. Building Bridges Across Faith TraditionsDrawing from his own friendships with Jewish rabbis and Muslim leaders, Adam shares how interfaith relationships can deepen rather than diminish our Christian faith, leading to richer spiritual practices and broader understanding. Rethinking Hell and Divine JusticeUsing insights from C.S. Lewis and John Wesley, Adam presents a view of judgment and hell that emphasizes human choice and God's persistent mercy rather than divine vengeance. The Heart of EvangelismAdam offers a compelling alternative to fear-based evangelism, explaining why sharing our faith should flow from experiencing Christ's transformative love rather than anxiety about others' eternal destiny. Whether you're a skeptic who's struggled with traditional Christian teachings about hell, a Christian grappling with questions about loved ones of different faiths, or someone simply seeking to understand God's love more deeply, this episode offers fresh insights and hope. Adam's measured approach demonstrates how you can hold onto Christian truth while embracing a more expansive view of God's mercy. By the end, you'll discover a perspective that honors both divine justice and grace, while providing practical wisdom for relating to people of different beliefs. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that challenges conventional wisdom and points toward a more hope-filled understanding of God's love for all humanity.
A Love Letter from Auschwitz: Herb Kohn's Story of Survival and Hope
Feb 11, 2025
Show notes
In this powerful episode of Making Sense of Faith, Adam Hamilton sits down with Holocaust survivor Herb Kohn, whose journey from Nazi-occupied Europe to becoming a Kansas City legal legend spans over eight decades. Through intimate storytelling and profound reflection, this conversation reveals how faith, resilience, and love can persist even in humanity's darkest moments. The episode culminates in a deeply moving reading of a final love letter written from Auschwitz, offering a timeless testament to the endurance of the human spirit and the power of love. Key moments from this remarkable conversation: From Survival to Success: When the Nazis invaded Holland, four-year-old Herb and his family fled by bicycle, narrowly escaping capture through his mother's quick thinking and the kindness of strangers. Moving from hiding place to hiding place, they eventually found sanctuary with Catholic nuns who risked their lives to protect them. The Price of Prejudice: As Adam explores how Hitler rose to power, Herb reflects on the dangerous pattern of scapegoating that emerges during economic hardship - a pattern he sees echoing in today's rising antisemitism. His insights offer a sobering warning about how quickly prejudice can transform from undercurrent to mainstream. A Letter of Eternal Love: The episode's most powerful moment comes when Herb shares his grandfather's final letter from Auschwitz, written knowing he faced death in the gas chamber. His words of devotion to his wife of 36 years remind us that love transcends even the most horrific circumstances: "Forever and however it will be, my heart and soul will always be with you." Building Bridges Through Understanding: Drawing from his successful career in mediation, Herb discusses how finding common ground between conflicting parties offers lessons for healing today's political and social divides. His insights reveal how understanding "even the thinnest pancake has two sides" can lead to reconciliation. The Power of Purpose: At 84, Herb launched a new mediation practice, challenging conventional notions of retirement. His continued dedication to serving others demonstrates how purpose and meaning enrich life at any age. For anyone wrestling with questions about faith, hope, and humanity's capacity for both cruelty and compassion, this episode offers profound insights from someone who has lived through history's darkest chapter yet emerged with an unwavering spirit. Adam's thoughtful exploration of Herb's story reminds us that even in our most challenging moments, love and hope can prevail. Don't miss this powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of love.
Human Origins, Science and Faith
Feb 04, 2025
Show notes
In this eye-opening dialogue between science and spirituality, Adam Hamilton takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the Smithsonian's traveling exhibition on human origins at St. Paul School of Theology. With his characteristic blend of intellectual curiosity and spiritual wonder, Adam explores the relationship between science and faith while examining the compelling evidence of human evolution. Far from seeing conflict between scientific discovery and religious belief, he illuminates how understanding our origins can deepen our sense of awe about God's creative work in the world. Key moments from the episode: Ancient Connections Revealed: Learn how humans share 60% of our DNA with banana trees and 99.9% of our DNA with each other - a humbling reminder of our deep interconnectedness in God's creation. Evolution Through God's Eyes: Experience how viewing evolution through a spiritual lens can enhance rather than diminish faith, as Adam describes God as taking "delight in the development of species" over billions of years. The Power of Human Community: Discover touching evidence of compassion from 1.78 million years ago, where early human communities cared for elderly members who could no longer feed themselves - a powerful testament to our inherent capacity for kindness. Science and Faith in Harmony: Explore why many Christians, including historical figures like Isaac Newton, have embraced both scientific discovery and deep faith, finding that each enriches the other. Questions That Matter: Join the conversation about what it means to be human, as Adam demonstrates how wrestling with life's biggest questions can lead to deeper spiritual understanding rather than conflict. Whether you're skeptical about religion, curious about faith, or wondering how to reconcile scientific understanding with spiritual belief, this episode offers fresh perspectives without asking you to check your brain at the door. Adam shows how exploring human origins can fill us with wonder at both scientific discovery and divine creativity. The exhibition is open to the public at St. Paul School of Theology until May 15th, offering a chance to engage personally with these profound questions. This is an invitation to explore life's deepest questions with both intellectual rigor and spiritual openness.
How Do You Read The Bible Today?
Jan 28, 2025
Show notes
The Bible has shaped cultures and transformed lives for generations - yet it remains one of the most debated books ever written. Some find hope and wisdom in its pages, while others struggle with its challenging passages and how it's been used throughout history. In this episode of Making Sense of Faith, Adam Hamilton invites listeners into an honest conversation about making sense of scripture today. Drawing from his journey from skeptical teenager to pastor of one of America's largest United Methodist churches, Adam explores how to read the Bible with both critical thinking and deep faith. He offers fresh perspectives that welcome your questions while revealing why this ancient text continues to speak to our modern lives. From Ancient Text to Living Word: Adam shares his fascinating journey of discovering the Bible as an atheist teenager, reading five chapters each night until he unexpectedly fell in love with Jesus through the Gospel of Luke. He explains how this transformative experience shaped his understanding of scripture as both deeply human and divinely inspired. Breaking Down the Biblical Library: Rather than viewing the Bible as an instruction manual, Adam illuminates how it's actually a diverse library of books written across 1,500 years. He expertly guides listeners through the various genres - from ancient near eastern stories and poetry to wisdom literature and apocalyptic visions - helping make sense of this rich collection. Jesus as the Ultimate Interpreter: Using the metaphor of a colander, Adam explains how Jesus's teachings and example serve as the ultimate filter for understanding scripture. He demonstrates how this approach helps readers navigate challenging passages while staying true to the Bible's core message of love and grace. Wrestling with Difficult Passages: With remarkable honesty, Adam addresses how he's handled topics like women in ministry and LGBTQ+ inclusion. He shares how his own views have evolved through deeper study of scripture and pastoral experience, encouraging listeners to embrace growth in their own understanding. Finding Life in Ancient Words: Despite its complexities, Adam powerfully argues that the Bible remains the most profound and beautiful book ever published. He explains how its stories of God choosing unlikely heroes and its messages of hope continue to speak life to readers today, especially when studied in community with others. Whether you're skeptical, curious, or a long-time believer, this episode offers a refreshing approach to making sense of scripture. Adam's intellectual honesty combined with deep faith creates space for listeners to bring their questions and doubts while discovering how this ancient text remains remarkably relevant today. He invites listeners into a journey of reading the Bible not as a book of simple answers, but as a rich collection of human encounters with the divine that continue to transform lives.
A Message to President Trump
Jan 21, 2025
Show notes
In this uniquely personal episode of Making Sense of Faith, Adam Hamilton shares his intimate reflections on the National Prayer Service, a time-honored tradition dating back to George Washington where faith leaders address the nation's highest officials. Recording from his study rather than the usual studio, Adam offers a candid exploration of what he would say if given the opportunity to speak at this year's service. Drawing from his own experience delivering the sermon at the 2013 National Prayer Service, he weaves together profound insights about leadership, greatness, and the true measure of a nation's character through the lens of Christian faith. The Weight of Words in Sacred SpacesAdam shares his behind-the-scenes experience of preparing for the 2013 National Prayer Service, including rewriting his sermon 15 times and working until 3 AM to get the message just right for such a monumental occasion. Bridging Division Through Common GroundWith the wisdom of someone who leads a congregation that's 40% Republican, 40% Democrat, and 20% Independent, Adam demonstrates how to find unifying values while acknowledging deep differences on complex issues. Jesus's Revolutionary Definition of GreatnessThrough powerful Biblical narratives including the Good Samaritan and the Last Supper, Adam unpacks Jesus's counter-cultural teaching that true greatness lies in service to others, not in power over them. The Real Measure of National CharacterDrawing from both Scripture and American history, Adam makes a compelling case that a nation's greatness is measured not by its wealth or power, but by how it treats its most vulnerable members. A Heart for All PeopleWith characteristic compassion and clarity, Adam addresses contemporary challenges facing marginalized communities, reminding listeners that every person deserves dignity, protection, and belonging. For anyone wrestling with questions about faith's role in public life or seeking to understand how ancient wisdom speaks to modern challenges, this episode offers a thoughtful, nuanced perspective that refuses to sacrifice either truth or grace. Adam's unique ability to bridge theological depth with practical application makes this episode especially valuable for those who may feel disconnected from traditional religious institutions but hunger for authentic spiritual dialogue. Listen to the full episode to experience how faith can inform our understanding of leadership, service, and community in today's complex world.
Why Would Anyone Believe in God Anyway?
Jan 14, 2025
Show notes
Does believing in God make sense in today's world? Adam Hamilton tackles this fundamental question with refreshing honesty and vulnerability. Through personal stories of airplane conversations, quiet walks with his granddaughter, and his own struggles with doubt, he explores why faith might still matter in 2024 - even for skeptics and deep thinkers. Drawing from decades of experience connecting with both believers and non-believers, Adam shares how authentic relationships and humble conversations create space for meaningful discussions about life's biggest questions, without requiring anyone to check their brain at the door. Wrestling with Life's Hardest Questions: Through raw and honest reflection, Adam opens up about his own struggles with doubt, including a powerful story about losing his best friend and youth pastor in a tragic accident. He demonstrates how wrestling with difficult questions can actually strengthen rather than weaken faith. Embracing Mystery Over Certainty: Drawing from decades of pastoral experience, Adam challenges the notion that faith requires absolute certainty. Like deep human love, he suggests that the most meaningful aspects of life often exist in the realm of mystery rather than mathematical proof. A Fresh Approach to Suffering: Rather than offering trite answers about everything happening for a reason, Adam provides a compassionate framework for understanding suffering that doesn't require attributing tragedy to God's direct will. He previews a deeper discussion on this topic in an upcoming episode. Why Faith Matters: In a particularly moving segment, Adam reflects on how his faith has enriched his life with peace, joy, hope, and meaning. While he believes deeply in the eternal promises of Christianity, he shares why following Jesus would have made his life richer regardless of what happens after death. Making Sense of Faith continues to stand in the radical center, creating space for both intellectual rigor and heartfelt spirituality. Whether you're wrestling with doubt, curious about Christianity, or seeking meaning in an uncertain world, this episode explores how faith can provide hope, purpose, and peace without requiring blind acceptance or abandoning intellectual honesty.
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