Cabernet and Pray

What if evil is never as strong as it seems? In this episode of Cabernet and Pray, we wade into the heaviness of the world (child trafficking, genocide, injustice) and wrestle with what it means to have hope in the face of it. We explore a surprising biblical theme that runs throughout the Psalms and the prophets. We consider Bonhoeffer’s call to jam a spoke in the wheel, Brueggemann’s reminder that tyrants fear artists, and the unexpected spiritual significance of South Park.  Click here to watch the episode on video. ----------------- Join th...

What if we told the stories the church has tried to bury? In Episode 51 of Cabernet and Pray, I sit down with Lucas Wilson—academic, editor of Shame-Sex Attraction, and survivor. We dive into the sobering realities of conversion therapy, explore the toxic cocktail of shame and theology, and examine how fear—especially the fear of hell—is weaponized to cause unimaginable harm. Lucas brings a mix of wit, candor, and charm to one of the hardest conversations the church needs to have. If you’ve ever wondered how the church got this so wrong (and how we can start mak...

Is America a Christian nation? In this bold milestone episode of Cabernet and Pray, we take a hard look at Jesus’ own criteria for judging nations from Matthew 25. Spoiler: Jesus doesn’t mention Supreme Court rulings, Ten Commandments in schools, or how many evangelicals show up to vote. He talks about the poor, the immigrant, the sick, and the prisoner. This episode might make you uncomfortable. It might make you angry. But it just might make you see Jesus more clearly. And that’s the whole point. Grab a glass and join us at the intersection of wine, politics, and the...

What if there’s more to Jesus than the guy in sandals from Nazareth? In this episode, Kevin Sweeney returns to dive into the deep end of the theological pool—exploring the radical beauty of the Cosmic Christ and the liberating call of the Concrete Jesus. It’s the episode where mysticism meets justice, the black prophetic tradition meets the mystics, and we explore how to resist the “abstract white Jesus.” Click here to watch the episode on video. ----------------- Join the online community and get access to exclusive content and experiences: https://bit.ly/rebu...

What if loving your neighbor means confronting someone else? In this episode, Jeremy takes a deep dive into a misunderstood (and rarely discussed) concept in Christian ethics: the paradox of tolerance. What happens when hospitality toward one becomes hostility toward others? And what if Jesus intentionally excluded people... for the sake of the vulnerable? Click here to watch the episode on video. ----------------- Join the online community and get access to exclusive content and experiences: https://bit.ly/rebuilding-faith Do you want to read the Bible without falling behind? Sign up...

Ever wondered what happens when two theologically curious podcast hosts bring their shows together over a glass of wine? Episode 47 is part divine disruption, part spiritual therapy session, and 100% a good time. Jeremy Jernigan sits down with Josh Patterson of Rethinking Faith to talk about reconstructing theology, open and relational views of God, and why some former pastors become bartenders. This episode is an unfiltered swirl of laughter, wisdom, and spicy takes on hell, omnipotence, and what we do after leaving church leadership. Click here to watch the episode on video. ----------------- Join...

What happens when one of the most provocative theological voices of our time sits down with a glass of wine and reimagines everything? In this episode, Jeremy talks with Brian Zahnd about peacemaking, the prophetic role of the church, why evangelicalism may not recover, and what happens when we start to believe Jesus actually meant what he said. It’s bold, it’s challenging, and it’s full of grace. Plus, there are a few surprises, like pipe collecting and Scotch favorites. Whether you're curious, skeptical, or just thirsty for better conversations about faith, this one’s for you. C...

What if the only thing separating you from deeper faith… is your doubt? In this episode, we uncork the connection between spiritual curiosity and our inability to see clearly — and why that’s not a flaw, but a feature of real theology. Jesus doesn’t demand certainty. He invites wonder. Click here to watch the episode on video. -------------- Join the online community and get access to exclusive content and experiences: https://bit.ly/rebuilding-faith Do you want to read the Bible without falling behind? Sign up your email and I'll...

This week, we’re uncorking a bold conversation that challenges assumptions, celebrates authenticity, and dives into the complexity of faith and identity. What does it mean to be queer and Christian? You’ll hear personal journeys, tough questions, unexpected grace, and the beauty of holding space for queerness in spirituality. Whether you're in the pews or at Pride, this one’s for you. Click here to watch the episode on video. ----------------- Join the online community and get access to exclusive content and experiences: https://bit.ly/rebuilding-faith Do you want to read t...

Are there different ways to understand hell in Christianity? In this thought-provoking episode, Jeremy tackles one of the most challenging theological concepts that many struggle with. If you've ever questioned traditional teachings about eternal punishment or wondered if there are other interpretations supported by scripture, this episode offers a refreshing perspective that might completely transform your understanding of Christianity.  Click here to watch the episode on video. Key Points: Three Historical Christian Views of Hell: Infernalism/Eternal Conscious Torment: The traditional view where non-believers suffer eternally in hell. Annihilationism: Those who reject God cease to...

What if drinking wine was more than just a pleasure—it was a spiritual practice? In this episode, we sit down with theologian and wine expert Gisela Kreglinger to explore the deep connections between wine, faith, and community. Growing up in a German winery, Gisela brings a unique perspective on how wine shapes our conversations, our celebrations, and even our theology. From the role of wine in biblical times to the way it fosters deeper human connection today, this episode will challenge the way you think about your next glass. Click here to watch the episode on vi...

Is karma real? Or does Jesus operate in a way that turns our sense of fairness upside down? In this episode, we dive into one of Jesus’ most radical parables from Matthew 20, exploring why fairness might not be the point—and why that’s actually good news. Grab a glass of wine and join us for a thought-provoking discussion on grace, justice, and what it really means to follow Jesus. Click here to watch the episode on video. Featured Wine:🍷 Destino Red Blend (2019) – Fifth Empire, Portugal A rich and dark blend featuring Touriga Nacional, kn...

Join Jeremy and Tim Whitaker, founder of The New Evangelicals, for an unfiltered and entertaining conversation tackling tough topics in faith, church culture, and beyond—all while sipping on wine. Whether you're wrestling with your faith, navigating church hurt, or just curious about new perspectives, this episode delivers humor, depth, and a lot of honesty. Don’t miss Tim’s unforgettable attempt at opening his first bottle of wine and his bold insights on Christianity today. Click here to watch the episode on video. Key Points Covered in Episode 40: Introduction of Tim Whitaker and Th...

What happens when the God of the Old Testament seems unrecognizable next to the Jesus of the New Testament? In this thought-provoking episode of Cabernet and Pray, we tackle what Jeremy calls “the worst chapter in the Bible,” Numbers 31. Together, we confront the shocking themes of revenge, violence, and divine commands that seem incompatible with the love of Jesus. With a glass of Sokol Blosser 2021 Pinot Noir in hand, we explore how ancient contexts and human perceptions of God shape scripture—and what this means for our faith today. Don’t miss this deep dive into the Bible’s most chall...

Can you love Jesus so much that it leaves others feeling unloved? In this episode of Cabernet and Pray, we unpack a poignant quote from A.W. Tozer’s widow that has sparked a surprising amount of debate among Christians. Join us as we dive into what it truly means to balance a love for God with a love for others, all while sipping on a gorgeous 2021 Archers Crest Pinot Noir. This episode will surely challenge your perspective on faith, relationships, and how we express our devotion. Click here to watch the episode on video. Key...

Click here to watch the episode on video. In this episode, we explore the creative expressions of the church with Mark McKinney, an innovator who is challenging traditional church structures. We dive into the unpredictability of faith journeys, the critical need for true discipleship in modern Christianity, and the fascinating intersection of faith and technology. Mark shares his experiences leading Reunion, a trauma-informed church in a brewery, and reflects on the importance of serving communities authentically. We explore themes of flexibility, adaptation, and humility in ministry, highlighting how unconventional spaces and approaches can foster genuine c...

Click here to watch the episode on video. Today we're diving deep into the complexities of faith, politics, and personal transformation with our guest, April Ajoy. April, an author and content creator known for her book "Star Spangled Jesus: Leaving Christian Nationalism and Finding a True Faith," joins us to unpack the deconstruction movement among white evangelicals questioning their support for Trump, especially post-2020 pandemic. In this episode, April shares her journey from promoting Christian nationalism to fostering a more inclusive spirituality. We'll discuss the potential impact of another Trump presidency on evangelical communities, the...

Click here to watch the episode on video. Interested in staying in one of our short-term rentals in wine country? Click here to see our two homes. In today's episode, Jeremy shares some exciting personal updates, including the opening of a second rental property in Oregon wine country, the charmingly named "Vino Victorian." But the core of today's episode dives into a profound and possibly controversial re-examination of a familiar Biblical story from Luke 19: the tale of the wicked servant. Jeremy challenges traditional parable interpretations, suggesting we're not seeing the whole picture. What...

Click here to watch the episode on video. We're thrilled to have Andrew Whitehead, an esteemed professor of sociology and author of "American Idolatry: How Christian Nationalism Betrays the Gospel and Threatens the Church." In this episode, we dive into the complex world of Christian nationalism in America through Andrew's insightful lens. We explore the idea that changing minds often requires more than cold, hard facts; it demands empathy, asking the right questions, and building genuine relationships. Andrew shares personal reflections on America's history, scrutinizing the narrative of it being a "Christian nation" in light...

Click here to watch the episode on video. Want to join us on a wine and whiskey trip to Oregon? Find out more HERE. In this episode, we’re diving deep into the fascinating intersection of faith and technology, responding to your comments and critiques about our previous discussion on the ethics of robots. From accusations of irrelevance to insightful parallels with historical exclusion in Christianity, we’re tackling it all. I address the arrogance and disdain some feel towards robotic sentience and, humorously, whether churches would accept robots if they could contribute finan...