What happens when patriotism becomes religion—and Christianity gets wrapped in red, white, and blue? In this powerful episode, we take a hard look at Christian nationalism, patriotic idolatry, and how the gospel gets distorted when faith merges with empire. From July 4th church tributes to political leaders quoting Scripture while passing oppressive laws, we’re diving into the theology, history, and consequences of America’s “civil religion.”

We explore:

• The rise of Christian nationalism in the U.S.

• The myth of America as God’s “chosen nation”

• The difference between patriotism and idolatry

• The dangers of using Christianity to control culture and policy

• Real vs. perceived Christian persecution

• Why unraveling nationalism is not abandoning faith

Whether you're deconstructing, questioning, or just curious, this episode invites you to rediscover a Jesus who wasn’t campaigning for empire—but preaching a Kingdom not of this world. 🇺🇸✝️

Our culture is constantly changing around us. A new story, new song, or new idea is being tweeted, posted or published every other minute. As the world changes rapidly around us, how do we respond? How do we stay rooted in our faith amidst a myriad of conversations? How do we stay grounded in truth when so much in the media is manipulated? How do we talk about our beliefs in a culture that may not feel the same way?

Conversations about faith and culture meet right here on Teaology, the podcast. Teaology is all about communities coming together through conversation. We find common ground when we communicate well.

Credits

Written, Edited and Produced by Maya Wilson

Theme Song: On My Vegan by JXXIII, produced by Kahlil Franklin

Copyright 2025

All Rights Reserved

For more of Maya’s writing, follow her on Substack

teaologypod.substack.com

Follow the podcast on socials!

Instagram: @teaologypodcast

Tiktok: @teaologypod

📌Copyright Statement :

All the videos, songs, images, and graphics used in the video belong to their respective owners. I or this channel does not claim any right over them.

Disclaimer of Copyright Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act of 1976, “fair use” is permitted for activities like criticism, commentary, education, and research. The term “fair use” refers to the use that the copyright law permits but might otherwise be illegal.

Along with this channel, I make no claims to ownership of any of the graphics, images, or music used in this video. The respective copyright holders reserve all rights.

In this honest and hard-hitting episode, we confront the growing crisis of celebrity Christianity — from idolizing pastors to building brands instead of altars. Maya breaks down how parasocial relationships, heresy hunting, platform culture, and performance-based faith are distorting the gospel. With nuance and grace, we explore what it means to return to ordinary faithfulness, real intimacy with God, and a church rooted in proximity — not personality.

Let’s talk clout, consumerism, and the quiet danger of loving the platform more than the presence.

Our culture is constantly changing around us. A new story, new song, or new idea is being tweeted, posted or published every other minute. As the world changes rapidly around us, how do we respond? How do we stay rooted in our faith amidst a myriad of conversations? How do we stay grounded in truth when so much in the media is manipulated? How do we talk about our beliefs in a culture that may not feel the same way?

Conversations about faith and culture meet right here on Teaology, the podcast. Teaology is all about communities coming together through conversation. We find common ground when we communicate well.

Credits

Written, Edited and Produced by Maya Wilson

Theme Song: On My Vegan by JXXIII, produced by Kahlil Franklin

Copyright 2025

All Rights Reserved

Join the ‘Tea’ Party on Patreon for more content, book recommendation and discussions!

https://www.patreon.com/teaologypod

Follow the podcast on socials!

Instagram: @teaologypodcast

Tiktok: @teaologypod

📌Copyright Statement :

All the videos, songs, images, and graphics used in the video belong to their respective owners. I or this channel does not claim any right over them.

Disclaimer of Copyright Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act of 1976, “fair use” is permitted for activities like criticism, commentary, education, and research. The term “fair use” refers to the use that the copyright law permits but might otherwise be illegal.

Along with this channel, I make no claims to ownership of any of the graphics, images, or music used in this video. The respective copyright holders reserve all rights.

In this episode of Teaology, Maya Wilson breaks down our collective longing for “old school church” and asks the real question—do we miss the presence of God, or just the performance of tradition? From megachurch culture to the seeker-sensitive movement, we explore how the church’s pursuit of growth has often come at the cost of truth, depth, and discipleship. Maya shares powerful insight on ‘spiritual nostalgia’,repentance, revival, and redefining success in ministry. If you’ve ever felt like something’s missing in Sunday service, this conversation is for you.

Our culture is constantly changing around us. A new story, new song, or new idea is being tweeted, posted or published every other minute. As the world changes rapidly around us, how do we respond? How do we stay rooted in our faith amidst a myriad of conversations? How do we stay grounded in truth when so much in the media is manipulated? How do we talk about our beliefs in a culture that may not feel the same way?

Conversations about faith and culture meet right here on Teaology, the podcast. Teaology is all about communities coming together through conversation. We find common ground when we communicate well.

Credits

Written, Edited and Produced by Maya Wilson

Theme: On My Vegan by JXXIII, produced by Kahlil Franklin

Copyright 2025

All Rights Reserved

Join the ‘Tea’ Party on Patreon for more content, book recommendation and discussions!

patreon.com/teaologypod

Follow the podcast on socials!

Instagram: @teaologypodcast

Tiktok: @teaologypod

In part two, Maya continues to unpack the ongoing blame game in education. We discuss the lasting impact of No Child Left Behind and testing policies and why giving grades to schools may not be the best idea. From charter schools to vouchers, we examine how the focus on school choice diverts attention from the systemic issues plaguing public education. Discover how privatization, lack of accountability, and inequitable access to resources are leaving marginalized students behind. Learn why holding public schools accountable without addressing the root causes is counterproductive, and how school choice may ultimately exacerbate the problem. Gain a deeper understanding of the impacts of corporate influence on education, and why a community-driven approach to education reform is crucial for long-term success.

Our culture is constantly changing around us. A new story, new song, or new idea is being tweeted, posted or published every other minute. As the world changes rapidly around us, how do we respond? How do we stay rooted in our faith amidst a myriad of conversations? How do we stay grounded in truth when so much in the media is manipulated? How do we talk about our beliefs in a culture that may not feel the same way?

Conversations about faith and culture meet right here on Teaology, the podcast. Teaology is all about communities coming together through conversation. We find common ground when we communicate well.

Credits

Written, Edited and Produced by Maya Wilson

Theme: On My Vegan by JXXIII, produced by Kahlil Franklin

Copyright 2025

All Rights Reserved

Join the ‘Tea’ Party on Patreon for more content, book recommendation and discussions!

patreon.com/teaologypod

Follow the podcast on socials!

Instagram: @teaologypodcast

Tiktok: @teaologypod

Will shutting down the department of education make our kids smarter? In this insightful exploration of public education, Maya unpacks the ongoing blame game in education. We discuss the lasting impact of No Child Left Behind and testing policies and why giving grades to schools may not be the best idea. From charter schools to vouchers, we examine how the focus on school choice diverts attention from the systemic issues plaguing public education. Discover how privatization, lack of accountability, and inequitable access to resources are leaving marginalized students behind. Learn why holding public schools accountable without addressing the root causes is counterproductive, and how school choice may ultimately exacerbate the problem. Gain a deeper understanding of the impacts of corporate influence on education, and why a community-driven approach to education reform is crucial for long-term success.

Our culture is constantly changing around us. A new story, new song, or new idea is being tweeted, posted or published every other minute. As the world changes rapidly around us, how do we respond? How do we stay rooted in our faith amidst a myriad of conversations? How do we stay grounded in truth when so much in the media is manipulated? How do we talk about our beliefs in a culture that may not feel the same way?

Conversations about faith and culture meet right here on Teaology, the podcast. Teaology is all about communities coming together through conversation. We find common ground when we communicate well.

Credits

Written, Edited and Produced by Maya Wilson

Theme: On My Vegan by JXXIII, produced by Kahlil Franklin

Copyright 2025

All Rights Reserved

Join the ‘Tea’ Party on Patreon for more content, book recommendation and discussions!

patreon.com/teaologypod

Follow the podcast on socials!

Instagram: @teaologypodcast

Tiktok: @teaologypod

In this episode of Teaology, we explore the profound legacy and power of the Black Church and its pivotal role in shaping racial justice, social movements, and theological resilience. From its roots in Africa to its leadership during the Civil Rights Movement, the Black Church has been a beacon of hope, resistance, and empowerment. We reflect on how the church’s historical commitment to justice, rooted in faith, continues to inspire us today. We also address whether Christianity is the white man’s religion, the repentance needed from the white evangelical church, the challenges facing racial unity within the church, the rise of apathy towards justice movements, and the impact of today's racial tensions. Join us as we discuss the need for a renewed commitment to racial justice and unity, anchored in the enduring power of Black faith and activism.

Our culture is constantly changing around us. A new story, new song, or new idea is being tweeted, posted or published every other minute. As the world changes rapidly around us, how do we respond? How do we stay rooted in our faith amidst a myriad of conversations? How do we stay grounded in truth when so much in the media is manipulated? How do we talk about our beliefs in a culture that may not feel the same way?

Conversations about faith and culture meet right here on Teaology, the podcast. Teaology is all about communities coming together through conversation. We find common ground when we communicate well.

Credits

Written, Edited and Produced by Maya Wilson

Theme Song: On My Vegan by JXXIII

Written by Maya Wilson

Copyright 2025

All Rights Reserved

Follow the podcast on socials!

Instagram: @teaologypodcast

Tiktok: @teaologypod

Check out Maya’s Reading List

www.amazon.com/shop/teaologypod

In the third episode of Season 4, Maya discusses many of our first heartbreaks - purity culture. We look back at the history, how it’s been harmful and where we go from here as we seek out informed and holistic education on intimacy.

CONTENT WARNING: In today’s episode, we’ll be discussing topics related to purity culture, intimacy, and sexuality, including sensitive subjects such as sexual abuse and the harmful impact of distorted teachings around sex and relationships. These topics may be triggering or uncomfortable for some listeners. Please take care of yourself, and feel free to pause or skip this episode if needed. We encourage you to listen with awareness and compassion for yourself and others who may be affected by these topics.

Copyright Disclaimer: - Under section 107 of the copyright Act 1976, allowance is mad for FAIR USE for purpose such a as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statues that might otherwise be infringing. Non- Profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of FAIR USE.

Our culture is constantly changing around us. A new story, new song, or new idea is being tweeted, posted or published every other minute. As the world changes rapidly around us, how do we respond? How do we stay rooted in our faith amidst a myriad of conversations? How do we stay grounded in truth when so much in the media is manipulated? How do we talk about our beliefs in a culture that may not feel the same way?

Conversations about faith and culture meet right here on Teaology, the podcast. Teaology is all about communities coming together through conversation. We find common ground when we communicate well.

Credits

Written, Edited and Produced by Maya Wilson

Theme Song: On My Vegan by JXXIII

Copyright 2025

All Rights Reserved

Follow the podcast on socials!

Instagram: @teaologypodcast

Tiktok: @teaologypod

Check out Maya’s Reading List

www.amazon.com/shop/teaologypod

In the second episode of Season 4, Maya addresses the rising fascination with wellness trends within Christian communities, encouraging a deeper examination of whether these movements conflict with or complement biblical teachings on health and wholeness. With the rise of self-care and personal wellness as cultural priorities, where does the biblical understanding of selflessness, sacrifice, and serving others fit in? Are we elevating self-care to an idol?

Our culture is constantly changing around us. A new story, new song, or new idea is being tweeted, posted or published every other minute. As the world changes rapidly around us, how do we respond? How do we stay rooted in our faith amidst a myriad of conversations? How do we stay grounded in truth when so much in the media is manipulated? How do we talk about our beliefs in a culture that may not feel the same way?

Conversations about faith and culture meet right here on Teaology, the podcast. Teaology is all about communities coming together through conversation. We find common ground when we communicate well.

Credits

Written, Edited and Produced by Maya Wilson

Theme Song: On My Vegan by JXXIII

Copyright 2025

All Rights Reserved

Follow the podcast on socials!

Instagram: @teaologypodcast

Tiktok: @teaologypod

Check out Maya’s Reading List www.amazon.com/shop/teaologypod