Show Notes
Our highest listened to episode (published 12th October 2023, titled Only Human). It's been almost 3 years since the film dropped and these two things stand out for us: Creator/creature theme: In 2026, AI personhood and consciousness is a live legal and theological debate, giving this creator-creature discussion fresh relevance. Euthanasia theme: Voluntary assisted dying is actively expanding across Australia in 2026, making this Ecclesiastes-death exchange a current pastoral conversation.
Enjoy the conversation!
In light of the Barbie movie phenomenon, our hosts take stock of Greta Gerwig's divisive blockbuster, ponder its themes on humanity, and whether it will become an essential existential text. Old Testament expert Dr George Athas then joins the show to discuss the film, its relationship to the book of Ecclesiastes, and how death plays a role in our understanding of being human.
Key Takeaways: Existential Themes in "Barbie": The movie tackles deep questions of identity and mortality, using the narrative of a doll to explore what it truly means to be human. Ecclesiastes' Pessimism: Dr. George Athas highlights the pessimistic yet honest portrayal of life's transient nature and inequities in Ecclesiastes, drawing parallels with modern existential storytelling. Death as a Central Theme: Both "Barbie" and Ecclesiastes focus significantly on death, pondering its implications on how we perceive and live our lives. Complexity of Human Existence: The discussion reveals the intricate layers of living with awareness of mortality, suggesting a profound connection between biblical and contemporary explorations of existence. Constructive Theological Engagement: Dr. Athas emphasizes the importance of listening to existential despair as expressed in texts like Ecclesiastes, allowing it to inform a compassionate, gospel-centered response. Notable Quotes: "Ecclesiastes sees death as the unavoidable destiny of every person. It's the great leveler." – Dr. George Athas "In a world in which sin is entered, you don't want access to the Tree of Life. It's not a good thing." – Megan Powell du Toit "The person who wrote Ecclesiastes, I call him Qohelet, he is very upset with the way that the world works and he doesn't hold out much hope for it." – Dr. George Athas "We have the science to extend life indefinitely, but not the wisdom to know when actually that's pointless." – Michael Jensen "Death brings everything to an end. It's dehumanizing in Ecclesiastes' view." – Dr. George Athas
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More from With All Due Respect
Episode Summary: In this special bonus episode of "With All Due Respect," Megan Powell Du Toit and Michael Jensen dive into a discussion about Christopher Nolan's 2026 film, "The Odyssey." This adaptation of Homer's ancient Greek epic is dissected through the lenses of both the original text's themes and contemporary interpretations, offering listeners a rich tapestry of theological and cultural insights. Key Takeaways: Modern Adaptations of Classic Epics: Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey" provokes dialogue not only about its faithfulness to Homer's epic but also its reinterpretation in a contemporary context. Themes of Guilt and Atonement: The film explores psychological and spiritual depth, highlighting Odysseus's journey through guilt and atonement as a reflection of modern sensibilities influenced by Christian thought. Hospitality's Role in Society: The concept of hospitality is critically examined, both as a part of Homer's world and in its implications for today's global and often divided landscapes. Cultural Relevance and Critique: The discourse reflects on how adaptations resonate with current socio-political climates, posing questions about home, belonging, and societal norms. Lewis and Tolkien's Influence: There is a discussion on how ancient longings reflected in texts like "The Odyssey" find answers in the Christian gospel, drawing parallels with the works of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. Notable Quotes: "When you're using source material like this… I'm really, I really enjoy a reworking." – Megan Powell Du Toit "The goodies turn out to be the baddies… evil lurking in your own heart." – Michael Jensen "Guilt and atonement… how Christian are those themes." – Michael Jensen "Home is a place that is safe for you and yours, but also must have that permeable border." – Megan Powell Du Toit "There is no real atonement possible, even in Nolan's epic." – Megan Powell Du Toit
This season of With All Due Respect is sponsored by Morling College, a Christ-centred higher-education institution shaped by its Baptist heritage and broad evangelical vision. Morling is committed to rigorous theological study, deep spiritual formation, and learning how to engage faithfully and thoughtfully with difference. Study options include ministry and theology, counselling, chaplaincy, and education. Download a course guide to explore whether Morling is the right place for your next step.
This season of With All Due Respect is sponsored by Morling College, a Christ-centred higher-education institution shaped by its Baptist heritage and broad evangelical vision. Morling is committed to rigorous theological study, deep spiritual formation, and learning how to engage faithfully and thoughtfully with difference. Study options include ministry and theology, counselling, chaplaincy, and education. Download a course guide to explore whether Morling is the right place for your next step.
This season of With All Due Respect is sponsored by Morling College, a Christ-centred higher-education institution shaped by its Baptist heritage and broad evangelical vision. Morling is committed to rigorous theological study, deep spiritual formation, and learning how to engage faithfully and thoughtfully with difference. Study options include ministry and theology, counselling, chaplaincy, and education. Download a course guide to explore whether Morling is the right place for your next step.
This season of With All Due Respect is sponsored by Morling College, a Christ-centred higher-education institution shaped by its Baptist heritage and broad evangelical vision. Morling is committed to rigorous theological study, deep spiritual formation, and learning how to engage faithfully and thoughtfully with difference. Study options include ministry and theology, counselling, chaplaincy, and education. Download a course guide to explore whether Morling is the right place for your next step.