A Christian and an Atheist Walk into a Bar
Neil Newton and Phil Thompson have been talking about religion, philosophy, politics, music, sports, and pretty much anything they felt like talking about every since they became friends while working together at the University of Pittsburgh in the 20-teens. Though Neil is an Atheist and Phil is a Christian, they found that they agreed on more things than not, especially the evils of instant replay! ACAAAWIAB will explore topics like debt, heaven and hell, the Biblical Jubilee, philanthrocapitalism, and many others. Neil and Phil enjoy these conversations, so they figured there's a chance you will too. Original theme music written, performed, and produced by Neil Newton and Phil Thompson. christianathiest.pod@gmail.com
A Christian and an Atheist Walk into a Bar
Who Invited Those Smelly Shepherds? The 2025 Christian and an Atheist Christmas Special
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Neil Newton and Philip Thompson
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Season 3
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Episode 5
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Since we did an epiphany special last year, this isn’t quite our third annual Christmas Special, but close enough! This year we take a look at the story of Jesus' birth from Luke chapter 2, which (surprise surprise!) is just as challenging to the status quo of wealth and power as chapter 1.
We also explore how to reclaim gift giving as a meaningful act in the age of hypercommercialism and (envelope please!) give a short but hopefully entertaining “Best of” list for 2025! Be sure to listen all the way to the end to hear who our pick is in the category of Best New Pope!
Who invited those smelly shepherds?
The cultural importance of gift giving beyond Christmas
Are Christmas trees pagan?
Anti-Santas and the commodification of the gift economy
Best New Pope of 2025
Best Bluegrass Albums: Sierra Hull's "A Tip Toe High Wire" and Wes Corbett's "Drift"
Best Long-form Journalism: "Delayed Gratification"
Best Theological Books: Zach Lambert's "Better Ways to Read the Bible"