Weird Hill to Die On

Mary Jo Sharp, Phoenix Hayes, Adam Coleman

Weird Hill to Die On is a Christian apologetics and theology podcast where hot takes meet holy texts. Hosted by three apologists—Mary Jo Sharp, a seasoned voice in apologetics, alongside Phoenix Hayes and Adam Coleman, both building dynamic ministries—we explore controversial beliefs, cultural debates, and the weird hills Christians are willing to die on—with sass, substance, and a commitment to unity in diversity. Perfect for curious believers, faith skeptics, and anyone navigating a culture obsessed with being right. read less

Religion & Spirituality

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Weird Hills, Real Faith: The Story Behind the Podcast | Weird Hill to Die On Ep10

Weird Hills, Real Faith: The Story Behind the Podcast | Weird Hill to Die On Ep10

Why the name, "Weird Hill to Die On?" In this special season finale, MJ, Phoenix, and Adam unpack the story behind the podcast name, dive into what makes the cross the original “weird hill,” and reflect on the ego-driven theological battles they’ve walked away from. From childhood church pews to skeptical conversions, from Young Earth creationism to Calvinism debates, we explore how personal stories, cultural clashes, and a Savior who chose the unlikeliest hill shape the way we do faith—and podcasts. Expect holy sarcasm, philosophical side quests, Star Wars drama, and surprising grace. Because not every hill is worth dying on—but some absolutely are. 👉 Subscribe, share, and if you’ve ever argued theology on Christmas Day, this one’s for you. 📌 Key Topics Discussed: The meaning and origin of the phrase “a hill to die on”Why Jesus’ crucifixion was radically countercultural—and uniquely ChristianThe personal stories behind each cohost’s faith journeyEgo vs truth: how to know when to let a theological fight goWhy apologetics needs empathy, not just airtight argumentsGiving up theological “hills” (Young Earth, hyper-Calvinism, Presup dogmatism)How lived experience and intellectual belief are not enemiesWhat we’ve learned from Season 1—and where we’re heading next 📚 Relevant Resources & References: Books/Thinkers: 1) "Urban Apologetics: Restoring Black Dignity with the Gospel" – ed. Eric Mason, contributor: Adam Coleman 2) Immanuel Kant – noted for refuting his earlier views (mentioned in context of humility and intellectual honesty) 3) William Lane Craig – mentioned in relation to public apologetic influence and the Kalam Cosmological Argument Scripture References: Luke 7:18–23 – John the Baptist questions Jesus' identity John 18 – Jesus before Pilate: “My kingdom is not of this world” Romans 5:6–8 – “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” Apologetics/Theological Concepts: Presuppositional apologetics (critiqued and qualified) Procedural vs propositional vs experiential knowledge (epistemology) Young Earth vs Old Earth creationism (debunking false binaries) Emotional vs logical responses to faith Religious offense in Islam at the concept of God dying Pop Culture References: Star Wars vs Star Trek — nerdy hills, hot takes, and family feuds Citizen Kane & 2001: A Space Odyssey — film school trauma & bad art hills John Cage’s 4’33” — how far is too far in postmodern art? Follow Weird Hill: Instagram: @weirdhillshow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/weirdhillshow Website: https://weirdhillshow.com Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/weirdhillspotify Apple Podcasts: (keep checking!) Music licensing credit: 🎵 Music licensed through Envato Elements Track: "This is Funky" Artist: Tonydrumer License ID: 497VL2ZNJX

Episodes

Weird Hills, Real Faith: The Story Behind the Podcast | Weird Hill to Die On Ep10

Weird Hills, Real Faith: The Story Behind the Podcast | Weird Hill to Die On Ep10

Why the name, "Weird Hill to Die On?" In this special season finale, MJ, Phoenix, and Adam unpack the story behind the podcast name, dive into what makes the cross the original “weird hill,” and reflect on the ego-driven theological battles they’ve walked away from. From childhood church pews to skeptical conversions, from Young Earth creationism to Calvinism debates, we explore how personal stories, cultural clashes, and a Savior who chose the unlikeliest hill shape the way we do faith—and podcasts. Expect holy sarcasm, philosophical side quests, Star Wars drama, and surprising grace. Because not every hill is worth dying on—but some absolutely are. 👉 Subscribe, share, and if you’ve ever argued theology on Christmas Day, this one’s for you. 📌 Key Topics Discussed: The meaning and origin of the phrase “a hill to die on”Why Jesus’ crucifixion was radically countercultural—and uniquely ChristianThe personal stories behind each cohost’s faith journeyEgo vs truth: how to know when to let a theological fight goWhy apologetics needs empathy, not just airtight argumentsGiving up theological “hills” (Young Earth, hyper-Calvinism, Presup dogmatism)How lived experience and intellectual belief are not enemiesWhat we’ve learned from Season 1—and where we’re heading next 📚 Relevant Resources & References: Books/Thinkers: 1) "Urban Apologetics: Restoring Black Dignity with the Gospel" – ed. Eric Mason, contributor: Adam Coleman 2) Immanuel Kant – noted for refuting his earlier views (mentioned in context of humility and intellectual honesty) 3) William Lane Craig – mentioned in relation to public apologetic influence and the Kalam Cosmological Argument Scripture References: Luke 7:18–23 – John the Baptist questions Jesus' identity John 18 – Jesus before Pilate: “My kingdom is not of this world” Romans 5:6–8 – “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” Apologetics/Theological Concepts: Presuppositional apologetics (critiqued and qualified) Procedural vs propositional vs experiential knowledge (epistemology) Young Earth vs Old Earth creationism (debunking false binaries) Emotional vs logical responses to faith Religious offense in Islam at the concept of God dying Pop Culture References: Star Wars vs Star Trek — nerdy hills, hot takes, and family feuds Citizen Kane & 2001: A Space Odyssey — film school trauma & bad art hills John Cage’s 4’33” — how far is too far in postmodern art? Follow Weird Hill: Instagram: @weirdhillshow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/weirdhillshow Website: https://weirdhillshow.com Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/weirdhillspotify Apple Podcasts: (keep checking!) Music licensing credit: 🎵 Music licensed through Envato Elements Track: "This is Funky" Artist: Tonydrumer License ID: 497VL2ZNJX

Jesus For President? (And Other Bad Ideas) | Weird Hill to Die On Ep. 8

Jesus For President? (And Other Bad Ideas) | Weird Hill to Die On Ep. 8

What do you get when theology and politics share a toothbrush? A whole lot of awkward—and a serious case of identity crisis in the Church. In this spicy episode of Weird Hill to Die On, Adam, Phoenix, and MJ wade into the murky waters of political tribalism, asking why so many Christians seem more devoted to party platforms than to the kingdom of God. We wrestle with questions like: Can you vote a certain way and still be a Christian? Is your church a place of worship or a political rally? Why does it feel like political allegiance has become the new test of orthodoxy? This isn’t a hit piece on the left or right—it’s a come-to-Jesus moment (literally) about how we’ve conflated our theology with our ideologies. From MJ’s insights on civil religion to Phoenix’s New Zealand outsider take on American partisanship to Adam’s experiences of racial tension in the church, we’re diving deep—and keeping it real. If you’ve ever felt politically homeless, spiritually exhausted, or just annoyed that your pastor quotes cable news more than Scripture, this episode is for you. Key Topics Discussed: Political tribalism in the Church.The difference between kingdom allegiance and party loyalty.The legacy of the Moral Majority and civil religion in America.Racial justice, historical ignorance, and cross-cultural empathy.Christian nationalism vs. Christian witness.Why media algorithms make everything worse.How to disagree without demonizing. Follow Weird Hill: Instagram: @weirdhillshowFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/weirdhillshowWebsite: https://weirdhillshow.comSpotify: https://tinyurl.com/weirdhillspotify 🎵Music licensing credit: Music licensed through Envato ElementsTrack: "This is Funky"Artist: TonydrumerLicense ID: 497VL2ZNJX

Kinda Sorta Heretical (But Not Really) | Weird Hill to Die On EP#7

Kinda Sorta Heretical (But Not Really) | Weird Hill to Die On EP#7

Is it heresy... or just uncomfortable theology? In this raw episode of Weird Hill to Die On, Adam Coleman, Phoenix Hayes, and Mary Jo Sharp dive into beliefs that get labeled as heretical—often unfairly. From Christmas trees and Calvinism to creation debates and God’s gender, they explore what makes a belief truly heretical versus just theologically adventurous. Expect deep dives into church history, spontaneous soap box moments, and just the right amount of sass. Whether you’re a heresy hunter or a recovering theology nerd, this episode is for you. Key Topics Discussed What defines heresy vs. orthodox Christianity.Pagan origin claims about Christmas and Easter.The Calvinism vs. Arminianism vs. Molinism debate.Views on the un-evangelized and salvation boundaries.Young Earth vs. Old Earth creationism.Gender and the image of God (Is God non-binary?).The role of the early church, creeds, and councils in defining orthodoxy.Why “unity in essentials, liberty in non-essentials” matters.How theology gets weaponized in Christian culture. Follow Weird Hill: Instagram: @weirdhillshowFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/weirdhillshowWebsite: https://weirdhillshow.comSpotify: https://tinyurl.com/weirdhillspotify

Who's It Hurting Anyway | Weird Hill to Die On Ep 6

Who's It Hurting Anyway | Weird Hill to Die On Ep 6

"Who's It Hurting Anyway?" What’s Primary, What’s Not, and Why That Difference Matters for Christians In this episode of Weird Hill to Die On, Phoenix Hayes, Mary Jo Sharp, and Adam Coleman dive into the fuzzy world of primary vs. secondary doctrines—and why some "gray areas" have real consequences. Not every disagreement is a deal-breaker—but some are. So how do we know the difference? This week, we ask: Who’s deciding what really matters in Christianity? And how do we stay faithful without falling into tribalism or theological apathy? We discuss the danger of theological duct tape, the difference between a loving disagreement and weaponized certainty, and why your hot takes might be missing the hermeneutic boat. So pour your coffee, clutch your Bible and your epistemology textbook, and join us on a sacred side quest through theology’s weird hills and speed bumps. 🔑 KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED What defines a primary vs. secondary doctrinal issueTertiary issues and cultural baggageTheological consequences of treating everything as secondaryThe language of sinful lifestyles vs. theological disagreementsPaul vs. Peter (Galatians 2) and gospel integrityThe gray zone: disagreement ≠ hateBuilding relational equity before offering correctionChristian social media ethics vs. Jesus’ exampleSome of the personal 2020 racial justice fallout in apologetics 📚 RESOURCES MENTIONED or IMPLIED 🧠 Theological Concepts Primary doctrines: The Trinity, bodily resurrection, salvation by graceSecondary doctrines: Baptism types, eschatology, women in ministryTertiary views: Political affiliation, social customs, age of the Earth 📖 ScripturesGalatians 2:11–14 – Paul confronting PeterJohn 14:6 – "I am the way, the truth, and the life"Genesis 1 – Imago Dei (Image of God)Matthew 28:19–20 – The Great CommissionMatthew 23 / Luke 13:34 – Jesus weeping over Jerusalem 📚 Books & Theories"Introduction to Biblical Interpretation" – Klein, Blomberg, Hubbard"Celebrities for Jesus" – Katelyn Beaty (originally mentioned in show, but didn't make the final cut; still recommended)Best Possible Worlds & Free Will Defense (Problem of Evil frameworks)Epistemic Overreach (philosophy of knowledge) Follow Weird Hill: Instagram: @weirdhillshowFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/weirdhillshowWebsite: https://weirdhillshow.comSpotify: https://tinyurl.com/weirdhillspotifyAmazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/weirdhillamazonApple Podcasts: we're so close, but not yet! Music licensing credit: 🎵 Music licensed through Envato Elements Track: "This is Funky" Artist: Tonydrumer License ID: 497VL2ZNJX

That's Between Me and Jesus | Weird Hill to Die On Ep 5

That's Between Me and Jesus | Weird Hill to Die On Ep 5

Is “just me and Jesus” really a Christian approach—or a clever way to dodge accountability? In this episode of Weird Hill to Die On, Phoenix Hayes, Mary Jo Sharp, and Adam Coleman tackle the rising trend of private, isolated faith in today’s culture. With a mix of humor, heart, and heresy alerts, they explore why Christianity was never meant to be a solo hike through life’s wilderness. From biblical community and discipleship to church hurt and awkward small groups, this episode pulls no punches. Whether you’ve been burned by the church, are ghosting your small group, or just really like wearing that “Don’t Judge Me” hoodie—we’re talking to you. Key Topics Discussed: The myth of “private faith” and why biblical Christianity is inherently communal.How Western individualism is shaping modern theology.The difference between being judgmental vs. speaking truth in love.Church hurt and how to begin healing without ghosting Jesus’ people.The theological importance of discipleship, accountability, and “one-another” verses.Why your brain (and your theology) need checks and balances.The personal vs. private distinction in faith.Real talk on community, conflict, and sanctification. Follow Weird Hill: Instagram: @weirdhillshowFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/weirdhillshowWebsite: https://weirdhillshow.comSpotify: https://tinyurl.com/weirdhillspotify 🎵 Music licensed through Envato Elements Track: "This is Funky" Artist: Tonydrumer License ID: 497VL2ZNJX

Is Certainty a Sin? | Weird Hill to Die On Ep4

Is Certainty a Sin? | Weird Hill to Die On Ep4

Is certainty a sin—or is it just getting a bad reputation these days? In this episode of Weird Hill to Die On, Phoenix, MJ, and Adam wrestle with a growing discomfort around conviction in faith spaces. Is being convinced of a truth just code for being a jerk? Or can you actually believe something deeply without turning it into a weapon? We explore what it looks like to hold theological beliefs with both clarity and humility, and how to stay rooted in truth without losing compassion—or curiosity. From internet debates to pastoral wounds, and yes, a few spicy moments, this episode asks how Christians can contend for the faith without becoming combative… and how not to mistake silence for unity. 📌 Key Topics Discussed: - The “sin of certainty” and where the phrase came from - When convictions help—and when they hurt - The value of doubt, and when it stops being healthy - Theological debate in an age of algorithm bubbles - Jude 3, Proverbs 18, and the biblical case for charitable disagreement - Orthodoxy, orthopraxy, and orthopathy - Emotional intelligence in theological spaces - Cultish conformity vs. true Christian unity - Can you be committed and teachable? 📚 Resources & References: 📖 Jude 3 – “Contend for the faith…” 📖 Proverbs 18:17 – Let your claims be challenged 📖 2 Timothy 2:24–25 – Gentleness isn’t optional 📖 Luke 6 – Jesus’ radical ethic toward disagreement 📕 On Guard – William Lane Craig 📕 I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist – Geisler & Turek 🎭 Plato’s Cave – Shoutout to MJ’s inner philosopher ✝️ Martin Luther – Reforming theology with love… mostly 🪙 Toss a coin to your podcasters: https://www.maryjosharp.com/donate Because thoughtful theology and half-decent lighting setups don’t fund themselves. 🔔 Subscribe to stay curious and a little spicy: https://www.youtube.com/@WeirdHillShow 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/weirdhillspotify 🎧 Listen on Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/weirdhillamazon 🧠 Support the show: https://www.maryjosharp.com/donate 🎵 Music licensed through Envato Elements Track: "This is Funky" Artist: Tony Drumer License ID: 497VL2ZNJX

Is Faith Blind? | Weird Hill to Die On Ep3

Is Faith Blind? | Weird Hill to Die On Ep3

“You just have to believe.” Ever heard that? We have too—and we’re calling it out. In this episode of Weird Hill to Die On, Mary Jo Sharp, Phoenix Hayes, and Adam Coleman take on the myth of blind faith. We dig into what Jesus actually taught about doubt, belief, and evidence—and why faith doesn’t mean turning off your brain. From Thomas to TikTok clichés, we unpack how modern Christian culture has sometimes reduced faith to a vibe check or a guilt trip. But historically? Faith was grounded in trust, testimony, and truth—not vibes. Whether you're reconstructing your own faith or trying to help a friend who’s deconstructing theirs, this episode gives you permission to bring your mind to the table. Because Christianity isn’t afraid of hard questions—and we already made it weird. Key Topics Discussed: Why Jesus didn’t demand blind faith from His followersWhat the story of Thomas actually teaches usHow church clichés can misrepresent the nature of faithThe role of evidence, experience, and tradition in beliefWhy intellectual honesty is central to spiritual maturityHow to engage faith questions without fear or pressureWhat it looks like to rebuild trust in God after doubt Instagram: @weirdhillshow Facebook: facebook.com/weirdhillshow Official Website: weirdhillshow.com Spotify: tinyurl.com/weirdhillspotify Apple Podcasts: coming soon! *Leave us a review—it helps more weirdos find us. Weird Hill to Die On is a Christian podcast exploring faith, apologetics, theology, and cultural commentary, hosted by three voices navigating conviction, doubt, and spiritual formation in a chaotic world. 🎵 Music licensed through Envato Elements Track: "This is Funky" Artist: Tonydrumer License ID: 497VL2ZNJX

What's the Secret to Great Apologetics? | Weird Hill to Die On Ep2

What's the Secret to Great Apologetics? | Weird Hill to Die On Ep2

What if the secret to great apologetics… is having low expectations? In this episode of Weird Hill to Die On, MJ, Adam, and Phoenix dive into the tension between boldly defending your faith and admitting you might be wrong sometimes. Can we debate theology without needing to win? Can we stay rooted in truth without burning out—or burning bridges? From spicy debates to Chili’s appetizers, we explore why humility might be the best apologetic of all. Key Topics Discussed: - Why overstating your evidence can hurt your witness - The spiritual benefit of denominational disagreement - Confidence vs. arrogance in apologetics - Social media, echo chambers, and intellectual humility - Apologist burnout, aging experts, and public integrity - Tex-Mex, cheese pizza, and the theological implications of Chili’s 🫠 Relevant Resources: - John 20:29 (“Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed”) — referenced in the discussion of divine hiddenness and the role of faith. - Proverb cited: “Better to be silent and thought a fool than to open your mouth and remove all doubt” (attributed to Lincoln, not Scripture, but noted). Concepts & Theories:- The Dunning-Kruger Effect (not "Dunner-Kruger" as MJ said) - Beginner’s Mind (a posture of ongoing humility in faith and knowledge) - Confirmation Bias & Political Echo Chambers (in the context of online dialogue) Follow Weird Hill Instagram: @weirdhillshow Facebook: weirdhillshow Official Website: https://weirdhillshow.com (under construction) Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/weirdhillspotify Apple Podcasts: coming soon! 📝 Episode Transcript: Prefer reading to rambling? **Transcript downloading forthcoming. Check back soon. Weird Hill to Die On is a Christian podcast exploring faith, apologetics, theology, and cultural commentary, hosted by three voices navigating conviction, doubt, and spiritual formation in a chaotic world. 🎵 Music licensed through Envato Elements Track: "This is Funky" Artist: Tonydrumer License ID: 497VL2ZNJX

Is Apologetics a Waste of Time? | Weird Hill to Die On Podcast

Is Apologetics a Waste of Time? | Weird Hill to Die On Podcast

Kicking things off at Weird Hill to Die On, we ask whether Christian apologetics still matters in today's skeptical culture — or if it's just another battlefield for endless debates. We unpack the purpose of apologetics, why defending faith matters, why it sometimes feels cringey, and how unity in diversity shapes the conversation. Key Topics Discussed: What Is Apologetics and Its Biblical Foundations? Does Apologetics Work to Change Minds and Strengthen Faith? The Role of the Holy Spirit in Apologetics How to Start in Apologetics and Integrate It into Church Life Balancing Intellectual Arguments with Emotional and Spiritual Care Relevant Resources:“Interview with Paul Gould” from the Moral Apologetics website 7 Reasons Why Apologetics Might Be Good by Paul Coulter 📝 Episode Transcript: Prefer reading to rambling? **Transcript downloading forthcoming. Check back soon. Follow Weird Hill: Instagram: @weirdhillshow YouTube Channel: Weird Hill to Die On Official Website: weirdhillshow.com Weird Hill to Die On is a Christian podcast exploring faith, apologetics, theology, and cultural commentary, hosted by three voices navigating conviction, doubt, and spiritual formation in a chaotic world.