The Deconstructionists

In this episode of The Deconstructionists Podcast, we’re joined by John Dominic Crossan and Michael Okinczyc-Cruz for the first part of a wide-ranging conversation about Jesus, empire, and why historical context matters now more than ever.As religion, power, and nationalism continue to collide in the United States, this conversation feels remarkably timely — not because it’s reacting to current events, but because it’s rooted deeply in history.In Part One, we focus on setting the foundation:The world of the Roman Empire and how it shaped early ChristianityWhy Jesus must be understood as a first-century Jewish figure under imperial occupationWhat happens when modern readers remove Jesus from his historical contextWhy asking historical questions doesn’t weaken faith — but often deepens itThis episode invites listeners to take the Bible seriously enough to let it challenge modern assumptions about power, violence, and faithfulness.About Our GuestsJohn Dominic Crossan is one of the most influential New Testament