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Cabernet and Pray

Jeremy Jernigan is a former megachurch pastor turned wine-loving theologian who’s not afraid to ask the hard questions about Christianity. As the host of Cabernet and Pray, Jeremy blends deep theological exploration with cultural critique, all while sipping exceptional wines from around the world. With a background in ministry and a passion for progressive faith, Jeremy invites listeners into raw, honest conversations about doubt, deconstruction, and rediscovering Jesus beyond evangelicalism. Whether he’s unpacking a problematic Bible passage, challenging toxic church traditions, or exploring the beauty of grace with a guest, Jeremy offers a fresh take on faith that’s thoughtful, provocative, and deeply rooted in love. If you're seeking a faith that holds space for curiosity, nuance, and a good Pinot Noir, you're in the right place.www.jeremyjernigan.com
Sip the wine, shake the faith.
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Episodes

What Makes a Nation Christian? | Ep. 50

Is America a Christian nation? In this bold milestone episode of Cabernet and Pray, we take a hard look at Jesus’ own criteria for judging nations from Matthew 25. Spoiler: Jesus doesn’t mention Supreme Court rulings, Ten Commandments in schools, or how many evangelicals show up to vote. He talks about the poor, the immigrant, the sick, and the prisoner. This episode might make you uncomfortable. It might make you angry. But it just might make you see Jesus more clearly. And that’s the whole poi...

Jul 02, 202533 min

The Cosmic Christ and Concrete Jesus (with Kevin Sweeney) | Ep. 49

What if there’s more to Jesus than the guy in sandals from Nazareth? In this episode, Kevin Sweeney returns to dive into the deep end of the theological pool—exploring the radical beauty of the Cosmic Christ and the liberating call of the Concrete Jesus . It’s the episode where mysticism meets justice, the black prophetic tradition meets the mystics, and we explore how to resist the “abstract white Jesus.” Click here to watch the episode on video. ----------------- Join the online community and ...

Jun 18, 20251 hr 14 min

The Paradox of Tolerance | Ep. 48

What if loving your neighbor means confronting someone else? In this episode, Jeremy takes a deep dive into a misunderstood (and rarely discussed) concept in Christian ethics: the paradox of tolerance. What happens when hospitality toward one becomes hostility toward others? And what if Jesus intentionally excluded people... for the sake of the vulnerable? Click here to watch the episode on video. ----------------- Join the online community and get access to exclusive content and experiences: ht...

Jun 04, 202531 min

Rethinking and Rebuilding (with Josh Patterson) | Ep. 47

Ever wondered what happens when two theologically curious podcast hosts bring their shows together over a glass of wine? Episode 47 is part divine disruption, part spiritual therapy session, and 100% a good time. Jeremy Jernigan sits down with Josh Patterson of Rethinking Faith to talk about reconstructing theology, open and relational views of God, and why some former pastors become bartenders. This episode is an unfiltered swirl of laughter, wisdom, and spicy takes on hell, omnipotence, and wh...

May 21, 20251 hr 50 min

Theology with Imagination (with Brian Zahnd) | Ep. 46

What happens when one of the most provocative theological voices of our time sits down with a glass of wine and reimagines everything? In this episode, Jeremy talks with Brian Zahnd about peacemaking, the prophetic role of the church, why evangelicalism may not recover, and what happens when we start to believe Jesus actually meant what he said. It’s bold, it’s challenging, and it’s full of grace. Plus, there are a few surprises, like pipe collecting and Scotch favorites. Whether you're curious,...

May 07, 20251 hr 13 min

Curiosity and Poor Eyesight | Ep. 45

What if the only thing separating you from deeper faith… is your doubt? In this episode, we uncork the connection between spiritual curiosity and our inability to see clearly — and why that’s not a flaw, but a feature of real theology. Jesus doesn’t demand certainty. He invites wonder. Click here to watch the episode on video. -------------- Join the online community and get access to exclusive content and experiences: https://bit.ly/rebuilding-faith Do you want to read the Bible without falling...

Apr 23, 202531 min

Queer and Christian (with Brandan Robertson) | Ep. 44

This week, we’re uncorking a bold conversation that challenges assumptions, celebrates authenticity, and dives into the complexity of faith and identity. What does it mean to be queer and Christian? You’ll hear personal journeys, tough questions, unexpected grace, and the beauty of holding space for queerness in spirituality. Whether you're in the pews or at Pride, this one’s for you. Click here to watch the episode on video. ----------------- Join the online community and get access to exclusiv...

Apr 09, 202557 min

#43: What's the Deal with Hell?

Are there different ways to understand hell in Christianity? In this thought-provoking episode, Jeremy tackles one of the most challenging theological concepts that many struggle with. If you've ever questioned traditional teachings about eternal punishment or wondered if there are other interpretations supported by scripture, this episode offers a refreshing perspective that might completely transform your understanding of Christianity. Click here to watch the episode on video. Key Points: Thre...

Mar 24, 202546 min

#42: The Spirituality of Wine (with Gisela Kreglinger)

What if drinking wine was more than just a pleasure—it was a spiritual practice? In this episode, we sit down with theologian and wine expert Gisela Kreglinger to explore the deep connections between wine, faith, and community. Growing up in a German winery, Gisela brings a unique perspective on how wine shapes our conversations, our celebrations, and even our theology. From the role of wine in biblical times to the way it fosters deeper human connection today, this episode will challenge the wa...

Mar 10, 20251 hr 7 min

#41: Why Christianity is Unfair

Is karma real? Or does Jesus operate in a way that turns our sense of fairness upside down? In this episode, we dive into one of Jesus’ most radical parables from Matthew 20, exploring why fairness might not be the point—and why that’s actually good news. Grab a glass of wine and join us for a thought-provoking discussion on grace, justice, and what it really means to follow Jesus. Click here to watch the episode on video. Featured Wine: 🍷 Destino Red Blend (2019) – Fifth Empire, Portugal A ric...

Feb 24, 202532 min

#40: The New Evangelicals (with Tim Whitaker)

Join Jeremy and Tim Whitaker, founder of The New Evangelicals, for an unfiltered and entertaining conversation tackling tough topics in faith, church culture, and beyond—all while sipping on wine. Whether you're wrestling with your faith, navigating church hurt, or just curious about new perspectives, this episode delivers humor, depth, and a lot of honesty. Don’t miss Tim’s unforgettable attempt at opening his first bottle of wine and his bold insights on Christianity today. Click here to watch...

Feb 10, 20251 hr 3 min

#39: The Worst Chapter in the Bible

What happens when the God of the Old Testament seems unrecognizable next to the Jesus of the New Testament? In this thought-provoking episode of Cabernet and Pray , we tackle what Jeremy calls “the worst chapter in the Bible,” Numbers 31. Together, we confront the shocking themes of revenge, violence, and divine commands that seem incompatible with the love of Jesus. With a glass of Sokol Blosser 2021 Pinot Noir in hand, we explore how ancient contexts and human perceptions of God shape scriptur...

Jan 27, 202530 min

#38: Loving Jesus Too Much

Can you love Jesus so much that it leaves others feeling unloved? In this episode of Cabernet and Pray , we unpack a poignant quote from A.W. Tozer’s widow that has sparked a surprising amount of debate among Christians. Join us as we dive into what it truly means to balance a love for God with a love for others, all while sipping on a gorgeous 2021 Archers Crest Pinot Noir. This episode will surely challenge your perspective on faith, relationships, and how we express our devotion. Click here t...

Jan 13, 202533 min

#37: Church in the Brewery (with Mark McKinney)

Click here to watch the episode on video. In this episode, we explore the creative expressions of the church with Mark McKinney, an innovator who is challenging traditional church structures. We dive into the unpredictability of faith journeys, the critical need for true discipleship in modern Christianity, and the fascinating intersection of faith and technology. Mark shares his experiences leading Reunion, a trauma-informed church in a brewery, and reflects on the importance of serving communi...

Dec 30, 20241 hr 11 min

#36: Star-Spangled Jesus (with April Ajoy)

Click here to watch the episode on video. Today we're diving deep into the complexities of faith, politics, and personal transformation with our guest, April Ajoy. April, an author and content creator known for her book "Star Spangled Jesus: Leaving Christian Nationalism and Finding a True Faith," joins us to unpack the deconstruction movement among white evangelicals questioning their support for Trump, especially post-2020 pandemic. In this episode, April shares her journey from promoting Chri...

Dec 16, 20241 hr 6 min

#35: The Wicked Servant

Click here to watch the episode on video. Interested in staying in one of our short-term rentals in wine country? Click here to see our two homes. In today's episode, Jeremy shares some exciting personal updates, including the opening of a second rental property in Oregon wine country, the charmingly named "Vino Victorian." But the core of today's episode dives into a profound and possibly controversial re-examination of a familiar Biblical story from Luke 19: the tale of the wicked servant. Jer...

Dec 02, 202428 min

#34: American Idolatry (with Andrew Whitehead)

Click here to watch the episode on video. We're thrilled to have Andrew Whitehead, an esteemed professor of sociology and author of "American Idolatry: How Christian Nationalism Betrays the Gospel and Threatens the Church." In this episode, we dive into the complex world of Christian nationalism in America through Andrew's insightful lens. We explore the idea that changing minds often requires more than cold, hard facts; it demands empathy, asking the right questions, and building genuine relati...

Nov 18, 20241 hr 3 min

#33: Space Racism

Click here to watch the episode on video. Want to join us on a wine and whiskey trip to Oregon? Find out more HERE . In this episode, we’re diving deep into the fascinating intersection of faith and technology, responding to your comments and critiques about our previous discussion on the ethics of robots. From accusations of irrelevance to insightful parallels with historical exclusion in Christianity, we’re tackling it all. I address the arrogance and disdain some feel towards robotic sentienc...

Nov 04, 202435 min

#32: Tell Me When I Get There (with Sean Palmer)

Click here to watch the episode on video. Want to join us on a wine and whiskey trip to Oregon? Find out more HERE . In this episode, Sean Palmer, author and teaching pastor at Ecclesia Houston, invites us on a thought-provoking journey discussing memorable wine experiences, evolving beliefs about wealth, and the pressing challenges facing Christianity in America. Sean reflects on faith, aging, and death in a post-COVID world. Additionally, we explore the transformative impact of the Enneagram a...

Oct 21, 20241 hr 1 min

#31: Robot Theology (with Joshua K. Smith)

Click here to watch the episode on video. Today we dive deep into the fascinating intersection of spirituality, philosophy, and cutting-edge technology with a very special guest—Joshua K. Smith. Josh is not just a cybersecurity analyst but also a theologian, former pastor, and insightful author. As we sip on exquisite wines—Jeremy with a crisp 2021 Rex Hill Pinot Noir Rosé, and Josh enjoying a 2021 Chardonnay from The Prisoner Wine Company—our discussion navigates the thoughtful terrain of AI, r...

Oct 07, 20241 hr 7 min

#30: Do You Still Talk to Grandma? (with Brit Barron)

Click here to watch the episode on video. We're celebrating a significant milestone—our 30th episode! We talk with Brit Baron, speaker, storyteller, and author of the compelling new book, "Do You Still Talk to Grandma?" Brit reflects on her journey of evolving beliefs and personal growth, touching on the psychological concept of cognitive closure and how it shapes our decision-making and beliefs. We'll discuss distinguishing between primary and secondary beliefs, the challenges of navigating soc...

Sep 23, 202453 min

#29: The Space Between Us (with Sarah Bauer Anderson)

Click here to watch the episode on video. Welcome to another episode of "Cabernet and Pray." In today's episode, we sit down with Sarah Bauer Anderson, a deeply insightful author whose journey of faith and personal growth offers a compelling narrative for anyone navigating the complexities of religion, politics, and family dynamics. About 15 years ago, Sarah's faith shifted during her pregnancy with her oldest child, leading her to embrace mystery, curiosity, and a broader spectrum of theologica...

Sep 09, 20241 hr 10 min

#28: The Word Became Speechless

Click here to watch the episode on video. Today, we explore the "Word of God." Do you share the belief that the Bible holds the ultimate authority? Or do you see Jesus as the living "Word of God" that John 1 speaks of? We'll wrestle with these questions and more. In this episode, we'll journey through the rich and often paradoxical imagery of the lion and the lamb as presented in Revelation. We'll contrast the popular expectation of a conquering lion with the profound revelation of Jesus as the ...

Aug 26, 202433 min

#27: Ministers of Propaganda (with Scott Coley)

Click here to watch the episode on video. In this episode, we have Scott M. Coley, a philosophy lecturer at Mount St. Mary's University and author of an intriguing new book. We explore the spiritual side of propaganda and how it's used in religious contexts. We tackle some thought-provoking topics, including the oft-heard phrase "I don't see color," the loaded concept of "law and order," and the alarming presence of authoritarianism within the church. Scott shares his personal journey of faith o...

Aug 12, 202452 min

#26: The Fear Peddlers

Click here to watch the episode on video. Today we're diving into a topic that often stirs deep emotions in the Christian community: fear (and the shame that often follows). We'll unpack the roots of fear, often instilled by religious leaders, and challenge it with biblical insights from 1 Corinthians. We’ll also have an honest conversation about the role of fear in religious teachings and how it can shape our beliefs and actions in unhealthy ways. I’ll share personal stories, including an attem...

Jul 29, 202434 min

#25: From Church to Cocktails (with Jordan Hughes)

Click here to watch the episode on video. Welcome to "Cabernet and Pray," episode 25! Today we are joined by Jordan Hughes, also known as the "High Proof Preacher." Jordan, a renowned commercial photographer and videographer from Portland, Oregon, shares his journey from growing up in a church-centric life to becoming a cocktail expert and social media influencer. Delving deep into the art of spirit-forward cocktails, Jordan emphasizes the importance of quality ingredients, his preference for Lu...

Jul 15, 20241 hr 34 min

#24: Blood From a Stone (with Adam McHugh)

Click here to watch the episode on video. In this episode, we sit down with Adam McHugh, a former hospice chaplain turned sommelier and wine tour guide, as we dive into a fascinating conversation blending spirituality, personal transformation, and the world of wine. Adam, the author of the memoir "Blood from a Stone," shares his remarkable journey from ministry to the vineyards of Santa Ynez Valley, shedding light on how this transition reshaped his faith and identity. He opens up about the memo...

Jul 01, 202456 min

#23: Living in Love (with Greg Boyd)

Click here to watch the episode on video. This week, we are joined by the insightful and influential Christian scholar Greg Boyd, who brings three decades of pastoral experience from Woodland Hills Church and a robust body of theological writings. In this episode, we dive into the intriguing concept of sensory bubbles, exploring how they shape our perception of reality and God's transcendence. Greg Boyd shares his thoughts on cataphatic and apophatic prayer, the humility inspired by Thomas Aquin...

Jun 17, 20241 hr 30 min

#22: From Ocean Waves to Rooftop Dreams (with Kevin Sweeney)

Click here to watch the episode on video. Welcome to another episode of "Cabernet and Pray," where faith meets everyday life over a glass of fine wine. I'm your host, Jeremy Jernigan, and today, we're thrilled to have a thought-provoking and dynamic guest, Kevin Sweeney. Kevin, a pastor, podcast host, and author from Hawaii dives deep into the essence of faith, personal growth, and the challenges of evolving beliefs. In this episode, Kevin illuminates the significance of direct experience in fai...

Jun 03, 20241 hr 7 min

#21: Breaking the Stigma

Click here to watch the episode on video. Welcome back to another episode of Cabernet and Pray. Today, we pause our usual schedule to address a deeply personal and pressing topic that challenges many families: mental health. Our host, Jeremy Jernigan, explores a video of John MacArthur to dissect and debate the contentious views circulating within the Christian community about mental illness. In this introspective episode, Jeremy opens up about his family's journey in seeking help for their son'...

May 20, 202445 min
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