Learning From Liberation Theology

In this episode of Deep Roots, the podcast from Oak Hill College, Jonny Reid, Director of Engagement at Oak Hill College and church elder in Oxfordshire, speaks with Luke Foster, Tutor in Doctrine and Church History.

They explore liberation theology through the lens of Luke’s personal story—growing up in the Roman Catholic cultural context of the Philippines, serving the Anglican church in Chile, and researching the theology of Gustavo Gutierrez.

Luke explains that liberation theology is not simply a “social gospel,” but at its heart a theological response to inhumanity—asking how we speak of God as Father to people who haven’t even been told they are persons.

Jonny and Luke discuss how to engage other theological traditions wisely with grace, confidence, and discernment. The conversation highlights:

The resonant pastoral question at the heart of liberation theology

Concerns about continuity between nature and grace

The distinctive Christology of the Protestant Reformed tradition

Why modern theology still matters for churches today

A thoughtful, warm, and robust discussion on theology, gospel proclamation, culture, and pastoral care.

🎓 Want more from Luke Foster? Check out his book club in January on the Beatific Vision and the book To Gaze Upon God. https://www.oakhill.ac.uk/our-courses/short-courses/to-gaze-upon-god

📖 Explore courses and training at Oak Hill College. https://www.oakhill.ac.uk/our-courses

0:00 – Opening Moment & Podcast Introduction

1:30 – Luke’s Personal Story & Journey into Liberation Theology

6:00 – The Historical & Cultural Context of Liberation Theology

12:30 – Liberation Theology: Core Question Beyond the Stereotypes

18:30 – Gutierrez’s Answer & Catholic Theological Paradigm

25:00 – Theological Concerns & Instability of the Catholic Answer

31:00 – Resources in the Protestant Reformed Tradition

36:30 – Engaging Other Theological Traditions with Wisdom & Grace

41:00 – Final Reflections, Application to Ministry & Outro

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