A Teachable Spirit: The Virtue of Learning from Strangers, Enemies, and Absolutely Anyone - w/ A. J. Swoboda

How reclaiming a teachable spirit can radically transform our faith, our churches, and our relationships with those we often see as “the other.” Mike and Tim welcome theologian, pastor, and author A.J. Swoboda to unpack his latest book, The Teachable Spirit: The Virtue of Learning from Strangers, Enemies, and Absolutely Anyone, as well as a powerful call for intellectual humility and curiosity within Christian community.

Together, they explore why Christians should be the most curious people in the world—yet are often seen as some of the least teachable—and how engaging others (even those we vehemently disagree with) can be a deeply Christlike act of discipleship and hospitality.

Key Takeaways:
• The Cost of Curiosity – Why a teachable spirit is more important than ever in a polarized culture, and how refusing to learn keeps Christians stuck in cycles of fear and pride.
• Learning from Enemies – How sitting at the feet of someone you disagree with can strengthen faith, not threaten it—and why it’s an essential posture for being salt and light in the world.
• Intellectual Humility as a Spiritual Discipline – Understanding that learning doesn’t always mean agreeing, and that repentance and growth require letting go of certainty.
• Babylon vs. Jerusalem – Applying Daniel’s exilic posture in a modern world where Christians often prioritize cultural dominance over Christlike witness.
• Shame and the Fear of Not Knowing – A touching and honest reflection from A.J. on how vulnerability around what we don’t know (like his story about a screwdriver) can lead to deeper discipleship and spiritual maturity.

Guest Highlights:
A.J. Swoboda – Professor, pastor, and co-host of the Slow Theology podcast, A.J. brings humor, vulnerability, and a prophetic lens to what it means to be a learner in today’s world. His new book, The Teachable Spirit, challenges Christians to pursue curiosity as a virtue and to rediscover the joy of growing, even when it’s uncomfortable.

Resources Mentioned:
• A.J. Swoboda – The Teachable Spirit: The Virtue of Learning from Strangers, Enemies, and Absolutely Anyone
• Slow Theology podcast (with Nijay Gupta) – Listen here
• Rodney Stark – Writings on the sociology of early Christianity
• Daniel 9 – Reflections on exile and living faithfully in Babylon
• Upcoming Book Club – The Upside-Down Kingdom by Donald Kraybill (starts June 5)

Let’s keep asking better questions and cultivating hearts that are open to correction, growth, and true wisdom. Subscribe, share, and leave us a review—your support helps us build a curious and Christ-rooted community.

As always, we welcome thoughtful dialogue and questions as we journey together. Email us at [e-mail], and keep the conversation going on Facebook and Instagram.

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Music by Timothy John Stafford
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