Advertise on podcast: This Is What the Gospel Sounds Like: A Podcast on K-Pop Demon Hunters

What happens when music becomes a weapon? In this episode of This Is What the Gospel Sounds Like, Sarah Crowder and Andrew Jones return to K-Pop Demon Hunters to explore one of the film’s most powerful themes: the power of song. From HUNTR/X using music to strengthen the Honmoon to the Saja Boys using catchy songs to draw people away, the movie reminds us that words matter. Music can carry truth, shape devotion, and lodge ideas deep in our hearts. Sarah and Andy connect that theme to Scripture, from the trumpets of Jericho and Gideon to Paul’s description of the Word of God as the “sword of the Spirit.” They also explore the Psalms as songs, the early church’s practice of singing Scripture, and why Christians continue to gather together and sing. But what if you are not a singer? What if singing in church makes you uncomfortable? The answer is not shame or performance. Your voice is welcome, and so is your listening. The power is not in how beautifully we sing, but in the Word God gives us. The goal is simple: let the Gospel become sticky. Let God’s promises settle into your ears, your memory, and your heart so deeply that you carry them with you long after the music stops. Plus, Andy introduces the big idea behind his three-book series on reading the Bible, resisting Satan’s lies, and learning to pray: a spirituality centered not on producing more for God, but on receiving what God gives. Because the Christian life is not ultimately about our performance. It begins with receiving the gifts and promises of Jesus.

What ties together reading the Bible, resisting the lies of Satan, and learning to pray? In this bonus preview of Episode 23, Sarah Crowder asks Andrew Jones to summarize the big idea behind his 10 Things trilogy: Ten Questions to Ask Every Time You Read the Bible, Ten Lies Satan Loves to Tell, and Ten Treasures of Learning to Pray. Andy describes the thread running through all three books as receptive spirituality, a Christian life centered less on what we accomplish for God and more on receiving what God is already doing, giving, and speaking through His Word. It is a short introduction to the conversation coming in Episode 23 of This Is What the Gospel Sounds Like, and a preview of Andy’s upcoming visit with students at Faith Lutheran.

What do we do with shame, especially when our instinct is to hide? In this episode of This Is What the Gospel Sounds Like, Sarah Crowder and Pastor Andy Jones return to KPop Demon Hunters to talk about Rumi, Jinu, guilt, shame, and the powerful movement from isolation into community. Sarah and Andy explore the difference between guilt and shame, how culture shapes the way we experience honor and shame, and why Scripture gives us something better than simply trying to cover up the things we are afraid for others to see. From Psalm 32 to the robe of Christ’s righteousness, the Gospel gives a different kind of covering: Jesus forgives, restores, and promises that the evil and brokenness of this world will not have the final word. They also talk about why shame often drives people into isolation, why trusted community matters, and the beautiful gift Christians can give one another by speaking Christ’s promises aloud: You are loved. You are forgiven. You are not alone. 📚 Books by Andy Jones • Ten Questions to Ask Every Time You Read the Bible • Ten Lies Satan Loves to Tell • Ten Treasures of Learning to Pray 📖 Book mentioned in this episode Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes: Removing Cultural Blinders to Better Understand the Bible by E. Randolph Richards and Brandon J. O’Brien 🎙️ This Is What the Gospel Sounds Like is a KPop Demon Hunters fan podcast looking for Gospel handles in the movie’s songs, characters, stories, and themes, asking again and again: What does the good news of Jesus sound like here?

Welcome to Season 2 of This Is What the Gospel Sounds Like! After a year of conversations about movies, music, theology, and grace, Sarah Crowder and Pastor Andy Jones are back with a big theme running through KPop Demon Hunters: grief. From Rumi’s mother and her fear of losing her voice, to the grief of changing identities, broken relationships, death, and even the loss of a beloved pet, Sarah and Andy talk about why Christians don't have to hide sorrow or apologize for tears. Jesus wept, too. And grief does not get the last word. Romans 8, John 3:16, and the biblical promise of new creation give us something much better than vague comfort: God loves His world, Christ has come to redeem it, and creation itself waits for restoration. So what does the Gospel sound like when you're grieving? It sounds like permission to mourn, people who will sit beside you, and the promise that Jesus is making all things new. Read more from Andy: Bible Curious, his weekly Substack exploring Scripture, theology, and the questions worth asking.

August 20 is the Release Date of Andrew Jones' Book! Get it today! Search "10 Treasures of Learning to Pray." This episode begins with one of K-Pop Demon Hunters’ most underrated characters: Sussie the three-eyed magpie. Teacher Sarah Crowder and Pastor and Author Andy Jones explore Sussie’s place alongside Derpy, the Korean folklore behind the tiger and magpie, and a fascinating folktale that might even give us a clue about where Rumi and Jinu’s story could go next. Then the birds lead somewhere unexpected. From the dove at Jesus’ baptism to God gathering His people under His wings, from eagles carrying God’s people to freedom to Jesus reminding us that our Father cares even for the sparrows, Scripture is full of birds. Sarah and Andy consider how these images point us toward God’s protection, provision, and the gift of the Holy Spirit, whom Jesus promises will not leave us alone. And maybe that is why morning birdsong feels so hopeful. In the darkness, a song begins. A new day is coming. So the next time you see Sussie, a sparrow outside your window, or hear birds singing before sunrise, perhaps you can remember: Christ has not left you alone. You are cared for. You are gathered under His wings. And the Spirit is still at work, pointing you again to Jesus. That’s what the Gospel sounds like.

In this episode of This Is What the Gospel Sounds Like, teacher Sarah Crowder and pastor Andy Jones take a closer look at one of KPop Demon Hunters’ smallest but surprisingly insightful characters: Healer Han, also known as the “quack doctor.” When Rumi comes to him desperate to fix her voice, Dr. Han notices something deeper than a vocal problem. She has “so many walls.” That observation opens up a bigger conversation about shame, vulnerability, healing, and what it means to be truly seen. Sarah and Andy connect Rumi’s story with Jesus’ encounters in Scripture, including the rich young man, Peter, Hagar and the God who sees her, and the beautiful Gospel truth that Jesus does not merely diagnose what is wrong with us. He comes near, tears down the walls separating us from God, and gives us Himself. They also talk about the difference between being looked at in judgment and being looked at in love, why grace frees us from constantly wondering whether we have “done enough,” and how relationships become part of Rumi’s healing. Plus, Andy shares about his brand-new book, Ten Treasures of Learning to Pray, the third book in his trilogy following Ten Questions to Ask Every Time You Read the Bible and Ten Lies Satan Loves to Tell. If you have ever wondered whether God really sees you behind the walls, scars, fear, and shame, this episode is for you. In this episode: • Is Healer Han actually a quack? • Why does Rumi lose her voice? • Rumi’s walls and the fear of vulnerability • Jesus and the rich young man • “The God who sees me” • Law, Gospel, and the difference between judgment and love • Why we cannot earn our salvation • Jesus breaking down the walls between God and His people • Andy Jones’ new book, Ten Treasures of Learning to Pray This Is What the Gospel Sounds Like is a podcast about KPop Demon Hunters, theology, culture, and the places where this story gives us handles for talking about the good news of Jesus. Subscribe or follow so you don’t miss the next conversation.

The sequel is officially coming… eventually. So what happens next in K-Pop Demon Hunters? In this episode, Sarah Crowder and Andy Jones dive deep into fan theories surrounding Jinu, Rumi, the Saja Boys, and the future of the franchise. Could Rumi’s father become the next major villain? Are the Saja Boys actually gone? And what themes should the next movie explore to keep the emotional depth of the original? Along the way, Sarah shares stories from her PhD comprehensive exam preparation, reflections on storytelling, and why themes like shame, belonging, and identity resonate so deeply in both Scripture and art. The conversation ultimately turns toward the Gospel: the freedom of knowing that we are not the main character of the story… Christ is. Topics include: • Jinu sequel theories • Rumi and shame • K-drama storytelling tropes • Theological themes in K-Pop Demon Hunters • Why Korean storytelling feels different • Narrative, vocation, and the Gospel 🎧 We’d love to hear YOUR fan theories too.

What does a goofy magical tiger have to do with the Gospel? In this episode of This Is What the Gospel Sounds Like, Sarah Crowder and Andy Jones dive into Derpy from K-Pop Demon Hunters and explore why this chaotic little tiger may be one of the most important characters in the film. From Korean folklore and tiger symbolism to Jinu’s bracelet scene and themes of memory, invitation, and redemption, they unpack the surprising emotional depth behind everyone’s favorite magical menace. Along the way they discuss: • Korean tiger and magpie folklore • Derpy as messenger, comforter, and guardian • Jinu’s memories and redemption arc • Why the bracelet scene matters so much • “Martha, Martha” and repeated names in Scripture • Gospel reminders in ordinary life • The greatest animated animal sidekicks of all time Plus: VBS stories, Avatar: The Last Airbender praise, Disney animal debates, and why Derpy instantly became an S-tier fandom icon. Even in a story full of demons, idols, and magical chaos, the Gospel still sounds like a message delivered for you.

In this episode, teacher Sarah Crowder and Pastor Andy Jones explore why Bobby from K-Pop Demon Hunters has become such a beloved character. Together they discuss encouragement, authenticity, performance culture, loneliness, and the Gospel promise that we are never truly alone. Along the way, they connect Bobby’s role in the story to the biblical Barnabas and reflect on what it means to genuinely support and encourage others. Topics include: • Bobby as a truthful encourager • The pressure of numbers, success, and performance • Gospel hope in failure and struggle • Why encouragement must be honest and present • Jesus’ promise to be with us Who has been a “Bobby” in your life?

In this episode of This Is What the Gospel Sounds Like, teacher Sarah Crowder and pastor Andy Jones dive into “Soda Pop” from K-Pop Demon Hunters. At first, it sounds like a fun, catchy summer song. But underneath the surface, something darker is happening. What does it mean when something sweet slowly becomes consuming?Why do the Saja Boys only take and never give?And how does this connect to the Bible’s warnings about temptation, addiction, and idols that never satisfy? Together, we explore how “Soda Pop” echoes Proverbs 5, where what seems sweet can lead to destruction. We also contrast this with the true sweetness of the Gospel through the story of Thomas Bilney and the promise that Christ gives rather than takes. This episode is about more than a song. It is about the difference between idols that drain you and a Savior who gives Himself for you. If you’ve ever felt pulled in by something that promised life but left you empty, this conversation is for you. 🎧 Topics include:K-Pop Demon Hunters analysisSoda Pop lyrics explainedProverbs 5 and modern temptationAddiction, idols, and identityThe sweetness of the Gospel Thanks for listening and being part of this growing community.

PREVIEW! In this episode of This Is What the Gospel Sounds Like, teacher Sarah Crowder and pastor Andy Jones dive into “Soda Pop” from K-Pop Demon Hunters. At first, it sounds like a fun, catchy summer song. But underneath the surface, something darker is happening. What does it mean when something sweet slowly becomes consuming? Why do the Saja Boys only take and never give? And how does this connect to the Bible’s warnings about temptation, addiction, and idols that never satisfy? Together, we explore how “Soda Pop” echoes Proverbs 5, where what seems sweet can lead to destruction. We also contrast this with the true sweetness of the Gospel through the story of Thomas Bilney and the promise that Christ gives rather than takes. This episode is about more than a song. It is about the difference between idols that drain you and a Savior who gives Himself for you. If you’ve ever felt pulled in by something that promised life but left you empty, this conversation is for you. 🎧 Topics include: K-Pop Demon Hunters analysis Soda Pop lyrics explained Proverbs 5 and modern temptation Addiction, idols, and identity The sweetness of the Gospel Thanks for listening and being part of this growing community.

Why did the K-Pop Demon Hunters Oscar moment feel so powerful and why did it feel like more than just a win? In this episode of This Is What the Gospel Sounds Like, teacher and PhD student Sarah Crowder joins pastor and author Andrew Jones for a joyful and thoughtful conversation on K-Pop Demon Hunters’ Oscar win and what it reveals about light, community, and the stories we share. Together, they explore what happens when audiences become participants, when global stories bring people together, and when even a performance on a stage can echo something deeper. What you will hear: • Why K-pop fans are never just spectators and what that reveals about faith • How light in the darkness shows up in both K-pop and the Gospel • What the Oscars moment teaches us about belonging and shared experience • Why winning is not the ultimate story and what Jesus gives instead • How stories from different cultures help us see truth more clearly Featuring reflections on worship, fandom, and the beauty of participating in something bigger than ourselves, this episode brings together joy, theology, and real conversation. Because sometimes, even a stage full of light sticks can remind us: You were never meant to sit in the dark alone. 🎙 This Is What the Gospel Sounds Like Where film, faith, and friendship meet to explore how ordinary stories echo extraordinary grace.

In Episode 13 of This Is What the Gospel Sounds Like, Sarah Crowder and Andy explore the theological echoes within Wake Up Dead Man and its connection to the world of Knives Out and K-pop Demon Hunters. What does grace sound like in a story shaped by mystery and moral tension? Where does forgiveness break in? How does transformation unfold in unexpected ways? From the Road to Damascus to the quiet work of redemption in everyday life, this episode reflects on how contemporary storytelling carries the deeper music of the gospel. Blending Lutheran theology, cultural analysis, and personal reflection, Sarah and Andy invite listeners to hear Christ’s promise of grace even in modern film.

In Episode 12 of This Is What the Gospel Sounds Like, teacher Sarah Crowder and pastor-writer Andy Jones begin with awards-season excitement around K-Pop Demon Hunters before turning to a deeply moving scene in Wake Up Dead Man. This episode explores pastoral presence, the power of listening, and the meaning of confession and absolution in the Christian tradition. What happens when someone hears, “You are forgiven,” and believes it? They discuss: • The ministry of presence in crisis • Confession and absolution explained clearly • Private vs. corporate forgiveness • The symbolism of the missing cross • Fortitude vs. grace in the life of the church Spoiler warning: major plot details from Wake Up Dead Man are discussed. At its heart, this conversation asks: What does the Gospel actually sound like?

Sarah Crowder and Andy Jones discuss Wake Up Dead Man and what it reveals about faith, culture, and the church’s calling. This episode explores compassion versus culture wars, ministry among strangers, and how Jesus engaged the world with love and presence. This is what the gospel sounds like: you’re not alone!