How Hell Shapes a Fear-Based Spirituality

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What happens to Christian faith when hell is no longer the centerpiece of the story? 

In this episode of Faithful Politics, Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram talk with Brian Recker—public theologian, former evangelical pastor, and author of the upcoming book Hellbent—about how a fixation on hell distorts the Christian life.

Brian shares his powerful journey from fundamentalist Baptist roots and Bob Jones University, through service as a Marine officer and years as an evangelical pastor, to becoming a voice for deconstruction, healing, and inclusive Christianity. We dig into his critique of fear-based religion, his embrace of Jesus’ love ethic over punitive theology, and why he believes rethinking hell is central to creating a more compassionate and just faith.
Along the way, Brian explains how doctrines of eternal punishment shape evangelical politics, why leaving hell behind frees us for restorative justice, and how re-centering Christianity on Jesus’ life and love could transform both the church and society.

If you’re wrestling with questions about deconstruction, hell, universalism, evangelicalism, or inclusive faith, this conversation will give you language, perspective, and courage to keep going.

Guest Bio:
Brian Recker is a Raleigh-based public theologian, former evangelical pastor, and Marine Corps officer turned author and speaker. A graduate of Bob Jones University, Brian has lived through the arc of fundamentalist Christianity, mainstream evangelicalism, and the difficult but liberating process of deconstruction. His work invites people to move from fear-driven religion to a spirituality rooted in love, justice, and inclusion.
Brian’s forthcoming book, Hellbent, makes the case that an obsession with hell has warped Christian spirituality, pushing believers toward fear and exclusion rather than love and transformation. Through his writing, videos, and public speaking, Brian seeks to help Christians reimagine their faith, embrace restorative justice, and rediscover Jesus’ radical call to love.

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