Tommy Preson Phillips, a pastor and musician from Tampa, and Scot McKnight, a seasoned professor and author, dive deep into the topic of faith deconstruction. They discuss how this journey often reflects a longing for deeper connections rather than a rejection of faith. Their insights tackle the complexities of Christian orthodoxy and the political influences reshaping modern evangelicalism. Emphasizing community support, they advocate for a more inclusive approach to Christianity, focusing on social justice and the marginalized.
Deconstruction is framed as a constructive journey towards a deeper faith rather than a rejection of Jesus and his teachings.
Developing supportive communities is essential for those navigating their faith, fostering connection without mainstream social media constraints.
Believers are encouraged to return to Jesus's teachings for guidance, emphasizing compassion and inclusivity amidst contemporary political influences.
Deep dives
Understanding Deconstruction and Its Purpose
Deconstruction is framed as a critical yet constructive process rather than a purely negative phenomenon. Many individuals undergoing deconstruction are not distancing themselves from Jesus but are instead seeking a deeper understanding of their faith that aligns with the teachings of Christ. The conversation emphasizes that significant numbers of those leaving the church do so not because they want to reject their faith, but because they can no longer align with the actions and politics of the institutional church, especially in light of contemporary issues. Ultimately, deconstruction is positioned as an essential journey that can lead to a more profound, meaningful, and love-filled expression of Christianity.
The Need for Community and Navigating Faith
The creation of supportive communities is highlighted as essential for individuals grappling with their faith and seeking new paths. A new app is being developed to foster connections among those looking for like-minded individuals in their faith journey, outside of mainstream social media platforms. This initiative aims to provide a space where individuals can engage deeply without the constraints of algorithms that often hinder meaningful engagement. Through shared experiences and conversations, the community can facilitate personal growth and exploration of faith, ultimately leading to a more compassionate approach toward differing beliefs.
The Influence of Culture and Politics on Faith
The impact of contemporary politics, particularly Christian nationalism, on personal faith is addressed as a critical concern. Many believers are finding it harder to reconcile traditional Christian values with what they perceive as politicized religion, especially in the context of strong political figures invoking Christian ideologies for personal gain. The dialogue suggests that the church must navigate these cultural shifts while holding itself and its leaders accountable for their actions and rhetoric. This critical examination presents an opportunity for believers to reaffirm their commitment to Christ-centered values, emphasizing compassion and inclusivity.
Looking to Jesus for Guidance
A significant recommendation offered to those navigating their faith journey is to return to the teachings of Jesus as a source of guidance. The discussion encourages a focus on Scripture, particularly the Gospels, where the essence of Christ's message about love and community is found. Emphasizing the importance of embodying Jesus's teachings, it suggests that believers can find direction in their struggles by reflecting on the values of empathy, compassion, and social justice that Jesus advocated. By being the physical presence of Christ in their communities, individuals can create an inclusive environment that welcomes all.
Embracing Change and Building New Coalitions
The conversation culminates in a call for hope and constructive action within the Christian community. As believers reconcile their faith with the complexities of the modern world, building bridges among diverse traditions and perspectives becomes paramount. Individuals are encouraged to embrace opportunities for collaboration and collective action that reflect the heart of Jesus's teachings. This unity in purpose aims to create a welcoming space that supports and uplifts marginalized voices while advocating for justice and compassion in societal discourse.
In this TALKS Episode, Tommy Preson Phillips, and Scot McKnight delve into the themes of deconstruction within Christianity, exploring its implications and the journey many are taking towards a more authentic faith. They discuss the misconceptions surrounding deconstruction, the complexities of Christian orthodoxy, and the political influences that have shaped modern evangelicalism. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of community and understanding in navigating faith crises, ultimately advocating for a more inclusive and loving approach to Christianity.
Chapters
06:49 Understanding Deconstruction: A Path Towards Jesus
15:02 The Complexity of Christian Orthodoxy
20:14 Navigating Political Influences in Faith
30:50 The Rise of Christian Nationalism
36:55 Disappointment in Leadership and Idolatry
41:01 The Church's Role in Social Justice
49:58 The Church's Responsibility to the Marginalized
The New Evangelicals exists to support those who are tired of how evangelical church has been done before and want to see an authentic faith lived out with Jesus at the center.
We are committed to building a caring community that emulates the ways of Jesus by reclaiming the evangelical tradition and embracing values that build a better way forward. If you’ve been marginalized by your faith, you are welcome here. We’ve built an empathetic and inclusive space that encourages authentic conversations, connections and faith. Whether you consider yourself a Christian, an exvangelical, someone who's questioning your faith, or someone who's left the faith entirely, you are welcome here!
