Regent College Podcast Dr. Carmen Joy Imes – Becoming God's Family: Why the Church Still Matters
Nov 7, 2025
Dr. Carmen Joy Imes, an Old Testament expert and author, dives deep into the essence of the church as a family in Christ. She emphasizes the beauty of divine adoption and how it fosters mutual belonging. Carmen candidly addresses the messy nature of family dynamics while advocating for healthier church communities. She highlights the importance of diversity and honesty in church relationships, encouraging a balanced approach to inclusion and accountability. Ultimately, she champions the church as a force for good in the world, inviting everyone to embrace community.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Trilogy Reframes Christian Identity
- The trilogy reframes identity: bearing God's name, being God's image, and belonging as God's family are distinct but connected callings.
- Carmen argues modern Western individualism obscures that faith is fundamentally communal and embodied.
Adoption Shows Communal Belonging
- Adoption language emphasizes lateral belonging: being God's child creates sibling obligations among believers.
- Adoption reframes salvation as communal inclusion, not only individual status.
Don't Abandon Church After Harm
- If church hurt makes you doubt, assess communities for values and care rather than abandoning church altogether.
- Seek healthier congregations and avoid equating church failure with God’s absence.
