Lisa Harper, a world-renowned speaker and writer with over 30 years in ministry, shares her insights on living a Jesus-shaped life. She discusses the importance of genuine connections with God, the epidemic of loneliness among women, and the need for deeper discussions at women’s events. Harper reflects on her journey at Denver Seminary, balancing faith and family, and the evolving role of women in ministry. She also tackles the challenges of misogyny in theology and advocates for compassion and equality in church leadership.
Lisa Harper emphasizes that theology should deepen our relationship with Jesus rather than solely serving as an academic pursuit.
Harper addresses the epidemic of loneliness prevalent in society, advocating for community and genuine connections to combat isolation.
She highlights the importance of maintaining authenticity in theology and relationships, encouraging vulnerability and grace to foster deeper understanding.
Deep dives
Lisa Harper's Background and Education
Lisa Harper has an extensive background in church and parachurch ministry, bringing over 30 years of leadership experience. She holds a master's degree in theology and is currently pursuing a doctorate in ministry. Her educational journey at Covenant Theological Seminary has challenged her academically, but she views theology as a means to deepen her relationship with Jesus rather than just an academic pursuit. Harper emphasizes the importance of combining theological understanding with practical application to foster a more intimate connection with God.
The Purpose Behind 'A Jesus-Shaped Life'
In her latest book, 'A Jesus-Shaped Life', Harper aims to make complex theological concepts accessible to a broader audience. She recognized that traditional theological language often alienates those outside of academic spheres, so she sought to distill key ideas into relatable conversations. The book encourages readers to engage with theology as a means to grow closer to Jesus rather than simply accumulating knowledge. Harper's approach is grounded in the belief that theology should be lived and embodied in everyday life.
Addressing Loneliness in Modern Society
Harper notes a growing epidemic of loneliness, particularly among women, exacerbated by social media's curated portrayals of life. She highlights that many individuals crave genuine connections but often feel unseen and unheard in their daily lives. This sense of isolation is frequently compounded by societal expectations and pressures, making it essential for people to acknowledge their vulnerabilities. By fostering community and honest conversation, Harper believes individuals can combat loneliness and create more meaningful relationships.
Navigating Criticism and Controversy
Harper discusses her experiences with criticism, noting that public figures often face harsh judgment, especially concerning their stances on theology and ministry roles. She emphasizes the importance of discernment when responding to feedback, suggesting that not all criticism warrants a response. Instead, Harper focuses on maintaining a heart of compassion and accountability, valuing relationships with those who provide constructive insights. She believes that love and understanding should guide interactions, rather than a defensive posture in the face of negativity.
The Importance of Authenticity in Theology
For Harper, authenticity is crucial in both theology and personal relationships. She asserts that personal experiences, including struggles and vulnerabilities, can enrich theological discussions and make them more impactful. By sharing her own challenges and embracing her imperfections, Harper aims to create spaces where others feel safe to do the same. She advocates for a theology that prioritizes relationship and grace over rigid doctrinal adherence, highlighting the necessity of a genuine connection with God in understanding faith.
Lisa is a world renown speaker and writer with over 30 years of church and para-church ministry leadership experience. She holds a Masters in Theology from Covenant Theological Seminary and is pursuing a Doctorate in Ministry from Denver Seminary. She’s the co-host of the popular “Back Porch Theology” podcast and the author of several books including her most recent book: A Jesus Shaped Life: How Diving Deeper into Theology Can Transform Us and Our World with the Radical Kindness of God.
