Unconditional Love with Jonathan Merritt and Dr. James Merritt - Episode 906

17 snips

Aug 1, 2024

Join Jonathan Merritt, an author focused on faith and culture, and his father Dr. James Merritt, a pastor and author, as they dive into their unique relationship. They explore their differing beliefs on sexuality with grace and unconditional love. The duo discusses their latest books and shares personal anecdotes that highlight the nuances of family dynamics. Listeners are encouraged to engage with complex issues while understanding the importance of empathy and open dialogue, showing how love can prevail even amid disagreement.

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ADVICE

Intentional Evangelism

Share the gospel intentionally, turning conversations toward spiritual topics.
Ask permission before discussing faith, respecting others' boundaries.

ANECDOTE

A Father's Love

James Merritt shared how he wept upon learning of Jonathan's outing, not out of anger, but concern and love.
He emphasized his unconditional love, prioritizing his son's well-being over judgment.

ADVICE

Loving Across Differences

Parents should love their children unconditionally, regardless of differing beliefs.
Open communication and seeking understanding are key to navigating complex relationships.

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Today on the show, you’re in for a good one. You’ve probably heard me talk about my friend, Jonathan Merritt, and today you’re going to get to know him AND his dad, Dr. James Merritt. These two have a really special relationship as father and son even though they don’t see eye to eye on a lot of things, including sexuality. Today we’re going to talk about their latest books The God Who Hears and My Guncle and Me, and we’re also going to talk about their relationship and how they’ve navigated their differences. Listen. I want you to lean in here…this is a really nuanced conversation, which is hard to do in a public setting. It’s such an honor that Jonathan and Dr. Merritt would agree to have this conversation with us and the sacredness of this is not lost on me. I have so much to learn from both of them and I’m grateful for what I learned in this conversation.

For parents, we recommend listening first without your kids so you can decide how you want to engage any conversations this episode might bring up.

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Other topics we cover in today's episode:

football, georgia bulldogs, prayer, sharing Jesus, evangelism, unconditional love, cancel culture, identity,

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NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends.

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