Spiritual Misfits Podcast Reclaiming the Language: Sin and Repentance? (with Karl Hand)
In this thought-provoking episode Will Small welcomes back Karl Hand to explore the often misunderstood concepts of sin and grace. As part of our series examining challenging theological concepts, this conversation offers fresh perspectives on terms that have sometimes been weaponised against marginalised communities.
About Karl Hand
Karl Hand is a pastor with the Metropolitan Community Church and recently began working with the Australian Student Christian Movement, helping to revitalise campus ministry. With his background in theology and experience ministering primarily to LGBTQIA+ communities, Karl brings unique insights to these complex topics.
Key Themes Explored
Reclaiming the Language of Sin
Karl discusses how the word "sin" has been traumatic for many, especially in queer communities, where it's been used to shame and exclude. Yet rather than abandoning the term, he suggests reclaiming it—similar to how the word "queer" has been reclaimed—to access its transformative power when properly understood.
Beyond "Crime and Punishment"
The conversation traces how our understanding of sin has been shaped by Augustinian theology and mistranslations that frame sin as a crime demanding divine punishment. Karl offers alternative frameworks from theologians like Irenaeus, who viewed sin more as an interruption in our journey toward becoming who we're meant to be.
Sin as Separation
Rather than viewing sin as primarily about rule-breaking, Karl suggests understanding sin as "anything that comes between us and God." This reframing helps us see sin as exile or separation rather than as moral failure requiring punishment.
The Relationship Between Sin and Grace
Karl shares his personal experience of grace at age 13, describing how the recognition of sin created space for transformation. "If there's nothing wrong with where I'm at now, then I don't feel the need to cling onto grace quite as much," he explains, highlighting how sin and grace work together in our spiritual journey.
Collective Sin and Repentance
The conversation explores how sin operates not just individually but collectively through systems, structures, and intergenerational patterns. Karl points to global political movements and social injustices as evidence of our deep interconnectedness and shared responsibility.
Queer Theology's Gifts
Karl highlights how queer theology offers valuable perspectives on sin and grace, including the reclamation of pride as a virtue rather than a sin, the importance of hybrid identities, and the power of collective liberation.
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