
The New Evangelicals Podcast
332. TNE TALKS: It's Okay to Be a Heretic
Nov 18, 2024
Matthew J. DiStefano, author of 'Heretic, Too!', dives into his journey from conservative evangelicalism to progressive theology. He discusses the concept of heresy, emphasizing its evolving definitions and the importance of dialogue in politics and religion. DiStefano also explores Christian Universalism and its implications for faith. Crucially, he addresses the need for acceptance, self-love, and advocating for the LGBTQ community, sharing insights on navigating personal beliefs amidst traditional religious structures.
56:39
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Quick takeaways
- Matthew DiStefano's journey from conservative evangelicalism to progressive theology emphasizes the importance of personal experience in understanding faith.
- The concept of heresy is reframed to promote open dialogue and respect within the faith community, encouraging compassionate interpretations of differing beliefs.
Deep dives
Exploring New Theological Paradigms
The episode features a discussion on the changing landscape of theology and the shifts away from traditional evangelical beliefs. One key topic is Matthew Destefano's identification as a Christian universalist, where he expresses the view that Jesus can represent a framework for salvation that extends beyond conventional Christian boundaries. Destefano explains that notions of salvation may also be found in various other religions or spiritual practices, highlighting that personal experience should play a vital role in understanding faith. This idea encourages listeners to rethink established interpretations of scripture, suggesting that the essence of spirituality may lie in love and compassion rather than strict doctrinal adherence.
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