175 How to Practice and Understand Faith and Spirituality with Rob Bell
May 11, 2015
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Spirituality advocate Rob Bell discusses his journey of building and leaving a church, the distinction between spirituality and religion, and the impact of growing up in the Christian Science religion. They also explore the importance of embracing change, recommend influential books, and wrap up the episode with gratitude and upcoming guest announcements.
Spirituality is the awareness that life is a gift and how one responds to it matters.
The Bible should be read as literature, considering its historical context and purpose.
Encountering the vastness of nature can bring about a sense of transcendence and humility.
Deep dives
The Importance of Spirituality and Faith
Spirituality is defined as the awareness that one's life is a gift and how one responds to it matters. It involves recognizing that there is more to reality than just daily routines and material possessions. Religion, on the other hand, is seen as the practice, rituals, and routines that remind individuals of the gift of life and their responsibility to it. While religion often gets a bad rap, the focus should be on the positive aspects of religious practice, such as routine, discipline, and community.
Understanding the Bible Literarily
The Bible should be read as literature, taking into account the different genres and styles of writing it contains. Each passage should be considered within its historical and cultural context, asking questions about the purpose and message behind the text. The Bible is not a stagnant book but reflects the evolving understanding of the divine throughout human history. It raises profound and relevant questions about ultimate reality and encourages individuals to engage critically and intellectually with its teachings.
The Need for Awe and Wonder in Today's World
In the modern world, with its focus on convenience and control, individuals can easily become disconnected from a sense of wonder and awe. Living in a world of our own making can lead to a lack of reverence and humility. However, encountering the vastness of nature, such as the ocean or witnessing the power of an awe-inspiring event, can bring about a sense of humility and transcendence. This yearning for something greater than oneself can lead individuals to seek out spirituality and faith as a means to connect with the larger mysteries of life.
Moving Away from Religion
The speaker discusses their decision to move away from religion, citing a belief that religion can be judgmental and exclusive. They express a preference for the principles and community of their religious upbringing rather than the organized religion itself. They emphasize the importance of love, non-judgment, and living beyond oneself.
Leaving the Church and Pursuing a New Path
The speaker shares their experience of leaving the church they founded and the reasons behind their departure. They felt a sense of calling to reach a wider audience and to engage with a larger culture outside of traditional church settings. Despite the challenges of leaving something they built, they ultimately received support from their community and found a new pastor to continue the legacy. They highlight the importance of embracing uncertainty and being open to new opportunities.
"Spirituality is awareness that life is a gift and how you respond matters." - Rob Bell
If you enjoyed this episode, check out show notes, video interview, and more at lewishowes.com/175.
