Brad Jersak, an author and teacher from Abbotsford, BC, shares insights on embodying love through Christ's teachings. He discusses the healing power of 'listening prayer' and emphasizes the transformative nature of God's love. The conversation also dives into faith deconstruction, navigating personal spirituality while addressing church hurt. Jersak critiques the merging of nationalism with Christian identity, advocating for inclusivity and peacemaking. He urges listeners to pursue nonviolent solutions for justice and to embody radical compassion in their daily lives.
Brad Jersak emphasizes the importance of deconstruction as a mindful re-examination of faith frameworks rather than complete dismantling of beliefs.
He uses metaphors like art restoration to illustrate how individuals can reconnect with the beauty of their faith while removing impurities.
Jersak highlights the need for a Christlike faith that promotes radical unity, compassion, and justice, transcending political affiliations.
Deep dives
Introduction of Guests and Backgrounds
The conversation begins with hosts Josh Patterson and Marty Frederick discussing sports, particularly their frustrations with their favorite teams. They introduce their guest, Dr. Bradley Jersak, a theologian with a background in Eastern Orthodoxy, who shares his love for the Winnipeg Jets. The hosts emphasize their interest in having a productive conversation that goes beyond sports, transitioning towards discussing Jersak's theological insights and recent work.
Exploration of Deconstruction in Faith
Dr. Jersak delves into the concept of deconstruction, a term often misunderstood in religious contexts. He clarifies that deconstruction is about critically examining the language and frameworks that shape a person's faith rather than entirely dismantling it. Jersak suggests mindfulness when using the term, encouraging individuals to consider what aspects of their belief systems they wish to deconstruct and why, emphasizing the need for a more constructive dialogue around faith shifts.
Metaphors for Faith Restoration
The discussion shifts to the metaphors Jersak uses to describe the process of restoring faith, comparing it to art restoration and caring for cherished items like wedding dresses. He illustrates how restoration involves careful removal of impurities, highlighting the importance of preserving the core beauty of faith instead of discarding it altogether. Jersak emphasizes that this careful approach can help individuals reconnect with the essential aspects of their beliefs without the baggage of past church experiences.
Counterfeit Ways of Faith
Jersak discusses four counterfeits that inhibit authentic Christian living, including moralism and partisan amoralism. He critiques moralism for promoting rigid adherence to external rules rather than an internal transformation of the heart. Regarding partisan amoralism, Jersak warns against aligning Christianity with political ideologies, suggesting that true faith transcends political divisions and calls for a radical love that includes all people, even those we may typically exclude.
Seven Facets of a More Christlike Faith
The conversation concludes with Jersak outlining seven facets of a more Christlike faith, focusing on radical unity, compassion, and justice. He asserts that following Christ requires a commitment to nonviolence and genuine love for others, which can be a challenge in today's polarized society. By inviting reflection on the teachings of Jesus and their application to contemporary issues, Jersak encourages listeners to actively engage in creating a more inclusive and loving community that reflects the kingdom of God.