Untangled Faith
119: Orphaned Believers: Sara Billups on Church, Culture Wars, and Spiritual Growth
Nov 12, 2024
Sara Billups, author of "Orphaned Believers," sheds light on the evangelical church's culture during the 80s and 90s. She discusses how end times theology and culture wars shaped believers' identities and fears. The impact of consumerism and the prosperity gospel raises questions about faith commodification. Sara emphasizes the transformative power of authentic community and navigating personal spiritual journeys within imperfect church environments, highlighting the importance of relationships in spiritual growth.
46:06
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Quick takeaways
- The cultural narratives of the 80s and 90s shaped evangelical identities through fear, focusing on opposition instead of grace and community.
- A shift from a consumer-driven faith to genuine spiritual formation is vital for cultivating a deeper, more authentic relationship with Jesus.
Deep dives
The Concept of Orphaned Believers
Many individuals are wrestling with the value of staying within the church, particularly as they feel disconnected or disappointed. Church is often viewed as the primary means through which one can experience Jesus, and this creates a tension for those feeling estranged from their faith communities. The discussion highlights that even when individuals have distanced themselves from a traditional church environment, they can still engage with the Christian narrative. This sentiment emphasizes the importance of spiritual community and belonging, especially for those grappling with their beliefs.
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