Ep 399 Despair to Hope, Changing Desires & God's Kingdom On Earth W/ Zach Dasher
Mar 12, 2025
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Zach Dasher, a podcast host and pastor from Swannanoa, North Carolina, shares his insights on personal transformation and the journey of faith. He discusses the struggles of balancing storytelling in film with deeper spiritual themes, revealing how personal testimonies can shape believers' lives. The conversation touches on the dangers of tying identity to achievements, the impact of New Age spirituality on traditional values, and the importance of authentic faith experiences. Zach emphasizes intimacy with God and the transformative power of faith amidst challenges.
Zach Dasher emphasizes that a genuine relationship with Christ transforms desires, moving from fear-based faith to joyous connection.
His journey of making the film 'The Blind' reveals the challenges of telling a family's story while navigating the complexities of narrative.
The conversation highlights the ongoing tension of living in both the present Kingdom of God and the anticipation of its future fulfillment.
Deep dives
Introduction of Zach Dasher and His Projects
Zach Dasher, a significant figure known for his involvement with the Unashamed podcast and as the host of the Not Yet Now podcast, is introduced as a guest. He is recognized for his work in producing the film 'The Blind,' which recounts the conversion story of Phil Robertson and his wife. Dasher shares his experience of stepping into the film industry with no prior knowledge, driven by a desire to tell his family's story. The film's journey was challenging, illustrating the difficulty of condensing decades of narrative into a cohesive story.
Zach's Personal Testimony and Spiritual Journey
Zach discusses his personal testimony, highlighting his upbringing in a Christian environment and his realization of the need for a genuine faith during his college years. He describes his experiences with addiction and subsequent moments that pushed him toward a deeper relationship with Christ. His understanding of faith transformed over time, moving from fear-based decisions to a true recognition of the joy and profound connection of eternal life starting now. He reflects on how pivotal interactions and inner spiritual struggles shaped his path toward effective ministry.
The Intersection of Life and Faith
The conversation emphasizes the complexity of people's desires and how they often grapple with conflicting motivations. Dasher stresses that Christianity isn’t just about knowledge or rules, but rather an invitation into a relationship with Jesus, transforming desires over time. Admittedly, many people may struggle with understanding this relationship, often entangled in performative beliefs. This highlights the importance of allowing the Holy Spirit to guide individuals in restructuring their desires towards God.
Swan Church's Unique Cultural Dynamics
Zach’s ministry at Swan Church navigates a unique landscape filled with New Age philosophies and spiritual movements, which presents both challenges and opportunities for outreach. He shares insights on how the community, once deeply rooted in tradition, now experiences a revival of interest toward genuine faith. The holy tension of living in a world filled with both the Kingdom now and its future promise is central to their mission. This struggle of meaning leads individuals to yearn for something more substantial than what the surrounding culture provides.
The Meaning Behind Not Yet Now Podcast
The Not Yet Now podcast encapsulates the theme that while the Kingdom of God is here, it's not fully realized, reflecting a core message for contemporary believers. The name suggests the ongoing tension of living in faith, acknowledging the promise of eternity while engaging actively in the present. Dasher explains how Jesus represents the fulfillment of God's presence among humanity, emphasizing the engaged relationship believers can have with Christ now, shaping their lives and aspirations. This podcast aims to encourage listeners to recognize the importance of their current existence and to deepen their understanding of faith as a transformative journey.