Should Christians Deconstruct? with Ian Harber

Sep 25, 2025

Ian Harber, Director of Communications and Marketing at Mere Orthodoxy and author of Walking Through Deconstruction, dives into the complexities of faith crises. He defines deconstruction as a process that dismantles core beliefs and intertwines with cultural ideologies, particularly around issues of sexuality and gender. Ian shares his own journey, emphasizing the importance of compassion and patience when supporting others facing similar struggles. He encourages listeners to deeply explore their faith while remaining anchored in core Christian doctrines.

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INSIGHT

Deconstruction Is Primarily A Crisis

Ian defines deconstruction first as a crisis of faith that precipitates deeper questions about doctrine and culture.
He warns deconstruction can purify faith but is not something to be recommended as inherently good.

INSIGHT

What Deconstruction Typically Looks Like

Ian's working definition: deconstruction questions core doctrines and untangles cultural ideology, settling in a different faith.
He emphasizes the process often ends in a faith that looks different than what came before.

INSIGHT

Politics Often Masks As Theology

Ian gives politics as a clear example of cultural ideology entangled with faith for many people.
He notes this entanglement happens across the political spectrum, not only one side.

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Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley are joined by Ian Harber to have a conversation about deconstruction in the Christian faith.

Questions Covered in This Episode:

Is deconstruction good?
What is deconstruction?
What are some common examples?
What is your personal story of deconstruction?
How is your faith different from what it was before your deconstruction journey?
Is there such a thing as healthy and unhealthy doubt?
How can we be a good companion to those going through a season of deconstruction?
It seems like many instances of deconstruction are tied in some way to the desire to dismiss or circumvent the clear biblical teaching on sexuality and/or gender - am I off on this? If not, how does that shape our engagement with those deconstructing?
What would you want to tell someone who is going through a deconstruction journey?

Helpful Definitions:

Deconstruction: Is a crisis of faith that leads to the questioning of core doctrines and the untangling of cultural ideologies that settles in a faith different from before.

Guest Bio:

Ian Harber is the Director for Communications and Marketing at Mere Orthodoxy, author of Walking Through Deconstruction, and a graduate of the Deep Discipleship Program. With a B.A. in Communication Theory from Dallas Baptist University, he has done marketing for nonprofits, churches, and small businesses for 10 years. Ian lives in Denton, TX with his wife Katie, and two sons, Ezra and Alastair. Follow him on Twitter, Instagram, and Threads.

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

1 Corinthians 3:12-15
“Walking Through Deconstruction” with Ian Harber
Deep Discipleship Program

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