The Future of the Church in a Post-Cold War Age - w/ Skye Jethani

Jun 17, 2019

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How does the church navigate a shifting cultural and theological landscape in the next 20 years? In this landmark 200th episode—affectionately dubbed “Bruce”—Mike and Tim are joined by longtime friend and thought leader Skye Jethani (Holy Post, With God Daily) to explore the future of Christianity in America. With Skye’s background in pastoral ministry, publishing, and theological reflection, this conversation dives deep into how the church is evolving amidst political polarization, disillusionment with institutions, and the rise of digital influence.

Mike and Skye unpack where traditional evangelicalism is heading, the resurgence of both progressive theology and fundamentalist reactions, and how the church might reclaim its relevance outside institutional structures. They also reflect on parenting, discipleship, political entanglement, and fostering wisdom over certainty in an era of endless foreground decisions.

Key Takeaways: • Evangelicalism Is Shifting – Despite the outward success of conservative evangelical institutions, the theological convictions of younger churchgoers are aligning more with progressive Christianity. • The Rise of Fundamentalism on Both Ends – Cultural fragmentation and digital targeting are accelerating fundamentalist movements on both the right and left, leaving little space for thoughtful middle-ground discipleship. • Post-Cold War Christianity Requires Discernment – The church must move beyond ‘us vs. them’ culture-war mentalities and learn how to live wisely—embracing complexity over clarity. • Why Some Are Moving Past the Church – Disillusionment with power-driven churches and institutional failures is leading many to seek spiritual growth outside formal religious structures. • Hope for the Future Church – A remnant centered on Jesus, empowered by rest and love, and driven by the actual mission of God is quietly forming “outside the spotlight,” echoing leaders like Dallas Willard and others who simply “smelled like Jesus.”

Guest Highlights: Skye Jethani – Co-host of the Holy Post podcast and curator of the “With God Daily” devotional, Skye reflects on his decades of ministry experience to offer a systemic lens for understanding where American Christianity is going—and what must change.

Resources Mentioned: • With God Daily Devotional App – withgoddaily.com • Upcoming Book – “What If Jesus Was Serious?” (Moody Publishers) • The Holy Post Podcast – holypost.com • Dallas Willard – Teacher and author of The Divine Conspiracy • John Walton's Old Testament scholarship • Genesis 1, The Sermon on the Mount, and Parable of the Wheat and Weeds – Explored in the context of a wisdom-driven view of Scripture

Look forward to more conversations tackling the biggest questions about faith, culture, theology, and the mission of Jesus.

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Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

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