Can You Choose To Believe? – Jon Arnold

In this thought-provoking conversation, our hosts, joined by Jon Arnold, embark on an intricate conversation about how to navigate the loss of faith. They explore the reasons behind leaving the church, deep reflections on family and faith, and the emotional journey of deconversion. Key questions are posed, such as the necessity of attending church to sustain faith, the impact of religious rituals, and the struggle with belief. The conversation highlights the shared experiences of the hosts and their guest, delving into topics like the role of religion in creating community, the challenges posed by religious scandals, and the quest for truth. This episode not only examines the personal dilemmas faced by those questioning their faith but also touches on the broader implications of religious belief in creating a sense of belonging and shaping behaviors. Tune in for a candid and multifaceted dialogue about one of society's most debated subjects.

Learn More about Jon Arnold here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanmarnold

Your Hosts:

Michael Salemi of Colored Threads

Daniel Herndon of HRNDN Brand Agency

Aaron Douglas of Auspicious

00:00 Dumb Jokes
00:30 Awesome Music
00:44 Discussing Book Reviews
02:41 Introducing the Guest
04:42 Jon's Journey and Deconversion
06:51 Philosophical Discussions on Faith and Truth
13:14 Debating the Nature of Faith
31:11 The Benefits of Faith and Community
34:38 Theological Curiosity: What If God Touched You?
35:41 Defining God: Perspectives and Challenges
37:36 Sufficient Evidence: What Would Convince You?
46:49 Unconditional Love: Parental and Divine
54:31 Faith and Rationalization: Personal Beliefs
01:07:15 Religion vs. Faith: Societal and Personal Impacts
01:09:00 Questioning Faith and Church Hypocrisy
01:11:26 The Role of Belonging in Faith
01:14:23 Personal Journey Away from Church
01:20:18 Experiencing a Megachurch
01:27:57 The Five Stages of Losing Faith
01:41:29 The Persistence of Religion
01:44:12 Final Thoughts on Faith and Community