John Wise, host of The Christian Atheist podcast and professor at the University of Arizona, Global Campus, shares his remarkable journey from atheism back to conservative Christianity. He discusses the challenges of reconciling modern science with biblical teachings and highlights the benefits of outsider perspectives in fields like history and archaeology. Wise reflects on personal struggles with belief and knowledge, emphasizing the importance of community and open-mindedness in faith discussions, while advocating for a scripture-centered understanding amidst cultural tensions.
The speaker's journey from Christianity to atheism and back underscores the profound influence of personal relationships and philosophical inquiry on faith.
He critiques the tendency of some evangelicals to prioritize scriptural authority over genuine relationships with God, which can lead to internal conflicts.
Progressive Christianity's adaptation of biblical interpretations to modern views raises concerns about diluting foundational beliefs amidst evolving societal norms.
Deep dives
Journey from Atheism to Progressive Christianity
The speaker explores a transformative journey from being a young Christian to atheism and then to progressive Christianity, and finally to a more conservative Christian belief. Initially studying to become a pastor, he found himself questioning his faith during his time at Bible college and later pursued a PhD in philosophy, which led him to abandon belief in God. His transition back to Christianity was influenced by personal relationships and a realization of the rationality present in both atheism and theism. This intellectual journey highlights how philosophical inquiry can lead to profound changes in one's belief systems.
Conflict Between Evangelicalism and Critical Thinking
After returning to Christianity, the speaker reflects on the contrasts between his upbringing in conservative evangelicalism and his newfound beliefs. He expresses concern that evangelicals may inadvertently prioritize scriptural authority over a genuine relationship with God, viewing the Bible as an infallible text rather than a vessel for divine understanding. This realization prompted an inner conflict, as he retained certain philosophical and scientific ideas that clashed with a literal interpretation of scripture. Consequently, this tension led him to identify as a progressive Christian, embracing a theistic evolutionist perspective.
Understanding Progressive Christianity
Progressive Christianity is defined as a willingness to adapt biblical interpretations to align with modern cultural and scientific perspectives. The speaker emphasizes that this can lead to a dilution of foundational beliefs, as individuals may prioritize contemporary ethics over scriptural truths. He cites C.S. Lewis to support the idea that genuine Christian progress must resist the temptation to alter faith when faced with difficult teachings. This highlights the arduous balancing act of maintaining faith while engaging with evolving societal norms without compromising core principles.
The Role of Evidence in Faith
The discussion highlights the vital relationship between evidence and faith, emphasizing that both philosophical inquiry and personal experiences shape belief systems. The speaker stresses the importance of steadfastly adhering to biblical truths, regardless of conflicting archaeological or historical claims. He recognizes that significant discoveries, such as those in biblical archaeology, often challenge previously held skeptical views and reinforce the reality of scripture. This ongoing investigation into the relationship between faith and evidence remains crucial as believers navigate their spiritual journeys.
Returning to the Foundations of Faith
The speaker concludes his reflections by advocating for a return to foundational aspects of Christianity, emphasizing the significance of a direct relationship with God and the integrity of biblical teachings. He expresses the importance of critically assessing one’s beliefs and adhering to scriptural truths, particularly regarding contemporary issues such as sexuality and ethics. By aligning more closely with traditional interpretations of scripture, he aims to revert to a reading of the Bible that respects its authority. This reiteration of faith highlights the balancing act that modern believers face in upholding their convictions while engaging with an increasingly secular world.
How did a Christian become an atheist at a Bible college, then 25 years later, convert back to his faith? Dr. John Wise is the host of The Christian Atheist podcast. He has taught as an adjunct professor of philosophy at East Stroudsburg University, Grand Canyon University, and is currently teaching ethics and informal logic at the University of Arizona, Global Campus. Today, he tells us more about his time as a Progressive Christian.
LISTEN: The Christian Atheist Podcast: https://wisewordsforyouroccasion.podbean.com/
CHECK OUT: Their YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheChristianAtheist
READ: Through the Looking Glass, by John Wise (https://amzn.to/4gZgPXH)
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