Josh Garrels, a talented singer-songwriter known for his poignant track "What A Friend," dives deep into the essence of spiritual friendship. He discusses the difference between knowing about God and truly knowing Him, emphasizing the importance of personal connection. The conversation explores the challenges of sharing faith within communities and the nuances of vulnerability in friendships. Garrels highlights how inviting Jesus into our struggles leads to healing and transformation, celebrating the profound impact of music and unity in faith.
01:02:01
forum Ask episode
web_stories AI Snips
view_agenda Chapters
menu_book Books
auto_awesome Transcript
info_circle Episode notes
insights INSIGHT
Knowing God vs. Knowing About God
Many Christians earnestly study scripture and serve others.
Yet, they may lack a genuine, personal friendship with Jesus.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Disconnection in Christian Culture
Josh Garrels observed a disconnect between Christian culture and personal experience with Jesus in college.
He found it perplexing that some lacked a sense of Jesus's present actions in their lives.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Suspicion Towards Personal Encounters
Josh Garrels shares experiences where sharing personal encounters with God was met with suspicion.
This suspicion stems from a lack of personal experience and negative examples of those claiming such experiences.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
The Divided Brain and the Making of the Western World
Iain McGilchrist
This book argues that the division of the brain into two hemispheres is essential to human existence, allowing for two incompatible versions of the world. The left hemisphere is detail-oriented, prefers mechanisms to living things, and is inclined to self-interest, while the right hemisphere has greater breadth, flexibility, and generosity. McGilchrist takes the reader on a journey through the history of Western culture, illustrating the tension between these two worlds as revealed in the thought and belief of thinkers and artists from ancient to modern times. He argues that the increasing dominance of the left hemisphere in today’s world has potentially disastrous consequences.
The Imitation of Christ
The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis, is a classic work of Christian devotion that explores the spiritual life and the pursuit of Christ-likeness. It emphasizes themes of humility, self-denial, and the importance of inner transformation. The book is divided into four books, each focusing on different aspects of the spiritual journey. It offers practical advice and guidance on how to live a life of faith and devotion, emphasizing the importance of prayer, meditation, and self-examination. The Imitation of Christ has been a source of inspiration and guidance for countless Christians throughout history, offering timeless wisdom on the path to spiritual maturity.
Living in Wonder
Rod Dreher
Rod Dreher's "Living in Wonder" explores the resurgence of spiritual and mystical experiences in a technologically advanced, secular world. The book delves into the concept of 're-enchantment,' examining how individuals are seeking deeper meaning and connection beyond traditional religious institutions. Dreher discusses various phenomena, including UFOs, AI, and the occult, as manifestations of this spiritual yearning. He argues that while these experiences can be genuine, they must be understood within a Christian framework to avoid potential dangers. Ultimately, the book advocates for a return to a more profound and direct experience of faith.
John invites singer and songwriter Josh Garrels back into the podcast studio to talk about the difference between knowing about God and knowing God, friendship with Jesus, how to risk well in loving others, and Josh's song "What A Friend."
Show Notes: Josh Garrels' song "What A Friend" from his Chrysaline album is used with permission and available wherever you get music.
Wild at Heart 
