Truth Over Tribe: Christian Takes on Culture, News & Politics

Walking Through Deconstruction with Ian Harber

Nov 20, 2024

Ian Harber, author of "Walking Through Deconstruction," shares his transformative 10-year journey of questioning and reconstructing faith. He discusses the emotional struggles of deconstruction and the need for supportive environments, emphasizing that discussions should focus on deeper issues rather than just intellectual debates. Harber also addresses the rising trend of deconstruction in various faith communities, encouraging empathy and understanding. He highlights the importance of relational conversations, especially for those feeling lost within their spiritual journeys.

54:11

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Episode guests

Ian Harber

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Quick takeaways

Deconstruction represents an emotional crisis rooted in significant personal turmoil, necessitating a compassionate response rather than mere judgment from the faith community.

The environment in which individuals question their faith greatly influences their deconstruction, as nurturing communities foster healthier explorations compared to those that discourage inquiry.

Conversations about deconstruction should prioritize relational understanding over defensive debate, promoting trust and safety for individuals expressing their spiritual struggles.

Deep dives

The Crisis of Faith in Deconstruction

Deconstruction often signifies a deep emotional and spiritual crisis, not merely an intellectual questioning of faith. It arises from significant personal turmoil, such as losses or betrayals that challenge previously held beliefs. Individuals may feel their faith cannot withstand the weight of these experiences, prompting them to question everything they were raised to believe. Understanding this emotional root is crucial, as it reshapes how one should approach those undergoing deconstruction, focusing on compassion rather than judgment.

Intro

2min

Navigating the Journey of Deconstruction

15min

A Journey of Discovery in Christian Faith

2min

Navigating Faith Through Deconstruction

10min

Navigating Faith and Doubt: Embracing Relational Conversations

5min

Navigating Faith Deconstruction

13min

Navigating Deconstruction in Faith

7min

“Backslider.” A catch-all too often used to describe those within the faith who ask hard questions. But why doesn’t the church have a more positive category for its members who begin to question their faith? Is the solution really to just come up with the right answers and shut them down? Or is there something deeper happening? Today’s podcast guest, Ian Harber, speaks from personal experience. He shares his own process of deconstruction and reconstruction, which has taken more than ten years, and explores with Patrick what’s actually happening, both culturally and spiritually, when someone deconstructs their faith. He explains why apologetics has become the central focus of deconstruction but shares why Christians must shift conversations away from intellectual debates and instead to deeper issues. Plus, why is there so much deconstruction content available now? What would he say to churches that don’t have a healthy category for the deconstructors within their congregation? And is there deconstruction on the right, or is it limited to progressive theology? Listen now!

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