Brad Jersak

We speak with author and teacher Brad Jersak about his book Out of the Embers: Faith After the Great Deconstruction, and how his dark night of the soul led him to a 12 Step program, the Eastern Orthodox Church and to a new kind of faith. Brad also reflects on the roots of what he refers to as The Great Deconstruction, and the wider cultural shifts that situate our evolving faith. After the interview Nomad hosts Tim Nash and Nick Thorley ponder their own evolving faith journey, how they’ve been shaped by a changing culture, and how they now relate to Christianity.  Interview starts at 18m 36s Books, quotes, links → The creation of Nomad’s thoughtful, ad-free content is entirely funded by our equally thoughtful and wonderful listeners. By supporting us, you gain access to Nomad’s online spaces—like the Beloved Listener Lounge, Enneagram Lounge, and Book Club—as well as bonus episodes such as Nomad Contemplations, Therapeutic Reflections, and Nomad Revisited. If you’d like to join our lovely community of supporters, head over to our Patreon page. You might even be rewarded with a Nomad pen or our coveted Beloved Listener mug! If a monthly commitment isn’t possible right now, a one-off donation is always deeply appreciated—you can do that here. Looking to connect with others nearby? Check out the Listener Map or join our Nomad Gathering Facebook group. And if you're up for sharing your own story, we regularly post reflections from listeners on our blog—all with the hope of fostering deeper understanding, connection and supportive relationships. If you'd like to share your story on the blog, contact us for more information here.  

In this engaging discussion, Brad Jersak, an esteemed author and speaker on Christian theology, joins Derek Vreeland to explore the deeper meanings of the cross and atonement. They challenge traditional views, advocating for a shift from wrath to love in understanding divine judgment. The duo emphasizes Israel’s story as a lens for Jesus’ crucifixion, revealing redemption as liberation. They critique common atonement theories and present a transformative view of Christ's sacrifice, focusing on community, humility, and the power of forgiveness.

In this discussion, Brad Jersak, a thought-provoking author and theologian known for his insights on Christian universalism and social justice, tackles the critical intersection of faith and politics. He delves into the troubling rise of fascism within contemporary Christianity and shares personal stories of resistance against authoritarianism. The conversation highlights the need for a prophetic church voice amidst nationalistic ideologies. Jersak also emphasizes hope for redemption and the importance of compassionate dialogue across divisions, drawing on historical perspectives for healing.

In this enlightening discussion, Brad Jersak, an author and patristic scholar, explores the transformative journey of becoming human like Jesus. He shares insights on the 'more beautiful way' inspired by a Christ-centered spirituality. The conversation touches on healing from religious trauma, navigating faith amid societal polarization, and the profound implications of the Beatitudes. Jersak emphasizes the importance of love, humility, and community support, making the case for a spirituality that embraces connection and personal growth.

Join Brad Jersak on a journey into the Cross, rethinking penal substitution, exploring atonement theories, critiquing penal substitution theory, emphasizing the unity of the Trinity, discussing Romans 8:3, advocating for radical forgiveness, contrasting wrath and mercy, and promoting a Jesus-centered approach in churches.