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 Show Notes → The creation of Nomad's thoughtful, wonderfully ad-free content is entirely funded by our equally thoughtful, wonderful listeners. Supporting us gives access to Nomad's online communities through the Beloved Listener Lounge, Enneagram Lounge and Nomad Book Club - as well as bonus content like Nomad Contemplations, Nomad Devotionals and Nomad Revisited. If you'd like to join our lovely supporters head to our Patreon Page to donate and you may even be rewarded with a pen or Beloved Listener mug! If you're hoping to connect with others who are more local, you can also take a look at our Listener Map or join our Nomad Gathering Facebook page. Additionally, we share listener's stories on our blog, all with the hope of facilitating understanding, connection and supportive relationships.  

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.

Brad Jersak, an author and teacher from Abbotsford, BC, shares insights on embodying love through Christ's teachings. He discusses the healing power of 'listening prayer' and emphasizes the transformative nature of God's love. The conversation also dives into faith deconstruction, navigating personal spirituality while addressing church hurt. Jersak critiques the merging of nationalism with Christian identity, advocating for inclusivity and peacemaking. He urges listeners to pursue nonviolent solutions for justice and to embody radical compassion in their daily lives.

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.

Brad Jersak, author of "A More Christ-Like God" and editor-in-chief at CWR Magazine, shares his personal journey of learning to trust that God is truly love. He challenges the notion that God's love is balanced with wrath, advocating for a theology rooted in kindness and reconciliation. From transformative encounters with marginalized communities to redefining trust through love, Jersak emphasizes the importance of experiential faith. His insights encourage a deeper connection with God, aiming to shift perspectives towards healing and hope.