Brian McLaren

Brian McLaren, author of 'Life after Doom: Wisdom and Courage for a World Falling Apart', challenges traditional views on end times, empowers listeners to face fear and uncertainty, explores the relationship between hope and deception, discusses religion as a driver for positive change, and shares personal narratives on transformation and connection in challenging times.

Authors and speakers Brian McLaren and Thomas Jay Oord discuss love, faith, and God, emphasizing the connection between love and God. They explore interpreting the Bible with a focus on love, promoting values like loving enemies, and advocating for LGBTQ inclusivity within religious communities.

Brian McLaren, an influential author and public theologian, discusses his new novel, 'The Last Voyage.' He explores the spirituality at the brink of societal collapse and questions whether faith can endure without institutions. The conversation delves into surrender as wisdom, the fragility of the future, and how spiritual practices can shift to survival strategies. McLaren's insights on morality and the role of literature in navigating crises resonate deeply, offering a thoughtful perspective on hope amid despair and the environmental turmoil we face.

Brian McLaren, an author and activist, shares his insights on navigating today's crises through art, spirituality, and indigenous wisdom. He emphasizes the importance of resilience and hope as we confront challenges like climate change and societal collapse. McLaren critiques consumerism while advocating for a shift towards community and compassion. He encourages a transformative approach to faith that fosters connection with nature and collective action. The hosts reflect on how these themes resonate within their personal journeys, inspiring listeners to cultivate a deeper sense of purpose.

Brian McLaren discusses the dangers of a 'weaponized Bible' and biased interpretations. They explore its harm on marginalized groups like the LGBTQ+ community and historical misuse justifying atrocities. Emphasizes the need for critical dialogue, diverse perspectives, and personal growth in biblical interpretation.

Brian McLaren, a prominent author and advocate for progressive Christianity, joins the discussion to explore his new novel, which imagines a future mission to Mars amid Earth's collapse. He addresses the complexities of maintaining relationships despite differing worldviews, emphasizing curiosity as an act of love. The conversation touches on the transformative power of the 'dark night of the soul' and the evolving nature of religion, balancing tradition with modern challenges. This reflection is a reminder that growth is possible even in uncertain times.

Brian McLaren, faith development expert, shares a simple framework for faith development, emphasizing inclusivity. Topics include faith journey, transitioning to complexity, the beauty and danger of God, accepting reality, stage-sensitive leadership, and the influence of Pope Francis.

In this episode, we were honored to bring back our friend Brian McLaren to talk about his brand new book, Do I Stay Christian?In this new book, Brian addresses a real question which underlies a startling sociological truth: people are leaving Christianity at a rapid pace. In fact, Pew Research shows that today, about 64% people in the US identify as Christian, after falling rapidly from a high of 90% just a few decades back.Brian’s book takes an unflinching look at the reasons people might leave Christianity, before spending a lot of time on why someone might choose to stay, as Brian has. But you won’t find any “apologetics” here — rather, Brian looks at staying as part of a broader faith journey — one that can take us out of a simple world of black-and-white into a new “stage” of our faith: one filled with paradox, mystery, and love. In one of the most compelling and memorable parts of the book, Brian asks “What if you’re really trying to change stages, not religions?”While truly not prescribing any particular path for readers, Brian shows how all people of good will — including those with doubts, questions, and criticisms — can do so much to benefit their institutions and traditions if they choose to stay. We think this book does so much good work to paint compelling reasons for doing so, and to help illustrate a path forward.Brian McLaren an author, speaker, activist, and public theologian. A former college English teacher and pastor, he is a passionate advocate for “a new kind of Christianity” – just, generous, and working with people of all faiths for the common good. He is a faculty member of The Living School and podcaster with Learning How to See, which are part of the Center for Action and Contemplation. We’d also recommend going back and listening to Brian’s first appearance on the Faith Matters podcast in episode #67, where we discuss his book Faith After Doubt.

Brian McLaren, a prominent author in Christianity, discusses moving beyond traditional beliefs in Christianity. The podcast explores faith, deconstruction, Trump era challenges, historical contexts of Christianity, Axial Age influences, Christian identity complexities, actions over beliefs, and transitioning to a broader perspective on life.

Brian McLaren, Doug Pagitt, and Nadia Bolz-Weber reflect on facing criticism in the Emerging Church Movement. They discuss humorous Jesus scenarios, LGBTQ acceptance, and theological critiques. The podcast explores challenges of defending Christianity amidst cultural shifts, facing backlash from different ideological sides, and personal growth through engaging with critics.