The Alisa Childers Podcast - #405 Why They Left Christianity: Analyzing Real Deconstruction Stories | Matt Schmidt

In Part 1 of my conversation with Matt Schmidt, we explored his argument that many deconstruction stories reveal a deeper problem: faith that was ultimately built on something other than the person and authority of Jesus Christ.In Part 2, we put that thesis to the test by watching and analyzing real deconstruction stories posted online. We hear from former Christians whose faith unraveled over questions about morality, the Word of Faith movement, biblical criticism, the Epic of Gilgamesh, the nature of faith, and more.With each story, we ask four important questions: What was their faith originally built on? What caused the first crack? What replaced that foundation? And was Jesus himself ever really the problem?Along the way, Matt and I discuss why Christianity must ultimately be grounded in the person, work, and authority of Jesus Christ—and why understanding what someone is actually rejecting may be crucial to helping those who are deconstructing reconsider the faith they left behind.Webinar Registration: https://www.e360m.org/alisa Fall Training offerings (including the Deconstruction Discussion group): https://www.e360m.org/fall2026E360 Store with shirts meant to spark conversations: https://e360.printify.me/-----------------------------------------------------------------This video is sponsored by:BRAVE BOOKSEntertainment that Engages the Imagination for Good. Go to www.bravebooks.com/childers for more informationUse my code: CHILDERSGOOD RANCHERSAmerican Meat DeliveredGo to https://go.goodranchers.com/alisa for more information.Use my code: ALISARANGE LEATHERAmerican-Made Craftsmanship from WyomingGo to www.rangeleather.com for more informationUse my code: ALISA----------------------------------------------------------------------Booking: www.alisachilders.com/bookingTo Purchase the new CD, “Beauty from the Ash”, go to www.alisachilders.com/musicThere you can get the CD, backing tracks, string charts, rhythm charts and stems.Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/alisachildersTo order “Another Gospel”: www.alisachilders.com/another-gospel/To order “Live Your Truth": www.alisachilders.com/live-your-truth-and-other-lies/To order “The Deconstruction of Christianity”: https://alisachilders.com/the-deconstruction-of-christianity/Potential Sponsors: https://alisachilders.com/sponsor-request-form/