The Unknown God Next Door episode artwork

EPISODE · May 10, 2026 · 18 MIN

The Unknown God Next Door

from Hearts Open to the Word · host Rev. Dr. Charissa Clark Howe

Are you frustrated by a church culture that demands conformity and hides behind exclusionary jargon? You aren't alone. Today, we live in a highly secular, pluralistic landscape full of deep spiritual hunger, yet the church often responds by hiding behind its walls or stepping out swinging.In this episode, Rev. Dr. Charissa Howe explores the Apostle Paul’s dramatic shift in strategy at the Areopagus in Acts 17. We discuss how the modern American church has alienated the world by forcing its own terms, often resulting in deep, church-related trauma. Discover how to drop the defensive posture, step out of your comfortable shrines, and adopt the "Areopagus Approach." Learn how to look for God's fingerprints in the unexpected, messy spaces of your city and offer true "soul friendship" to those who are desperate for authentic connection.If you are ready to build bridges instead of walls, tune in now! Don't forget to subscribe and share this episode with a friend.

Are you frustrated by a church culture that demands conformity and hides behind exclusionary jargon? You aren't alone. Today, we live in a highly secular, pluralistic landscape full of deep spiritual hunger, yet the church often responds by hiding behind its walls or stepping out swinging.In this episode, Rev. Dr. Charissa Howe explores the Apostle Paul’s dramatic shift in strategy at the Areopagus in Acts 17. We discuss how the modern American church has alienated the world by forcing its own terms, often resulting in deep, church-related trauma. Discover how to drop the defensive posture, step out of your comfortable shrines, and adopt the "Areopagus Approach." Learn how to look for God's fingerprints in the unexpected, messy spaces of your city and offer true "soul friendship" to those who are desperate for authentic connection.If you are ready to build bridges instead of walls, tune in now! Don't forget to subscribe and share this episode with a friend.

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The Unknown God Next Door

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This episode was published on May 10, 2026.

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Are you frustrated by a church culture that demands conformity and hides behind exclusionary jargon? You aren't alone. Today, we live in a highly secular, pluralistic landscape full of deep spiritual hunger, yet the church often responds by hiding...

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