Deconstructing the Myth

On this final episode, your host Liz Mall explains why Deconstructing the Myth is coming to an end, and what’s coming up next.Follow along on her novel writing journey on Instagram @livingcuriouswithliz

Welcome to Season 4 of Deconstructing the Myth! Today we discuss the historical and theological development of the doctrine of the Trinity, as well as some potential questions it brings up for those in deconstruction.Sources:"What is the Folioque Controversy?" by Hope Bolinger“What’s the Story behind the [Filioque Clause]?" by Tiffany Butler“The Trinitarian Councils - Nicaea, Constantinople, and Ephesus" by Father Michael Van Sloun and Rebecca Omastiak"Trinity""Trinity" by Dale TuggyFor a detailed compilation of this season’s show notes in one place, check out ⁠Patreon ⁠and consider supporting us there financially to help keep the lights on (and for additional perks and opportunities!)

Welcome to Season 4 of Deconstructing the Myth! Today we discuss how Christians think in varying ways about divorce.Marriage Resources:The Gottman InstitutePsychology Today (therapist locator)Research Resources:https://bibleproject.com/articles/divorce-bible-how-jesus-responded-debate/https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/dont-get-divorce/https://millcreekchristiancounseling.com/divorce-in-the-bible-7-scripture-verses-for-dealing-with-divorce/https://baremarriage.com/2023/11/podcast-are-70-of-divorces-due-to-women-leaving-for-no-reason/https://pilgrimscampfire.substack.com/p/divorce-remarriage-and-abusehttps://baremarriage.com/2023/11/are-70-of-divorces-really-caused-by-women-divorcing-frivolously/https://www.brandeis.edu/now/2018/december/divorce-judaism-fishbayn%20.htmlhttps://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/divorce-in-judaism#google_vignettehttps://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/divorce-in-the-bible/https://baremarriage.com/2024/11/is-divorce-and-remarriage-permitted-in-cases-of-abuse/https://www.franciscanmedia.org/st-anthony-messenger/understanding-annulments/https://catalog.obitel-minsk.com/blog/2023/01/rules-of-orthodox-christians-on-marriage-divorce-and-remarriageFor a detailed compilation of this season’s show notes in one place, check out Patreon and consider supporting us there financially to help keep the lights on (and for additional perks and opportunities!)

Welcome to Season 4 of Deconstructing the Myth! Today we discuss two common beliefs in Christianity about human relationship structures—complementarianism (based on a hierarchical structure of power and defined roles among spouses) and egalitarianism (based on equal power dynamics and fluidity in roles). Resources listed:Christians for Biblical Equality at cbeinternational.orgThe Junia Project at juniaproject.comThe Marriage You Want by Sheila Wray Gregoire and Dr. Keith Gregoire Bare Marriage.comTheses on Women in the Church at whatdoesthismean.netExploring the biblical theology of Christian egalitarianism at margmowczko.comFor a detailed compilation of this season’s show notes in one place, check out Patreon and consider supporting us there financially to help keep the lights on (and for additional perks and opportunities!)

Welcome to Season 4 of Deconstructing the Myth! Today, host Liz Mall (MA of Christian Apologetics, Biola) brings you another research episode to help you on your deconstruction journey. In this episode we touch on three key concepts found in the Bible that tie into the homosexuality discussion: desire/lust, purity/impurity, and honor/shame. These concepts help us understand the "why" of the Bible passages that reference same sex activity, and are key to understand if we want to move forward with any sort of responsible application of the text for today's modern world. We reference the books ⁠⁠Bible, Gender, Sexuality: Reframing the Church's Debate on Same-Sex Relationships⁠⁠ by James V. Brownson and ⁠Same-Sex Marriage: A Thoughtful Approach to God's Design for Marriage (Thoughtful Response)⁠ by Sean McDowell and John StonestreetFor a detailed compilation of this season's show notes in one place, check out ⁠Patreon⁠ and consider supporting us there financially to help keep the lights on (and for additional perks and opportunities!)

Welcome to Season 4 of Deconstructing the Myth! Today, host Liz Mall (MA of Christian Apologetics, Biola) brings you another research episode to help you on your deconstruction journey. In this episode we touch on four key concepts in the Bible that tie into the homosexuality discussion: patriarchy, "one flesh," procreation, and celibacy. These concepts, in addition to our understanding of "marriage," often deeply inform how we approach and apply passages concerning homosexuality in the Bible.We reference the books ⁠Bible, Gender, Sexuality: Reframing the Church's Debate on Same-Sex Relationships⁠ by James V. Brownson and Same-Sex Marriage: A Thoughtful Approach to God's Design for Marriage (Thoughtful Response) by Sean McDowell and John StonestreetFor a detailed compilation of this season's show notes in one place, check out Patreon and consider supporting us there financially to help keep the lights on (and for additional perks and opportunities!)

Welcome to Season 4 of Deconstructing the Myth! Today, host Liz Mall (MA of Christian Apologetics, Biola) brings you another research episode to help you on your deconstruction journey. This episode is spent unpacking core themes and beliefs present behind the Christian traditionalist view and Christian revisionist view of homosexuality.We reference the book Bible, Gender, Sexuality: Reframing the Church's Debate on Same-Sex Relationships by James V. BrownsonFor a detailed compilation of this season's show notes in one place, check out Patreon.com/deconstructingthemyth and consider supporting us there financially to help keep the lights on (and for additional perks and opportunities!)

Welcome to Season 4 of Deconstructing the Myth--a season of deconstructing doctrines to help you on your deconstruction journey. Today we explore the passages that are commonly though to clearly address homosexual activity. Sources:ain Citation SourceMartin, C., & Pavlovitz, J. (2022). Unclobber: Rethinking our misuse of the Bible on homosexuality. Westminster John Knox Press. Sources with CounterargumentsDeYoung, J. B. (1992). THE SOURCE AND NT MEANING OF ARSENOKOITAI, WITH IMPLICATIONS FOR CHRISTIAN ETHICS AND MINISTRY. The Master’s Seminary Journal, 3(2). DeYoung, K. (2015). A Biblical View of Homosexuality. Clearly Reformed. Keller, T. (2015). The Bible and same sex relationships: A review article. Redeemer. More in depth on Leviticus passagesJarosz, I. (2022). Homosexuality in Leviticus: A Historical-Literary-Critical Analysis. James Madison Undergraduate Research Journal, 9(1). Check out Patreon.com/deconstructingthemyth and consider supporting us there financially to help keep the lights on (and for additional perks and opportunities!)

Welcome to Season 4 of Deconstructing the Myth--a season of deconstructing doctrines to help you on your deconstruction journey. Today I interview Chris, a Christian pastor with a view of the resurrection narrative (and its importance in the Christian life) that challenges the Evangelical understanding.Check out Patreon.com/deconstructingthemyth and consider supporting us there financially to help keep the lights on (and for additional perks and opportunities!)

Welcome to Season 4 of Deconstructing the Myth! Liz Mall (MA of Christian Apologetics, Biola) and Jenny White (MA of Museum Studies, Harvard) join forces again to bring you another research season to help you on your deconstruction journey. Today we continue our deconstruction of the resurrection by looking at how personal bias and one's view of miracles informs the resurrection discussion after completing a historical analysis.SOURCE DISCUSSEDIs There Historical Evidence for the Resurrection of Jesus? The Craig-Ehrman Debate⁠https://www.reasonablefaith.org/media/debates/is-there-historical-evidence-for-the-resurrection-of-jesus-the-craig-ehrman⁠For a detailed compilation of this season's show notes in one place, check out Patreon.com/deconstructingthemyth and consider supporting us there financially to help keep the lights on (and for additional perks and opportunities!)

Welcome to Season 4 of Deconstructing the Myth! Liz Mall (MA of Christian Apologetics, Biola) and Jenny White (MA of Museum Studies, Harvard) join forces again to bring you another research season to help you on your deconstruction journey. Today we begin our deconstruction of the resurrection by looking at it from a historical lens. SOURCES DISCUSSEDIs There Historical Evidence for the Resurrection of Jesus? The Craig-Ehrman Debatehttps://www.reasonablefaith.org/media/debates/is-there-historical-evidence-for-the-resurrection-of-jesus-the-craig-ehrmanThe Resurrection of Jesus: A New Historiographical Approach by Michael R. Licona For a detailed compilation of this season's show notes in one place, check out Patreon.com/deconstructingthemyth and consider supporting us there financially to help keep the lights on (and for additional perks and opportunities!)

Today we take a break from deconstructing doctrines to discuss our season break, the changing views of deconstruction from those in it and outside of it, and three unexpected groups of people being positively impacted by deconstruction (outside of the deconstruction community itself!) Barna Study https://www.barna.com/trends/ex-christians-deconstructing/ The Deconstruction Network Study https://thedeconstructionnetwork.com/initial-survey-results-dec-2020/ For a detailed compilation of this season's show notes in one place, check out Patreon.com/deconstructingthemyth and consider supporting us there financially to help keep the lights on (and for additional perks and opportunities!)

Welcome to Season 4 of Deconstructing the Myth! Liz Mall (MA of Christian Apologetics, Biola) and Jenny White (MA of Museum Studies, Harvard) join forces again to bring you another research season to help you on your deconstruction journey. This season is all about deconstructing the doctrines that have shaped the American Evangelical experience by looking closely at the historical, cultural, and Biblical context behind each one.  In today's episode, we deconstruct the concept of salvation from Judaism to modern Christianity. SOURCES: Judaism: Salvation: Getting saved from what?. Dr. Eitan Bar. https://eitan.bar/articles/salvation-saved-from-what/  https://www.britannica.com/topic/salvation-religion/Judaism https://jewsforjudaism.org/knowledge/articles/sin-atonement-and-salvation/ https://eitan.bar/articles/salvation-saved-from-what/ Orthodox Christianity: https://www.goarch.org/-/how-are-we-saved- https://www.orthodoxcatechismproject.org/introduction-to-orthodoxy/-/asset_publisher/IXn2ObwXr9vq/content/introduction-to-orthodoxy-5-salvation https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/themelios/article/salvation-as-theosis-the-teaching-of-eastern-orthodoxy/ https://www.saintjohnchurch.org/deification-orthodox-salvation/ https://www.oca.org/reflections/fr.-john-breck/salvation-is-indeed-by-grace https://en.wikipedia.org/wikiEastern_Orthodox_theology Catholicism: https://saintmarysparish.org/why-catholic/what-salvation https://www.simplycatholic.com/are-you-saved/ https://www.catholic.org/news/hf/faith/story.php?id=85759 https://www.agapebiblestudy.com/charts/The%204%20Different%20Aspects%20of%20Salvation.htm#:~:text=SALVATION%20AND%20ITS%20FOUR%20ASPECTS,%2C%20REDEMPTION%2C%20SANCTIFICATION%2C%20AND%20FORGIVENESS https://convincingproof.org/defending-the-protestant-position-of-salvation-by-faith-alone/#summary-of-the-catholic-position Evangelicalism: https://merechristianfellowship.org/articles/an-introduction-to-what-catholics-and-evangelicals-believe-about-salvation https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/spiritual-life/what-is-salvation-also-why-it-s-needed-and-how-to-get-it.html John McArthur Quote https://www.focusonthefamily.com/faith/what-must-i-do-to-be-saved/ https://www.davidjeremiah.org/know-jesus/follow/what-the-bible-says-about-salvation-study-guide?devdate=2020-07-12 https://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-doctrine-salvation.html For a detailed compilation of this season's show notes in one place, check out Patreon.com/deconstructingthemyth and consider supporting us there financially to help keep the lights on (and for additional perks and opportunities!)

Welcome to Season 4 of Deconstructing the Myth! Liz Mall (MA of Christian Apologetics, Biola) and Jenny White (MA of Museum Studies, Harvard) join forces again to bring you another research season to help you on your deconstruction journey. This season is all about deconstructing the doctrines that have shaped the American Evangelical experience by looking closely at the historical, cultural, and Biblical context behind each one.  Today we talk about the history of the canonization process. Jenny draws from-- The Authority and Inerrancy of Scripture by Matthew Barrett https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/essay/authority-inerrancy-scripture/ For a detailed compilation of this season's show notes in one place, check out Patreon.com/deconstructingthemyth and consider supporting us there financially to help keep the lights on (and for additional perks and opportunities!)

Welcome to Season 4 of Deconstructing the Myth! Liz Mall (MA of Christian Apologetics, Biola) and Jenny White (MA of Museum Studies, Harvard) join forces again to bring you another research season to help you on your deconstruction journey. This season is all about deconstructing the doctrines that have shaped the American Evangelical experience by looking closely at the historical, cultural, and Biblical context behind each one.  Today we discuss the doctrine of inerrancy. Description "What is biblical inerrancy? A New Testament scholar explains" by Geoffrey Smith "Theopneustos" in 2 Tim. 3:16 The (Rare) Word that Refutes Sola Scriptura-The Council of Trent Podcast Problems: -Only occurs one time in Bible, can’t be compared -We draw the meaning from the roots words of the term, which is a fallacy CHICAGO STATEMENT The Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy was written to address the inerrancy of Scripture, the doctrine that the Bible is free from error…” From the Preface: The authority of Scripture is a key issue for the Christian Church in this and every age. Those who profess faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour are called to show the reality of their discipleship by humbly and faithfully obeying God’s written Word. To stray from Scripture in faith or conduct is disloyalty to our Master. Recognition of the total truth and trustworthiness of Holy Scripture is essential to a full grasp and adequate confession of its authority. The following Statement affirms this inerrancy of Scripture afresh, making clear our understanding of it and warning against its denial. We are persuaded that to deny it is to set aside the witness of Jesus Christ and of the Holy Spirit and to refuse that submission to the claims of God’s own Word which marks true Christian faith. We see it as our timely duty to make this affirmation in the face of current lapses from the truth of inerrancy among our fellow Christians and misunderstanding of this doctrine in the world at large. A Short Statement 1.   God, who is Himself Truth and speaks truth only, has inspired Holy Scripture in order thereby to reveal Himself to lost mankind through Jesus Christ as Creator and Lord, Redeemer and Judge. Holy Scripture is God’s witness to Himself. 2.   Holy Scripture, being God’s own Word, written by men prepared and superintended by His Spirit, is of infallible divine authority in all matters upon which it touches: it is to be believed, as God’s instruction, in all that it affirms; obeyed, as God’s command, in all that it requires; embraced, as God’s pledge, in all that it promises. 3.   The Holy Spirit, Scripture’s divine Author, both authenticates it to us by His inward witness and opens our minds to understand its meaning. 4.   Being wholly and verbally God-given, Scripture is without error or fault in all its teaching, no less in what it states about God’s acts in creation, about the events of world history, and about its own literary origins under God, than in its witness to God’s saving grace in individual lives. 5.   The authority of Scripture is inescapably impaired if this total divine inerrancy is in any way limited or disregarded, or made relative to a view of truth contrary to the Bible’s own; and such lapses bring serious loss to both the individual and the Church. Refutation:  “On Chicago’s Muddy Waters” by Mike Licona For a detailed compilation of this season's show notes in one place, check out Patreon.com/deconstructingthemyth and consider supporting us there financially to help keep the lights on (and for additional perks and opportunities!)

Welcome to Season 4 of Deconstructing the Myth! Liz Mall (MA of Christian Apologetics, Biola) and Jenny White (MA of Museum Studies, Harvard) join forces again to bring you another research season to help you on your deconstruction journey. This season is all about deconstructing the doctrines that have shaped the American Evangelical experience by looking closely at the historical, cultural, and Biblical context behind each one.  Sources from today's episode: Fredriksen, Paula. Sin: The early history of an idea. Princeton: Princeton University Press, 2014. “Greek and Hebrew Words for Sin.” Theopedia.comWhat About Sin? By Francois Neville-HamiltonPublished On: February 11, 20100 Comments on What About Sin? For a detailed compilation of this season's show notes in one place, check out Patreon.com/deconstructingthemyth and consider supporting us there financially to help keep the lights on (and for additional perks and opportunities!)

Welcome to Season 4 of Deconstructing the Myth! Liz Mall (MA of Christian Apologetics, Biola) and Jenny White (MA of Museum Studies, Harvard) join forces again to bring you another research season to help you on your deconstruction journey. This season is all about deconstructing the doctrines that have shaped the American Evangelical experience by looking closely at the historical, cultural, and Biblical context behind each one.  Today we discuss various lenses Christians perspectives on the concept of sin: Sin as Action Sin as Disposition Sin as State Noetic Affects of Sin Structural Sin For a detailed compilation of this season's show notes in one place, check out Patreon.com/deconstructingthemyth and consider supporting us there financially to help keep the lights on (and for additional perks and opportunities!)

Welcome to Season 4 of Deconstructing the Myth! Liz Mall (MA of Christian Apologetics, Biola) and Jenny White (MA of Museum Studies, Harvard) join forces again to bring you another research season to help you on your deconstruction journey. This season is all about deconstructing the doctrines that have shaped the American Evangelical experience by looking closely at the historical, cultural, and Biblical context behind each one.  Today we discuss the definition of sin (and why it can be hard to define beyond its bare bones) as well as Jewish, Christian, and secular thought on the concept. Historical Development of the Concept of Sin Cairn, S.N. “Sin: A Brief History.” The Postil Magazine, May 1, 2018.  https://www.thepostil.com/sin-a-brief-history/.  Sin Related to Psychology What Actually Is Evil? And What Makes People Carry Out Evil Acts? The myth of “Pure Evil,” and the real reasons why people do “evil” things. Ralph Lewis M.D. Is it a parallel to the decline in religion?   “There's a global, fast-growing population of people without a religion. That's according to a new AP-NORC Poll.” https://www.axios.com/2023/10/06/organized-religion-decline-agnostic-atheist-nonreligious For a compilation of this season's show notes in one place, check out Patreon.com/deconstructingthemyth and consider supporting us there financially to help keep the lights on (and for additional perks and opportunities!)

Welcome to Season 4 of Deconstructing the Myth! Liz Mall (MA of Christian Apologetics, Biola) and Jenny White (MA of Museum Studies, Harvard) join forces again to bring you another research season to help you on your deconstruction journey. This season is all about deconstructing the doctrines that have shaped the American Evangelical experience by looking closely at the historical, cultural, and Biblical context behind each one.  Today we take a second look at the Christian celebration of Christmas and how the holiday has developed over the centuries into the form we see today. The Birth of Jesus: The Best Historical Evidence by Jefrey D. Breshears History of Christmas at history.com For a detailed compilation of this season's show notes in one place, check out Patreon.com/deconstructingthemyth and consider supporting us there financially to help keep the lights on (and for additional perks and opportunities!)

Welcome to Season 4 of Deconstructing the Myth! Liz Mall (MA of Christian Apologetics, Biola) and Jenny White (MA of Museum Studies, Harvard) join forces again to bring you another research season to help you on your deconstruction journey. This season is all about deconstructing the doctrines that have shaped the American Evangelical experience by looking closely at the historical, cultural, and Biblical context behind each one.  Today we look at the strengths and weaknesses of various atonement theories. For a compilation of this season's show notes in one place, check out Patreon.com/deconstructingthemyth and consider supporting us there financially to help keep the lights on (and for additional perks and opportunities!)

Welcome to Season 4 of Deconstructing the Myth! Liz Mall (MA of Christian Apologetics, Biola) and Jenny White (MA of Museum Studies, Harvard) join forces again to bring you another research season to help you on your deconstruction journey. From today's episode: 10 theories/motifs drawn from Saving Power: Theories of Atonement and Forms of the Church by Peter Schmiechen 1. Sacrifice-this motif compares Jesus’ death to sin offerings in the Old Testament (Calvin) 2. Justification by Grace-in a “legal” sense, the death of Christ provided a way for humans to be judged as innocent (Luther) 3. Penal Substitution-a replacement is needed to pay the penalty for humans to be judged as innocent (Hodge) 4. Liberation-the death and resurrection primarily liberates us from sin 5. Renewal of Creation—a new spiritual existence is inaugurated by the death and resurrection (Athanasius) 6. The Restoration of Creation-creation and humanity need to be restored to its original state (Anselm) 7. Christ as the Goal of Creation-Christ and the new Christian community brought about by the death and resurrection is the completion of creation (Schleiermacher) 8. Christ the Way to the Knowledge of God-Christ came to restore our understanding/knowing of God (Niebuhr) 9. Christ the Reconciler-Christ reconciles those caught up in spiritual warfare (1 Corinthians 1 and 2) 10. The Wondrous Love of God-Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection are all about pointing us to God’s love (Abelard, Wesley, Moltmann) ---------------- For a compilation of this season's show notes in one place, check out Patreon.com/deconstructingthemyth and consider supporting us there financially to help keep the lights on (and for additional perks and opportunities!)

Welcome to Season 4 of Deconstructing the Myth! Liz Mall (MA of Christian Apologetics, Biola) and Jenny White (MA of Museum Studies, Harvard) join forces again to bring you another research season to help you on your deconstruction journey. This season is all about deconstructing the doctrines that have shaped the American Evangelical experience by looking closely at the historical, cultural, and Biblical context behind each one. For a compilation of this season's show notes in one place, check out Patreon.com/deconstructingthemyth and consider supporting us there financially to help keep the lights on (and for additional perks and opportunities!)

How can being present impact our deconstruction? Today I share my personal experience with cultivating presence in this season of life. I reference the podcast Mindfulness+ with Thomas McConkie that you may enjoy checking out!
Thank you for joining me for a season 3 bonus episode! These episodes are a sampling of the weekly solo episodes I provide at Patreon.com/deconstructingthemyth and I hope you will consider joining us there for more content like this and exclusive community opportunities.

Nondualism is one of my favorite concepts that I’ve gleaned during deconstruction. Today I share my own story of embracing this concept over the past few years and I share its ongoing importance in my deconstruction journey and life. Thank you for joining me for a season 3 bonus episodes! These episodes are a sampling of the weekly solo episodes I provide at Patreon.com/deconstructingthemyth and I hope you will consider joining us there for more content like this and exclusive community opportunities.

Recently I was asked how to have "fruitful dialogue with Evangelicals" as I navigate my own deconstruction. I think it is absolutely possible and beautiful when it happens! Today I share what that dialogue looks like for me personally. Thank you for joining me for a season 3 bonus episodes! These episodes are a sampling of the weekly solo episodes I provide at Patreon.com/deconstructingthemyth and I hope you will consider joining us there for more content like this and exclusive community opportunities.

On today’s bonus episode I chat with Trey Ferguson—a pastor, author, and “theologizer” who writes and speaks publicly about faith and race. He provides such a refreshing view of Christianity, a curious faith, the intersection of technology and religion, and a reframing of what the Good News of Christ might be about after all. Website: https://www.pastortrey05.com Twitter: @PastorTrey05 Instagram: @pastorytrey05 Amazon Link to “Theologizin’ Bigger: Homilies on Living Freely and Loving Wholly” https://www.amazon.com/dp/1957687363?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_5V6NJ1XQXG7Q0NDP552Z

Today’s guest and I chat about her book “Giving Up God,” her journey of deconstructing, and then finding herself on the other side of Christianity as an awe-filled agnostic-atheist who sees life as full of opportunity and wonder now. Connect with Sarah on Instagram at @shayward writes and at her website sarahhennhayward.com Find her book “Giving Up God” at all major online book sales spots!

Thanks everyone for being a part of Season 3! In today’s episode I answer listener questions

Today's guest is spiritual director and professor Frank Rogers Jr. who, as a young adult, begin to be deeply tormented by the trauma of suppressed childhood sexual abuse. Wracked by depression, he was on the cliff edge of suicide. From intense despair, he set off on a quest—for answers, for sanity, for a credible God to see him through. We discuss his new book, Cradled in the Arms of Compassion, which details his life story and how he found truly transformational power in the practice of compassion. Rogers shows how he found recovery through a combination of reflective retreats, therapy, creative expression, and an extraordinary application of imaginative meditation, which spiritual seekers and practitioners will find utterly fascinating. The ensuing discovery evolved into the uniquely self-restorative process known as the Compassion Practice. This one made my cry DTM fam! Such a powerful story. Book: https://www.lakedrivebooks.com/books/cradled-in-the-arms-of-compassion/ Website: thecenterforengagedcompassion.org Email: [email protected]

Today I chat with Catherine Quiring, a licensed trauma therapist, self-trust coach, and exvangelical who helps exvangelicals learn to trust their desires and reconnect to their inner wisdom. She is the creator of the Trust Yourself Again Program: Reclaim your Inner Compass after Leaving Evangelical Subculture. Instagram @catherinequiring Courses: Trust Yourself Again: Reclaim Your Inner Compass After Leaving Evangelical Subculture https://www.cqcounseling.com/trust-yourself Covert Narcism in Religious Subculture https://catherine-quiring.mykajabi.com/offers/RWwjHSJY/checkout

What an inspiring chat I had with author and pastor Kevin Sweeney about his latest book “The Joy of Letting Go.” Kevin shares the various aspects of his spiritual journey, from the point of coming to God after mushrooms, to pursuing seminary yet feeling confined by the rigid parameters he found there set before him. We talk about how so much of the spiritual journey is really composed of the simple but difficult work of letting go. Instagram: @kevinsweeney1 Podcast: The Church Needs Therapy Books: The Joy of Letting Go The Making of a Mystic

Today I have such a fun chat in store for you all with comedian and podcast host Sydney Davis Jr. Jr. We talk about her journey leaving Christianity, discovering her passion for podcasting, and we bond over our love of giving others a platform to share their stories. Instagram: @sydneydavisjrjr Podcast: Growing Up Fundie

Today I talk with Austin Noll about American Christian culture and how it influenced him deeply in his Los Angeles nondenominational church setting. We discuss why churches can be so harmful and how he believes they might redeem their purpose in a more healthy way. Instagram: @austin_noll Book: A Jumble of Crumpled Papers Podcast: The Crumpled Papers Podcast

Today’s guest is podcast host, author, and mother Liz Enns Petters who chats with me about her childhood anxiety and how it intersected with deconstruction, what it’s like to have a well known a parent in academic theological scholarship, and how parenting during faith transitions has been for her. Instagram: @lizzennspetters @deconstructedmamas Facebook: Deconstructing Mamas Lizz Enns Petters, The Deconstructed Mama Podcast: Deconstructing Mamas Book: Deconstructing Hell

Today’s conversation is with Michael Lecey who I found over at his podcast, A Certain Wandering. Michael shares his deconstruction story as well as how he’s now discovering a rich new spiritual walk. As a therapist and spiritual director who has experienced deconstruction and church hurt first hand, Michael seeks to walk people safely through the thresholds of their lives especially concerning religious and spiritual shifts. thethresholds.com @michaelecy Podcast: A Certain Wandering https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-certain-wandering-podcast/id1581636154

My guest today Esther Goetz shares her story of growing up as a missionary kid who is now a deconstructed adult. She shares her experiences and wisdom about how to navigate a shifting faith in light of being a parent and someone who receives criticism for her public deconstruction platforms. We have such a great chat in store for you! estherjoygoetz.com @estherthedollymama @momsofbigs Facebook: Deconstructing Mamas Moms of Bigs Esther, the Dolly Mama Deconstructing Mamas podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deconstructing-mamas/id1612182466

Today I get to chat with singer/songwriter Alanah Sabatini who is a former evangelical worship leader. We discuss her deconstruction, how it impacted her songwriting and life, her new single “True Colors,” and more! Instagram @alanah.don’t.wanna TikTok Alanahsabatini.bandcamp.com Discord https://discord.com/invite/6Gfdkw77m8 True Colors (Hymn Rewrite of ‘Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing’

My guest today is Grace Dellis—the creator and curator of Hyssop + Laurel, a grassroots arts and literary magazine for religious deconstructionists. We discuss her deconstruction journey, the intersection between trauma and religion, and the bridge that art can make for creatives leaving behind toxic religous systems and idealogies. Instagram: @gracedellis @hyssopandlaurel hyssopandlaurel.com Her chapbook “Signs and Wonders”: https://bottlecap.press/products/wonders

Today’s guest is podcaster, speaker, former pastor, and musician Matt Kendziera who shares his story of being kicked out of the urban church he started and suddenly finding himself on the outside looking in and deciding to try a new approach. We discuss his new book Bring it Home: The Adventure of Finding Yourself after Being Lost in Religionand on how to keep joy in the middle of our deconstruction experiences. Check out www.mattkendziera.com Podcast: Chasing Goodness https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chasing-goodness-formerly-jesus-never-ran-faith-that/id1456202761 Amazon Link to “Bring it Home” https://a.co/d/2ECZ2C8 Audible Link https://www.audible.com/pd/Bring-It-Home-Audiobook/B0BVPQ46M4?action_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp

Today’s guest is Keith from @unnecessarynoisesman . As a neurodivergent who found the Evangelical environment he grew up in to be extremely detrimental for his mental and social health/development, Keith shares some of his darkest moments, how he found the way through them, and how he hopes to build a brighter future for those who may find themselves in similar situations through a unique community called Arcem. We discuss his views on the dangers of corporate religion, the importance of personal spirituality and development, and new ways to think about religion outside of the framework we’ve always known. Follow him on Instagram at @unnecessarynoisesman

My conversation today is with Cynthia Vacca Davis about her book “Intersexion: A Story of Faith, Identity, and Authenticity” concerning her intersex friend Danny. We discuss how seeking to bring Danny’s story to the public caused unique tension in the Evangelical spaces Cynthia was a part of, as well as how to navigate the grey spaces of our faith by pressing into the core call to love others well. cynthiavaccadavis.com Lake Drive Books Author’s Page: https://www.lakedrivebooks.com/books/#authors Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/Intersexion-Story-Faith-Identity-Authenticity/dp/1957687061?nodl=1&dplnkId=b1cc8725-c085-46b3-beba-5bb3eb2f6150 Barnes and Noble Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/intersexion-cynthia-vacca-davis/1141792977

In today’s episode we answer questions we received during this past season about the podcast and our own spiritualities.

“Should I read my Bible during deconstruction?” This week your host Liz Mall shares her thoughts and experiences concerning this commonly asked question.

In this week’s episode we discuss a confusing passage found in 2 Numbers 2:23-24 where the prophet Elisha curses a group of boys who just insulted him for being bald, which is followed by two bears emerging and mauling 42 of the youths. This passage brings up issues concerning translation errors and modern interpretative lenses imposed on an ancient text, as well as touching on the controversial topic of divine vengeance. Join us, Liz Mall (Biola M.A. in Christian Apologetics) and historian Jenny White (Harvard M.A. in Museum Studies) as we begin to deconstruct this passage together by asking the tough questions and providing resources to get you started on your own journey of digging below the surface of the Bible’s toughest passages. Check out our show notes and resources at: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rDUb53KOLBSqBDOsNf2A0ovjbgFRkcxvZv-tjSXJL5w/edit

22. Today we discuss a troublesome Bible passage found in Genesis 22 where God tells Abraham to sacrifice his son as a burnt offering, and Abraham nearly carries out the command. While Isaac is spared at the last moment, this passage raises a lot of moral and theological questions, as well as questions about Abraham’s mental health and relationship to God.   Join us, Liz Mall (Biola M.A. in Christian Apologetics) and historian Jenny White (Harvard M.A. in Museum Studies) as we ask the tough questions and provide resources to get you started on your own journey of digging below the surface of the Bible’s toughest passages and concepts. For our resources check out our show notes here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1p8qUeBZB5RibRnDEDbgbx7s9oTghScuwo5Zl3YQrgkM/edit?usp=sharing

This week, we take a break for our usual deconstruction series as Liz Mall shares her views on why deconstruction is so important for Christianity and NOT the enemy of the Evangelical church—unless the church insists on making it the enemy. Liz Mall has her Masters in Christian Apologetics and shares a vision for a new way of using apologetics to engage well in the faith deconstruction space, as well as exposing ways Evangelical biases are keeping the church from responsibly and lovingly interacting with those who bring up big questions about God and Christianity. Check out our show notes here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1TxGZoaREOGjzT90S-fcEqEPxMnayNpqWmkG_JWNQcqI/edit

How does the concept of hell impact our minds and mental health, and how do our minds and mental health impact our view of hell? Join us, Liz Mall (Biola M.A. in Christian Apologetics) and historian Jenny White (Harvard M.A. in Museum Studies) as we begin to deconstruct the psychology of hell together by asking the tough questions and providing resources to get you started on your own journey of digging below the surface of this difficult Bible concept. Check out our show notes and resources at: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Js9T9k2ns6At_m2Ke8bTaM_4ytfd7XKlK1X6vw9ECy0/edit

For many who deconstruct, the Christian concept of hell is a big problem. In this three part series, we will deconstruct the concept of hell alongside you! For today’s episode, we discuss how people from different worldviews systemize ideas about judgement, evil, and cosmic justice. We look at views from atheists (naturalism), world religions, Judaism and early Christianity, and then we dive into historical ways Christians have explained who goes to hell and why they will. Join us, Liz Mall (Biola M.A. in Christian Apologetics) and historian Jenny White (Harvard M.A. in Museum Studies) as we begin to deconstruct hell more together by asking the tough questions and providing resources to get you started on your own journey of digging below the surface of the Bible’s toughest passages and concepts. Check out our show notes and resources at: https://docs.google.com/document/d/11j9Hm-EaZ4V3jda0vy3pfTiGCsowQwjfPt5l5AhtpqQ/edit

For many who deconstruct their Evangelical faith, the topic of hell is a hot button topic—for good reason. The historical, logical, and moral issues surrounding the topic of hell are important for any Christian to dissect, whether they are deconstructing or not. For today’s episode, we discuss words and phrases that are commonly translated as “hell” in the Bible or are closely associated with the concept of hell. We also look at three common Christian views of hell: infernalism, annhialationism, and universalism. Have we been taught hell all wrong? Join us, Liz Mall (Biola M.A. in Christian Apologetics) and historian Jenny White (Harvard M.A. in Museum Studies) as we begin to deconstruct hell together by asking the tough questions and providing resources to get you started on your own journey of digging below the surface of the Bible’s toughest passages. Check out our show notes and resources at: https://docs.google.com/document/d/11j9Hm-EaZ4V3jda0vy3pfTiGCsowQwjfPt5l5AhtpqQ/edit

In 1 Corinthians 15:29, a confusing and often ignored Bible passage refers to baptizing dead bodies. Is this a passage Christians conveniently ignore? Does it have implications for baptism? Does baptism itself have implications of a cosmic fear of hell? Join Jenny White and Elizabeth Mall as we deconstruct this odd Bible passage. Check out our show notes and resources at https://www.dropbox.com/s/34ddyikxua2wl1h/Baptism%20of%20the%20Dead_OUTLINE%20and%20NOTES.docx?dl=0