I was also raised Assemblies Of God, fell for progressive Christianity after church abuse and then came back as a reformed Christian. So thankful to God!!!
I have a similar story. Grew up Assembly of God, was a totally unregenerate “cultural Christian” for years until God saved me about a year ago and I discovered Biblical (Reformed) Theology.
Haven't finished the video, but I got to that part. I was also raised AG, but I think my old church was pretty theologically sound. My concern is that he paints Pentecostals and AG people in a broad strokes when there are a lot that don't twist scripture to match the culture. I'll watch the rest of the video to find out. I'm non-denominational now (but not reformed), but that's another story lol
@@MusicFilmArtGuy09 My experience was that of a very strange kind of legalism and high school type cliques. The 1st commandment was to always be “nice” but all kinds of gossip and slander were tolerated. It felt more like a social club than a church.
I was raised Assemblies of God, but did not fall for false doctrine because my parents, who taught Sunday school, made sure that I was well grounded in the Word of God. They taught me to study the Bible on my own & to check everything that was taught or preached (even from the pulpit) against Scripture. They also emphasized holiness, without which no man will see the Lord. It saddens me that the A/G denomination gets such a bad rap. I thank God for the A/G church we were members of. It wasn’t weird & unbiblical like the churches I hear talked about these days (like Bethel). I presently attend a Southern Baptist church because I agree with their doctrine. Also, each A/G church is independently governed & I fear getting involved in something strange.
@@richardrice1032 There is a reason I don't focus on memory verses. It lends itself to single verse theology that enables taking scripture out of context. The Chapter/Verse notations are great, don't get me wrong. Makes it really easy to reference parts of the bible, but it is easy to abuse, too.
Part of my story is that I went though a literal desert wandering period. In that time, God spent that time removing all the myths that I had built up about Him. Then he crossed me with teachers who taught me the truth.
@@b.delacroix7592 Excellent point, and "my bad" for not mentioning that clicking that clicking on any verse shown should take you, or any other reader to the BibleGateway website, where the entire associated with that verse can be read. I also use an ESV, English Standard Version, Study Bible, which is 2750 pages long, not counting the appendix. Somebody, or somebodies, put a LOT of time into that Bible! Peace be with you!
@@b.delacroix7592 Great to hear, read, that you Spiritually survived your wandering in the desert! For what is worth one of my favorite verses is Psalm 32:8. As I suspect you already know, even the Son of God had to wander in the desert BEFORE he could begin his ministry! Stay faithful.
"Love is God", according to progressive. Brilliant! I'm in a church falling to progressivism, and I've never heard a more brilliant way to refute that. They always say, "God is love! If you're against our beliefs you don't have a LOVING God!", but what they mean is "Love is God! We define love, and if God questions our definition of love, he's not worthy of our worship"
That is 💯 exactly what I've been saying! The truth is, "God is love", while liberals believe "Love is God." Love is their idol of their own making because they define what Love is, ignoring huge portions of what God really says He is.
Love is an aspect of God. In the beginning was THE Word. Be careful of words as lables. The holy spirit certainly manifests in love. And love is a christian virtue. Love can be seen as All, being in the word the holy spirit moves as the wind ...." we may hear the sound thereof, but from where it comes and where it goes we cannot tell. Human love is not the same as the holy spirit, Eloim and Jesu though a part of the the divine light that man can relate to. God Bless You. Amen
We gotta stop using "liberal" and "conservative". These are political terms and do not have much to do with scripture. In essence...... you're either Lukewarm or on fire or ice cold. Progressive Christians are missing doctrinal teachings that have nothing to do with politics. and a lot of them are just as "conservative" as they come in their own view. Most progressive churches vote Republican. Most Christian churches vote Republican. It's the theology that is off....Republican or not....the Gospel message is being twisted and wrath and judgment aren't being taught. We can't keep approaching scripture from an Americanized lens. The minute you say "liberal"....Folks put their walls way up or find it offensive.
I've been looking for a former progressive christian's testimony all over TH-cam and Google and could hardly find anything. So it's so awesome to finally hear one! And to know that there is still possibly hope for people I know.
I like to remember for all of the people that I love who haven't accepted Jesus as their Savior from their sins, they aren't eternally lost until they die. Until then, I pray with hope regularly, and interact with love when they are willing to talk. You never know what moment will catch someone's attention and convict them of their sins. Praise God for His patience with so many of us stiff-necked creatures!
Wow, it's so encouraging to hear someone with a similar background and story sharing. God is SO good and he woke me up and plucked me out of progressive "christianity' recently. Such a great video. Thank you for sharing!
The biggest lie in the religious world today is that "we all worship the same God". Believers like you with a platform MUST speak truth to this dangerously misleading message as many young believers are accepting a lie.
@@drjanitor3747 The Catholic church has committed the same error the Pharisees and Sadducees fell into. The focus on tradition and a departure from relationship. I grew up in the Catholic church and have a great deal of love for Catholics, but the tradition is flawed. Praying to Mary is heretical. There is no mediator but Christ. While I understand how those traditions developed with good intentions, they are separating people from the true nature of God. In addition, the popes have historically and currently made false claims regarding God and the truth of their own bible.
I think one of the most important things to get established in our minds and hearts is, the word of God being Supreme, knowing it is not contradicting itself. When rightly divided scripture reveals truth in scripture as we compare a like passages considering who it was written to, why it was written, then we can ascertain what is truly communicating to us. If you establish scripture in your heart and mine as our supreme guide in our spiritual walk with God then you will be more protected against the lies. Watching all the NRA and the word of faith movement all of them take away from and add to scripture which is a recipe for Eternal damnation.
Where you all mentioned Lectio Divina, it reminded me of one of the last women's Bible studies I participated in at my church. We were using a booklet and one week we read the particular passage and the booklet asked, 'what does that mean to you?' I was pretty indignant and refused to answer in that way. In the Bible study, I just admitted, it doesn't matter what I think it says: I want to know what it says and what does it actually mean, and proceded to answer what it meant. Sadly, the congregation is going 'woke' and that's just another symptom.
Go well Daniel. Always seek Him with all your heart, and His kingdom above all else, everything you need will follow, along with freedom from the flesh...His REST, when our flesh eventually is sanctified as in crucified. 🤝 Aim for the narrow path, that few find...your greatest reward.
I’m curious how long ago Josh was roped into progressive Christianity...it’s so deceptive & I’ve been reflecting on how a church I formerly attended for the past two years is very progressive - & I’m only now starting to recognize it. The biggest red flag for my was the lack of Scripture used in preaching, & now one of my best friends identifies as a universalist (she also read Rob Bell). Praying for eyes to be opened!! It was great to hear Josh’s story
@@p.rabbitt4914 There is something wrong with universal spirituality,,,,,It won't get you into Heaven. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life....no one comes to the Father but by Him.
@@jbeiler55 perhaps they would be justified towards the orthodox but progressives tend to be angry at everyone always. Also, as you said, its a big if and not even Jesus liked to work in ifs. I mean, if there is no God they we’re all screwed but we know that there is one so it’s a pointless if. See what I’m saying?
@@jmarq2283 why would we be screwed if there isn't a god? People live without belief in any gods. I see what you're trying to say. It seems to be based on your beliefs and not known reality.
Yes!!! The media (esp CNN and MSNBC are making people so angry they can’t see straight or see truth from fiction, which is why they’re doing it) is fueling the flames daily
@@jbeiler55 well i mean, if we all die and theres no God then we have no hope of any goodness in our future. Or a future at all. Yeah, this is based off of my beliefs, I try to base all my ideas in life on them :)
It's incredible how the church we grow up in can really set the tempo for our faith. I grew up in a similar style church, but thankful that my Bible college was excellent at engaging in critical thing. It really gave me the tools to engage with my faith constructively. Hearing your story Josh, makes me all the more appreciative.
Listening to this interview I'm reminded of a line from T S Eliot, "We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of our exploring will be to arrive where we first started and know the place for the first time." This is my story too... a brief and emotionally driven venture into progressive Christianity and eventually a return to the timeless truths of orthodoxy.
I love "Bear Can't Sleep" and that entire series! CS Lewis said something along the lines of "If it's not good enough to read as an adult, it was never good enough to read as a child. My wife is chasing these deceptions, so I thank you for sharing your journey back. It's very hard for me. She went after it all in secret, behind my back, and left me reeling when I finally found out. I'm not putting my hope in your story, but your story reminds me that there is hope.
Alisa THANK YOU! My sister's grown children are fully progressive, now atheist. She is thrilled to see this podcast & cant wait to get on Josh's website. THANK YOU!
I’ve been binging on Alisa Childers podcast. Normally I listen on Apple podcast (had a hard time understanding so watched it for a change). I’m a Christian (definitely reform) but have been concerned about all the so-call “new” progressivism creeping into churches. Experienced it in the many places I’ve lived over the years. Really appreciate this interview but I learned so much from the interview with Greg Koukl. In the midst of reading Alisa’s book “Another Gospel.” I highly recommend it. Thank you for all you do.
So appreciated this discussion! I find it amazing that so many progressive groups do start within the church (many times through small groups) and slowly deconstruct a pure faith using much of the Christian concepts or language, leading not to Truth, but deception. Ultimately ship wrecking faith not strengthening or creating faith by hearing the Word of God.
I'm an Assemblies of God pastor, and I went through what Josh went through as a kid. Emotional, mental, and spiritual abuse or neglect was seen as a leader simply exercising their authority, and questioning them was seen as sin. As a result, church was more about the culture established by man than what the Holy Spirit dictates through the Word. What kept me rooted in the truth of Christ and the guidance of the Holy Spirit was this: Assemblies of God does not contain the whole truth of God, no denomination does. Once I understood this, I allowed myself to question the AG way of doing things in a healthy way, in light of the Word of God. As a pastor, this means that I have to remember that the sheep we are given as shepherds are NOT OURS. Some people learn, heal and grow differently. As long as the Truth remains central, and we show this truth with LOVE, then we will have done our job to the best of our abilities. I love and respect so many ministers that aren't AG, but have the testimony of being faithful to the Truth. I also have no issue sending people to them in case someone didn't quite find what they might need in our church.
You make a good point. I’ve always seen it as the progressive church loving and fearing man over God but I think you might be onto some thing saying that it is their new definition of love that they are putting higher than God.
I was an atheist for 10 years, then came out of it as a witch for one year before finding my way back to Christianity, and when I was in atheism and new age progressivism was a big deal with them. I'm still coming out of it, but the main stumbling block for me is that I'm not yet ready to lose all of my friends so while they know I'm a Christian now they don't realize that doesn't mean progressive Christian. And since they don't really bring up religion with me it just...never comes up. But I know that one day, and probably one day *soon*, that will have to change.
I understand that struggle and wrestle but gaining Jesus is far better. You have a rich inheritance in Christ. As you grow in your identity as a son/daughter and see God for who He is - your Father you will realize the treasure of knowing and obeying Him is better than compromising or fearing losing friends. He is with you!
Hi Traci, we have similar paths! I did lose my friends, but I see now they weren't really friends at all of they couldn't respect my faith journey. I was made fun of a lot, told I was part of a cult, but they can't deny the change in my life. It is worth it. Jesus is always worth it. Everything lost He promised to restore. I am at peace and fulfilled by Christ's love.
We need to get a more Biblical view of judgement. A Christianity that can't make sense of the "rod for the back of fools" type verses other than to say "that's Old Testament" will get love wrong. Once "love" just means "nice" (IE people pleasing) rather than love that "does not delight in evil, but delights in truth" any wicked thing can be justified and any good can be villainized by ad hominem attacks and fake outrage.
Hi! I’m a progressive Christian & this is a great point. I would say that the way we look at this is Love is defined by the Bible. 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. But what about “doesn’t delight in evil, but delights in truth” ? Well the question becomes “What exactly is evil?” And I would say that if “the sum of the law is to love thy neighbor as thyself” then evil is not doing that. So you actually start the passage all over again. And if God is Love & Jesus is God & Jesus is Truth.... then Love is Truth. Now to his point, “Love is God” CAN get into murky territory because God has multiple characteristics, but anything that God “has”, God “is” (This is called Divine Simplicity in orthodox Christianity)... but for the most part, Love encompasses all of it. Love DOES correct. But love doesn’t just correct symptoms (sin), it corrects the whole disease (separation from God) through mercy, safety, truth & kindness. His story is honestly the opposite of mine. I was a Christian & the closer I got to God & the more I read the Bible, the more progressive I became. It was never because it was cool. EVER. It was because God called me to go to another level. His progressive church experience is nothing like mine. I read the Bible 3 times a day. Richard Rhor is not our “Pope”. Progressive Christianity is not that organized. We’re honestly just Christians. Hope that helps. 💕
@@thebonniemonroeshow3708 do you serve yourself, or God? Because the difference that I see in what a progressive christian is saying is that it's all about how YOU think and feel and know. It which case it's self-idolotry, since Jesus showed us a way of self-sacrifice, due to the rebellion in the hearts of humans which makes us unacceptable to God, and subject to His judgement. Do you see yourself as acceptable to God? Why?
I have done Lectio Divina in a small group led by a Catholic monk. When doing Lectio Divina in a group, a Bible passage is read out loud several times, followed by silence. You contemplate the text in silence. If you want to, you may read out loud a word or sentence, always from that text, that strikes you as meaningfull during your contemplation. It is definitely not a moment to share your less or more theologically sound interpretation of the text. The monk of our group usually did it alone, on saturday, to personally contemplate the text that would be the topic of the service the following sunday.
I've been on the path from Christianity to progressive Christianity... 🤔 I'm seeking. Trauma was what lead me to the Progressive Christianity, as I'm sure is the case for many. I've been drawn to Richard Rohr, Liturgists, Lectio Divina, etc... it's a lighter, loving way. It's attractive. Who wants a battle everyday when you can practice being in the moment and non attachment right? lol I am guessing though that I'm on my way back to where I'm meant to be. I only want to be exactly where God wants me.
I was raised in the church and baptized as a child, as an adult went through the law very legalistic sabbath keeping clean and unclean meats observing the barley maturing in Israel down to the moon observations and when to begin the month etc etc very deep stuff...by God's grace I came out of that and began to dabble in New Age reading Eckhart Tolle, almost read ACIM, found pastors online like Lisa Harper Joyce Meyer Steven Furtick..all sounded great but I could never fully commit. Even tried yoga and believed in the power of "now" and controlling our environment with our thoughts etc..I didn't realize my good intentions were leading on the path to hell. So many of these videos and Steven Bancarz testimony has shook me and opened my eyes to the ever so slight deceptions that were creeping upon me. God has been so gracious He allowed me to only go so far then pulled the reins in. I just remember listening to Lisa Harper and always saying "God's love is not punitive" she always made sure to reinforce God is good and there is no punishment...that the Bible is a love story and all this lovey dovey type feeling preaching. I didn't even realize a woman teaching mixed crowds of men and women was wrong. It is SO easy to be led away captive. All that to say, before you go seeking...PRAY. and open your Bible. Do not seek outside sources and go from here to there and there to there. Stick with God's Word. Read it pray on it meditate on it...take time with it. Pray and pray some more. Do not be like me always searching and never coming to the truth. I was tossed about by men's doctrines to and fro...had I just turned to God and His Word...but God has His plans for us and we can learn from these paths we travel and warn others. I find myself less and less listening to pastors online actually began going back to a Baptist church with an amazing expository pastor. Praise God He is rescuing His children and setting our feet firmly where they should have been the whole time and that is on Jesus Christ. I am grateful for the journey I have been on and thankful God has disciplined me when I went off the path 🙏
So helpful to me with perfect timing. A fellow brother in a men’s group suggested Richard Rohr Falling Upward. As I listened through during commutes I was extremely unsettled in some of the ideas that I didn’t finish. It was so woo woo that I was not sure he was talking about the same God that I know and love. Thank you for covering this topic complete with new book ideas🤗
AoG is incredibly legalistic. My husband and I grew up AoG, actually met at an AoG summer camp. Thankful the Lord showed us the truth of the Gospel and Jesus.
What a powerful testimony of God's grace! Thank you Alisa for sharing it! I feel like Josh's testimony is an illustration of this powerful warning from God : "my people are destroyed for lack of knowledge" - Hosea 4:6. I'm so glad Josh took time to warn us about the danger of not knowing God personally through an intimate relationship built by meditating his Word! He also encouraged all listeners to be indulged in Scriptures more than they are in podcasts! He is so right, we seriously need to be grounded in the Word of God, otherwise, we can be easily deceived by false doctrines out there! I'm so glad he came back to the truth, to true peace of mind and rest, which are only available in Jesus Christ whose blood was shed on that cross for us to be saved, forgiven and reconciled with God the Father! This is the good news we, as children of God, receided, stand for and are called to tell the entire world about 🙏🏽
Thank You Josh Morris for sharing your testimony, so many people need to hear this! I was so dangerous to being lost to progressive Christianity, thank God saved me
I am a PK, raised in the Christian & Missionary Alliance Denomination. Went to a missionary training school that was doctrinally the same as the C& MA. I was ordained and served as a missionary for 10 years. "By their fruits ye shall know them". ...you shall know the truth and the truth will set you free... my burden is light...my yoke is easy. Now in my 70's I have finally found the truth that has set me free. The yoke of lies and condemnations... the impossible burdans of physically impossible tasks and the "tough love" mercilessly practiced was a yoke that broke my spirit and deeply wounded my soul.... the souls and spirits of many who served with the missions of that "holiness, die-to-self, be in submission to those over you in the Lord" organization. My childhood home looked perfect on the outside... in reality it was chaos and trauma....my father who was so charming to others was a rage-aholic at home. I lived in terror and suffer from C-PTSD from my childhood home and that mission. I left that form of "Christianity" at 50 in disallussionment and terror. My brother committed suicide 3 years ago...that is the fruit of your beliefs...my C-PTSD is the fruit of your beliefs. That is MY reality and thousands like me. Condemn progressive Christianity all you want but it is where I have found healing, peace, hope and joy...quote your.verses and doctrines...go ahead...its meaningless unless you truly love one another. God is love. Period. I only found "tough love" which is hard, cold, indifferent, and incapable of compassion in your form of Christianity. There are innumerable numbers of souls with my same experience and pain. There are NO answers or hope in your belief system...I know...I searched for decades trying to find them until the God who IS love showed me a new way. I will no longer be silenced or shamed... I will tell my story and speak my truth.
I had a very very hard time with the idea of fearing God. That He is so Holy and Righteous was almost disturbing, like He could do anything He wanted. Then I heard a beautiful sermon on the book of Habakkuk and I was in tears because of what I then understood the fear of the Lord to mean. It is hard. But its not supposed to be easy.
Many thanks for this video and all the input one can grab from it!!! In fact progressive christianism deals with no fears, no respect and only love - which misleads them from the biblical God to a "feelgood God". This results in being in hell one day, since You do not have to repent or regret Your sins. There are literally no sins, when You internalise this view, because God is love and if You only love enough you are ok.... A cruel way of self deception...a way, many European and sadly especially German theologists and whole churches follow nowadays :-(
Thank you for sharing. Its amazing how that "Don't questions my authority" is used. My daughter had a similar experience, funny shortly after I just left the church and quickly moved from progressive christain to new age. Praise God He saived me.
"Kids loves consistency and discipline" as a father I loved that one but the second half - "the authority in mi life was the most freeing experience" :mindblown:
Answering Rohr's question with scripture, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom"...Proverbs 9:10, is a great response. Knowledge of the Word of God is our best offensive (defensive) tool. My thought question in response was, "How can you serve a God that you don't fear?" Wouldn't that make him your equal? Then he is no God at all but just a god.
I often wish we weren't so passive when it comes to progressive Christianity. I get that it's to enforce a, "Dialogue" as well as our fear of embodying the Progressive stigma that place on us, but c'mon, it's with everything. With the discussion on the Papacy it's was, " Meh, the Pope isn't indicative of Catholicism as a whole. He doesn't speak for the Church." It does, and should be genuinely concerning to Christian's. It's not as if the protest of the Catholic Church is what subsequently birthed Protestant ideology. Protest'ant; to protest. The vast majority of Christian's believe the Papacy is the Antichrist, as did the original Protestant parishioners.Now with Progressive, " Christians" they're blasphemous. They're leading Christ's children away from our savior. These are monumental issues and it's as if we're forgetting people's salvation is on the line? I feel as if we could have a discussion with these people after they've received the lord's judgment, in retrospect they'll have desired us to be infinitely more stern with them knowing what was at stake.
I don’t think the vast majority of Christians say the pope is the antichrist that is a hardline fundamentalist view that has misinterpreted scripture. But yes I agree with you I think we should definitely be more vocal about progressivism
People don't go hard enough against Catholicism. Sorry its not biblically based. It's made up nonsense. Worshipping mary and wooden beads. What is the difference between them and a new ager who worships mother gaia and crystals?
I've not met a lot of progressive Christians so this was fascinating to hear, especially that they were aligned with SJW dogma and post-modern relativism. His statement that 'love is their God' summed it up perfectly, believing themselves to be the standard bearers of what love is - while at the same time being completely self absorbed
1 John 4:7-8 "Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love" (ESV)
For me fear of God is awe of God. Not a fear but a feeling of not wanting to take the wrong steps not because I feared God but because it was a Blessed wisdom to do things right in awe of God and through choice. A beautiful fear of I'm a ant and God is almighty powerful and more I choose not to take the wrong path for fear of God's wrath but more because I choose to do things God's way.i love the way Jesus never abandons us and we may stray but learn and come back to JESUS Christ with renewed thoughts.wow you such a brilliant Interviewer and really enjoyed this feedback . Thank you.Now Josh has a relationship with God and that gives one such peace . So true progressives say I am better than God. We orthodox Christians die to ourselves and give our lives to Jesus and God helps us through storms and we never alone and have true peace. Will pray for all to come to Jesus and be born again Amen
I can relate with Josh when it comes to my seminary experience. I went to Fuller Theological Seminary and really didn't learn much about the Bible but more of theology and culture.
The beginning part Josh mentioned of the progressive church mean God is love as basically love is God is a good point! I noticed even people that don’t identify as Christians but believe in God use that saying and to be honest it does bug me. They don’t realize that they put love as an idol by the world’s definition and not how the Bible defines it. Thank you Josh for sharing your story. It makes me think about colleagues I have from Christian University that might have similar stories that led them to the progressive route or deny God all together. I heard a story of how a brother in Christ that one of my closest friends knows is spiritually abusive and was close to being like that to her. He doesn’t attend a church but does small groups & his teachings we’re definitely questionable. Good point Josh that we should be grounded in God’s word & be careful on what we listen to can effect us which is true.
Thank you, thank you, thank you both. I do base my faith on the Word of God, but these podcasts (via TH-cam) are so helpful and edifying. Thanks so much. Keep up the brave work, and the Lord be your Sun and Shield 🙏💖
I am loving this testimony. Thank you Lord for leaving the 99 and getting the one sheep who wandered astray. I got saved almost exactly a year ago. I wasn't a progressive christian but I used to be liberal. When I got saved I was so excited to join a church and I asked everyone around me for recommendations. There was one I watched that, even being a baby Christian, somehow rubbed me the wrong way and I couldn't figure out why. The biggest red flags to me were: the Bible was more like a self-help manual for your best life rather than the Word of God, the enneagram (I kept thinking, where is this in the Bible? Why is there a whole sermon about this?), a woman speaker criticizing Paul's writing about women, and using the word "distractions" instead of "sin". I'm not sure if it was a progressive church but I think it's heading that way. I thank God that I didn't stay and I'm glad that the Holy Spirit lead me away from that. Thank you for addressing this because some people don't have a clue. I will start praying for that church to wake up and the pastor to repent.
Another great broadcast! I am not a progressive Christian by any stretch but I have come to reject some of the traditional foundations of evangelical "Christianity". A couple of things I disagree with, and I realize it does not matter whether I disagree or not, but I have to share the reasons for my faith. I wonder why people are so worried when others are led to question the faith they were brought up with? Jesus said that the Holy spirit will lead us into all truth. If any person does indeed have the Holy Spirit in them, they should be able to respond to His call to dig deeper into their own faith. To me, it can be pruning, casting off the dead branches in us in order to grow better fruit. Are some people "deconstructing" away from traditional Christian views and "falling away" and never coming back? The parable of the lost sheep claims that Jesus leaves the 99 and goes after the one that was lost. All of the ones the Father gave Him, none will remain lost. What am I saying? Do not be afraid if God is leading you to trim off dead branches, such as a depiction of an angry God who hates anyone. No license to sin in that, sin exists for which God sent His own Son to save us from the law and redeem us unto Himself and reconcile us to the Father. Praise God that He saves that which was lost.
Dear all, Grace, Peace, Mercy and Love! The last verse of the Psalm 137 used to disturb me. I used to think that it was horrible and could not understand why it is in The Holy Scripture. Until that, thanks to God, I realised that the infants mentioned in it are the children of babylon daughter (verse 8), and that babylon is the mother of the abominations in the earth (Revelation 17:5).
Alisa, your videos have helped me quite a bit in understanding progressive Christianity, especially when I was very close to falling for its mantra. And, although I understand it seems to be your specialty, I would love to hear your opinion on the toxicity of the politically motivated, fundamentalist church that the progressive church was born out of. I'm concerned that much of this kind of content targets a symptom of the problem, rather than the problem itself. It's good to be aware of the progressive church, but the dangers of the other side are just as great. Josh's origin story is exactly why people flock to the progressive church to begin with.
You’re talking about a church with political views do you know that even in the Bible prophets were political some prophets even ran military campaigns
This is a good question... how much should love for ones own country dictate actions that might be contrary to ones faith. In WW1 the British and the German soldiers faced this on the famous Christmas truce of 1915, where the British soldiers heard the Germans singing traditional Christmas carols (albeit in German), that's when they realized they were actually Christian brothers and met in "no-mans land" to celibrate Christmas together... Politics often brings out the worse in ppl, where Jesus's words to "love your enemies", often get overlooked... The bible actually teaches us to "not get involved in worldly affairs"... Jesus doesn't come to take sides, He comes to take over, that can seem offensive to ppl, but then if the Gospel you preach isn't offensive to some, then you're prob doing it wrong (The Cross is an offense to those living in sin)...... hmmm i've waffled a bit here because I genuinely don't know the answer..... i'm fairly sure though we put too much stock in political action and not nearly enough trust in the Holy Spirit to effect change !
I grew up in the church and I was flip flop from agnostic to atheist until I was 6 then between then and age 8 God did things in my Dad's life and through my dad that didn't make sense without God because I knew my dad, and he's a flawed man he can't heal people and he doesn't have words of knowledge on his own (not that he isn't smart but he doesn't know everything about everybody), God would even tell him things that I wouldn't tell him about myself and things I was going through. It was hard to deny God at that point but then I wrestled with conviction for 2 years, the enemy tried to pervert that into condemnation when Holy Spirit was trying to lead me to the Cross, and I got caught in condemnation for 2 years, and when I was 10 I surrender my life to God I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior and I received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. That was the turning point of my life. During that wrestling period of my life when I was trapped in condemnation I was so badly wanted to be right with God but I knew my own heart and my motives were I don't want to go to hell, and not really to get to know God until that period between 8 and 10. And I really struggled and I had doubts about my worth, and I attempted suicide, but God. God reached me where I was at he spoke to me where I was at, and He heard my monologue prayers that were really not prayers they were just me yelling at Him. And He responded and reach me where I was at. Since then I've had a personal relationship with God and not just going to a church looking like I'm a Christian but not really being one, and not really believing... And even through my stumbling blocks God has shown so much grace and mercy not that I continue to stumble but did I see in His sovereignty his compassion love for me is His daughter adopted by the blood of Jesus and it just makes me fall more in love with Him and want to have a heart like Him for other people and lead them to the truth of His word like He's led me.
That's a Francis Schaeffer quote about the moral relativist having, “both feet firmly planted in mid-air.” He was so correct. Wish he were still with us today!!
Bless you Josh! Thank you Alisa! Josh said at 54:10, "They (progressives) are very easily offended...." Contrast this to 1 Cor 13:5, "(Love) is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs." Francis Schaeffer also said that progressives (liberals) have "faith in FAITH." It is helpful to agree on the definitions of Love and Faith before engaging in meaningful dialogues.
Bentonville Arkansas is a pretty good place to grow up. I live in Gentry Arkansas and I'm very sorry to hear that you guys had to set under an abusive pastor. I was raised the same way
Jesus answered, "Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. ........Only CHRISTIANS CAN TRULY UNDERSTAND 😇😇
I totally relate to this guy; it is one of the reasons why I never even thought to go to Bible Seminary or what. Man l learned the ground work so foundation of what I know, by listening to Walter Martin tapes. That guy blew my Pastors away as far as knowledge and care for people here goes. I stopped going to church and just listened to the Bible Answer man radio tapes of Walter and what have you. Never stepped foot into any college to ever learn anything about the Lord God Jesus; never heard a Pastor who impressed me enough, except for Walter Martin as of really. Maybe Calvin Beisner, too. John Ankerberg. The pulpit is just filled with Bible Seminary rejects that do not know a thing. Anyway, Alisa you have the most stunning eyes; people say that about me, but I didn't know what they were talking about until my seeing yours. I am not hitting on you or anything but it is just captivating how intent you are, as the eyes are the light of the soul type of thing. So many are liberal and do not know. People really do not want to admit its danger for real. Scary stuff.
I’m so glad y’all talked. I grew up IN and in many ways AT my church. Was there Mon-Fri (for school from preschool to 8th grade), Wednesday nights for church and 3 services on Sundays. My parents worked in and at the church most of my life.. so all of our outings were church related, and especially with church people. I was and have always been a very strong believer, but I think, I Know, I grew up stuck in legalism- I never felt I measured up.. even passed that along (legalism) to my Oder 2 children who aren’t walking w the Lord today. I tell people now- I might have done better had I known that other people in church were also “lost” I always thought I was just a “trouble-maker” cuz I for sure wasn’t a “goodie-goodie”. I’m one 100% in Love with The Lord now but I went sideways for a couple decades.. picked up a husband and had 4 kids along the way.. so God is good Always! Thanks guys for sharing all this!! I think us, sort of “veterans” in the church need to get together.. I could go on.. and on..
SOOOO grateful for this man's testimony of how God saved him out of false religion. Not everyone has to do as I do...but I try to make a clear line. "There is no such thing as 'progressive' Christianity." As this young many says, they worship the idol of "love" as they define it. Therefore, there is no more "progressive" Christianity than there is "Mormon" Christianity. I know that sounds pugnacious. Which is probably indicative of how much we've lost a theology of regeneration. We don't have a Biblical understanding of conflict. We don't know how to "be angry" and not sin. We don't understand that Jesus came to "bring the sword" and "divide households". Baptist 11th Commandment: "Thou shalt always be perceived as 'nice' and the other ten don't matter." I am not commenting on this young man when I say: If we start allowing the culture and the pagans to put "adjectives" on Christianity, we've already lost the discussion. Either you're a Regenerated Christian, or you're not. Ref. 1 John. His story backs this up. How many are sitting in pews every weekend in danger of hearing, "Away from me, you evildoer. I never knew you." If the status of our nation is any indication..."most" of the people in the pews are unconverted. Unregenerated. Love this podcast, and proud of this young man. Praising God for light and life.
Sometimes being raised in a Christian home is a hindrance...only because there isn’t room for asking “why” or counting the cost for themselves... Christianity is assumed.
Wow it’s so interesting to hear this point of view. I’ve always been kind of jealous of people who grew up in Christian homes because I wasn’t. I thought it would be better/easier to have family that wouldn’t draw you to closer to sin or put you in compromising situations, or make fun of your convictions. But this goes to show that there are hindrances in every kind of home because, essentially, we’re dealing with other sinful human beings. Thank you for this !
I was raised in a very good Christian home, yet I struggled with very serious life threatening depression, and my parents didn't get me medical help - I suffered for YEARS, feeling condemned, shame, guilt - and it was based in my psychological depression, which effected my reality and perception of God. It took my life, and I lost everything. I felt God calling me in ways in my 20s and at 30 years old, yet I couldn't understand my depression, and mental illness was looked down upon and you're definitely not supposed to struggle like that if you're a Christian.
Definitely agree. While there can certainly be benefits, major issues like abuse, legalism, and hypocrisy can warp one's view of God and ultimately be stumbling blocks. I'm often envious of those who weren't raised in Christian homes, due to my own struggles with the above issues. Sometimes it's better to come to Christ w/o the baggage of a Christian upbringing.
Goodness, he could have been talking about my story. I went from growing up Methodist to progressive and now I’m an Orthodox (as in Greek Orthodox, not as in orthodox meaning traditional) Christian. But man, I was really believing the lies.
The fear of the Lord is to hate evil, i just read it again today in Prov 8:13 and this fear God thing has been on my mind. Not that I mind, but more to have clarity of that phrase & how i can explain when asked. My pastor once asked me about it... If we believe that God is just, righteous, merciful...then the things He hate shouldnt be taken lightly nor erroneously. All believers should be well anchored in the Word of God, not to accumulate knowledge but to get to see Him as He is..even though words cannot contain how marvelous He is
Really odd that he says knowing the writings of people like C.S. Lewis would leave with a "shallow" faith. I would have said the exact opposite, maybe that's where he's going to go with this, the pendulum swing, because I always saw the progressive "love is love" understanding of God to be extremely shallow. I'll keep watching and find out.
I think it's about finding a broader range of teaching to help you wrestle through theology. I love CS Lewis, but have found theology on the other end of the spectrum to push my thinking. Not that you always have to agree. But yeah, I'd echo that CS Lewis is far from shallow. Especially his book 'Miracles'
@@brando3342 One of the best examples I can think of is reading some like 'The Meaning of Jesus' by NT Writght & Marcus Borg. Wright being a believer and follower of a literal Jesus and Borg being a believer of a somewhat mythical figure for our faith. It paints the two pursuasions well... FYI not a light read 😂
The Life Craft Co Okay thanks. Here's the funny thing though. Lewis wrote about Jesus being the factual/literal becoming of the mythological archetype that we as humans naturally gravitate towards. What was only myth before his birth. So, it almost seems as though Lewis comes in between both Wright and Borg.
I was also raised Assemblies Of God, fell for progressive Christianity after church abuse and then came back as a reformed Christian. So thankful to God!!!
Praise the Lord. All Glory to God. Jesus is Lord.
I have a similar story. Grew up Assembly of God, was a totally unregenerate “cultural Christian” for years until God saved me about a year ago and I discovered Biblical (Reformed) Theology.
Haven't finished the video, but I got to that part.
I was also raised AG, but I think my old church was pretty theologically sound. My concern is that he paints Pentecostals and AG people in a broad strokes when there are a lot that don't twist scripture to match the culture. I'll watch the rest of the video to find out. I'm non-denominational now (but not reformed), but that's another story lol
@@MusicFilmArtGuy09 My experience was that of a very strange kind of legalism and high school type cliques. The 1st commandment was to always be “nice” but all kinds of gossip and slander were tolerated. It felt more like a social club than a church.
I was raised Assemblies of God, but did not fall for false doctrine because my parents, who taught Sunday school, made sure that I was well grounded in the Word of God. They taught me to study the Bible on my own & to check everything that was taught or preached (even from the pulpit) against Scripture. They also emphasized holiness, without which no man will see the Lord.
It saddens me that the A/G denomination gets such a bad rap. I thank God for the A/G church we were members of. It wasn’t weird & unbiblical like the churches I hear talked about these days (like Bethel). I presently attend a Southern Baptist church because I agree with their doctrine. Also, each A/G church is independently governed & I fear getting involved in something strange.
I unfortunately have fallen for the lies of progressive Christianity myself. Goodness I needed to see this. Father, please forgive me.
Her book "Another Gospel" is excellent, if you haven't read it.
I did too and now im reborn follower of Jesus Christ and the word .
God bless you, friend. Keep seeking Truth. I highly recommend ANOTHER GOSPEL, Alisa’s book. I just got it yesterday and honestly cannot put it down!!
Praise the Lord
How do you know which Christianity is the correct one?
This is a BIG one!!!
We need to see God as *revealed in the Bible*, not as we believe him in our minds, or in our Christian culture. 😊🙏👆🏼🔥
May I offer "www.openbible.info/topics/biblical_ignorance". Taking Scripture out of context is a very "slippery slope!
@@richardrice1032 There is a reason I don't focus on memory verses. It lends itself to single verse theology that enables taking scripture out of context. The Chapter/Verse notations are great, don't get me wrong. Makes it really easy to reference parts of the bible, but it is easy to abuse, too.
Part of my story is that I went though a literal desert wandering period. In that time, God spent that time removing all the myths that I had built up about Him. Then he crossed me with teachers who taught me the truth.
@@b.delacroix7592 Excellent point, and "my bad" for not mentioning that clicking that clicking on any verse shown should take you, or any other reader to the BibleGateway website, where the entire associated with that verse can be read. I also use an ESV, English Standard Version, Study Bible, which is 2750 pages long, not counting the appendix. Somebody, or somebodies, put a LOT of time into that Bible! Peace be with you!
@@b.delacroix7592 Great to hear, read, that you Spiritually survived your wandering in the desert! For what is worth one of my favorite verses is Psalm 32:8. As I suspect you already know, even the Son of God had to wander in the desert BEFORE he could begin his ministry! Stay faithful.
*The problem with deception is that people don’t know that they are deceived* 🤔😢
It is easier to trick someone than it is to convince them that they’ve been tricked!
Do you know whether you are being deceived or not?
Agreed. Checkout Genesis 3:1.
@@questionasker8791
That is why God gave us the bible.
Knowing the truth means knowibg the lies.
@@e.l.243 How did the Biblical writers know whether they were being deceived?
“Make sure you are more in Scripture than anyone you listen to” Amen!
this is convicting
"Love is God", according to progressive. Brilliant! I'm in a church falling to progressivism, and I've never heard a more brilliant way to refute that. They always say, "God is love! If you're against our beliefs you don't have a LOVING God!", but what they mean is "Love is God! We define love, and if God questions our definition of love, he's not worthy of our worship"
Well put.
Wow amen ! Great way of putting it !
That really was a great part of this show!
Time to leave that church Craftedmam.
Problem is, they don't know what biblical Agape love is, John and Peter's epistles explain it clearly.
That is 💯 exactly what I've been saying! The truth is, "God is love", while liberals believe "Love is God." Love is their idol of their own making because they define what Love is, ignoring huge portions of what God really says He is.
Love is an aspect of God. In the beginning was THE Word. Be careful of words as lables. The holy spirit certainly manifests in love. And love is a christian virtue. Love can be seen as All, being in the word the holy spirit moves as the wind ...." we may hear the sound thereof, but from where it comes and where it goes we cannot tell. Human love is not the same as the holy spirit, Eloim and Jesu though a part of the the divine light that man can relate to. God Bless You. Amen
We gotta stop using "liberal" and "conservative". These are political terms and do not have much to do with scripture. In essence...... you're either Lukewarm or on fire or ice cold. Progressive Christians are missing doctrinal teachings that have nothing to do with politics. and a lot of them are just as "conservative" as they come in their own view. Most progressive churches vote Republican. Most Christian churches vote Republican. It's the theology that is off....Republican or not....the Gospel message is being twisted and wrath and judgment aren't being taught. We can't keep approaching scripture from an Americanized lens. The minute you say "liberal"....Folks put their walls way up or find it offensive.
I’ve never heard the term love is God. It’s so dumb.
I've been looking for a former progressive christian's testimony all over TH-cam and Google and could hardly find anything. So it's so awesome to finally hear one! And to know that there is still possibly hope for people I know.
I like to remember for all of the people that I love who haven't accepted Jesus as their Savior from their sins, they aren't eternally lost until they die. Until then, I pray with hope regularly, and interact with love when they are willing to talk. You never know what moment will catch someone's attention and convict them of their sins. Praise God for His patience with so many of us stiff-necked creatures!
@@mungbean345 Those are good things to remember.
Also wow! I don't think I've ever got this many likes on a TH-cam comment before, thanks everyone!
@Panda Seducer What does that mean?
@Panda Seducer Which people are you referring to exactly?
“He is the Great I Am, you are the great I am not.”
-Paul Washer
Washer is a man filled with the wisdom of God's Word. Terribly persecuted by the Enemy, yet strives and inspires nonetheless.
Wow, it's so encouraging to hear someone with a similar background and story sharing. God is SO good and he woke me up and plucked me out of progressive "christianity' recently. Such a great video. Thank you for sharing!
Praise the Lord, you are recovered by the Shepherd! So grateful to hear this good news.
The biggest lie in the religious world today is that "we all worship the same God". Believers like you with a platform MUST speak truth to this dangerously misleading message as many young believers are accepting a lie.
@@drjanitor3747 dude...
@@drjanitor3747 then why do you pray to Mary when the Bible forbids praying to all but God?
@@drjanitor3747 it isn't? What Bible do you read?
@@drjanitor3747 Ha???
@@drjanitor3747 The Catholic church has committed the same error the Pharisees and Sadducees fell into. The focus on tradition and a departure from relationship. I grew up in the Catholic church and have a great deal of love for Catholics, but the tradition is flawed. Praying to Mary is heretical. There is no mediator but Christ. While I understand how those traditions developed with good intentions, they are separating people from the true nature of God. In addition, the popes have historically and currently made false claims regarding God and the truth of their own bible.
“Sometimes our questions are the biggest statements we can make”
Sometimes questions are insidious.
@@kennorthunder2428 as are some TH-cam comments.
@@nrthnmonkey3308 That happens too. (Either method, shouldn't the asker or the commenter TRULY know better and "be true to truth?")
I think one of the most important things to get established in our minds and hearts is, the word of God being Supreme, knowing it is not contradicting itself. When rightly divided scripture reveals truth in scripture as we compare a like passages considering who it was written to, why it was written, then we can ascertain what is truly communicating to us. If you establish scripture in your heart and mine as our supreme guide in our spiritual walk with God then you will be more protected against the lies. Watching all the NRA and the word of faith movement all of them take away from and add to scripture which is a recipe for Eternal damnation.
Alisa is a great listener, and I love your podcasts for that.
Helps your audience listen to the guest too.
She certainly is - so refreshing
I agree,
Where you all mentioned Lectio Divina, it reminded me of one of the last women's Bible studies I participated in at my church. We were using a booklet and one week we read the particular passage and the booklet asked, 'what does that mean to you?' I was pretty indignant and refused to answer in that way. In the Bible study, I just admitted, it doesn't matter what I think it says: I want to know what it says and what does it actually mean, and proceded to answer what it meant. Sadly, the congregation is going 'woke' and that's just another symptom.
I just want to thank you guys! I was slipping into this thought and you all helped me on my journey back!
What a blessing to even read your comment.
@@correctchristian4255 Amén
Go well Daniel. Always seek Him with all your heart, and His kingdom above all else, everything you need will follow, along with freedom from the flesh...His REST, when our flesh eventually is sanctified as in crucified. 🤝 Aim for the narrow path, that few find...your greatest reward.
I’m curious how long ago Josh was roped into progressive Christianity...it’s so deceptive & I’ve been reflecting on how a church I formerly attended for the past two years is very progressive - & I’m only now starting to recognize it. The biggest red flag for my was the lack of Scripture used in preaching, & now one of my best friends identifies as a universalist (she also read Rob Bell). Praying for eyes to be opened!! It was great to hear Josh’s story
So "opening one's eyes" means shutting your eyes to expanded truth.. gotcha. I don't buy it. There's nothing wrong with Universal spirituality. Duh.
@@p.rabbitt4914 There is something wrong with universal spirituality,,,,,It won't get you into Heaven. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life....no one comes to the Father but by Him.
@@savedsista It's clear you don't even know what God is. But, whatever makes sense to you I suppose.
I have noticed this about my friends who are progressive, liberal, and some of them are agnostic, multi-spiritual, etc.... They are very angry.
(IF IF IF) IF liberal Christians are correct and orthodox Christians are basically a bunch of pharisees would they also be correct in being angry?
@@jbeiler55 perhaps they would be justified towards the orthodox but progressives tend to be angry at everyone always. Also, as you said, its a big if and not even Jesus liked to work in ifs. I mean, if there is no God they we’re all screwed but we know that there is one so it’s a pointless if. See what I’m saying?
@@jmarq2283 why would we be screwed if there isn't a god? People live without belief in any gods.
I see what you're trying to say. It seems to be based on your beliefs and not known reality.
Yes!!! The media (esp CNN and MSNBC are making people so angry they can’t see straight or see truth from fiction, which is why they’re doing it) is fueling the flames daily
@@jbeiler55 well i mean, if we all die and theres no God then we have no hope of any goodness in our future. Or a future at all. Yeah, this is based off of my beliefs, I try to base all my ideas in life on them :)
It's incredible how the church we grow up in can really set the tempo for our faith.
I grew up in a similar style church, but thankful that my Bible college was excellent at engaging in critical thing. It really gave me the tools to engage with my faith constructively.
Hearing your story Josh, makes me all the more appreciative.
Listening to this interview I'm reminded of a line from T S Eliot, "We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of our exploring will be to arrive where we first started and know the place for the first time." This is my story too... a brief and emotionally driven venture into progressive Christianity and eventually a return to the timeless truths of orthodoxy.
That’s a beautiful quote. Thanks for sharing.
One thing he said that struck me, and we should be aware is always asking ourselves "what is the question behind the question?"
I love "Bear Can't Sleep" and that entire series! CS Lewis said something along the lines of "If it's not good enough to read as an adult, it was never good enough to read as a child.
My wife is chasing these deceptions, so I thank you for sharing your journey back. It's very hard for me. She went after it all in secret, behind my back, and left me reeling when I finally found out. I'm not putting my hope in your story, but your story reminds me that there is hope.
Alisa THANK YOU! My sister's grown children are fully progressive, now atheist. She is thrilled to see this podcast & cant wait to get on Josh's website. THANK YOU!
I’ve been binging on Alisa Childers podcast. Normally I listen on Apple podcast (had a hard time understanding so watched it for a change). I’m a Christian (definitely reform) but have been concerned about all the so-call “new” progressivism creeping into churches. Experienced it in the many places I’ve lived over the years. Really appreciate this interview but I learned so much from the interview with Greg Koukl. In the midst of reading Alisa’s book “Another Gospel.” I highly recommend it. Thank you for all you do.
So appreciated this discussion! I find it amazing that so many progressive groups do start within the church (many times through small groups) and slowly deconstruct a pure faith using much of the Christian concepts or language, leading not to Truth, but deception. Ultimately ship wrecking faith not strengthening or creating faith by hearing the Word of God.
I'm an Assemblies of God pastor, and I went through what Josh went through as a kid. Emotional, mental, and spiritual abuse or neglect was seen as a leader simply exercising their authority, and questioning them was seen as sin. As a result, church was more about the culture established by man than what the Holy Spirit dictates through the Word. What kept me rooted in the truth of Christ and the guidance of the Holy Spirit was this: Assemblies of God does not contain the whole truth of God, no denomination does. Once I understood this, I allowed myself to question the AG way of doing things in a healthy way, in light of the Word of God. As a pastor, this means that I have to remember that the sheep we are given as shepherds are NOT OURS. Some people learn, heal and grow differently. As long as the Truth remains central, and we show this truth with LOVE, then we will have done our job to the best of our abilities. I love and respect so many ministers that aren't AG, but have the testimony of being faithful to the Truth. I also have no issue sending people to them in case someone didn't quite find what they might need in our church.
Thank you for your sweet spirit.
You make a good point. I’ve always seen it as the progressive church loving and fearing man over God but I think you might be onto some thing saying that it is their new definition of love that they are putting higher than God.
I was an atheist for 10 years, then came out of it as a witch for one year before finding my way back to Christianity, and when I was in atheism and new age progressivism was a big deal with them. I'm still coming out of it, but the main stumbling block for me is that I'm not yet ready to lose all of my friends so while they know I'm a Christian now they don't realize that doesn't mean progressive Christian. And since they don't really bring up religion with me it just...never comes up. But I know that one day, and probably one day *soon*, that will have to change.
God bless you sister in Christ 🙏🏽 I pray for your friends to open their eyes and see the truth in Jesus Christ.
I understand that struggle and wrestle but gaining Jesus is far better. You have a rich inheritance in Christ. As you grow in your identity as a son/daughter and see God for who He is - your Father you will realize the treasure of knowing and obeying Him is better than compromising or fearing losing friends. He is with you!
@@Ryan-nl8mz Thank you so much for the beautiful words of encouragement. :)
Hi Traci, we have similar paths!
I did lose my friends, but I see now they weren't really friends at all of they couldn't respect my faith journey.
I was made fun of a lot, told I was part of a cult, but they can't deny the change in my life.
It is worth it. Jesus is always worth it. Everything lost He promised to restore. I am at peace and fulfilled by Christ's love.
45:49 Love as an idol... Mind blown 🤯
Progressives think they are more moral and loving then God! I loved his point as well that It truly is an idol!
Wow, reminds me of what I went through. Still affecting me today, thank you so much for sharing!
We need to get a more Biblical view of judgement. A Christianity that can't make sense of the "rod for the back of fools" type verses other than to say "that's Old Testament" will get love wrong.
Once "love" just means "nice" (IE people pleasing) rather than love that "does not delight in evil, but delights in truth" any wicked thing can be justified and any good can be villainized by ad hominem attacks and fake outrage.
Well said.
Yes!!! I totally agree. Well said!!
Hi! I’m a progressive Christian & this is a great point. I would say that the way we look at this is Love is defined by the Bible. 1 Corinthians 13:1-13.
But what about “doesn’t delight in evil, but delights in truth” ? Well the question becomes “What exactly is evil?” And I would say that if “the sum of the law is to love thy neighbor as thyself” then evil is not doing that. So you actually start the passage all over again. And if God is Love & Jesus is God & Jesus is Truth.... then Love is Truth. Now to his point, “Love is God” CAN get into murky territory because God has multiple characteristics, but anything that God “has”, God “is” (This is called Divine Simplicity in orthodox Christianity)... but for the most part, Love encompasses all of it. Love DOES correct. But love doesn’t just correct symptoms (sin), it corrects the whole disease (separation from God) through mercy, safety, truth & kindness.
His story is honestly the opposite of mine. I was a Christian & the closer I got to God & the more I read the Bible, the more progressive I became. It was never because it was cool. EVER. It was because God called me to go to another level. His progressive church experience is nothing like mine. I read the Bible 3 times a day. Richard Rhor is not our “Pope”. Progressive Christianity is not that organized. We’re honestly just Christians. Hope that helps. 💕
@@thebonniemonroeshow3708 do you serve yourself, or God? Because the difference that I see in what a progressive christian is saying is that it's all about how YOU think and feel and know. It which case it's self-idolotry, since Jesus showed us a way of self-sacrifice, due to the rebellion in the hearts of humans which makes us unacceptable to God, and subject to His judgement.
Do you see yourself as acceptable to God? Why?
@@thebonniemonroeshow3708 also, what is this "new level" you speak of?
Thank you, Alisa, for yet another great podcast. Your graciousness to all your guests always blesses me.
This took a lot of patience for me to wade through. HOWEVER, what he had to say was very good and true.
I have done Lectio Divina in a small group led by a Catholic monk. When doing Lectio Divina in a group, a Bible passage is read out loud several times, followed by silence. You contemplate the text in silence. If you want to, you may read out loud a word or sentence, always from that text, that strikes you as meaningfull during your contemplation.
It is definitely not a moment to share your less or more theologically sound interpretation of the text. The monk of our group usually did it alone, on saturday, to personally contemplate the text that would be the topic of the service the following sunday.
I just have to comment, I just received ANOTHER GOSPEL yesterday, and I can’t put it down! Incredible read. Thank you, thank you, Alisa 🙏
I've been on the path from Christianity to progressive Christianity... 🤔 I'm seeking. Trauma was what lead me to the Progressive Christianity, as I'm sure is the case for many. I've been drawn to Richard Rohr, Liturgists, Lectio Divina, etc... it's a lighter, loving way. It's attractive. Who wants a battle everyday when you can practice being in the moment and non attachment right? lol
I am guessing though that I'm on my way back to where I'm meant to be. I only want to be exactly where God wants me.
This episode was such a blessing to hear. I am feeling more encouraged to speak with my progressive in-laws.
I was raised in the church and baptized as a child, as an adult went through the law very legalistic sabbath keeping clean and unclean meats observing the barley maturing in Israel down to the moon observations and when to begin the month etc etc very deep stuff...by God's grace I came out of that and began to dabble in New Age reading Eckhart Tolle, almost read ACIM, found pastors online like Lisa Harper Joyce Meyer Steven Furtick..all sounded great but I could never fully commit. Even tried yoga and believed in the power of "now" and controlling our environment with our thoughts etc..I didn't realize my good intentions were leading on the path to hell. So many of these videos and Steven Bancarz testimony has shook me and opened my eyes to the ever so slight deceptions that were creeping upon me. God has been so gracious He allowed me to only go so far then pulled the reins in. I just remember listening to Lisa Harper and always saying "God's love is not punitive" she always made sure to reinforce God is good and there is no punishment...that the Bible is a love story and all this lovey dovey type feeling preaching. I didn't even realize a woman teaching mixed crowds of men and women was wrong. It is SO easy to be led away captive. All that to say, before you go seeking...PRAY. and open your Bible. Do not seek outside sources and go from here to there and there to there. Stick with God's Word. Read it pray on it meditate on it...take time with it. Pray and pray some more. Do not be like me always searching and never coming to the truth. I was tossed about by men's doctrines to and fro...had I just turned to God and His Word...but God has His plans for us and we can learn from these paths we travel and warn others. I find myself less and less listening to pastors online actually began going back to a Baptist church with an amazing expository pastor. Praise God He is rescuing His children and setting our feet firmly where they should have been the whole time and that is on Jesus Christ. I am grateful for the journey I have been on and thankful God has disciplined me when I went off the path 🙏
So helpful to me with perfect timing. A fellow brother in a men’s group suggested Richard Rohr Falling Upward. As I listened through during commutes I was extremely unsettled in some of the ideas that I didn’t finish. It was so woo woo that I was not sure he was talking about the same God that I know and love. Thank you for covering this topic complete with new book ideas🤗
AoG is incredibly legalistic. My husband and I grew up AoG, actually met at an AoG summer camp. Thankful the Lord showed us the truth of the Gospel and Jesus.
What a powerful testimony of God's grace! Thank you Alisa for sharing it!
I feel like Josh's testimony is an illustration of this powerful warning from God : "my people are destroyed for lack of knowledge" - Hosea 4:6.
I'm so glad Josh took time to warn us about the danger of not knowing God personally through an intimate relationship built by meditating his Word! He also encouraged all listeners to be indulged in Scriptures more than they are in podcasts! He is so right, we seriously need to be grounded in the Word of God, otherwise, we can be easily deceived by false doctrines out there! I'm so glad he came back to the truth, to true peace of mind and rest, which are only available in Jesus Christ whose blood was shed on that cross for us to be saved, forgiven and reconciled with God the Father! This is the good news we, as children of God, receided, stand for and are called to tell the entire world about 🙏🏽
Thank You Josh Morris for sharing your testimony, so many people need to hear this! I was so dangerous to being lost to progressive Christianity, thank God saved me
Alisa, I just saw you on Mike Winger’s channel. I’m a subscriber of both 😁
I am a PK, raised in the Christian & Missionary Alliance Denomination. Went to a missionary training school that was doctrinally the same as the C& MA. I was ordained and served as a missionary for 10 years.
"By their fruits ye shall know them". ...you shall know the truth and the truth will set you free... my burden is light...my yoke is easy. Now in my 70's I have finally found the truth that has set me free. The yoke of lies and condemnations... the impossible burdans of physically impossible tasks and the "tough love" mercilessly practiced was a yoke that broke my spirit and deeply wounded my soul.... the souls and spirits of many who served with the missions of that "holiness, die-to-self, be in submission to those over you in the Lord" organization. My childhood home looked perfect on the outside... in reality it was chaos and trauma....my father who was so charming to others was a rage-aholic at home. I lived in terror and suffer from C-PTSD from my childhood home and that mission. I left that form of "Christianity" at 50 in disallussionment and terror. My brother committed suicide 3 years ago...that is the fruit of your beliefs...my C-PTSD is the fruit of your beliefs. That is MY reality and thousands like me. Condemn progressive Christianity all you want but it is where I have found healing, peace, hope and joy...quote your.verses and doctrines...go ahead...its meaningless unless you truly love one another. God is love. Period. I only found "tough love" which is hard, cold, indifferent, and incapable of compassion in your form of Christianity. There are innumerable numbers of souls with my same experience and pain. There are NO answers or hope in your belief system...I know...I searched for decades trying to find them until the God who IS love showed me a new way.
I will no longer be silenced or shamed... I will tell my story and speak my truth.
Praise the Lord for your ever so patient, loving wife, John! God bless you both
Thank you for sharing your story Josh!
Thank you both so much! As a parent of four grown children, you have cleared so much up for me about what exactly defines progressive theology.
Such a refreshing and fruitful dialogue. Thank you both!
So transparent and honest. Wow! Thank you for sharing your story!
I had a very very hard time with the idea of fearing God. That He is so Holy and Righteous was almost disturbing, like He could do anything He wanted. Then I heard a beautiful sermon on the book of Habakkuk and I was in tears because of what I then understood the fear of the Lord to mean. It is hard. But its not supposed to be easy.
Thank you so much for this conversation to stand for Christ who is the way, the truth and the Life. People are blinded by deception. Thank you!
Many thanks for this video and all the input one can grab from it!!! In fact progressive christianism deals with no fears, no respect and only love - which misleads them from the biblical God to a "feelgood God". This results in being in hell one day, since You do not have to repent or regret Your sins. There are literally no sins, when You internalise this view, because God is love and if You only love enough you are ok.... A cruel way of self deception...a way, many European and sadly especially German theologists and whole churches follow nowadays :-(
Love his openness and humility!
Thank you for sharing. Its amazing how that "Don't questions my authority" is used. My daughter had a similar experience, funny shortly after I just left the church and quickly moved from progressive christain to new age. Praise God He saived me.
This is so my story and finally coming out of you and true freedom in the real God.
"Kids loves consistency and discipline" as a father I loved that one but the second half - "the authority in mi life was the most freeing experience" :mindblown:
Answering Rohr's question with scripture, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom"...Proverbs 9:10, is a great response. Knowledge of the Word of God is our best offensive (defensive) tool. My thought question in response was, "How can you serve a God that you don't fear?" Wouldn't that make him your equal? Then he is no God at all but just a god.
Good boomeranged question that is equally considerable.
I often wish we weren't so passive when it comes to progressive Christianity. I get that it's to enforce a, "Dialogue" as well as our fear of embodying the Progressive stigma that place on us, but c'mon, it's with everything. With the discussion on the Papacy it's was, " Meh, the Pope isn't indicative of Catholicism as a whole. He doesn't speak for the Church." It does, and should be genuinely concerning to Christian's. It's not as if the protest of the Catholic Church is what subsequently birthed Protestant ideology. Protest'ant; to protest. The vast majority of Christian's believe the Papacy is the Antichrist, as did the original Protestant parishioners.Now with Progressive, " Christians" they're blasphemous. They're leading Christ's children away from our savior. These are monumental issues and it's as if we're forgetting people's salvation is on the line? I feel as if we could have a discussion with these people after they've received the lord's judgment, in retrospect they'll have desired us to be infinitely more stern with them knowing what was at stake.
I don’t think the vast majority of Christians say the pope is the antichrist that is a hardline fundamentalist view that has misinterpreted scripture. But yes I agree with you I think we should definitely be more vocal about progressivism
People don't go hard enough against Catholicism. Sorry its not biblically based. It's made up nonsense. Worshipping mary and wooden beads. What is the difference between them and a new ager who worships mother gaia and crystals?
Thank you Alisa for what your doing and all of your guests
Amen, "Ask & YOU WILL RECEIVE, Seek & YOU WILL FIND, Knock & the door WILL BE OPENED!!!" Questions are the answer !!!
Really enjoying this discussion!
This episode has so much great information. Thank you very much!
I've not met a lot of progressive Christians so this was fascinating to hear, especially that they were aligned with SJW dogma and post-modern relativism.
His statement that 'love is their God' summed it up perfectly, believing themselves to be the standard bearers of what love is - while at the same time being completely self absorbed
1 John 4:7-8 "Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love" (ESV)
For me fear of God is awe of God. Not a fear but a feeling of not wanting to take the wrong steps not because I feared God but because it was a Blessed wisdom to do things right in awe of God and through choice. A beautiful fear of I'm a ant and God is almighty powerful and more I choose not to take the wrong path for fear of God's wrath but more because I choose to do things God's way.i love the way Jesus never abandons us and we may stray but learn and come back to JESUS Christ with renewed thoughts.wow you such a brilliant Interviewer and really enjoyed this feedback . Thank you.Now Josh has a relationship with God and that gives one such peace . So true progressives say I am better than God. We orthodox Christians die to ourselves and give our lives to Jesus and God helps us through storms and we never alone and have true peace. Will pray for all to come to Jesus and be born again Amen
I can relate with Josh when it comes to my seminary experience. I went to Fuller Theological Seminary and really didn't learn much about the Bible but more of theology and culture.
Wow!!! I was in the same boat with AG church! Just recently have I really dug deep in the bible! Eye opening on these "catagory" christianity!
Excellent discussion, thank you! Two books mentioned in the discussion, Tactics and Another Gospel, I have read both and both are must read!
Great information. So glad HOLYSPIRIT revealed the truth to Josh 🙏📖
The Bible is supposed to trigger you.
The beginning part Josh mentioned of the progressive church mean God is love as basically love is God is a good point! I noticed even people that don’t identify as Christians but believe in God use that saying and to be honest it does bug me. They don’t realize that they put love as an idol by the world’s definition and not how the Bible defines it.
Thank you Josh for sharing your story. It makes me think about colleagues I have from Christian University that might have similar stories that led them to the progressive route or deny God all together.
I heard a story of how a brother in Christ that one of my closest friends knows is spiritually abusive and was close to being like that to her. He doesn’t attend a church but does small groups & his teachings we’re definitely questionable.
Good point Josh that we should be grounded in God’s word & be careful on what we listen to can effect us which is true.
Thank you, thank you, thank you both. I do base my faith on the Word of God, but these podcasts (via TH-cam) are so helpful and edifying. Thanks so much. Keep up the brave work, and the Lord be your Sun and Shield 🙏💖
I am loving this testimony. Thank you Lord for leaving the 99 and getting the one sheep who wandered astray. I got saved almost exactly a year ago. I wasn't a progressive christian but I used to be liberal. When I got saved I was so excited to join a church and I asked everyone around me for recommendations. There was one I watched that, even being a baby Christian, somehow rubbed me the wrong way and I couldn't figure out why. The biggest red flags to me were: the Bible was more like a self-help manual for your best life rather than the Word of God, the enneagram (I kept thinking, where is this in the Bible? Why is there a whole sermon about this?), a woman speaker criticizing Paul's writing about women, and using the word "distractions" instead of "sin". I'm not sure if it was a progressive church but I think it's heading that way. I thank God that I didn't stay and I'm glad that the Holy Spirit lead me away from that. Thank you for addressing this because some people don't have a clue. I will start praying for that church to wake up and the pastor to repent.
I'm so glad I found this channel. Thank you Mike Winger
Another great broadcast! I am not a progressive Christian by any stretch but I have come to reject some of the traditional foundations of evangelical "Christianity". A couple of things I disagree with, and I realize it does not matter whether I disagree or not, but I have to share the reasons for my faith. I wonder why people are so worried when others are led to question the faith they were brought up with? Jesus said that the Holy spirit will lead us into all truth. If any person does indeed have the Holy Spirit in them, they should be able to respond to His call to dig deeper into their own faith. To me, it can be pruning, casting off the dead branches in us in order to grow better fruit. Are some people "deconstructing" away from traditional Christian views and "falling away" and never coming back? The parable of the lost sheep claims that Jesus leaves the 99 and goes after the one that was lost. All of the ones the Father gave Him, none will remain lost. What am I saying? Do not be afraid if God is leading you to trim off dead branches, such as a depiction of an angry God who hates anyone. No license to sin in that, sin exists for which God sent His own Son to save us from the law and redeem us unto Himself and reconcile us to the Father. Praise God that He saves that which was lost.
Dear all,
Grace, Peace, Mercy and Love!
The last verse of the Psalm 137 used to disturb me. I used to think that it was horrible and could not understand why it is in The Holy Scripture. Until that, thanks to God, I realised that the infants mentioned in it are the children of babylon daughter (verse 8), and that babylon is the mother of the abominations in the earth (Revelation 17:5).
So many of your comments sound exactly like someone I love who has these same “beliefs”! Thanks!
Alisa, your videos have helped me quite a bit in understanding progressive Christianity, especially when I was very close to falling for its mantra. And, although I understand it seems to be your specialty, I would love to hear your opinion on the toxicity of the politically motivated, fundamentalist church that the progressive church was born out of. I'm concerned that much of this kind of content targets a symptom of the problem, rather than the problem itself. It's good to be aware of the progressive church, but the dangers of the other side are just as great. Josh's origin story is exactly why people flock to the progressive church to begin with.
You’re talking about a church with political views do you know that even in the Bible prophets were political some prophets even ran military campaigns
This is a good question... how much should love for ones own country dictate actions that might be contrary to ones faith. In WW1 the British and the German soldiers faced this on the famous Christmas truce of 1915, where the British soldiers heard the Germans singing traditional Christmas carols (albeit in German), that's when they realized they were actually Christian brothers and met in "no-mans land" to celibrate Christmas together... Politics often brings out the worse in ppl, where Jesus's words to "love your enemies", often get overlooked... The bible actually teaches us to "not get involved in worldly affairs"... Jesus doesn't come to take sides, He comes to take over, that can seem offensive to ppl, but then if the Gospel you preach isn't offensive to some, then you're prob doing it wrong (The Cross is an offense to those living in sin)...... hmmm i've waffled a bit here because I genuinely don't know the answer..... i'm fairly sure though we put too much stock in political action and not nearly enough trust in the Holy Spirit to effect change !
I grew up in the church and I was flip flop from agnostic to atheist until I was 6 then between then and age 8 God did things in my Dad's life and through my dad that didn't make sense without God because I knew my dad, and he's a flawed man he can't heal people and he doesn't have words of knowledge on his own (not that he isn't smart but he doesn't know everything about everybody), God would even tell him things that I wouldn't tell him about myself and things I was going through. It was hard to deny God at that point but then I wrestled with conviction for 2 years, the enemy tried to pervert that into condemnation when Holy Spirit was trying to lead me to the Cross, and I got caught in condemnation for 2 years, and when I was 10 I surrender my life to God I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior and I received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. That was the turning point of my life. During that wrestling period of my life when I was trapped in condemnation I was so badly wanted to be right with God but I knew my own heart and my motives were I don't want to go to hell, and not really to get to know God until that period between 8 and 10.
And I really struggled and I had doubts about my worth, and I attempted suicide, but God. God reached me where I was at he spoke to me where I was at, and He heard my monologue prayers that were really not prayers they were just me yelling at Him. And He responded and reach me where I was at. Since then I've had a personal relationship with God and not just going to a church looking like I'm a Christian but not really being one, and not really believing... And even through my stumbling blocks God has shown so much grace and mercy not that I continue to stumble but did I see in His sovereignty his compassion love for me is His daughter adopted by the blood of Jesus and it just makes me fall more in love with Him and want to have a heart like Him for other people and lead them to the truth of His word like He's led me.
wow this is amazing this young man sharing testimony. God bless you sir keep sharing your story..
That's a Francis Schaeffer quote about the moral relativist having, “both feet firmly planted in mid-air.” He was so correct. Wish he were still with us today!!
Bless you Josh! Thank you Alisa! Josh said at 54:10, "They (progressives) are very easily offended...." Contrast this to 1 Cor 13:5, "(Love) is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs." Francis Schaeffer also said that progressives (liberals) have "faith in FAITH." It is helpful to agree on the definitions of Love and Faith before engaging in meaningful dialogues.
Such a great video. Thank you for shedding light on this important topic.
Such a beautiful testimony 🙏
Wow..my story is so similar to Josh’s. This is really good stuff
Great show keep them coming we are all learning and fighting to not allow ourselves to be led astray and stay faithful to our one true God
That was great. It really blessed me. Good work, both of you.
Great conversation! Alisa, have you considered writing a children's book explaining logical fallacies specific to Progressive Christianity?
Bentonville Arkansas is a pretty good place to grow up. I live in Gentry Arkansas and I'm very sorry to hear that you guys had to set under an abusive pastor. I was raised the same way
Siloam!
Jesus answered, "Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. ........Only CHRISTIANS CAN TRULY UNDERSTAND 😇😇
Very good interview ❤good questions and honest answers.
I totally relate to this guy; it is one of the reasons why I never even thought to go to Bible Seminary or what. Man l learned the ground work so foundation of what I know, by listening to Walter Martin tapes. That guy blew my Pastors away as far as knowledge and care for people here goes. I stopped going to church and just listened to the Bible Answer man radio tapes of Walter and what have you. Never stepped foot into any college to ever learn anything about the Lord God Jesus; never heard a Pastor who impressed me enough, except for Walter Martin as of really. Maybe Calvin Beisner, too. John Ankerberg. The pulpit is just filled with Bible Seminary rejects that do not know a thing. Anyway, Alisa you have the most stunning eyes; people say that about me, but I didn't know what they were talking about until my seeing yours. I am not hitting on you or anything but it is just captivating how intent you are, as the eyes are the light of the soul type of thing. So many are liberal and do not know. People really do not want to admit its danger for real. Scary stuff.
I’m so glad y’all talked. I grew up IN and in many ways AT my church. Was there Mon-Fri (for school from preschool to 8th grade), Wednesday nights for church and 3 services on Sundays. My parents worked in and at the church most of my life.. so all of our outings were church related, and especially with church people. I was and have always been a very strong believer, but I think, I Know, I grew up stuck in legalism- I never felt I measured up.. even passed that along (legalism) to my Oder 2 children who aren’t walking w the Lord today. I tell people now- I might have done better had I known that other people in church were also “lost” I always thought I was just a “trouble-maker” cuz I for sure wasn’t a “goodie-goodie”. I’m one 100% in Love with The Lord now but I went sideways for a couple decades.. picked up a husband and had 4 kids along the way.. so God is good Always!
Thanks guys for sharing all this!! I think us, sort of “veterans” in the church need to get together.. I could go on.. and on..
The Lectio Divina thing is supposed to be a way of reflecting and praying. Definitely not the key way to study scripture.
read the scripture before and after ... whatever you study
SOOOO grateful for this man's testimony of how God saved him out of false religion.
Not everyone has to do as I do...but I try to make a clear line. "There is no such thing as 'progressive' Christianity." As this young many says, they worship the idol of "love" as they define it. Therefore, there is no more "progressive" Christianity than there is "Mormon" Christianity. I know that sounds pugnacious. Which is probably indicative of how much we've lost a theology of regeneration. We don't have a Biblical understanding of conflict. We don't know how to "be angry" and not sin. We don't understand that Jesus came to "bring the sword" and "divide households". Baptist 11th Commandment: "Thou shalt always be perceived as 'nice' and the other ten don't matter."
I am not commenting on this young man when I say: If we start allowing the culture and the pagans to put "adjectives" on Christianity, we've already lost the discussion. Either you're a Regenerated Christian, or you're not. Ref. 1 John. His story backs this up. How many are sitting in pews every weekend in danger of hearing, "Away from me, you evildoer. I never knew you." If the status of our nation is any indication..."most" of the people in the pews are unconverted. Unregenerated.
Love this podcast, and proud of this young man. Praising God for light and life.
Sometimes being raised in a Christian home is a hindrance...only because there isn’t room for asking “why” or counting the cost for themselves... Christianity is assumed.
Wow it’s so interesting to hear this point of view. I’ve always been kind of jealous of people who grew up in Christian homes because I wasn’t. I thought it would be better/easier to have family that wouldn’t draw you to closer to sin or put you in compromising situations, or make fun of your convictions. But this goes to show that there are hindrances in every kind of home because, essentially, we’re dealing with other sinful human beings. Thank you for this !
@@alaysiamayo7488 temptation comes in all shapes/forms.
I would agree with this so much...
I was raised in a very good Christian home, yet I struggled with very serious life threatening depression, and my parents didn't get me medical help - I suffered for YEARS, feeling condemned, shame, guilt - and it was based in my psychological depression, which effected my reality and perception of God.
It took my life, and I lost everything. I felt God calling me in ways in my 20s and at 30 years old, yet I couldn't understand my depression, and mental illness was looked down upon and you're definitely not supposed to struggle like that if you're a Christian.
Definitely agree. While there can certainly be benefits, major issues like abuse, legalism, and hypocrisy can warp one's view of God and ultimately be stumbling blocks. I'm often envious of those who weren't raised in Christian homes, due to my own struggles with the above issues. Sometimes it's better to come to Christ w/o the baggage of a Christian upbringing.
I love this! I need to watch it again and take notes!
Goodness, he could have been talking about my story. I went from growing up Methodist to progressive and now I’m an Orthodox (as in Greek Orthodox, not as in orthodox meaning traditional) Christian. But man, I was really believing the lies.
The fear of the Lord is to hate evil, i just read it again today in Prov 8:13 and this fear God thing has been on my mind. Not that I mind, but more to have clarity of that phrase & how i can explain when asked. My pastor once asked me about it...
If we believe that God is just, righteous, merciful...then the things He hate shouldnt be taken lightly nor erroneously.
All believers should be well anchored in the Word of God, not to accumulate knowledge but to get to see Him as He is..even though words cannot contain how marvelous He is
Really odd that he says knowing the writings of people like C.S. Lewis would leave with a "shallow" faith. I would have said the exact opposite, maybe that's where he's going to go with this, the pendulum swing, because I always saw the progressive "love is love" understanding of God to be extremely shallow.
I'll keep watching and find out.
I think it's about finding a broader range of teaching to help you wrestle through theology. I love CS Lewis, but have found theology on the other end of the spectrum to push my thinking. Not that you always have to agree.
But yeah, I'd echo that CS Lewis is far from shallow. Especially his book 'Miracles'
The Life Craft Co
I'm curious what my be some examples of "the other end of theology", have you got any I could look up by chance?
@@brando3342 One of the best examples I can think of is reading some like 'The Meaning of Jesus' by NT Writght & Marcus Borg.
Wright being a believer and follower of a literal Jesus and Borg being a believer of a somewhat mythical figure for our faith. It paints the two pursuasions well... FYI not a light read 😂
The Life Craft Co
Okay thanks. Here's the funny thing though. Lewis wrote about Jesus being the factual/literal becoming of the mythological archetype that we as humans naturally gravitate towards. What was only myth before his birth. So, it almost seems as though Lewis comes in between both Wright and Borg.
Thanks for this interview, very informative!