Liminal Living

TakeawaysMystics experience the divine in everyday life and see the holiness in others.Mystics can be both heavenly minded and earthly good, working for peace, justice, and the well-being of all people.Political discourse should involve empathy, understanding, and dialogue, rather than demonization and polarization.Finding common ground and holding space for different perspectives is essential for progress and positive change.Mystics challenge the status quo and work towards a more inclusive and compassionate society. Love and understanding are essential in our interactions with others.Practicing gratitude and mindfulness can bring peace and fulfillment to our lives.Embracing the past and working towards healing and justice is important for personal and societal growth.Mysticism can guide our actions and inspire us to make a positive impact in the world.Living with intention, compassion, and a sense of responsibility can lead to a more meaningful and fulfilling life.ChaptersIntroduction and Discussion of Brit

The book of James addresses the power of speech and its implications.Teachers in the church are held to a higher standard.Controlling the tongue is crucial for personal and communal integrity.Words can shape perceptions and influence actions.Righteousness is fundamentally linked to justice.Inconsistency in speech reflects deeper issues in the heart.The Moloch principle illustrates the dangers of short-term thinking.Charisma can be a double-edged sword in leadership.Our words can either contribute to justice or injustice.Self-reflection on how we are perceived is essential for growth. Find us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminallivingFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0owFollow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living All Music for this episode composed by Axeltree  

TakeawaysCaleb's upbringing in a conservative home shaped his early views on faith.His experience with neo-Nazi skinheads led to critical questioning of ideologies.The rise of American Christian nationalism has created a divide in churches.Many church members are influenced by external political narratives.Christian nationalism is a blend of political ideology, tribal identity, and spiritual idolatry.The decline of trust in the church is linked to political affiliations.Engaging in conversations requires self-reflection and emotional health.Flipping tables is sometimes necessary, but setting tables is more common.True change happens at the heart level, not through confrontation.Hope can be found in the faith of global Christian communities.\ChaptersIntroduction and Symbolism of the Leviathan StickerCaleb's Journey: From Conservative Roots to Pastoral LeadershipThe Impact of 2016-2020 on Faith and CommunityUnderstanding American Christian NationalismThe Identity Crisis within American Christian NationalismThe

Faith without action is dead.The early Christian community emphasized caring for one another's needs.Treating all people equally is important and goes against favoritism.Love for our neighbors and living out the social vision of Jesus is crucial. Find us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminallivingFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0owFollow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living All Music for this episode composed by Axeltree  

TakeawaysFaith can provide an organizing center, meaning, and purpose in life.Gushee's journey of faith involved a conversion experience as a teenager and a broadening of perspectives through studying Christian ethics.Democracy is a system of government that belongs to the people and is based on a constitution and the rule of law.Authoritarianism poses a threat to democracy and can be fueled by religious or ideological beliefs.It is important to defend and uphold democratic principles, including free and fair elections, an independent judiciary, and the protection of individual rights. Support for democracy among Christians has eroded since the 1960s, leading to a sense of alienation and fear among conservative Christians.Conservative Christians perceive culture and politics as dominated by their enemies and feel oppressed, which has been exploited by political figures like Donald Trump.Identity-oriented politics and the rejection of pluralism are not aligned with the teachings of Christianity.The rise of aut

Reinterpreting scripture passages can help avoid harmful and wounding interpretations that have been used in a religious and fundamentalist context.Understanding the cultural context in which scripture was written is crucial for interpretation.Every good and perfect gift comes from God, and it is important to recognize and appreciate the goodness in the world.Being quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry can lead to better understanding and more compassionate interactions.Religion should be demonstrated through actions, such as caring for those in need and avoiding power schemes. Find us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminallivingFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0owFollow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living All Music for this episode composed by Axeltree  

LinksPre-order Chuck's New Book: [click here]Chucks Author Page: [click here]Chuck's Amazon Page: [click here]TakeawaysChuck DeGroat's faith journey was shaped by a mix of embodied spirituality and disorientation due to brokenness in his parents' marriage.He found a broader understanding of faith through the contemplative tradition and the mystics, which opened up a more expansive language for his experience of God.Chuck DeGroat's work as a counselor, spiritual director, and author is rooted in his own experiences of pain and the desire to help others navigate their own wounds.Narcissism in church communities can lead to alienation, disconnection, and the multiplication of pain and abuse.Self-awareness is crucial in navigating narcissistic tendencies, and it allows for growth, transformation, and the ability to acknowledge and repair the impact on others.The dynamic between narcissistic leaders and followers is often characterized by mirror hunger and ideal hunger, where the leader seeks validation and the fo

Introductions Climbing Mt. Whitney Facing Internal Demons on the MountainSpiritual Roots in Catholicism Grace in Community & Abuse on Church Staff Abusive Leadership Embraces Power and Causes Trauma Using Your Voice with Clarity and Humility Spiritualizing the Poor is a Hermeneutic Mistake The God of Mammon, Power, Money, and Economy What “Love of Money” Actually Looks Like Exposing Undercover Idolatry Mammon’s Weapon is Fear of Death  What Really Causes Inflation Gatekeepers of the Bible Don’t Actually Like the Bible  Mammon “Works” and Why We Can’t See It. How to Love our Neighbor Conclusions Find us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminallivingFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0owFollow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living All Music for this episode composed by Axeltree  

Chapters IntroductionsCherokee rootsMy Oppressive Missionary Colonizer YearsColonialism woven into the Christian faithThe Violence of Christian SupremacyConservative politics picks up the torch of colonialismThe Problem of Disembodied TheologyShalom and the Failed Western ExperimentDecolonizing the FaithColonial Theology that needs to Go: Hell, Exclusivity, and Original SinThe Practice of Vulnerable ConversationConclusions Find us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminallivingFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0owFollow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living All Music for this episode composed by Axeltree  

ChaptersIntroductionsGood CoffeeSpiritual Roots in the Korean Church in ChicagoRenting church space and false hospitalityRethinking Hospitality as the ChurchLoving Disagreement what it is and is NOTLove is not niceToxic PositivityThe Moving Goalposts of expectationFalse apostolic authority used to create exclusive dogmaWhat loving your enemy can look likeConclusions Find us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminallivingFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0owFollow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living All Music for this episode composed by Axeltree  

ChaptersIntroductions  Faith Rooted Organizer Anthony vs Confederate Statue An Ecumenical Exorcism of White Nationalism and RacismAn Apocalyptic moment and call Christians call to apocalyptic action Hyper individualism and its damage on society The Gospel and White Jesus made an atheist The Gospel evolve to meet us White Christian Nationalism is a form of bad Atheism Christianity as ideology for the nation state is bad news A Heart attack and an existential crisis The Sound of the Genuine Don’t live apologetically Pay attention and find purpose Conclusions Find us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminallivingFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0owFollow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living All Music for this episode composed by Axeltree  

Chapters Intro Theology and Art Where does art come from? What does art do? Art involves us in the truth Art opens us up to truth  Imagination and Faith Sweaty Pentecostalism  Knowing more about demons than about God  Bonhoeffer  A true place to belong  Incarnation shows us what God is like  Conclusion Find us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminallivingFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0owFollow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living All Music for this episode composed by Axeltree  

Key points include:• The unhealthy balance between individual well-being and community demands in evangelical settings.• The symbolic and inspirational aspects of Tolkien’s stories and how they relate to real-life experiences.• The importance of continuing to do good without relying on miraculous interventions.• Reflections on the role of marginalized voices in pursuing true justice and equity.The episode delves into the deeper, often overlooked, emotional and spiritual struggles within religious communities, emphasizing the need for genuine connection and personal growth.Links:Buy the Book [click here]check out God Squad [click here]check out Heretic Happy Hour [click here] Find us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminallivingFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0owFollow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living All Music for this episode composed by Axeltree  

TakeawaysHold beliefs loosely and be open to subjective experiences and objective evidence.Recognize the limitations of creedal faith and the need for a more contextualized understanding of God.Explore the concept of oneness and the connection between mysticism, science, and different religious traditions.Embrace a sense of awe, gratitude, and responsibility towards everyone and everything.Question and challenge traditional beliefs and seek a more expansive spirituality.Contextualizing God in the modern culture requires holding beliefs more loosely and embracing the diversity of religious and theological perspectives.Reflecting on what is essential to one's faith and being open to different interpretations can help address improper understandings of God.Moving away from a fear-based understanding of religion and focusing on love, compassion, and service can lead to a healthier and more inclusive spirituality.Exploring different spiritual practices and engaging with diverse religious traditions can deepen one'

Take AwaysLiminality is the space between what was and what will be, where we are trying to figure out how to be in a rapidly changing world.High-control religious environments can be toxic and manipulative, exerting authority over individuals and stifling personal growth.It is important to recognize and reject religious jargon that seeks to control and manipulate others.Reclaiming common human experiences, such as compassion, honesty, and justice, can help transcend religious boundaries and foster understanding.When confronted with high-control individuals, it is important to remember that you are not crazy, not engage in their games, and find a way to exit the conversation.ChaptersIntroduction to Liminal Living PodcastThe Impact of Liminality on Individuals and SocietyCriticism of Christian Supremacy and Institutional ChristianityThe Manipulative Nature of High-Control Religious EnvironmentsRejecting Religious Jargon and Embracing Human UniversalsDealing with High-Control IndividualsConclusion and Invitatio

Take AwaysMeeting tangible needs in the community is an important expression of faith.Faith is a journey of growth and evolving perspectives.Extending grace and love to others is a central aspect of the Christian faith.The stigma of tattoos in the Christian context can be challenged and reevaluated.Personal expressions of art, such as tattoos, can be a way to build relationships and express one's faith. The cultural acceptance of tattoos in the church is influenced by historical and societal factors, such as the sexual revolution and the Reformation.Art, including tattoos, can be a powerful tool for communicating the gospel and bridging the gap between the sacred and the secular.God can be found in secular spaces, and Christians should strive to embrace and engage with the world around them.The church should value and appreciate creativity and the arts as a means of expressing and experiencing God's presence.ChaptersIntroduction and BackgroundFrom Atheism to FaithThe Evolution of FaithThe Love for TattoosChal

Highlights:Embrace the ongoing process of spiritual growth and recognize that there is no arrival point.Question expectations that God will make everything smooth sailing and happy.Allow God the freedom to be creative in how He works in your life and the lives of others.Recognize the tension between the objective and subjective experiences of God and embrace both.Don't compare your spiritual journey to others, as each person's experience is unique. Experiencing God cannot be forced or limited to specific activities; it requires openness and a release of expectations.The lack of space for doubt and lament in Christian worship songs, sermons, and church spaces can hinder authentic expression and growth.Knowing the stories of God's people throughout history, including their struggles and questions, can provide comfort and perspective in times of doubt and anger.A theology that acknowledges suffering and difficult questions is essential for a mature and authentic faith.Faith is a fluid journey, and it may not fit

InsightsThe Gospel of Thomas is a collection of the sayings of Jesus and does not have a narrative like the other Gospels.The Gospel of Thomas was suppressed by early church leaders, particularly those who opposed the Valentinians.The Gospel of Thomas was found in 1945 in a clay jar buried in the desert.Scholars have dated the Gospel of Thomas to the early second century and believe it may have served as a Q document.The teachings in the Gospel of Thomas emphasize the oneness and connection with God and challenge hierarchical structures in the early church. The early Christian church adopted hierarchical, patriarchal, and uniform beliefs and practices after the Roman Empire adopted Christianity as its national religion.The Gospel of Thomas offers wisdom for steering the church towards a more egalitarian and community-based structure.Realizing our connection with God and one another is essential for loving and caring for others.The early church practiced secret teachings, and the shift towards hierarchical str

The importance of stripping away layers of interpretation to reveal the true essence of Christ.The challenges of countering Christian nationalism and the significance of speaking the truth in love.The concept of God as a being and the implications of this understanding.The connection between spiritual formation and the inspiration behind the book 'Jesus Unpainted.' The nature of God is explored through the lens of personal relationship and the concept of 'I thou' rather than 'I it'.Faith is validated through personal relationship with God, not just by accepting principles or statements of faith.The LGBTQ community faces challenges within religious institutions, often experiencing a lack of genuine love and acceptance despite the language of inclusion.Inclusive churches should not only welcome but also empower and involve all individuals, ensuring accessibility for everyone in the community.Engaging with the local community and serving the parish is essential for meaningful church impact and relevance in the p

Advocacy for LGBTQ+ inclusion within the Church of the Nazarene is a complex and challenging endeavor, involving theological, social, and personal dimensions.The conversation sheds light on the tensions and complexities within the church and society regarding LGBTQ+ issues, highlighting the need for thoughtful dialogue and understanding.Thomas Jay Oord's journey of advocacy and the challenges he faces within his denomination provide insight into the evolving landscape of Christianity and the ongoing pursuit of inclusivity and social justice. The evolving understanding of LGBTQ+ issues has led to a shift in language and terminology, reflecting a broader and more inclusive perspective.Personal experiences, including interactions with LGBTQ+ individuals, have played a significant role in shaping perspectives and fostering empathy and understanding.The intersection of faith, science, and love is a complex and evolving space, with implications for theological discourse and social justice.The challenges faced by th