134 - Deconstruction with Alisa Childers

In this episode, hosts Brian Auten and Chad Gross interview Alisa Childers about the topic of deconstruction, and unpack ideas discussed in her newest book: The Deconstruction of Christianity: What It Is, Why It’s Destructive, and How to Respond co-authored with Tim Barnett.
https://a315.co/3SmCWvp

The podcast focuses on the faith deconstruction movement that is becoming more popular, especially among young people. Alisa Childers explains that deconstruction involves re-examining and often dismantling one's childhood faith. It stems from postmodern philosophy which questions whether objective truth exists, especially when it comes to religion and morality. Deconstruction sees things like biblical authority and sexual ethics as oppressive tools used by the church. Social media plays a big role by providing an online community that affirms and celebrates people's decisions to deconstruct and leave their faith.

Childers notes that a crisis of faith or negative church experience can trigger deconstruction, especially if someone lacks a deep personal relationship with Christ. Intellectual doubts can often be resolved through study and apologetics resources, but emotional doubts driven by trauma or wounds may need counseling. For those with deconstructing loved ones, she advises understanding the philosophical roots of the movement, resisting heated arguments, and providing a loving presence while avoiding compromise on biblical truth. Parents of deconstructing teens can limit social media access to help them detox from harmful online influence.

The church can reduce triggers for deconstruction by addressing spiritual abuse issues and improving biblical discipleship. Megachurches focused on growth sometimes fail to adequately shepherd members. Childers encourages honest doubting and questioning within a biblical framework, not rejecting scriptural authority. Christians should handle crises of faith by examining the roots of their doubt, pursuing truth with courage and humility, and leaning on the Holy Spirit for guidance during struggles.
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