Faith without religion.
Exploring Faith, Zealotry, and the Role of the Holy Spirit
In our recent live broadcast, we delved into some thought-provoking topics surrounding faith, religious zeal, and the challenges faced by those who have distanced themselves from Christianity. We began by discussing a valuable resource, the book “Knife to a Gunfight,” which aims to help individuals who may be struggling with their faith or have become disillusioned with organized religion. We encourage anyone who knows someone in this situation to order a copy or reach out to us for assistance.
We also announced an upcoming conference titled “Sundays Best,” scheduled for Spring 2020, where we are seeking qualified presenters from various theological backgrounds, including Arminian, Reformed, and Orthodox perspectives. This initiative aims to foster dialogue and understanding among different faith traditions.
A significant portion of our discussion focused on the nature of religious zealotry. We explored the extremes of both the far-right and far-left perspectives on faith, highlighting how both can be detrimental to genuine belief and understanding. The far-right often emphasizes a literal interpretation of scripture, while the far-left dismisses the existence of God altogether. We argued that both positions can lead to a lack of compassion and understanding, particularly among young people who may be influenced by these polarized views.
We also reflected on the role of modern-day “scribes”—those who interpret scripture and challenge differing viewpoints. We drew parallels between the challenges Jesus faced from religious leaders of His time and the contemporary debates within Christianity. Our discussion emphasized the importance of recognizing that true life is found in Christ, rather than merely in the written word.
In response to viewer questions, we clarified misconceptions about salvation and the Holy Spirit, emphasizing that salvation is a gift of grace through faith, and that the Holy Spirit remains with believers even in times of doubt. We also addressed concerns about the balance between faith and works, reiterating that genuine faith naturally produces love and good works.
Lastly, we reiterated our ministry’s mission: to help individuals find freedom from the demands of organized religion while fostering a loving and inclusive community. We encourage everyone to engage with these ideas thoughtfully and to join us next week for more discussions on faith and spirituality.
