The Birth of Subjective Christianity: Shawn McCraney’s Radical Faith Journey

Shawn Aaron McCraney is an independent American religious philosopher and artist known for his controversial stance on faith, encapsulated in the term “Subjective Christianity.” This concept is the result of a lifelong spiritual journey marked by personal conflicts, radical transformations, and a desire for authenticity in belief. McCraney’s evolution from a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) to a self-proclaimed “Born-Again Mormon” reflects not only his personal struggles but also his broader critique of organized religion.

Early Life and Influences

Born on October 2, 1961, in Whittier, California, McCraney was raised in a religious family. He was the fourth of six children in the McCraney household, where adherence to the teachings of the LDS Church was paramount. Growing up in Huntington Beach, California, he experienced the rigorous expectations of church life, which often conflicted with his innate sensitivity to the dogmatic structures of organized religion. This conflict laid the groundwork for his future theological explorations.

McCraney’s formative years were shaped by his involvement in the LDS Church, culminating in a full-time mission in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, from 1982 to 1984. During this time, he served as an assistant to the mission president, further immersing himself in church doctrine and practices. However, his mission also exposed him to a diversity of beliefs and lifestyles that challenged the rigid norms he had been taught.

After completing his mission, McCraney pursued higher education at Brigham Young University (BYU), where he earned his degree. This academic environment, coupled with his church involvement, heightened his awareness of the inherent tensions between traditional religious structures and personal spirituality. He found himself increasingly drawn to the notion of faith as a subjective experience, leading to the development of his unique theological perspective.

The Shift Toward Subjective Christianity

In the years following his education, McCraney navigated various roles within the LDS Church while simultaneously building a career as a stockbroker at Dean Witter from 1991 to 2001. It was during this period that he grappled with a profound spiritual crisis. The conflicts between his obligations as a church member and his burgeoning sense of individuality intensified, prompting a radical reevaluation of his faith.

In 1997, McCraney underwent a transformative experience that he describes as a “radical born-again experience.” This moment was pivotal, leading him to coin the term “Born-Again Mormon.” He embraced the idea that faith could be a personal journey rather than one dictated by established doctrines. This realization ignited his desire to break free from the constraints of organized religion, ultimately resulting in his request for excommunication from the LDS Church in 2001.

This decision marked a significant turning point in McCraney’s life. It symbolized not only his departure from the church but also his commitment to forging a new path rooted in subjective understanding of faith. He began to explore the idea that religious beliefs should be shaped by individual experiences rather than solely by institutional teachings.

The Heart of the Matter

Following his excommunication, he began hosting and producing the live call-in television show Heart Of The Matter, where he discusses faith, spirituality, and his interpretation of Christianity. The show serves as a platform for open dialogue and debate, allowing viewers to engage with his controversial perspectives on religion. The show still continues today as part of The Great News Network, an organization founded by McCraney designed to promote his theological ideas and connect with like-minded individuals.

McCraney’s views challenge conventional Christian doctrines, advocating for a more personal and subjective understanding of faith. He emphasizes that faith should be a journey of exploration rather than a strict adherence to dogma. This approach resonates with those who feel disenfranchised by organized religion and seek a more individualized spiritual experience.

Books and Contributions

Throughout his career, McCraney has authored dozens of books that reflect his theological evolution and critiques of organized religion. His notable works include Born-Again Mormon, Revelations on Revelation: A 22-Volume Commentary on Revelation, and Knife To A Gunfight. These texts explore various aspects of Christianity, often incorporating personal anecdotes and philosophical reflections that challenge traditional interpretations.

In Born-Again Mormon, McCraney delves into his journey of faith, articulating the struggles and revelations that led him to embrace subjective Christianity. The book serves as both a memoir and a manifesto, offering insights into his beliefs while encouraging readers to reflect on their own spiritual paths.

Conclusion

Shawn McCraney’s radical faith journey exemplifies the complexities of navigating personal belief within the confines of organized religion. His concept of Subjective Christianity invites individuals to consider faith as a deeply personal and evolving experience rather than a static set of beliefs imposed by institutions. Through his work with The Great News Network and Heart Of The Matter, McCraney continues to inspire those seeking a more authentic relationship with their spirituality. His story serves as a testament to the power of personal transformation and the enduring quest for truth in a world often dominated by rigid religious structures.