Part Three: Moving from Toxic Beliefs to Transforming Ones
Deconstruction is necessary
I understand the antagonism directed at oppressive, harmful belief systems because I have had my share of that resentment. We may not even be able to become more compassionate without first becoming more angry — angry enough to deconstruct all or parts of previous belief systems that no longer appear truthful or loving to us. That’s the serious message of this cartoon.
After deconstruction is reconstruction, moving to more expansive and compassionate beliefs.
Read MorePart Two: Moving from Toxic Beliefs to Transforming Ones
In this series on beliefs, let’s take our cue from this image of Jesus. Not only should we not try to beat up someone with the Bible, but we should also not do that with our progressive, integral beliefs about the Bible!
Read MorePart One: Deconstructing Our Faith Like Jesus Did His
The term “deconstruction” is becoming more common these days as a word that represents the process of dismantling toxic religious beliefs and practices. But it’s not a new spiritual act….
Read MoreThe Three Waves of Modern Charismatic Christianity
Most Christians are either aware of or have been a part of the Pentecostal and Charismatic Christianity of the twentieth century. These theologically conservative groups are reminiscent of the mystical phenomena seen in the book of Acts and identified by what they call the baptism of the Holy Spirit, speaking in tongues, spiritual gifts, healing, prophecy, and exuberant worship.
According to former Fuller Seminary Professor of Church Growth Peter Wagner, there were three waves of charismatic renewal in the twentieth century.
Read MoreUnderstanding and Appreciating Types of Personalities
Practicing Community – Part Eight
While we love a great solo, the best music comes from an assembly of instruments playing together. There is just something to the joining of different sounds in resonance that creates something truly special. As is often said, the whole becomes greater than the sum of the parts, and it is through playing together that we create beautiful music.
This is the symphony of community which is made up many different types of instruments, each playing with their particular pitch and tenor but into a harmonic wholeness that co-creates the collective song.
Read MoreWith One Another in Growth Areas
Practicing Community – Part Seven
How do we welcome our darker shadows in community? How do we hold the tension of imperfection and limitation that is always present, while also seeking to grow and heal together? What are healthy and appropriate practices of shadow work for a spiritual community?
Read MoreBeholding Our Golden Shadow in Love
Practicing Community – Part Six
“For now we see in a glass darkly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I will know just as I have been fully known.”
– I Corinthians 13:12
Finding the Portal of Transformation in our Differences
Practicing Community – Part Five
In the dance of community, we’re bound to step on one another’s toes from time to time. Realistically, at times it will be more than just a hurting toe—we will see our egos bruised and challenged. We may see boundaries crossed, emotions projected, and issues avoided. Sometimes it gets messy!
There is no real community without problems, without conflict, without disagreements, and without wounding. Any time we seek meaningful relationship and connection with others, there are swells and storms to be navigated—it will not all be smooth sailing.
When we give ourselves to the practice of community, on some level we probably know this is part of the deal. But our individualism is strong, and if things get rough it’s easier than ever to jump ship and retreat back to the safety of ourselves. Or away to a different community.
How do we stay with and continue through? And when should we? Can conflict and creative tension become a portal of transformation? And how do we make our way through it?
Read MoreThe Choice of Healthy Mutuality
Practicing Community – Part Four
Deep community cannot happen without trust. And trust is a tricky thing. How do we choose who to trust? How is trust built? What if we over-trust and naïvely subject ourselves to something harmful? What degree of trust is appropriate for relationships in spiritual community?
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