Carpenter Theologian Blog


In a fragmented age of outrage, alternative facts, and erosion of belief, this space seeks to build and strengthen the faith of those called to be “in the world but not of it.”  In fact, everything here is written for you and those you love—indeed, all those that are born to thrive in and influence this cultural moment.

INDEX


Click the link below to find a topical index of all our weekly blog posts and categories. You can find posts on Acceptance, Addiction, Baptism, Humility, Marriage, and more.

PERSONAL DISCIPLESHIP


Explore your toughest questions and struggles, as well as grow your faith in practical and encouraging ways.

FAMILY


One of our most popular sections, “Family” is a walkthrough of topics to help us all better navigate marriage and parenthood in a way that honors Christ and handles the Bible correctly.

CHURCH


Churches face a lot of challenges today. This section features, among other things, conversations on hot topics like race, the authority of the Bible, sexuality, creation vs. evolution, abortion, and how to best pass on faith to the next generation.

The Church can be a mess…

and—worse—a real source of misery. I know. I’ve experienced it. There are tons of hypocrites and even dangerous wolves in sheep’s clothing. Many who rail against “the godless,” but are strangely drawn to conspiracy theories and lies. Lots of folks that are afraid of mainstream science and of learning from “secular” people.

How I Became a Christian Despite the Church is my story of finding God despite the isolated, fear-based, get-a-scalp-on-your-belt-for-Jesus, fun-sucking culture that my parents were part of. It’s the story of how my childhood pastor and his despotic wife terrorized and abused their foster children, as well as others.

Shame, abuse, and especially distorted views of sex are a big part of my story. As is sorting out beliefs, emotions, desires, and actions to relearn how to be human. Amidst the macabre and the dissonance, however, you’ll also find refrains of hope, a reasonable faith, and love.

Although the book is a roadmap of healing and growth for all, it’s especially written for those who’ve been grown up in religious environments that have left them empty at best or crushed at worst. If you’re searching for better answers, a cure for pain, or are just curious to see how bad it could be, this book is for you.

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