Scott Bessenecker has been in Christian ministry for decades which puts him in a unique position to bring a critical eye to the way our religion is practiced. For many, church hurt is recent. It is something we have experienced personally, and for which are seeking healing urgently. Scott reminds, though, that while the injuries are current, Christianity also has a historical track record steeped in violence, misuse of power, putting profits over people, and judgment. While I read, the quote credited to Augustine came to mind – the church is a whore, but she is my mother. Intentionally, Scott’s book aptly titled, Bad Religion, does not seek to present easy answers, but asks difficult questions of Christians as we wade through our muddied past, through our treacherous present, to a hopeful future.
Mentioned in this episode:
Bad Religion, Good News: An Honest Guide for the Spiritually Disappointed by Scott A. Bessenecker
Conclave (2024) movie
Ep. 183 with Bekah McNeel and “certainty worship”
You might also enjoy:
Ep. 334 with Kat Armas on empire
Ep. 244 with Trey Ferguson on theologizing
Ep. 274 with Robert Callahan on righteous anger and church