Uncertainty

Snarky Faith

"For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known."

1 Corinthians 13:12

Uncertainty is something that usually makes us feel uncomfortable. We like to be in control and have a hand in the outcome of things in life. It's a natural inclination, but it's also counter-productive when we seek to change and grow.

In regards to religion, certainty is typically a recipe for disaster. Or, as Eric Elnes puts it, "have you ever noticed how the more certainty a religion claims to deliver, the more frenzied and hysterical are its adherents?"

When Christianity pushes to make the unknowable knowable, it diminishes the mystery of God and reduces the teachings of Jesus to sets of rules and dogma. Once this happens, faith becomes more about adherence than exploration and growth.

Jesus' teachings change us from the inside out. They're not about being right or righteous, holy or pious. Christ's ways teach us to live fueled by kindness, grace, compassion, humility, and empathy. To embrace his ways leads us down a mysterious path that tosses certainty to the wayside. That journey changes us as we move out in love into a world filled with uncertainty.

Stick with religion, and you know what you'll get.

For me, I'd rather follow the ways of Jesus into the unknown. Want to join me?

We'll talk about all that, the Ukraine and lots more snark!

This week's Christian Crazy features Lance Wallnau, Franklin Graham, Curt Landry, and more!

Show notes

Episode Timestamp:

Ukraine: 02:45

Christian Crazy: 15:00

Main Conversation: 26:35

Big thanks to these outlets that make the Christian Crazy possible:

Right Wing Watch

Christian Nightmares

Friendly Atheist

Books Referenced:

Spiritual Theology - Diogenes Allen

Gifts of the Dark Wood - Eric Elnes

Articles:

https://religionnews.com/2022/02/25/a-religious-politician-head-of-ukrainian-orthodox-church-of-the-usa-slams-patriarch-kirill-putin/

https://dianabutlerbass.substack.com/p/next-year-in-kyiv?