Tag Archive for: Martin Thielen

Can Christianity Be Deinstitutionalized?

A lot of twenty-first century believers are seeking a post-institutionalized (or at least a less institutionalized) version of Christianity.

Why Retired Clergy Lose Faith and Leave Church

For someone with “Reverend” in front of their name, admitting that he or she has lost faith feels overwhelmingly frightening and threatening.

Creating a Good Life

At this stage on the journey, I’ve identified five core essentials I need to live a good life.

My Long Farewell to Traditional Religion (and What Remains)

Like some of the early followers of Jesus, I have doubted. A lot. This is my story.

Talladega Nights, John Wayne, January 6, and Jesus

If Jesus doesn’t challenge my worldview, values, politics, and daily life, and if he doesn’t make me uncomfortable on a regular basis, I’m probably not taking him seriously.

It’s (Past) Time to Raze Hell

What kind of deity would eternally torture people in agonizing flames of hell?

If Faith Were a Movie

Today’s religious environment offers Americans a wide variety of faith options. In the spirit of the recent Academy Awards season, this column will focus on five of them, each one illustrated by a movie.

Six Lessons I’ve Learned about Doubt

In recent decades, tens of millions of Americans have left their churches and other places of worship, and that trend shows no sign of abating.

Do You Have a Biblical Worldview?

It’s time to redefine the meaning of a “biblical worldview.”

The Gospel According to Don Draper

Authentic faith requires less certainty and more ambiguity.