1.22.26 Bearded Theologians on Growing Pains: Navigating the Evolution of Faith

·24 min·2 clips

Zach recalls leading Bible studies at 18, realizing he'd tweak those lessons now but refuses to beat himself up over it.

The episode begins with the hosts introducing the topic of discipleship growth, prompted by a question about what growth looks like for Zach. Zach reflects on his time as a youth director, noting that while he wouldn't teach the same things today, he avoids self-criticism, viewing past actions as part of a graceful journey. He emphasizes that the Holy Spirit continues to work in people, allowing for change and learning without condemnation. Matt agrees, sharing his own experiences with events like Acquire the Fire and Winter Jam, which he wouldn't attend now but were formative. The discussion shifts to the challenges of vulnerability in ministry, especially for itinerant pastors who fear oversharing with potential supervisors. Matt recounts coming to his current church 'a little bit broken' and finding healing through therapy and congregational support. Zach highlights the disciplinary aspect of discipleship, referencing Henri Nouwen's writings on spiritual growth. They delve into the Wesleyan Quadrilateral—scripture, tradition, experience, and reason—as a framework that accommodates theological evolution. Matt shares his daily scripture and prayer reminders as a personal discipline, while Zach notes that spiritual practices can change over time. The hosts compare growth to physical pain, using metaphors like adolescent growth spurts and seed germination to illustrate the discomfort involved. They discuss the resistance to change in faith communities and the need to make space for God to speak in new ways. The episode includes a segment where each host shares where they've seen God at work recently: Matt observes the Spirit moving in his congregation, and Zach describes a youth-organized worship service that drew broad interest without his direct involvement. They conclude by encouraging listeners to engage with discipleship actively and visit their website for more resources.

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