For the last several years, there's been a mass awakening and dialogue happening about the fact that some Christian leaders do terrible things, that some church environments are like a cesspool of gossip, envy, and judgment, and that some of the things we were taught by well-meaning Sunday school teachers were actually more harmful than helpful for our spiritual formation. We see this awakening evident in the sale of books of historical scholarship like Jesus and John Wayne and podcasts like “The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill.” But you probably also know people or have seen social media exploding with the cries of those who have been victimized and hurt, people who have been unseen and unheard for far too long.
Some can relate to those in pain. Others are distressed and frustrated onlookers who feel helpless. How does healing happen?
Jesus’ Church—the community of believers around the world in history, present and future—is incredibly precious to God, even though some church communities, some Christian leaders, and some doctrines we’ve been taught have failed us. In fact, it’s failed in many ways since the beginning of Church history. But, since that beginning, God has also poured out his Spirit on His people, thus enabling the Church, by God’s grace, to heal its own wounds.
Listen to the full audio message above or search “Dear Exiles” wherever you listen to podcasts. This message was originally preached on September 19, 2021, at CityChurch in Iowa City.
Scripture passages: Ephesians 5:3-5, 25-27; 4:25-32
Hey! Thanks for being here. I’m a book-obsessed pastor, author, and holistic life and leadership coach. Find out more about coaching at www.heatherweber.org. For essays and podcasts that come straight to your inbox, subscribe to this Dear Exiles newsletter in the subscription box above. Fun fact: I’m also the author of Dear Boy:, An Epistolary Memoir and the host of the Your Pastor Reads Books podcast.
A Church With Stains and Wrinkles