Letting Go of the Label: Christianity, Language, and the Cost of Misrepresentation

Episode • May 7, 2019 • 43m

How do we navigate a term so widely misunderstood it often creates barriers instead of bridges? Mike Erre and Tim Stafford tackle this multi-layered question with humor, honesty, and depth in a lively conversation about whether we should keep or discard the term “Christian”—and what’s truly at the center of the Jesus movement.

This episode opens with a heartfelt apology to a listener for accidentally spoiling a blockbuster movie (Endgame, anyone?), then dives headfirst into a candid discussion sparked by a listener letter questioning whether the cultural baggage of the word “Christian” makes it worth abandoning entirely.

Along the way, Mike and Tim explore the usefulness (or futility) of labels, the profound difference between identifying as “Christian” versus “follower of Jesus,” and why our language must reflect our mission when engaging others inside and outside the church. They also take on listener feedback about gatekeeping, biblical double standards, and how to face the complexity of Scripture without despairing.

Key Takeaways: • Defining What's Central – Why focusing on “Christianity” as a label often distracts from the centrality of Jesus and his movement. • The Baggage of the Word “Christian” – How culture, politics, and consumerism have distorted its meaning, and why that might be worth letting go. • Double Standards and Interpretive Humility – Reflecting on whether we place unequal weight on reinterpreting scripture in areas of sex and science. • Reading the Bible Without Overwhelm – Practical guidance for anyone feeling unqualified or confused about their ability to engage meaningful biblical study. • Love Over Labels – Why embodying love trumps right belief when our expression of faith shapes how others understand Jesus.

Resources Mentioned: • BibleProject – https://bibleproject.com • N.T. Wright’s "For Everyone" series – N.T. Wright Books • Craig Keener’s Bible Background Commentary – Zondervan Academic

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Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

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