Very rarely do I start a morning binge-reading articles on Substack, but thus far every piece I’ve read from you has hit home. Finding someone who writes well is one thing. Finding someone who really speaks to you is rare. My brother and I have had countless conversations — many of which you’ve wrote about — & we’ve always wondered (not to sound pompous) where are all the modern men who think like us? You never seem to find them in person, but Substack reinforces the idea that they are indeed out there. Joe Gillespie, wherever you are, may the universe grant us more perspectives like yours. I’m Thankful for your spiritual journey too, as it strongly resembles mine. God bless you, and I’m looking forward to reading your future work.
Good work, sir. I am often mesmerized by God's patience with us when I consider all the different denominational jersey wearers representing long-standing opinions, splitting theological hairs, yet all claiming to be the most authentic representation of the Gospel.
As a 12-year-old kid riding in the back of a pickup truck headed to a youth event presented by one of the local churches, the other kids in the truck attempted to sell me on their particular brand of Christianity. I believe there were at least three flavors vying for my subscription. I finally just said, "Why can't we just be Christian? Why does it have to have a brand?"
Thirty-six years later, my position hasn't changed. I believe people mean well, but I just want Jesus.
We're tribal by nature but when we turn towards dogma and affiliation without practice we lose sight of the purpose of faith. Good luck on your searching friend.
Great to read, and an interesting take on the American church too. I live in the UK and see similar things happening here. But I resonate with your words. Praise God and and enjoy the wrestling, caring enough to doubt at least remind me we're alive.
American Christianity is unique... to say the least. It's a show; it's big and bold and performative (like a lot of things here). My understanding about the UK is a political and social justice influence in traditional Anglican or COE parishes and an aging population. Correct me if I'm wrong.
Very rarely do I start a morning binge-reading articles on Substack, but thus far every piece I’ve read from you has hit home. Finding someone who writes well is one thing. Finding someone who really speaks to you is rare. My brother and I have had countless conversations — many of which you’ve wrote about — & we’ve always wondered (not to sound pompous) where are all the modern men who think like us? You never seem to find them in person, but Substack reinforces the idea that they are indeed out there. Joe Gillespie, wherever you are, may the universe grant us more perspectives like yours. I’m Thankful for your spiritual journey too, as it strongly resembles mine. God bless you, and I’m looking forward to reading your future work.
Man... thank you so much brother. Means a ton!
Good work, sir. I am often mesmerized by God's patience with us when I consider all the different denominational jersey wearers representing long-standing opinions, splitting theological hairs, yet all claiming to be the most authentic representation of the Gospel.
As a 12-year-old kid riding in the back of a pickup truck headed to a youth event presented by one of the local churches, the other kids in the truck attempted to sell me on their particular brand of Christianity. I believe there were at least three flavors vying for my subscription. I finally just said, "Why can't we just be Christian? Why does it have to have a brand?"
Thirty-six years later, my position hasn't changed. I believe people mean well, but I just want Jesus.
We're tribal by nature but when we turn towards dogma and affiliation without practice we lose sight of the purpose of faith. Good luck on your searching friend.
Great to read, and an interesting take on the American church too. I live in the UK and see similar things happening here. But I resonate with your words. Praise God and and enjoy the wrestling, caring enough to doubt at least remind me we're alive.
American Christianity is unique... to say the least. It's a show; it's big and bold and performative (like a lot of things here). My understanding about the UK is a political and social justice influence in traditional Anglican or COE parishes and an aging population. Correct me if I'm wrong.
Thanks for reading Nathan!
Absolutely brilliant
Great article. My story is similar , I became Catholic after being a church of Christ refugee. Welcome home
Amen brother. Glad to be here
What a read man. Thanks for this
Thank you for reading Ben!