(Note - this post was created when I served as VP of Ideos Institute, which is now the Fuller Center for Peacebuilding and Conflict Transformation)
The (Re)union Project is a movement of Christians trying to make sense of the conflicts dividing the church and how we have been complicit in those divisions. If we understand the origins of these deep divisions, perhaps we can imagine a new way forward. This episode of In Conversation With… seeks to identify some deep-rooted issues at work in the church, contributing to our divisions.
How can we have a gospel without love at the center?
How can the church live out its mission without participating in and embodying the love of God?In this conversation, Greg Arthur and Dr. Nijay Gupta discuss his new book, The Affections of Christ Jesus, which explores the theme of love in the New Testament, particularly in the writings of Paul. He reflects on his personal journey and the cultural shifts that have influenced contemporary understandings of love. The discussion delves into the intersection of love and theology, the importance of empathy, and how these concepts can be applied in community life. Dr. Gupta emphasizes the need for a return to the heart of the gospel, which is love, and how this can transform the church and its relationship with the world.
Episode Takeaways
* Dr. Gupta emphasizes the importance of love in Paul's theology.
* Cultural shifts have led to unrealistic expectations of love.
* Empathy is crucial for understanding and expressing love.
* Justification should be viewed as making things right in relationships.
* The church's reputation should be centered on love and kindness.
* Love is not just an emotion but a commitment to others.
* Understanding love requires inner work and emotional awareness.
* Paul's letters reveal a deeply human side of his character.
* The church must embody love to be effective in the world.
* Christian love should be peculiar and transformative.
